Sanaa in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Sanaa

20°C (68°F) High Temp

5°C (41°F) Low Temp

8 mm (0.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather with cool 5-20°C (41-68°F) temperatures ideal for exploring Old City's 2,500 m (8,200 ft) altitude without overheating
Clear mountain air with minimal rainfall (8mm/0.3 inches) provides impressive photography conditions for the UNESCO architecture
Post-harvest season means traditional Yemeni coffee ceremonies are at their peak with fresh beans from nearby terraces
Comfortable sleeping weather requires no air conditioning, saving 30-40% on accommodation costs compared to summer months

Considerations

Significant temperature swings from 20°C (68°F) day to 5°C (41°F) night require layered clothing and warm gear
Limited tourist infrastructure due to ongoing travel advisories makes independent travel challenging
Altitude adjustment needed - many visitors experience mild symptoms at 2,500 m (8,200 ft) for first 24-48 hours

Best Activities in November

Old City Heritage Walking Tours

November's cool temperatures make exploring Sanaa's ancient streets comfortable for 4-6 hour walking tours. The 70% humidity is manageable at this altitude, and morning temperatures around 15°C (59°F) are perfect for photographing the iconic gingerbread architecture without harsh shadows. Traditional craftsmen are most active in cooler months.

Booking Tip: Book through certified cultural guides 2-3 weeks ahead (typically $40-60 per day). Look for guides registered with local heritage organizations. Check current available tours in the booking section below.

Mountain Village Day Trips

Cool November weather is ideal for visits to villages like Thula and Kawkaban, located 1-2 hours from Sanaa. Morning temperatures around 10°C (50°F) make the mountain drives comfortable, and you'll avoid the intense summer heat that makes these elevated locations unbearable.

Booking Tip: Arrange through licensed drivers with 4WD vehicles (typically $80-120 per day including transport). Book 1-2 weeks ahead and confirm vehicle condition. See current mountain tour options below.

Traditional Coffee Farm Experiences

November is post-harvest season when Yemeni coffee farmers process their beans. Cool morning temperatures around 8°C (46°F) in the coffee regions make farm visits comfortable, and you'll witness traditional processing methods. The low rainfall means terraced farms are accessible.

Booking Tip: Arrange through agricultural cooperatives 2-4 weeks ahead (typically $50-80 per day). Include transport and traditional lunch. Look for experiences that support local farming communities through the booking options below.

Suq al-Milh Traditional Market Tours

November's moderate temperatures make browsing Sanaa's ancient markets comfortable throughout the day. The 70% humidity preserves traditional goods like frankincense and spices. Early morning visits (7-9 AM) when temperatures are around 8°C (46°F) offer the best selection and fewer crowds.

Booking Tip: Join guided market tours (typically $25-40 for 3-4 hours) that include cultural context and bargaining assistance. Book through cultural centers 1-2 weeks ahead. Current market tour options available in booking section.

Architecture Photography Workshops

November's clear skies and low rainfall create ideal conditions for capturing Sanaa's unique tower houses. The UV index of 8 provides excellent natural lighting, while cool temperatures allow for patient composition work. Golden hour lighting is spectacular against the mountain backdrop.

Booking Tip: Book photography workshops through local cultural organizations (typically $60-90 per day). Include equipment rental if needed. Workshops should cover cultural sensitivity and photography permissions. Check current workshop availability below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid to Late November

Coffee Harvest Festival

Traditional celebration of the Yemeni coffee harvest featuring ceremonies, tastings, and demonstrations of ancient processing methods. Local farmers showcase varieties from different regions around Sanaa.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Warm sleeping bag or heavy blankets - nighttime temperatures drop to 5°C (41°F) and many accommodations lack heating

Layered clothing system - temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) between day and night require adaptable clothing

Sturdy walking boots - Old City's ancient stone streets can be slippery with morning moisture

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 at 2,500 m (8,200 ft) altitude despite cool temperatures

Altitude sickness medication - consult doctor about prophylactic treatment for 2,500 m (8,200 ft) elevation

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated at altitude in dry 70% humidity conditions

Power bank and voltage adapters - electricity can be intermittent, especially during cooler months

Cash in small denominations - card acceptance is limited and ATMs can be unreliable

Modest covering clothing - long sleeves and pants for cultural sites, plus warmth in 5°C (41°F) mornings

Basic first aid kit including altitude sickness remedies and any prescription medications

Insider Knowledge

Local families fire up traditional heating systems in November - staying in heritage houses provides authentic warmth and cultural immersion

November qat sessions happen indoors due to cooler weather - this provides rare opportunities to witness traditional social customs in private homes

Mountain roads to surrounding villages are clearest in November due to minimal rainfall, but morning frost at higher elevations requires careful driving

Traditional bread baking increases in November as families prepare for cooler months - early morning bakery visits offer warm bread and cultural exchanges

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating altitude effects - many visitors don't prepare for 2,500 m (8,200 ft) elevation and experience headaches and fatigue

Packing only summer clothes based on 'Middle East' assumptions - November nights at 5°C (41°F) require proper winter gear

Not bringing enough cash - limited banking infrastructure means running out of local currency can strand travelers