Taiz - Discovering Yemen

Travelling to Taiz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Taiz, 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 Taiz 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 Taiz, 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 Taiz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Taiz

Taiz is a city located in southwestern Yemen, with a population of around 600,000 people. It is situated on the slopes of Mt. Sabir, which is surrounded by fertile valleys and is known for its beautiful landscape. Taiz has a rich cultural heritage and is home to a number of historic sites, including an ancient fortress, a 12th-century mosque, and several museums. The city is also known for its traditional architecture, markets, and crafts, such as pottery and basket weaving. However, it is important to note that Taiz is currently affected by the ongoing conflict in Yemen, and travel to the city should be undertaken with caution and after consulting with local authorities.

What to visit in Taiz

Some popular tourist attractions in Taiz, Yemen include: 1. Al-Qahira Castle: This historical castle was built during the 6th century and is located in the heart of Taiz. The castle provides a panoramic view of the entire city and its surroundings.
2. Taiz National Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Taiz. It houses ancient artifacts and traditional clothes, as well as modern Yemeni art.
3. Al-Janad Mosque: One of the oldest and most important mosques in Yemen, Al-Janad Mosque is a major landmark in Taiz. It was established during the early 15th century and has undergone several renovations throughout the centuries.
4. Al-Midhar Castle: This unique castle sits atop a cliff overlooking the Taiz valley. It was built during the 13th century, and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
5. Al-Asha Palace: A beautiful and well-preserved palace located in the heart of Taiz. It dates back to the 19th century and is considered one of the most important architectural landmarks in the city.
6. Al-Hoban Mosque: This ancient mosque is considered one of the most important religious sites in Taiz. It was built during the 9th century and boasts intricate architectural details.
7. Al-Qahira Market: A bustling marketplace filled with traditional goods and souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from clothes to spices to traditional handcrafted items.
8. Al-Mudhaffar Mosque: This grand mosque is located in the historic district of Taiz. It is known for its intricate wood carvings and stunning architecture.
9. Al-Saleh Mosque: An impressive mosque located in the city center. It was built during the 20th century and is one of the largest mosques in Yemen.
10. Al-Ashraf Palace: This palace is another important historical landmark in Taiz. It was built during the early 18th century and features traditional Islamic architectural elements.
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 Taiz.

When to go on holiday to Taiz

It is currently advised against all travel to Taiz due to ongoing conflict and security concerns in the area. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the US Department of State recommend avoiding all travel to Yemen at this time. It is important to check the travel advice of your own country before planning a trip.

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

How to get to Taiz

Getting to Taiz, Yemen can be challenging due to the current political and security situation in the country. That being said, if you are planning to travel to Taiz, there are a few things to keep in mind: 1. Check your government's travel advice - Before you plan a trip to Yemen, it's important to check your government's travel advice. Many countries advise against all travel to Yemen, while others advise caution and the need for a high degree of personal security.
2. Book a flight to Sana'a - The closest international airport to Taiz is in Sana'a, the capital city of Yemen. Many major airlines operate flights to Sana'a from various cities around the world.
3. Hire a private driver or take a bus - Due to the security situation in Yemen, it is recommended that you hire a private driver to take you from Sana'a to Taiz. Alternatively, you can take a bus or minivan, but ensure they are licensed and legitimate. It's important to note that travel in Yemen is unpredictable and can often be disrupted due to security concerns.
4. Check the security situation - It's important to keep yourself updated on the latest security situation in Yemen before you travel to Taiz. Make sure to check with local authorities and your embassy for the latest information and to register your presence in Yemen.
Overall, travel to Taiz, Yemen is challenging, and it is recommended that you only travel there if it is essential. If you do decide to visit, make sure to take all necessary precautions and plan your trip carefully.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Taiz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Taiz

Taiz is a city located in the highlands of southwestern Yemen and is known for its unique cuisine full of aromatic spices and herbs. Here are some typical foods of Taiz with a short description: 1. Salta: It is a popular and traditional Yemeni soup and is considered one of the most famous dishes in Taiz. It is thick, heavily spiced, and served in a stone bowl. The soup consists of boiled lamb, vegetables, lentils, and hulba (fenugreek).
2. Mandi: It is a Yemeni rice dish that consists of meat (usually lamb, goat, or chicken) served over tender and flavorful basmati rice. The meat is cooked using a special technique in a tandoor oven, making it extremely tender and juicy.
3. Aseedah: It is a traditional Yemeni dish made with a mixture of flour, water, and spices. The dough is shaped into small balls and then boiled in water or meat broth until cooked. It is typically served with a meat or vegetable stew.
4. Fahsa: It is a slow-cooked meat dish made with beef or lamb and simmered for hours with spices, including cumin, black pepper, and cinnamon. The meat is served in a rich, fragrant broth and garnished with cilantro and lemon juice.
5. Shakshouka: It is a popular breakfast dish that consists of eggs poached in tomato sauce with onions, peppers, and herbs. It is usually served with bread for dipping.
6. Muqalgal: It is a traditional Taiz bread that is soft and fluffy on the inside with a golden and crispy crust on the outside. It is typically served with soup, stews or grilled meat.
7. Bint al-sahn: It is a Yemeni dessert made with layers of honey-soaked, crispy, and flaky pastry dough, and topped with sesame seeds and clarified butter. These are just a few typical foods of Taiz, but there are many more dishes that are worth trying when visiting this beautiful city in Yemen.
You can find general info about typical foods in Yemen here.

Is Taiz an expensive destination for tourists?

Taiz is not a very popular tourist destination and as such, the cost of living there is relatively low compared to other tourist destinations. However, due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen, the situation in Taiz can be unstable and access to basic amenities may be limited. It is recommended to check with local travel experts and authorities to get the latest information on safety and accessibility before planning a trip to Taiz.

Where to find accomodation in Taiz

In Taiz (Yemen), it is generally best to find accommodations in the city center or near the historical sites for easy access to landmarks like the Al-Qahira Castle, the Al-Janad Mosque, and the Taiz National Museum. Additionally, there are several hotels and guesthouses located in the Al-Misbahi and Al-Turba areas that offer a comfortable stay and easy access to nearby markets and restaurants.
You can check hotel prices at Taiz here:
Booking.com

Is Taiz a safe destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, the situation in Yemen, including in Taiz, is currently not safe for tourists. Yemen is experiencing a conflict that has resulted in a serious humanitarian crisis, and the US Department of State has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Yemen due to terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. Additionally, many countries have also issued similar travel warnings and advise against all travel to Yemen. It is recommended to avoid all travel to Yemen until the situation stabilizes and security improves.
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 Taiz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Taiz the most?

Unfortunately, Taiz in Yemen is currently not a safe destination for travelers due to ongoing conflicts in the country. The situation in Yemen has resulted in a dangerous humanitarian crisis, with widespread violence, medical shortages and poor infrastructure. The travel warnings for Yemen advise against all travel to the country, and most tourism and travel services, including transportation, medical care, and emergency services, are severely limited or unavailable.
Even though Yemen has a rich history and culture, it is not recommended to travel to Taiz at this time. It is important to prioritize your safety while traveling, and to consider visiting other destinations that are safe and welcoming for travelers.

How to get around Taiz

In Taiz, Yemen, the most common form of transportation for locals is shared taxis or minibuses called "dabab." These run along set routes and can be hailed from the street. Private taxis, also known as "Hakima," are also available for hire but tend to be more expensive. Walking is also an option for shorter distances, but it is important to be aware of the current security situation in the city before deciding to do so.

What to see around Taiz

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Taiz, Yemen: 1. Al-Qahira Castle: This historical castle is located in the town of Al-Qahira, about an hour's drive from Taiz. You can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area from the castle's ramparts.
2. Al-Haimah: This ancient city is located about 50 km north of Taiz and is known for its well-preserved fortress and lush gardens.
3. Sabr Mountain: This picturesque mountain is about a two-hour drive from Taiz and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Al-Mukalla: This coastal city is located about 250 km from Taiz and is known for its beautiful beaches and seaside resorts.
5. Al-Sawma'ah: This scenic village is located about 70 km from Taiz and is home to some of the oldest mosques in Yemen. There are also several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the nearby mountains and valleys.
I hope this helps you plan your day trips from Taiz, Yemen!
For every travel information about Yemen you can click here.

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