A question we get often asked is where in the Middle East is it safe to travel. Is it safe to travel to Egypt, Jordan, Morocco or Oman? Is it safe to visit Lebanon, Iran, Israel or Turkey? Read on to find out where in the Middle East, north Africa and the Levant it is safe to travel.
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Morocco on our tours.
Soak up the bustling, exotic atmosphere in ancient souqs; join a camel trek into the Sahara; sleep under expansive star-studded skies; witness traditional lifestyles in kasbahs; walk to hamlets high up in the mountains; get lost in winding alleys. All that and more awaits you in Morocco. From Fez, the Islamic world’s largest medieval city, to the sea-side romance of Essaouira; from glorious Marrakesh to the oases of the interior and from traditional bath houses to wonderful meals, Morocco is one country you will not want to miss.
Best tours: Highlights of Morocco or for those wanting to add Morocco's great food to the mix Morocco Food Explorer has us excited.
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Egypt's Nile Valley on our tours. There are however sporadic attacks on foreign targets, so there is an elevated risk level and caution is warranted. Interestingly, since the last attack, the Canadian Government eased its travel warnings for Cairo and the Nile Valley.
Wherever you go in Egypt, the desert is all around you. But is the Nile that is the lifeblood of this dry country, the river that gave us one of the world's oldest civilisations. Witness the pyramids, citadel, mosques museums in Cairo, the towering Pharaonic temples and Valley of the Kings near Luxor and the masterpiece Ramses II built in Abu Simbel. Join a Nile cruise and visit edifices where time has stood still for centuries. No matter how you travel, Egypt will leave an impression on you.
Best tours: Nile Valley Highlights which can be combined with Jordan and with Jordan and Israel.
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Jordan on our tours
As you walk through the Siq to the Treasury at Petra, you cannot help but be in awe. Hand-hewn red sandstone buildings rise up into the clear desert skies, remembering ancient caravans of spice traders travelling far and wide to sell their wares. In the Roman ruins at Jerash and in the crusader castles and Byzantine mosaics along the King’s Highway, history is everywhere in this beautiful land. Travel through canyons and oases, stay with locals among the rock formations of Wadi Rum, and begin to understand why T.E. Lawrence loved this land.
Best tours: A week in Jordan, or, if your interest is archaeology, Hidden Treasures of Jordan
Oman
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Oman on our tours
If you are looking for out of this world glitz and glamour, Oman takes a distant second place to the Gulf States. It makes up for it in its original culture, a rich heritage, a pride in its ancient history, beautiful deserts, stunning mountains and an incredible coastline. Experience the Arabia of old in its mud-brick villages, among the swaying palm trees and fishing boats, the old forts and crumbling watchtowers and the souks bustling with welcoming people.
Best tours: Discover Oman
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Iran on our tours, even though with a mercurial man in the White House things may feel a little tense at times.
Could this be the friendliest country on earth? This country which has seen the likes of Darius the Great, Alexander and Genghis Khan? This land of ancient civilizations, aesthetic beauty and exquisite architecture; where mosques, palaces and mansions stand proud; where history gazes down upon you in the ruins of Persepolis, the bazaars of Shiraz and the palaces of Esfahan; where poetry lives in the gardens of Kashan... Sit down for tea or share a meal in someone's home and let Iran embrace you.
Best tours: Iran Adventure is the best cultural immersion. Ancient Persia in Depth lets you discover the history of Iran, whereas walkers should consider Iran Active Adventure.
Israel and the Palestinian Territories
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Israel on our tours
Israel and the Palestinian Territories are where Asia, Africa and in some ways, Europe, meet in a melting pot of religions, cultures and empires. The birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, a land sacred to Muslims and Baha’is, Israel and the Palestinian Territories offers a beguiling mix of holy places, historical sites and stunning landscapes.
Best tours: Discover Israel for those who like a mix of guided and self-guided exploration. Journey Through Israel & the Palestinian Territories for those who prefer to travel in comfort.
Our advice: it is safe to travel to Turkey on our tours
Turkey, the crossroads of culture and history. You experience it in the bazaars of Istanbul, the city founded by the Romans, cultivated by the Byzantines, conquered by the Ottomans and made cosmopolitan in the modern era. You feel it in the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the Armenian churches in the east and the medieval fortresses along the south coast. You taste it in the olive oil–lathered Aegean vegetables and the spicy Anatolian kebabs. Turkey truly is the place where East meets West.
Best tours: Highlights of Turkey. Active people should consider Turkey Hike, Bike & Kayak
Lebanon
Our advice: parts of Lebanon that are of interest to travellers are under travel advisory. We recommend you postpone travel until these areas have become safe again.