Yemen 2 Day Itinerary

Yemen Travel Itinerary: 2 Days

Day 1: Sana’a Exploration

Morning

  • Old City of Sana’a: Start your day by exploring the ancient Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the narrow alleys and take in the stunning architecture of the mud-brick skyscrapers.
  • Bab al-Yemen: Visit the grand entrance gate to the Old City, Bab al-Yemen, which dates back to the 8th century.

Afternoon

  • Great Mosque of Sana’a: Marvel at the beautiful Great Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the world. Note: Non-Muslims are not allowed inside.
  • Souk al-Milh: Explore the vibrant marketplace, Souk al-Milh, where you can find unique souvenirs and try local snacks.

Evening

  • Traditional Yemeni Dinner: Enjoy a delicious traditional dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes like saltah, mandi, and lahoh.
  • Qat Chewing Session: Participate in a traditional qat chewing session, a popular social activity among locals.

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques or traditional areas.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the Old City and marketplaces.
  • Try to learn some basic Arabic phrases to interact with friendly locals.

Day 2: Shibam and Wadi Dhahr

Morning

  • Shibam: Take a morning bus ( approx. 1 hour) or taxi ride to Shibam, known as the “Manhattan of the Desert”. Marvel at the towering mud-brick skyscrapers and explore the ancient town.
  • Wadi Dhahr: Head to Wadi Dhahr, a scenic valley with stunning rock formations and traditional villages.

Afternoon

  • Tribal Village Visit: Visit a local tribal village and learn about their unique culture and traditions. Note: Respect local customs and dress modestly.
  • Scenic Views: Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Getting There

  • Visa Requirements: Yemeni visas can be obtained upon arrival at Sana’a International Airport or through the Yemeni embassy/consulate in your home country. Check with your government’s travel advisory for the latest requirements.
  • Transportation: Taxis, buses, and shared taxis (called “dabaabs”) are available throughout Sana’a and to nearby towns like Shibam.

Other Things of Interest

  • Yemeni Coffee Culture: Experience the traditional Yemeni coffee ceremony, where you’ll be served cardamom-flavored coffee in a decorative cup.
  • Local Markets: Visit local markets, such as Souk al-Milh or Souk al-Qat, to try local snacks and drinks, like qishr (a type of coffee) or lahoh (a flatbread).
  • Traditional Music and Dance: Attend a traditional music and dance performance, featuring instruments like the oud and qraqeb.

Safety Precautions

  • Check your government’s travel advisory for Yemen before planning your trip.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Respect local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.