Yemen

Yemen: general info for travelers

Yemen is a country located in the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the north, Oman to the east, the Arabian Sea to the south, and the Red Sea to the west. Yemen is known for its ancient and diverse culture, including UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Old City of Sana'a and the Zabid archaeological site. The economy relies heavily on oil exports, agriculture, and fishing. Yemen has faced political instability, conflict, and humanitarian crises in recent years, making it important for travelers to carefully consider safety before visiting.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Yemen, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Yemen: places to visit

Yemen is a country in the Arabian Peninsula that is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history and culture. Here are some of the main places to visit in Yemen, with a brief description for each: 1. Sana'a - The capital city of Yemen is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its old city area featuring unique architecture and vibrant markets.
2. Shibam - Also known as the "Manhattan of the Desert", Shibam is a city in Yemen that is famous for its tall mud brick buildings that date back to the 16th century.
3. Socotra - This island off the coast of Yemen is home to a unique ecosystem with several endemic species, such as the dragon's blood tree and the Socotra starling.
4. Al-Mahweet - A town in Yemen that is famous for its beautiful gardens, ancient mosques and historic buildings.
5. Taiz - One of the oldest cities in Yemen, Taiz is known for its striking architecture, including its impressive fortified walls and historic mosques.
6. Marib - An ancient city that was the capital of the Sabaean Kingdom, Marib is home to several historic ruins that are still standing today.
7. Haraz Mountains - A mountain range in Yemen that is known for its stunning scenery, including terraced fields, ancient village architecture, and waterfalls.
Visiting these places in Yemen can offer a unique insight into the country's rich history and culture, and provide an unforgettable travel experience. However, due to ongoing political unrest and security concerns in some parts of the country, it is always important to check travel advisories and exercise caution when planning a trip to Yemen.
There is more to see and do in Yemen: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Yemen: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Yemen, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Yemen experiences a hot and dry climate throughout the year, with some seasonal variations. The country has two main seasons: the rainy season, which occurs between June and September, and the dry season, which lasts from October to May.
If you are seeking cooler temperatures, it is best to visit Yemen during the winter months of December to February, as temperatures can reach a more moderate level of around 25°C during the daytime. However, it is important to note that due to the unstable political situation in Yemen, the country is currently not safe for tourists to visit. It is recommended to avoid all travel to Yemen until the situation stabilizes.

Yemen: activities and what to do

Yemen is a country with diverse natural landscapes and cultural heritage, offering several exciting activities and sports for tourists. Here are some suggestions: 1. Hiking: Yemen has some popular hiking trails, such as the Hadramaut Mountains, Haraz Mountains, and Socotra Island. You can see incredible landscapes and enjoy the fresh air while hiking.
2. Scuba diving and snorkeling: The Red Sea in Yemen has some of the most beautiful coral reefs, marine life, and sea caves in the world. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling in areas like Aden and Socotra Island.
3. Camel riding: Camel riding is a popular activity in Yemen, where you can enjoy a unique experience of riding on the back of a camel and exploring the desert areas.
4. Wildlife watching: Yemen has diverse wildlife, and the best place to witness it is in Socotra Island, where you can see unique plant and animal species.
5. Beach activities: Yemen has some stunning beaches, such as the Aden beach, which offers activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
6. Rock climbing: If you're a fan of rock climbing, you can go on an adventure in the rocky mountains of Wadi Hadramaut.
7. Cultural tours: Yemen is rich in culture, and you can explore its historical sites such as the Old City of Sana'a, Shibam, and Zabid. Please note: Due to the ongoing civil war, it is crucial to check the travel advisories and take necessary safety precautions before considering a trip to Yemen.

Yemen: few words on history and culture

Yemen has a rich and ancient history, dating back to at least 1000 BCE. The Kingdom of Sheba, which is believed to have existed in what is now modern-day Yemen, was a prosperous and influential trading center. Later, Yemen was ruled by a series of dynasties including the Himyarites, the Sabaeans, and the Zaydids.
In terms of culture, Yemen is known for its distinctive architecture, which includes intricate stonework and mud brick buildings. Yemeni cuisine is also famous, with dishes such as fahsa, a spicy meat stew, and salta, a soup made with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes meat.
Yemen is also home to a rich tradition of poetry, music, and dance. Qat chewing is a popular social activity in Yemen, though it is not without controversy due to concerns about its impact on personal health and productivity. Unfortunately, Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2015, which has had a significant impact on the country's culture and heritage. It is important to exercise caution and stay informed about current events when considering travel to Yemen.

Yemen: how to move around on holiday

Currently, it is not recommended to travel to Yemen due to the ongoing conflict and instability in the country. However, if someone is determined to visit Yemen, the best means of transport to reach Yemen would be by air, as the country has several international airports in cities such as Sana'a, Aden, and Mukalla. However, it is important to note that commercial flights to Yemen may be limited or suspended due to the current situation. Within the country, taxis and buses may be used for travel, but it is strongly advised to seek local advice and guidance before traveling to any area in Yemen. To hire a car to visit Yemen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Yemen: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Yemen with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Yemen along with a brief description: 1. Mandi: Mandi is a popular rice and meat dish that is cooked in an underground oven. The meat can be chicken, goat, or lamb and it is served with spiced rice.
2. Saltah: Saltah is a bubbling stew that is made with meat or vegetables and served hot with flatbread. It is seasoned with a spice blend called hawaij and usually contains a dollop of fenugreek paste.
3. Bint al Sahn: Bint al Sahn is a dessert made of layers of crepe-like pastry that are drizzled with honey and topped with clarified butter. It has a buttery, flaky texture and a sweet, rich flavor.
4. Zurbian: Zurbian is a popular rice dish that is made with meat, vegetables, and a fragrant spice mixture called hawaij. It is cooked in a tomato-based sauce and served hot with flatbread.
5. Aseed: Aseed is a type of porridge that is made with a combination of wheat flour and water. It can be served sweet or savory and is often topped with butter or honey.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Yemen: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yemen can be considered as a relatively affordable country for tourists compared to some other destinations. However, prices can vary depending on your travel style, the region you visit and the activities you choose. Accommodation and transportation costs are generally reasonable, but some tourist activities, such as guided tours or excursions, may be more expensive. Additionally, it is worth noting that due to the country's political instability and ongoing conflict, some areas may not be safe for tourists. Therefore, it is important to do thorough research and consult with travel advisories before planning a trip to Yemen.

Yemen: where to find accodation

When looking for accommodation in Yemen, there are several options available. One popular choice is to book a hotel through an online booking platform such as Booking.com, Agoda or Expedia. Alternatively, you can also book directly through the hotel's website or contact them by phone.
In addition to hotels, there are also guesthouses, hostels and bed and breakfast options available in Yemen. These can be found on websites such as Hostelworld and Airbnb. It is important to note that due to travel restrictions in Yemen, it is advised to check the current situation and security levels before making any bookings.
You can check hotel prices in Yemen here:
Booking.com

Yemen: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to recent statistics, Yemen receives around 25,000 tourists per year. However, due to ongoing conflict and security concerns, Yemen is currently not a popular destination for tourists. As for crowded periods, I cannot provide an answer as Yemen's tourism industry has been impacted by the aforementioned factors.
The U.S. Department of State has a level 4 travel advisory, which means "do not travel" to Yemen due to terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, and armed conflict. The security situation in Yemen is extremely volatile and unpredictable, with ongoing violence and terrorist attacks from various armed groups throughout the country.
There are no safe areas in Yemen for tourists, and visiting the country for non-essential travel is strongly discouraged. The risk of kidnapping, robbery, and other forms of violence is extremely high, and individuals who do decide to travel to Yemen should take appropriate and comprehensive security measures.
As such, it is recommended to avoid traveling to Yemen.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Yemen on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Yemen: events for tourists

Yemen is a country that is rich in history and culture, and has a number of interesting events that may be of interest to tourists. Here are some of the most popular events in Yemen: 1) Souk al-Milh: This is the famous spice market in the old city of Sana'a that takes place every day. It's a great place to explore and find a variety of spices, herbs, and other traditional Yemeni goods.
2) National Day: Yemen's National Day is celebrated on May 22nd each year and is a public holiday. The day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other events throughout the country.
3) Ramadan: Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, is observed in Yemen like in other Muslim countries. This can be a great time to visit as it gives you the opportunity to experience the local traditions and food.
4) Eid al-Fitr: This is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with feasting, fireworks, and other festivities.
5) Hadramaut Cultural Festival: This festival takes place in the city of Mukalla every year during the month of Ramadan and features traditional music, dance, and food.
I hope this information is helpful!

Yemen: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Yemen, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Day 1-2: Sana'a
Visit the Old City of Sana'a, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore the Great Mosque of Sana'a and the Al Saleh Mosque
Shop at the Al-Madina Souq and try local food
Day 3-4: Shibam
Visit the Old City of Shibam, also known as the "Manhattan of the Desert"
Explore the historic architecture, including the mud-brick tower houses
Learn about the city's history at the Shibam Museum
Day 5-6: Wadi Hadramawt
Take a scenic drive through the Wadi Hadramawt valley
Visit the ancient city of Shabwah and the ruins of the Queen of Sheba's palace
Explore the Al-Qatn fortress and the Seiyun Palace
Day 7-8: Socotra Island
Take a flight to the remote Socotra Island
Explore the unique flora and fauna, including the dragon's blood tree and the Socotra cormorant
Relax on the beaches and enjoy the natural beauty of the island
Day 9-10: Taiz
Visit the historic city of Taiz and the Al-Qahira Castle
Explore the Al-Mudhaffar Mosque and the Jibla Palace
Take a walk through the Taiz National Museum and learn about Yemeni culture
Day 11-12: Aden
Explore the historic port city of Aden and the Aden Museum
Visit the ancient fortress of Aden and the Ma'alla Palace
Relax on the beaches and enjoy the warm weather
Day 13-14: Hodeidah
Explore the city of Hodeidah and the Al-Jariri Mosque
Visit the Al-Ghwayzi Fort and the Hodeidah Museum
Take a boat tour of the Red Sea and enjoy the scenic views
For any travel plans, I strongly recommend consulting with the latest official travel advisories issued by the US Department of State or your country's foreign office. It is also highly recommended to do extensive research on the safety and security situation of your intended destination, including potential risks and emergency contacts, and to make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on any trip.

Yemen: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Yemen described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Aden is a port city in Yemen located in the southern part of the country on the Gulf of Aden. Historically, Aden has been an important trading center and port for centuries. Due to its strategic locat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aden
- Al Bayda is a city located in central Yemen, with a population of approximately 160,000 people. It is also the capital of the Al Bayda Governorate. The city is known for its historic landmarks, includ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Bayda
- Al Hudaydah is a city located on the Red Sea coast of Yemen. It is the fourth largest city in Yemen and is an important seaport for the country. Historically, Al Hudaydah was a major center for coffee... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Hudaydah
- Al Jawf is a province located in northern Yemen. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the north, the provinces of Ma'rib and Al-Bayda to the east, and the province of Amran to the west. The capital city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Jawf
- Al Khawkhah is a small coastal town located in the western part of Yemen, along the Red Sea. It has a population of around 40,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Khawkhah
- Al Mahwit is a province in Yemen located in the northwestern part of the country. It covers an area of about 2,381 square kilometers and its capital city is also called Al Mahwit. The province is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Mahwit
- Al Mukalla is a city in the southern part of Yemen and is the capital of the Hadhramaut Governorate. The city is situated on the Gulf of Aden coast and is a major seaport. With a population of over 30... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Mukalla
- 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. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amran
- Dhamar is a historic city in Yemen, located about 100 kilometers south of the capital city of Sana'a. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, agricultural heritage, and ancient architecture. Dhamar ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dhamar
- Hajjah is a city in Yemen located in the northwest part of the country. It is the capital of Hajjah Governorate and has a population of around 70,000 people. The city is known for its agricultural pro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hajjah
- Hodeidah, also known as Al Hudaydah, is a city located on the western coast of Yemen along the Red Sea. It is the fourth-largest city in Yemen and serves as the country's main port for importing and e... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hodeidah
- Ibb is a city in Yemen located approximately 170 kilometers south of Sanaa, the capital city of Yemen. It is situated in the middle of a mountainous region, surrounded by beautiful valleys, hills, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ibb
- Sana'a is the capital city of Yemen and is located in the western part of the country. It has a rich history and culture, with many historical landmarks and traditional architecture. The city's old to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sana'a
- Saywun is a coastal town located in the Hadhramaut Governorate of Yemen, situated on the Arabian Sea. It has a population of around 15,000 people. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saywun
- 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 beautif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taiz
- Zinjibar is a city in the Abyan Governorate of Yemen. It is located on the southern coast of the country, overlooking the Gulf of Aden. The city was established in the 16th century and has a rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zinjibar


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