Is Quneitra safe for tourists?

No, Quneitra is an active conflict zone with extreme security risks including landmines, unexploded ordnance, military operations, and potential cross-border incidents. Most governments advise against all travel to the region.

Can I visit the destroyed city of Quneitra?

Only with special military permission from Syrian authorities, typically as part of organized tours with armed escorts. Independent exploration is prohibited and dangerous.

What is the main attraction in Quneitra province?

The ruined city of Quneitra serves as a war memorial, while archaeological sites like Hippos (Sussita) offer Roman-era ruins. The Golan Heights landscape provides dramatic views.

Do I need special permits to visit?

Yes, multiple permits from Syrian military and intelligence services are required, along with armed escorts. The process is complex and typically arranged through approved tour operators in Damascus.

Are there hotels or accommodations in Quneitra?

No functional tourist accommodations exist in Quneitra province. Visitors typically stay in Damascus and make day trips with military approval and escorts.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa for Syria. Obtain it in advance from a Syrian embassy. Tourist visas may be restricted.

Is it safe to travel to Quneitra?

No, it is considered high-risk due to conflict and landmines. Many governments advise against all travel.

Can I visit the Golan Heights from Quneitra?

Access to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights is restricted. Crossing is not possible from Quneitra.

What language is spoken?

Arabic is the official language. English is not widely spoken; a translator or guide is helpful.

What currency is used?

Syrian Pound (SYP). Cash is essential as credit cards are not accepted. ATMs are scarce.

Are there hotels in Quneitra?

Very limited. Most visitors stay in Damascus and make a day trip. Accommodation options are basic.

Avoid photographing military sites, checkpoints, or government buildings. Always ask permission for people.

Is alcohol available?

Alcohol is available in some restaurants and shops, but consumption in public is frowned upon.

Dress modestly. Women should cover hair in religious sites. Lightweight clothing in summer, warm layers in winter.

Yes, a local guide is highly recommended for safety and navigation, especially due to landmines and checkpoints.

What is the internet like?

Mobile data is available but slow. WiFi is limited. Expect poor connectivity.

Can I travel independently?

Independent travel is not recommended. You need official permits and a guide. Group tours are safer.

Quneitra

ProvinceSyria, Asia

Quneitra is a STATE in Syria, Asia.

Quneitra, a province in southwestern Syria, offers a haunting yet historically rich landscape that tells stories of ancient civilizations and modern conflicts. Situated in the Golan Heights region, this area is known for its strategic location bordering Israel and Jordan. The provincial capital, also called Quneitra, stands as a ghost town preserved in its destroyed state since the 1973 Yom Kippur War, serving as a powerful memorial and museum of war's devastation. Beyond the urban ruins, the province features rolling hills, volcanic landscapes, and fertile plains that have been inhabited since biblical times. Travelers with interest in archaeology can explore ancient sites like the Roman-era city of Hippos (Sussita) overlooking the Sea of Galilee, while nature enthusiasts can appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the Golan region. The area's complex history includes Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Syrian influences, creating a cultural tapestry visible in remaining architectural fragments and local traditions. While tourism infrastructure is limited due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, Quneitra offers unparalleled insights into Middle Eastern history and the human impact of conflict for those able to visit with proper arrangements.

Best time to visit Quneitra

Visits are not recommended due to security concerns. For those with essential travel, spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures (15-25°C) and green landscapes, while autumn (September-October) provides comfortable weather before winter rains. Summer can be hot (up to 35°C) with dry conditions. Winter brings cold temperatures (sometimes below freezing) and rain. Any travel must be coordinated with Syrian authorities and security forces regardless of season.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 15-22°C, pleasant

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Moderate

Autumn colors, comfortable

Know before you go

Getting there

DAM

Damascus International Airport

International

60 km away

Getting around

"Transportation options are severely limited. Private vehicles with drivers/guides approved by Syrian military authorities are essential for movement. Public transportation is nonexistent. Checkpoints are frequent and documentation must be carried at all times. Road conditions are poor with many damaged or destroyed roads. Off-road travel is dangerous due to landmines. GPS and mapping apps are unreliable. Movement is restricted to approved routes only, often requiring military escorts in sensitive areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Poor

WiFi

Very limited

Local SIM

Local SIM available in Damascus from $5

Calling code

+963

Stay safe

Overall

2/10

High risk due to conflict, landmines, and political instability. Travel is strongly discouraged.

Night safety

1/10

High risk due to conflict, landmines, and political instability. Travel is strongly discouraged.

Transport

3/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Quneitra is an active conflict zone with extreme security risks. The entire province is considered dangerous for travel due to military operations, landmines, unexploded ordnance, and sporadic violence. The UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) monitors the ceasefire line but cannot guarantee safety. Travel requires special military permission from Syrian authorities and is generally restricted to organized tours with armed escorts. The destroyed city of Quneitra is only accessible with official guides. Border areas with Israel are particularly hazardous with risk of cross-border incidents. Kidnapping, armed conflict, and terrorism are genuine threats. Most governments advise against all travel to Quneitra province."

Police

112

Ambulance

110

Fire

113

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Quneitra are extremely limited due to conflict damage and ongoing instability. The main hospital in Quneitra city was destroyed and remains non-functional. Travelers must bring comprehensive medical kits including prescription medications, antibiotics for gastrointestinal issues, and trauma supplies. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and rabies are essential. Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for rural areas. Water must be boiled or purified before consumption. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is absolutely necessary as local treatment options are virtually nonexistent. Landmines and unexploded ordnance pose significant injury risks in many areas."

Culture

Local customs

"Given the security situation, interaction with locals is minimal for visitors. Dress conservatively covering arms and legs. Photography restrictions are extensive, especially near military installations. Always follow instructions from military escorts precisely. Tipping is expected for guides and drivers if travel occurs. Religious and cultural sensitivity is important, though most visits are brief and controlled. Avoid political discussions. The area has mixed populations including Druze, Sunni Muslims, and Christians with varying traditions."

ArabicKurdishArmenian

Costs and practicals

Currency

Syrian Pound (SYP) · £S or LS

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-40 | budget hotels range $20-40/night in Damascus

Local transport

$10-20 | taxi from Damascus ~$10-20

Cost notes

Accommodation in Quneitra itself is extremely limited; most costs are for day trips from Damascus.

Timezone

Asia/Damascus +03:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

90,000

Area

1,861 km²

Government

Provincial administration under Syrian Arab Republic central government

ISO code

SY-03

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Gobernación de Quneitra, Guvernat Kunejtra, Kuneitros muchafaza, Quneitra Séng, Quneitra Governorate, Quneitra eskualdea, 库奈特拉省, محافظہ قنیطرہ, guvernorát Kunejtra, מחוז אל-קניטרה, Kegubernuran Quneitra, ელ-კუნეიტრის მუჰაფაზა, アル゠クネイトラ県, Al-Kunajtira, Kuneytire İli, Аль-Кунaйтра о́бласть, Ալ-Կունեյտրայի մարզ, Governatorato di Quneitra, 古奈特拉, Вилояти Қунайтира, Gouvernorat de Qouneitra, क़ुनेइत्राह प्रान्त, Κυβερνείο Κουνέιτρα, Ель-Кунейтра, Quneitra Govrenorate, محافظة القنيطره, استان قنیطره, Эль-Кунейтра, Кунейтра, Al-Qunaytirah, Gouvernement al-Kuneitra, Əl-Qüneytirə mühafəzəsi, מחוז קוניטרה, قنیطره اوستانی, Al-Quneitra Governorate, Guvernoratul Quneitra, Quneitra, محافظة القنيطرة, SY-QU, Кунејтра, Al-Qunaytran maakunta, پارێزگای قونەیترە, قنیطره, Al-Kuneitra-guvernementet, 알쿠네이트라주, صوبہ قنیترا, Al Qunaytirah, Al Qunayţirah, Al-Kuneytra, Cuneitre, Ehl'-Kunejtra, El Kuneitra, El Qnaitra, El Qnaïtra, El Quneitra, El'-Kunejtra, Kouneitra, Kuneitra, Kunejtra, Kuneytire, Kuneïtra, Kuniejtra, Kˌұnejtra, Qhaitra, Qinetra, Qinêtra, Qnaitra, Qnaytra, Qnayţra, Qnaïtra, Qouneitra, Qunaytirah, Qunayturah, Qunayţirah, Qunayţurah, ala kunaitiraha, ala kunayatiraha, ala qunaitiraha, alqnytrt, goran gao yuan, qnytrh, qwnytrh, Əl-Queneytirə, Əl-Qüneytirə, ʿeል ቁnayitirahi, Κουνέιτρα, Куниейтра, Құнейтра, Ալ-Կունեյտրա, קוניטרה, القنيطرة, अल क़ुनैतिराह, আল কুনায়তিরাহ, ਅਲ ਕੁਨੈਤਿਰਾਹ, አል ቁናይቲራህ, ゴラン高原

Capital CityMajor HubHistoric SiteHikingOff the Beaten PathWar Tourism