Yemen / Mainland

Yemen / mainland

Yemen, a country with a rich history and fascinating culture, remains a hidden secret to most of the world – the Hadramaut province however offers a unique opportunity to experience this country safely and authentically.

At present, the country is divided into several provinces, some of which have remained stable for years. We are heading to the fascinating region of Hadramaut – an area where time seems to have stood still. The Hadramaut province is among the calmest and safest parts of Yemen. It has long avoided the conflicts that affect other parts of the country, and life here flows at a slow, traditional pace.

You will visit ancient villages, the green valleys of Wadi Doa'n, or Shibam – the legendary „Manhattan of the Desert“ and other places that have remained practically untouched by tourism.

This expedition is truly breathtaking – not only because of the stunning scenery, but above all thanks to its depth and authenticity. You will immerse yourself in millennia of history, walk through towns and villages where almost nothing has changed for generations, and discover a culture that has preserved its original essence without the influence of tourism. Each day brings new impressions: encounters with locals, traditional architecture, quiet mosques, date palm groves, and dramatic views over valleys and desert landscapes.

We offer two options for trips to the Hadramaut region:

 Group Tour  (max. 6-8 pax)

• Small group led by a local English-speaking guide.
• Ideal for solo travelers, couples, friends, etc.
• This option represents significant cost savings.

 Private Tour 

• The expedition is led by an experienced local guide. 
• The trip is completely tailor-made.
• It is available for individuals, couples, groups of friends, etc.

Itinerary of the Hadramaut Province Trip (8 days)

We don’t just want to show you Yemen – we want you to truly experience it. Along the way you can expect authentic cultural moments: music, traditional food, meeting locals, and tastings of the very best Yemen has to offer.

• Day 1: Arrival in Seiyun – tour of the historic center, traditional architecture, and old-town atmosphere.
• Day 2: Seiyun – Qabr Hud – Tarim – visit to the sacred site of Qabr Hud (the tomb of the prophet Hud). Continue to Tarim, a spiritual center with many madrasas and mosques. Explore traditional villages nearby.
• Day 3: Tarim – Shibam – Seiyun – visit Shibam, the “Manhattan of the Desert,” famous for its high mud-brick towers. Then mosques and palaces in Tarim and return to Seiyun.
• Day 4: Seiyun – Shibam – Al-Hajjrain – Wadi Do’an – scenic drive via Shibam and the village of Al-Hajjrain into Wadi Do’an, one of Yemen’s most picturesque areas with traditional architecture and unspoiled nature.
• Day 5: Wadi Do’an – hiking and discovery – full-day walks and exploration of the valley’s hidden gems: traditional villages, old forts, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Day 6: Wadi Do’an – Al-Mukalla – transfer to the coast and the port city of Al-Mukalla. Visit the fish market, former sultans’ palaces, and colonial architecture.
• Day 7: Al-Mukalla – Seiyun – scenic drive along the coast and mountains back to Seiyun with photo and rest stops.
• Day 8: Seiyun – departure to Cairo / transfer to the airport and flight to Cairo.

Important to know

1. This trip is intended for very experienced travelers / it is not a tour for everyone, but for those seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path.
2. It is important that this is a safe area of Yemen, where we have verified local contacts and facilities.
3. Thanks to the stable situation, it is possible to visit the region, of course with all necessary safety measures in place and with the support of an experienced local team.
4. This offer did not come about overnight. We have carefully gathered experience and have been visiting the Hadramaut region regularly over the last five years to see if it can be safely offered to our clients.
5. It is necessary to have all permits, security checks, and an escort arranged – but we will take care of everything down to the last detail.
6. Some Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a travel warning for Yemen, so it is necessary to be aware that regular insurance companies will not insure you. However, there is a solution – it is possible to get insured with the international insurance company IATI.

What’s included

• Return ticket Cairo – Seiyun – Cairo (arranged with Yemenia Airways)
• Security permits/checks; entry fees
• All necessary permits and police escort for added safety
• Quality vehicles with experienced drivers and English-speaking guide
• Accommodation in the best hotels available in the region – mostly 4*
• Full board – breakfast, lunch, dinner, unlimited water, additional refreshments

Not included

• International flight to/from Cairo
• Yemen visa
• Travel insurance
• Tips for guide and drivers
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra snacks, etc.)

Flight schedule (Yemenia Airways): Saturday–Saturday

Káhira CAI 11:00 – Seiyun GXF 15:30 ( check-in min. 3 h before )
Seiyun GXF 07:00  – Káhira CAI 10:30 ( check-in min. 3 h before)

Important information for travel in Yemen

• Clothing: respect local dress rules. Men: long trousers only (shorts not allowed). Women: abaya and niqab are required – we can help you purchase them on day one.
• Alcohol: not available for purchase in Yemen; you may bring up to 1.5 liters for personal use.
• Qat: chewing qat is a common social tradition – you can try it as part of the cultural experience if you wish.