Yemen: When to Go

When you go depends on where you're going. If you're going to the Tihama, Aden or Hadhramawt, don't go in July - the heat will be unbearable. If you're heading for the highlands, December nights can be very cold. From October to February, most of the country is dry and dusty, and in March, April and August the temperature is pleasant but you may get wet in parts of Yemen. April to May and September to October are probably the best bets wherever you're heading.

The observation of significant days is an important part of Yemen's culture. In addition to the main Islamic holidays, people recognise Revolution Day (26 September), National Day (14 October) and Independence Day (30 November).

Weather

Climatically, Yemen can be divided into three main zones: the Tihama (the hot and humid Red Sea coastal strip); the central highlands (including San'a); and Wadi Hadramawt and the east, and the far north.

The Tihama and the southern coast are hot and humid year-round but without much rain. Daytime temperatures are around 28°C (82°F) in winter and 37°C (98°F) in summer. The twice-yearly monsoons can be heavy in the southwest between mid-March and mid-April, and particularly from July to September. Beware of flooding and closed roads.

The central highlands (which range from 1500m/4921ft to 3500m/11,483ft) enjoy a temperate climate for most of the year, though it can get hot at noon and chilly at night (particularly between October and February). San'a averages daytime temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 30°C (86°F) - at night it can get down to freezing. Wadi Hadramawt and the east, and the far north, are hot (particularly between June and September) and very dry, with temperatures from 25°C (77°F) in December to 37°C (99°F) or more in June.