We used a Carnet in both Syria and Jordan. Also make sure you have your title and registration for your vehicle. I used color copies and never pulled out my original of either the title or registration.

They see dozens of Carnets a day, so are very familiar with them.

Insurance is indeed very easy to purchase at the border and very low cost.

I can also confirm the visa information. You must have your visa *before* you arrive in Syria if your country has a Syrian embassy. Get a multiple entry visa for Syria, it will allow you a side trip to Lebanon.

You CAN NOT enter Syria if you show an Israeli visa or a border crossing exit stamp from Jordan or Egypt at their border crossing with Israel in your passport. The Syrians will check your passport very carefully for any evidence of entry into Isreal (occupied Palestine). They couldn't figure out what our Bhutanese visas were, but finally let us in. Be prepared for overwhelming kindness and hospitality in Syria.

Jordan was very reluctant to let us in with our motorcycles, as only the royal family can ride in Jordan. It took us about four hours to convince them to let us through. You won't have any problem with your 4x4.

Syria was incredible. Plan for plenty of extra time there. Jordan was not so incredible. Allow plenty of time for Petra, but otherwise, just take the King's Highway for the best scenery.

Tip: Write your VIN and engine serial # inside the back cover of your passport. It will save a lot of time filling out the forms.

More info on crossing borders in Syria and Jordan at:
http://www.hackneys.com/travel/index-border.htm


Doug

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