Summer (June-September): Temperatures average 30-35°C (86-95°F), often rising above 40°C (104°F) during July and August. Rainfall is negligible, and the moisture level stays low. The intense heat has a challenge for outdoor activities.
Autumn (October-November) and Spring (March-May) temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Moderate rainfall decreases as summer approaches, plus airy rainfall begins later in autumn. Winter (December-February) temperatures average 5-10°C (41-50°F), frequently dropping under freezing at night. This season sees the most rainfall, and occasional snowfall occurs.
Extreme summer heat, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), and winter cold, sometimes below 0°C (32°F), are common. Dust storms can occur, especially in spring and summer.
The area is seismically active; a major earthquake in February 2023 caused widespread damage. Plan for these environmental challenges.
Ongoing dangers present
Aleppo remains a conflict zone. The risk of shelling, clashes, and terrorist attacks is ever-present.
Many areas, especially damaged ones, contain UXO. Strict adherence to established paths.
Vigilance a constant practice
Foreigners face a significant risk of kidnapping, arbitrary arrest, or detention.
Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas.
Challenges widespread
Roads can be different from poor to severely damaged, especially outside major urban centers.
Access to healthcare in Aleppo is severely limited and compromised due to extensive damage.
All non-Syrian nationals require a visa to enter Syria. This process is intricate and obtaining a visa is difficult. IVisa or VisaHQ offer visa services for many destinations.
You will need a passport valid for at at least six months after your intended stay, a completed visa application form, a current passport-sized photographs, and an invitation letter from a Syrian entity.
From an approved tour operator, business partner, or government sponsor.
Demonstrates financial means for your trip.
Outline of planned movements within Syria.
Confirmation of your exit from Syria.
Special authorization for inter-city travel.
Planning your budget for Aleppo is unlike planning for a typical travel destination. Economic instability and international sanctions mean costs are highly volatile and unpredictable. Cash is the only reliable payment method.
The local currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP). The exchange rate is highly volatile due to economic instability and sanctions. An official exchange rate exists, but a parallel (black market) rate is often significantly more favorable for foreign currency.
Limited availability. Basic hotels may range from $30-70 USD equivalent per night (paid in SYP at local rates). Higher-end options are scarce and also paid in SYP.
Any managing your money must account for unforeseen expenses and potential security-related costs.
Health and safety are prime concerns for anyone traveling to Aleppo. The risks are substantial and demand careful preparation.
Required if arriving from endemic areas.
MMR, DTP, Polio up-to-date.
Hep A and B, Typhoid, Rabies (for long-term visits).
Traveler'traveler's diarrhea, respiratory infections, waterborne, and foodborne illnesses.
Prevent these by drinking only bottled or purified water. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless peeled. Ensure food is thoroughly cooked.
Practice good hand hygiene. LifeStraw products offer ways to make water safe to drink.
Access to healthcare is severely limited and compromised.
Severely constrained by damaged infrastructure, shortages of supplies, equipment, and personnel.
Operational but may be strained and unreliable (Police: 112, Ambulance: 110, Fire: 113).
Significantly below international standards. Carry your own First Aid Kit.
Official crime statistics are not reliably available. However, various risks exist.
This region is prone to seismic activity. The February 2023 earthquake caused widespread devastation.
Awareness of earthquake safety protocols is useful. Know how to "Drop, Cover, and Hang On."
Severe heat in summer and cold in winter can pose health risks. Dress appropriately.
Local emergency numbers are potentially unreliable. Have consular emergency contacts ready.
