Birdwatchers are very adventurous travellers and sometimes it is possible to think that every great birding destination is already comprehensively visited by holiday groups. However, this is not the case, and every so often our attention is drawn towards new exciting locations by the pioneering explorations of a few intrepid backpackers.
One such country is Syria, which is perhaps not geographically remote but, for a combination of reasons (mostly political) has not enjoyed a high profile in the birdwatching world. The reality is one of the most hospitable and friendly nations in the Middle East, a valued ally of the West during the first Gulf War, and above all a birding venue par excellence.
For some years we at Naturetrek have been reading with great interest the reports of various visitors to Syria during the spring migration season and the hugely impressive list of birds recorded during these expeditions. The quality of the birdwatching would alone be sufficient reason to visit the country, but what has also excited us is the abundance of wonderfully preserved archaeological remains throughout Syria which rival, or exceed, those to be found anywhere else in the Middle East.
We are delighted to be undertaking our first Syrian tour in April 2010 and, while primarily focused on the birdlife, our itinerary includes opportunities to visit many of the best known archaeological sites, including Palmyra, which was once a major Roman settlement.
Each year witnesses new ornithological discoveries in Syria, such as the recent finds of nesting Bald Ibis and wintering Sociable Lapwing, and as more birdwatchers visit the country we will doubtless be reading of many more rare sightings from this amazing country.
Departs: Sat 10th – Wed 21st Apr 2010
Cost: £2,695
Leader: Andy Smith & local ornithologist
Tour details:
To find out more, or to book, our 12-day spring birdwatching holiday: Syria: Birds & Archaeology call Paul Dukes on 01962 733051 or email pauldukes@naturetrek.co.uk