When to go
The best months to visit Yemen as a whole, the island of Socotra inclusive, are
January and February. Along the coasts and at low altitudes, it's a warm and sunny period, while in the desert, it's pleasant during the day, while it may become a bit cold at night, but at least, you avoid the blistering heat of the long summer months.
In
December, the weather is usually good, but tropical cyclones are still possible, especially in the first half of the month.
In
Sana'a and at high altitudes, winter is equally sunny, but it's mild during the day and a bit cold at night. Owing to the mild temperatures, you can visit Sana'a all year round, but in summer, especially in July and August, it is often cloudy, in addition, some showers, at times heavy, can occur. Certain areas of the plateau are even more rainy and may experience flooding and landslides.
The
plateau can receive some showers also between March and May, however, if you want to visit only the plateau, you can go in
March-April and October-November, in order to avoid either the cold of the winter nights and the summer rains. October is probably the best month.
As mentioned on the climate page, the
sea in Yemen is always warm enough for swimming, both in Socotra and along the coasts of the mainland.
What to pack
In
winter: for the plateau and Sana'a, pack spring/autumn clothes (light for the day), a sun hat, a sweater and a jacket for the evening.
For the mountain peaks, bring warm clothes, such as a down jacket, a sweater, gloves, and a hat.
For the coast, bring summer clothes, and a sweatshirt for the evening.
For the desert, light clothes for the day, a scarf or turban, desert boots or sandals, and a sweater or jacket for the evening and early morning.
When going to the reef, you can bring snorkeling equipment, including water shoes or rubber-soled shoes.
In
summer: for the plateau and Sana'a, pack light clothing, a sweatshirt for the evening, and a raincoat or umbrella.
For the mountain tops, spring/autumn clothes for the day, a sweatshirt and a jacket, and a raincoat.
For the desert and the Red Sea coast, lightweight clothes, made of natural fabric (cotton or linen), and a desert turban.
For the coast of the Arabian Sea and Socotra, light clothes, a light sweatshirt and a scarf for the breeze, and a light raincoat.
It's better for women to avoid shorts and miniskirts outside tourist clubs.
Back to the climate of
Yemen