Amran - Discovering Yemen

Travelling to Amran

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Amran, a pretty good destination in Yemen (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Amran and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Amran, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Yemen, here's everything to know about Amran for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Amran

Amran is a city in northern Yemen, located approximately 50 miles northwest of the capital city of Sana'a. It is the capital of the Amran Governorate and is situated in the fertile Wadi Amran valley. The city has a long history and was an important center of commerce and agriculture in ancient times. Today, it is a bustling city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Amran is known for its historic fortress, known as the Amran Citadel, which dates back to the 9th century. The city is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking, as the surrounding countryside is incredibly scenic.

What to visit in Amran

Amran is a city located in Yemen and it has various places to visit. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Amran are: 1. The Great Mosque of Amran: Also known as the Al Hadi Mosque, it is the largest and oldest mosque in Amran, dating back to the 10th century. The mosque has two minarets, one of which is 55 meters high.
2. The Old City of Amran: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the most well-preserved historical cities in Yemen. The old city is surrounded by a fortified wall, and it is characterized by its traditional architecture, narrow alleys, and old houses made of mud-brick.
3. The Souk of Amran: Located in the heart of the old city, the souk of Amran is a bustling market where you can find various goods such as spices, textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry.
4. The Amran National Park: This park is located about 12 kilometers from the city center and it is a popular spot for nature lovers. The park features a variety of flora and fauna, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. The Thula Fort: This fort is located about 15 kilometers from Amran and it is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort was built during the 12th century and it is a great example of the architecture and defensive structures of the period.
6. Al-Wadi Al-Jadid: A beautiful valley located about 30 kilometers from Amran. It is a great spot for hiking and trekking, with plenty of natural springs and stunning landscapes to enjoy. Note: It is important to check with the local authorities for the current security situation before planning a trip to Yemen.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Yemen, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Amran.

When to go on holiday to Amran

In general, the best time to visit Amran is from October to February when the weather is comfortable and dry. The temperatures during this time are moderate and range from 15°C to 25°C. It is also a great time to explore the historical and archaeological sites in Amran without the intense heat and humidity of the summer months. However, it is always advisable to check the local weather forecast before planning your trip to ensure the most favorable conditions. Additionally, due to the political and security situation in Yemen, it is important to check the travel advisories issued by your government before traveling to Amran or any other part of the country.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Amran

To get to Amran in Yemen, you can take a flight to the Sana'a International Airport, which is located approximately 45 kilometers away from Amran city. From there, you can take a taxi, bus or rent a car to travel to Amran.
Alternatively, you can also travel by land from Sana'a to Amran. There are buses and taxis that run regularly between the two cities, and the journey takes around 1-2 hours depending on the traffic conditions.
Please note that Yemen is currently experiencing political instability and travel restrictions may apply. It's important to check the latest travel advice before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Amran, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Amran

Amran, a city in Yemen, has a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Here are some typical foods of Amran with a short description for each of them: 1. Saltah: A traditional Yemeni dish made with a blend of spices, lamb, tomatoes, and onions, all simmered together in a hot pot. It is typically served with a side of bread for dipping.
2. Bint al-Sahn: A sweet bread traditionally eaten for breakfast or during celebrations. It is made with dough, honey, and ghee, which gives it a sweet and buttery flavor.
3. Aseedah: A traditional Yemeni porridge. It is made with ground wheat or barley flour and served with a meat or vegetable soup.
4. Zahaweq: A spicy Yemeni condiment made with hot green peppers, garlic, coriander, and other herbs. It is typically served as a side dish with grilled meat or bread.
5. Marak: A Yemeni stew made with tomato sauce, meat, and a blend of spices. It is typically served over rice or with bread on the side.
6. Fattah: A rice and meat dish typically eaten during celebrations. It is made with layers of rice, meat, and vegetables, all topped with a rich tomato sauce.
7. Thareed: A traditional Yemeni bread pudding. It is made with layers of bread, milk, butter, and sugar and is typically served for dessert.
You can find general info about typical foods in Yemen here.

Is Amran an expensive destination for tourists?

Amran, Yemen is not a popular tourist destination, and there are not many tourist facilities available. However, it is considered to be relatively inexpensive in comparison with other tourist destinations. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are lower in Yemen than in many other countries, but it is important to be aware of safety issues when traveling in Yemen. It is strongly recommended to check the travel warnings and advisories issued by your government and obtain the necessary insurance and permits before planning a trip to Yemen.

Where to find accomodation in Amran

In Amran, the best areas to find accommodations would be the city center or nearby areas such as Al-Zurka, Al-`Isha, and Al-Qa`dah. These areas have a range of hotels and guesthouses to suit different budgets and also offer easy access to the city's attractions such as the ancient city of Sirwah, the historic quarter of Al-Hawta, and the local museums.
You can check hotel prices at Amran here:
Booking.com

Is Amran a safe destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, due to ongoing conflicts and civil unrest in Yemen, the United States Department of State has issued a Level 4 travel advisory, which advises against all travel to Yemen, including the region of Amran. This means that it is not considered safe for tourists to visit Amran or Yemen in general. It is important to prioritize your safety when planning a trip and consider alternative travel destinations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Yemen here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Amran.

What type of travelers will enjoy Amran the most?

I must say that currently, the US Government advises against all travel to Yemen due to ongoing conflict and terrorist activities, making it unsafe for tourists. Therefore, I cannot provide information about the best type of travelers for Amran. I suggest checking with the relevant authorities and official travel advisories for the latest information on the safety and security situation in Yemen. It's always important to prioritize safety and security when planning a trip.

How to get around Amran

The most common transportation option in Amran is the shared taxi or minibus, which can take you to different neighborhoods and surrounding villages. However, you can also rent a private car or hire a local driver. It's important to note that the roads in Amran can be rough and bumpy, so it's recommended to use a sturdy vehicle and be prepared for a slightly uncomfortable ride.

What to see around Amran

Certainly, here are some beautiful places to consider for a day trip from Amran, Yemen: 1. Old City of Sana'a: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, featuring ancient architecture and traditional Yemeni culture.
2. Dar al-Hajar Palace: A stunning palace located in Wadi Dhahr, known for its unique architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding valley.
3. Shibam Hadramawt: A historic city in eastern Yemen known for its tall, mud-brick buildings and ancient architecture.
4. Al Saleh Mosque: A beautiful mosque located in the capital city of Sana'a, known for its large decorative chandelier and intricate Islamic geometric patterns.
5. Al Hajjarayn Mosque: A historic mosque located in the town of Hajjah, known for its unique architecture and beautiful surrounding gardens.
6. Al Sawdah Mountain: The highest mountain peak in Yemen, located in the Haraz Mountains, featuring stunning views and hiking trails.
7. Al-Qahira Castle: A historic castle located in the town of Ta'izz, known for its impressive architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
8. Al Mahwit Palace: A historic palace located in the town of Al Mahwit, known for its beautiful architecture and ornate decorations.
I hope you find these recommendations helpful in planning your day trips from Amran, Yemen!
For every travel information about Yemen you can click here.

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