Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Damascus, Dimashq, Syria
1. Palmyra Wildlife Reserve
A vast desert reserve sheltering numerous threatened species like the Syrian brown bear and the Arabian sand cat.
- Unique Flora & Fauna: Home to diverse plant and animal life, some of which are found nowhere else.
- Archeological Wonders: Surrounded by ancient ruins, offering a unique blend of wildlife and history.
- Desert Adaptation: A chance to witness how creatures adapt to the harsh desert environment.
2. Crac des Chevaliers Biosphere Reserve
Protected area encompassing the famous Crac des Chevaliers castle and diverse ecosystems.
- Historical Significance: The castle is one of the best-preserved crusader fortresses globally.
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Rich in plant and animal life, with several endemic species.
- Combining History & Nature: A great place to explore both historical sites and natural beauty.
3. Tall Azzar National Park
An oasis park offering a sanctuary for numerous bird species and the endangered Syrian Gazelle.
- Avian Paradise: A haven for more than 200 bird species, including several migratory ones.
- Endangered Species Protection: Home to the critically endangered Syrian Gazelle.
- Oasis Experience: A chance to explore a lush oasis in the middle of the desert.
4. Qalaat Salah-ed-Din
An ancient castle with surrounding wildlife habitats, home to hyenas and foxes.
- Historical Castle: A well-preserved Crusader castle with stunning views.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, including hyenas and foxes.
- Off-the-beaten-path Experience: A lesser-known destination offering a unique and authentic experience.
5. Jabal Al-Lubnan Nature Reserve
Mountainous reserve teeming with wildlife like the Syrian Wolf and rare birds.
- Syrian Wolf Protection: One of the last strongholds for this critically endangered species.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
- Mountain Landscapes: Stunning mountain vistas and challenging hiking trails.
6. Qaraa Mountain Wildlife Reserve
A rugged, forested reserve sheltering the endangered Persian Leopard and brown bears.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Home to some of the world's rarest species like the Persian Leopard.
- Challenging Hikes: Rugged terrain and steep hiking trails offer a challenging experience.
- Ancient Villages: Surrounded by historic villages offering insights into traditional Syrian culture.
7. Tadmor Wetlands
Wetland area supporting a wide variety of birdlife and migratory species.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: A must-visit for avid birdwatchers with over 200 bird species.
- Migratory Birds: An important stopover for several migratory bird species during their journey.
- Historical Significance: Located near the ancient city of Palmyra, offering a combination of natural beauty and history.
8. Nabk Nature Reserve
A protected area home to the endangered Syrian Hyena and numerous bird species.
- Endangered Species Protection: One of the last remaining habitats for the Syrian Hyena.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
- Authentic Experience: A less touristy destination offering a true insight into rural Syrian life.
9. Qalamoun Nature Reserve
Mountainous reserve sheltering the endangered Wolf and rare bird species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Home to some of the world's rarest species like the Syrian Wolf.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
- Mountain Landscapes: Stunning mountain vistas and challenging hiking trails.
10. Karakosh Wildlife Reserve
Desert reserve protecting the Syrian Brown Bear, sand cats, and various bird species.
- Unique Flora & Fauna: Home to several unique plant and animal species found nowhere else.
- Archeological Wonders: Surrounded by ancient ruins, offering a unique blend of wildlife and history.
- Desert Adaptation: A chance to witness how creatures adapt to the harsh desert environment.
11. Jebel Druze Wildlife Reserve
Mountain reserve sheltering the endangered Syrian Wolf and rare bird species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Home to some of the world's rarest species like the Syrian Wolf.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers.
- Mountain Landscapes: Stunning mountain vistas and challenging hiking trails.
12. Jabal As-Summaq Nature Reserve
Forested reserve protecting the endangered Persian Leopard and brown bears.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Home to some of the world's rarest species like the Persian Leopard.
- Challenging Hikes: Rugged terrain and steep hiking trails offer a challenging experience.
- Ancient Villages: Surrounded by historic villages offering insights into traditional Syrian culture.
13. Qalamun-Karakosh Wildlife Corridor
Connecting desert and mountain reserves, supporting numerous threatened species.
- Conservation Efforts: Ensuring the survival of numerous threatened species by connecting habitats.
- Diverse Ecosystems: A combination of desert and mountain ecosystems offering a unique experience.
- Wildlife Migration: Allows for the free movement of various wildlife species between habitats.
14. Qalamun-Nabk Wildlife Corridor
Connecting mountain reserves, supporting the endangered Syrian Hyena and various bird species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Helping conserve the endangered Syrian Hyena and other rare species.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Protecting a wide variety of plant and animal life in the area.
- Less Touristy Destination: A less touristy destination offering a true insight into rural Syrian life.
15. Qalamun-Jebel Druze Wildlife Corridor
Connecting mountain reserves, supporting the endangered Syrian Wolf and rare bird species.
- Endangered Species Conservation: Helping conserve the endangered Syrian Wolf and other rare species.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Protecting a wide variety of plant and animal life in the area.
- Mountain Landscapes: Stunning mountain vistas and challenging hiking trails.