Yemen is one of the oldest centres of civilisation in the world but remains one of the undiscovered pearls of the Arabian peninsular.

Remote communities live in stunning landscapes of open desert, dramatic mountain ranges and beautiful, empty coastline. The country still has the feel of 'old Arabia' and tradition is a byword here with centuries-old agricultural methods still practised and some of the most extraordinary examples of mud and stone architecture anywhere.

Weather
Yemen’s climate varies according to altitude and proximity to the coast. The coastal plain is hot throughout most of the year while the highlands are warm in summer but during winter, from October to March, pleasantly cool. The climate of the highlands is generally considered to be the best in Arabia. Bear in mind however that at this time of year nights can be cold in the mountains. Annual rainfall is extremely low and remember that summer temperatures in the lowlands can be uncomfortably high. The most pleasant time is from October to April.

Local Customs
Yemen is a traditional Muslim country and as such you should take steps not to offend the people. It is advisable that ladies wear long trousers or skirts here to avoid undue attention. Women should not enter mosques in shorts, short skirts or revealing clothing and should wear a headscarf when entering. Everyone must remove their shoes when visiting mosques. Alcohol must not be consumed on the streets.

Visa
British citizens require visas to enter Yemen and cost £40.00. Visas may be obtained in advance from the Yemeni representation in the UK. British and EU citizens can also obtain tourist visas at the airport upon arrival. Please check with us prior to travelling as this situation could change.

Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against Tetanus, Typhoid, infectious Hepatitis and Polio. Malaria is prevalent in low-lying areas along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf coasts but this situation does change. It is your responsibility to check all relevant recommendations and also to get the most up-to-date health information for the destinations being visited. You can contact your GP or any of the following organisations:

MASTA: Telephone: 0906 822 4100 www.masta.org
Live Travel Health Line: 09068 633414
www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Flight Duration
Flight time to Sana’a from London is 9 hours and 15 minutes with Yemenia Airways.

Accommodation and Transport
We normally use 4 stars and some 3 star accommodations on our tours, where possible with some local character. In more remote areas where the choice of accommodation is limited, we will use the best available small hotels or local pensions.

4 wheel drive vehicles are usually used however minibuses or coaches may also be used depending on the size of the party.