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Yemen Road Trip

Aden - Ahwar - Mukalla - Shibam - Marib - Sanaa - Manakhah - Hodeidah - Al Mukha - Ta'izz

Expect on your itinerary

Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Security Security
Yemen Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km2,925 h/stage6.5

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Yemen Road Trip in Yemen?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 900EUR drive & more 400EUR sleep & more 1,056EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,696EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,596EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,260EUR drive & more 525EUR sleep & more 1,848EUR eat & more 360EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,733EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,993EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,950EUR drive & more 713EUR sleep & more 2,640EUR eat & more 480EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,833EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,783EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,250EUR drive & more 788EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,578EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,828EUR
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Yemen Road Trip Itinerary

The Yemen Road Trip is an adventurous journey through some of the country's most iconic destinations. Starting in Aden, the route takes in Ahwar, Mukalla, Shibam, Sanaa and Manakhah, covering a distance of 2203km over 10 days. The best time to take the trip is from October to March, when the weather is mild and the days are long. The drive is a great way to explore the country and its attractions. Admire the historic architecture of Shibam, known as the 'Manhattan of the Desert', and explore the ancient ruins of Manakhah. Along the way, you'll also find stunning landscapes, from mountain passes to coastal views. Be aware that road conditions in Yemen are generally poor, so it's important to drive with care. However, this road trip is suitable for every driver and can be completed on a moderate budget.
number of days 10 number of days
route length 2,925 km route length
budget fair budget
good for survivalist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level extreme accident level

START Aden

Distance 2,925 km Driving time 64.6 h Pace: modest 760.5 kWh Airports ADE
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Aden is a port city located in the south of Yemen on the Gulf of Aden. This vibrant city is the perfect starting point for the Yemen Road Trip. Here, travelers can explore the ancient city and its many historic sites, such as the Old City, the Tawahi Palace, and the Aden National Museum. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s local markets, vibrant nightlife, and its many restaurants. For those traveling to Aden by air, the closest international airport is Aden International Airport (ADE). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The Yemen Road Trip offers travelers a great opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and its many cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the country’s ancient cities, hike in the mountains, and visit its many beaches. The trip also offers travelers the chance to experience the country’s rich culture and vibrant hospitality. Aden is the perfect starting point for the Yemen Road Trip. Here, travelers can explore the city’s many attractions, enjoy its vibrant nightlife, and experience its rich culture. With car rentals available at the airport, travelers can easily explore the city and its surroundings. So, start your Yemen Road Trip in Aden and explore the city’s many attractions and its surrounding landscape. Enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, explore its ancient sites, and experience its unique culture. With car rentals available at the airport, you can easily explore the city and its surroundings.

1 Aden - Ahwar

Distance 220 km Driving time 5.1 h Pace: modest 57.2 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Aden, Yemen to Ahwar! This 220 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and is part of a larger tour. Start your adventure in Aden, a port city located on the Arabian Sea and explore its rich history and culture. Visit the old city and the Tawahi district, the former administrative center of Aden. Then, drive to the city of Zinjibar and explore the ancient ruins of the city, including the old fort and the Zinjibar Castle. After that, you will reach Ahwar, a city located on the Arabian Sea coast. Here, you can explore the beautiful beaches, the old city, and the historic buildings. Don't miss the chance to visit the Ahwar Castle, the ancient fort, and the old city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Ahwar - Mukalla

Distance 318 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: fast 95.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Welcome to the road-tripping stage from Ahwar to Mukalla! This is a 318km journey that can be completed in fewer than 4 hours. Ahwar is a great place to start your trip. Here you can visit the picturesque Al-Hajjarah district, where you can admire the old mud-brick houses, the old market and the ancient fort. On your way to Mukalla, you can stop at the small town of Shaqra and visit the old castle. Another interesting stop is at the small fishing village of Al-Qahra, where you can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Finally, you will reach Mukalla, the capital of the Hadhramaut Governorate. Here you can explore the old city and visit the beautiful Al-Kabir Mosque. This is only one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you have a great road-tripping experience!

3 Mukalla - Shibam

Distance 301 km Driving time 5.7 h Pace: modest 78.3 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Welcome to the Mukalla-Hadramaut Governorate-Shibam road trip! This is an amazing journey that will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Yemen. You will be covering a distance of 303 km in less than 5 hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Your first stop is Mukalla, a captivating city with a stunning beach and a magnificent old city. From here, you will drive through the Hadramaut Governorate, a region filled with spectacular landscapes, ancient ruins, and beautiful oases. Your final destination is Shibam, a city known for its impressive mud-brick skyscrapers and its fascinating culture. Here, you can explore the old city and take in the unique atmosphere. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit various attractions and soak in the beauty of the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!

4 Shibam - Marib

Distance 414 km Driving time 5.8 h Pace: fast 124.3 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Shibam to Marib! This 416 km long journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete and is part of a larger tour. Your first stop is Shibam, a city in the Hadhramaut Governorate of Yemen. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved mud-brick cities in the world. The city is known for its distinctive tower-like structures, which are made of mud bricks and reach up to 30 meters in height. The city is also home to some of the oldest mosques in the world, including the Great Mosque of Shibam, which dates back to the 7th century. Next, you will drive to Marib. It is an ancient city located in the Marib Governorate of Yemen. It is known for its archaeological sites, including the Temple of Almaqah, the Great Dam of Marib, and the ancient tombs of the kings of Sheba. The city is also home to some of the oldest mosques in the region, including the Great Mosque of Marib, which dates back to the 8th century. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

5 Marib - Sanaa

Distance 170 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: modest 44.3 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on a road trip to explore the cultural and historic gems of Marib and Sanaa! Start this stage of your journey in Marib, an ancient city of Yemen, renowned for its archaeological sites. Visit the ancient Marib Dam, the largest in the world, and the remains of the ancient city of Sheba. Don't miss the Great Temple of Awam and the Temple of the Moon God. From Marib, drive to Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, located 170 km away. Along the way, you will get to experience the stunning landscape of the Arabian Peninsula. In Sanaa, explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Great Mosque of Sanaa. Take a walk through the bustling Souq al-Milh and marvel at the architecture of the city. This stage of your journey will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

6 Sanaa - Manakhah

Distance 100 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: modest 25.9 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes of Yemen! Starting in Sanaa, the capital of Yemen, the road trip will take you to the mountain region of Haraz, located at a distance of 100km and a driving time of fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you will be able to admire the spectacular views of the majestic mountains and the lush vegetation. The winding roads will lead you to the village of Manakhah, where you will be able to explore the traditional markets and the fascinating architecture of the old city. Be sure to take your time to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and take many photos to remember your journey. As you drive, be aware of the local wildlife and the friendly people of the region. You can also find many places to camp or stay overnight. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

7 Manakhah - Hodeidah

Distance 142 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: modest 37.0 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape
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Welcome to the Manakhah-Hodeidah Road Trip stage! This stage of your journey will take you through some of the most interesting places in Yemen. You will travel 141 km in less than 4 hours, so get ready for a memorable experience! Your first stop will be in Manakhah, where you can visit the ancient city of Zafar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you can explore the ruins of a large temple complex and the remains of a unique irrigation system. Continue your journey to Hodeidah, a port city located on the Red Sea. Here you can explore the old city and visit the historic al-Mina Mosque, built in the 16th century. You can also visit the Hodeidah Museum to learn more about the city's history. This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

8 Hodeidah - Al Mukha

Distance 667 km Driving time 18.0 h Pace: slow 153.4 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Welcome to the beautiful road trip from Hodeidah to Al Mukha! This 250 km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete and will be a great addition to your larger tour. Your journey will start in Hodeidah, the capital of Yemen's Red Sea Coast. Here you can visit the Hodeidah Corniche and the old city, which is full of traditional Yemeni architecture. The next stop is the city of Zabid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore the old city, with its many mosques, tombs, and traditional houses. After Zabid, you will continue to Al Mokha, a picturesque port city. Here you can visit the historic fort and the old city, with its narrow streets and traditional buildings. Finally, you will arrive in Al Mukha, a small fishing village. Here you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Red Sea and visit the old fort. This stage of your tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

9 Al Mukha - Ta'izz

Distance 399 km Driving time 10.6 h Pace: slow 91.8 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Al Mukha to Ta'izz? This 105km journey will take you less than two hours, and you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Yemen. Start your journey in Al Mukha, where you'll find the amazing Al Mukha Castle, a beautiful fortress built in the 16th century. You can also visit the nearby Al Mukha Old Town and admire the traditional Yemeni architecture. Continue your journey to Ta'izz, the third largest city in Yemen. Here you can explore the Ta'izz Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the impressive Ta'izz Grand Mosque. The city is also home to the Ta'izz National Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of Yemen. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip and explore the amazing sights of Yemen!

10 Ta'izz - Aden

Distance 194 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: slow 44.5 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on a wonderful road trip from Ta'izz to Aden! This 179km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, and you'll be able to take in some of Yemen's most interesting sites. Start your trip in Ta'izz, a city known for its historical sites and monuments. Among the must-sees are the Ta'izz Grand Mosque, the Old City, and the Archaeological Museum. Continue your journey to Al-Hudaydah, a city with a stunning coast and plenty of seafood restaurants. Here, you can explore the old city and its markets, as well as the Al-Hudaydah Corniche. Next, take a stop in Ibb, where you can visit the Ibb Grand Mosque and the Al-Qa'id Palace. Finally, arrive in Aden, Yemen's second largest city. Here, you can explore the Old City, the Aden Grand Mosque, and the Old Souq. This is just one stage of the larger tour, but the attractions and sites along the way will make it a memorable journey. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

  Aden

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Your Yemen Road Trip ends in Aden, the second largest city in Yemen after the capital of Sana'a. Aden is a port city located on the Gulf of Aden, and was the capital of Yemen from the 1940s until 1990. It has a long and interesting history and is known for its stunning beaches and the ancient ruins of the once-thriving city of Crater. Aden is the perfect place to end your road trip, as it offers a wide range of attractions to explore. The city's main attractions include the Al-Mansoorah Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in the city, and the Old City of Crater, which was once a thriving port city. Aden also has many beautiful beaches, such as Gold Mohur Beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Aden is also home to some of the best shopping in Yemen, and you can find everything from traditional handicrafts to modern clothing. If you're looking for a taste of traditional Yemeni cuisine, you can find it in the numerous restaurants in Aden. Aden is easily accessible by car, and the closest international airport is Aden International Airport (ADE). From there, you can take a taxi to the city center. End your Yemen Road Trip in Aden and explore its fascinating history and culture. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches and delicious cuisine, Aden has something for everyone.

Yemen Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the Yemen Road Trip, a captivating 10-day, 2203km journey that begins in the coastal city of Aden and winds through the diverse landscapes and historical treasures of Yemen. This adventure invites intrepid travelers to immerse themselves in the country's breathtaking scenery and millennia-old cultural sites.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Aden: The starting point is a vibrant port city with a history that dates back to ancient times. Explore its bustling markets and historical buildings that reflect a blend of British colonial architecture and ancient Yemeni influences.
  • Ahwar: Ahwar offers a glimpse into Yemen's coastal splendor with its scenic landscapes, traditional fishing villages, and an ecosystem rich in biodiversity, including mangrove forests.
  • Mukalla: Once a major trading hub of the Hadhramaut region, Mukalla enchants visitors with its historic architecture, serene beaches, and the iconic Al-Ghwayzi Fort overlooking the city.
  • Shibam: UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shibam is celebrated for its towering mud-brick buildings, some reaching 11 stories high, which have earned it the nickname 'Manhattan of the Desert' and stand as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient urban planning.
  • Sanaa: Yemen's historic capital boasts a spellbinding old town that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its unique multi-story houses and ancient mosques serve as a living museum of Yemeni culture and architecture.
  • Manakhah: Perched in the Haraz Mountains, Manakhah is surrounded by terraced fields and old stone villages. Its historic significance and stunning mountain views make it an off-the-beaten-path gem.

Best Time to Go:

Travelers are advised to embark on the Yemen Road Trip between October and March when cooler temperatures provide a more comfortable climate for exploration.

Potential Risks:

The journey demands careful planning due to varying Road conditions and the need for caution given Yemen's political instability. It is vital to check current travel advisories and local conditions before and during the Trip.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Road Trip is suitable for those on a moderate budget, and while it does not require expert driving skills, readiness for diverse Road conditions is essential. It is advisable to carry extra provisions, particularly when traveling through remote areas.

A good choice for:

The Yemen Road Trip is a journey of discovery and adventure, offering a deep dive into the country's spectacular natural landscapes and a rich historical heritage. It promises to be an unforgettable experience for those with an adventurous spirit, a modest budget, and the resilience to navigate through challenging terrain.

Facts for safer driving in Yemen

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 90 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 140 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 140 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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