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yemen
hiking in the bura & Haraz Mountains, Sanaa
Yemen, located in the south-west corner of the Arabian Peninsula, is currently a war-torn country. But when I had the opportunity to travel there for a fortnight in 2008, the country still had the reputation of being one of the most fascinating countries in the Arab world. The Old City of Sanaa (Sana'a) with its extraordinary architecture was a must-see, just like the dramatic mountain terraces in the northern and central portions of the country. Above all, I enjoyed the hospitality of the people in Yemen, who were always friendly and helpful to me.
A boy on a donkey proudly wears his jambiya, a short dagger traditionally worn by men in Yemen
Old City of Sanaa (Sana’a), seen from the Bab Al-Yemen (Gate of Yemen)
Old woman and a young girl on a rooftop, Jebel Rugab, Bura Mountains
yemen Galleries
I visited Sanaa (Sana’a) and it's Old City. The country also offers some great opportunities for hiking, especially in the mountains northwest of Sana'a. I explored the Haraz mountains and the Jebel Bura area. The region is full of old fortified villages built on hilltops.
Travelling around Yemen, I definitely enjoyed the architecture and landscapes of the country. But above all, the Yemeni people are friendly and helpful. Taking photographs of them, especially on my excursions to remote mountain villages, was a pleasure.
Both the Haraz mountains and the mountains in the Jebel Bura region are great for hiking and trekking. The local people reside in compact fortified villages reminiscent of the Middle Ages and have retained many of their old customs and practices.
tour info
This two-week tour in February 2008 was organized by Hauser Exkursionen, Germany and led by the Yemeni tour guide Mustafa Al Faik.
highlight
Wandering without aim through the Unesco-protected Old City of Sana'a, which is (was) arguably one of the most beautiful cities anywhere on Earth.