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Bani Matar Coffee Farms
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The Bani Matar district in the Yemeni highlands is world-renowned for producing some of the finest Mocha coffee. At altitudes ranging between 2,000 and 2,500 meters, local farmers have cultivated coffee trees for centuries on narrow stone terraces clinging to steep mountain slopes. Coffee from Bani Matar is distinguished by its complex flavor profile, featuring distinct chocolatey and wine-like notes attributed to the unique volcanic soil and the cool high-altitude climate. The harvest is traditionally performed by hand, ensuring that only the ripe, red cherries are selected. Subsequently, the beans are sun-dried on the flat rooftops of traditional stone houses, a natural process that develops the coffee's characteristic body and acidity. These farms are not merely economic assets but are vital components of Yemen's cultural heritage. Bani Matar exemplifies the ancient tradition of coffee cultivation that originated in Yemen before spreading across the globe.
- Location: Yemen
- Top sights: Jabal Kudafah · Jabal Hirmah · Jabal Qayfan
- Nearby: Bajil (77 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 22 | 24 | 26 | 27 | 29 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 24 | 22 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 2 | 2 | 2 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 11 | 15 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Bani Matar coffee farms west of Sanaa are historic terraced fields producing some of the world's highest quality coffee beans - known as Matari coffee. For visitors, they offer insight into traditional Yemeni coffee cultivation and the globally admired coffee culture.
Visiting
The coffee terraces are generally accessible as they lie in rural areas, and farmers often welcome visitors. You can walk through the fields on trails, but should treat the growing areas respectfully and ask for permission beforehand.
Where to view it
A convenient viewpoint is on the hills above the terraces, offering a panoramic view of the entire valley with the coffee plantations. Also, from the road between Sanaa and Bani Matar, you can often catch easy on the eye views of the stepped fields.
Local products
The main product is the famous Matari coffee, sold as whole beans or ground on local markets in Sanaa. Seasonal fruits like pomegranates and grapes are also grown on the terraces and sold during the harvest period.
Active season
The main coffee harvest season in Bani Matar is between October and March, when the coffee cherries are picked and processed. During these months, the plantations are especially lively, with workers in the fields and the scent of freshly roasted coffee in the villages.
Nearby
A visit to the coffee farms can be ideally combined with exploring the old city of Sanaa, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also, a hike to nearby villages with traditional architecture is recommended.
Geography
Facts
- Bani Matar coffee is often marketed globally under the premium 'Matari' label.
- The coffee plants thrive at elevations reaching up to 2,500 meters above sea level.
- Yemen was the first country in history to cultivate coffee for commercial trade.
- A traditional Yemeni drink called 'Qishr' is made from the dried husks of these beans.
- The peak harvest season in Bani Matar typically occurs between October and December.
- Many coffee trees in the region are over 50 years old and still yield high-quality fruit.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Bani Matar Coffee Farms (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are the coffee plantations accessible to tourists?
Only limitedly, visits should usually be organized in advance.
What is Bani Matar known for?
For excellent coffee, grown in the terraced mountains.
Should I take a guide?
Yes, a local guide knows the farmers and the best paths.
When is the harvest time?
The main harvest usually takes place in late autumn.
Can I buy coffee directly?
Often yes, ask the farmers directly at the plantations.
Bani Matar Coffee Farms: where is it located?
Bani Matar Coffee Farms is located in Yemen.
Bani Matar Coffee Farms: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jabal Kudafah, Jabal Hirmah, Jabal Qayfan.
Bani Matar Coffee Farms: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Nov.
Bani Matar Coffee Farms: why is it worth visiting?
The Bani Matar district in the Yemeni highlands is world-renowned for producing some of the finest Mocha coffee.
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