socotra island travel cost

How to Visit Socotra Island in 2024

Do you wish to visit Socotra Island?

It is an island with few tourists and basic infrastructure but with astounding beauty and unique biodiversity.

Our complete guide explains how to visit Socotra, get a visa, book flights and which tour program we recommend to show you the best of Socotra.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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We decided to visit Socotra in 2019, and if “off-the-beaten path” places are your thing, then you should put Socotra Island on your bucket list.

Since there is a new flight option to visit Socotra, we have updated our blog post to help you plan your trip . 

How to Visit Socotra Island – Everything you Need to Know

Table of Contents

Where is Socotra Island?

Socotra is located between the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where the Indian Ocean meets the Arabian Sea.

Politically speaking, it belongs to Yemen. But geographically speaking, it belongs to the African continent.

In 2008, the Socotra archipelago was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Visit Socotra – Which Airlines Fly to Socotra?

A visit to Socotra has been challenging for some years.

In 2019 and 2020, the only airline flying to Socotra was Yemenia Airlines on their once-weekly flight from Cairo. We visited Socotra in 2019, and we flew with Yemenia Airlines.

Things have since changed. Now, in 2023 and the plan for the upcoming 2024 season is a charter flight from Abu Dhabi to Socotra.

Air Arabia operates this charter flight and connects Abu Dhabi and Socotra on Tuesdays. You will not be able to book these flights on Skyscanner or other flight booking platforms; you will need the assistance of a local Tour Operator. Read more about our recommendations on the best Tour Operator in Socotra below.

The perfect time to visit Socotra is right now.

In this blog post, you will find information on how to visit Socotra on the flight from Abu Dhabi to Socotra by charter flight.

As far as we know, Yemenia Airlines is still flying between Cairo and Socotra. But, as they have a layover in Seiyun on the mainland, foreigners can’t use this route due to visas. 

The weekly flight from Abu Dhabi 

The new flight route from Abu Dhabi makes visiting Socotra much easier than in the past.

We recommend browsing Skyscanner for cheap flights from/via your home country to Abu Dhabi.

20 Most Popular Foods From Yemen

10 Hardest Countries to Visit in the World

The Current flight schedule from Abu Dhabi AUH to visit Socotra SCT (2023/24)

ABU DHABI – SOCOTRA Non-stop direct flights on Tuesday.

FLIGHT NO 476 Abu Dhabi (AUH) 11:00 departure > Socotra (SCT) 12:15 arrival 

FLIGHT NO 477 Socotra (SCT) 13:45 departure > Abu Dhabi (AUH) 17:00 arrival

You will be returning on the same plane that lands in Socotra, and you should expect delays.

If you’re considering a visit to Socotra this season, I suggest flying into Dubai for a few days (read our post about visiting Dubai on a budget ) and then transferring to Abu Dhabi before your flight to Socotra on Tuesday.

Alternatively, you can fly directly to Abu Dhabi with enough time to catch your connecting flight to Socotra.

On the way back, I would stay an extra night in Abu Dhabi to connect the flight home the following day. This means you won’t stress about missing your connecting flight. 

How to Book the Flight to Socotra 

You might’ve already searched for the flight online through Skyscanner but have not found it.

This is because this flight can not be booked online. And yes, this is the only flight you can book to visit Socotra as a foreigner.

To book the flight, you’ll need your Yemeni visa first (more details below), and you can only book the flight through a travel agent.

The agent can hold your seats (reservation) for a few weeks while your visas are being processed and then once payment is made, the e-tickets will be issued.

You must have a printout of your visa and ticket to check-in at Abu Dhabi Airport to visit Socotra. 

As there is currently only one flight between Abu Dhabi and Yemen and it does sell out. Not because of tourists, as only a few are on each flight. But many Yemeni citizens fly for medical procedures.

Our Recommended Tour Operator to visit Socotra

The easiest way to book the flight is to have your tour company take care of that. It was booked via their travel agent in Abu Dhabi and you could pay via bank transfer.

We recommend the local Tour Operator, Eye Of Socotra . They offer two popular tour itineraries that you can view here .

The package price depends on how many people in your group are travelling, but you can contact Eye of Socotra for more information. The email address is:  [email protected] .

WhatsApp: +967 774 186 500

How Much Is A Tour to Visit Socotra?

Tour prices will vary between operators, and as mentioned above, the price does depend on how many passengers are in the group. Most groups that visit Socotra are small, or between 4-12 people. Tour programs are often very similar and include similar activities.

Most agencies can arrange private tours in Socotra; however, expect to pay more for this option.

We have listed approximate prices for this season, 2023/2024, if you book your tour program with Eye of Socotra . The prices below are for the Tour Program only , excluding flights, visas or any hotel upgrades or extras. *These prices are subject to change at any time.

When booking, you can take 5% off this tour price if you quote our exclusive code below.

• 1 person: USD 1800
• 2 to 3 people: USD 1450 pp
• 4 to 5 people: USD 1300 pp
• 6 people: USD 1150 pp
• 7 – 9 people USD 1050 pp
• 10 or more people: USD 950 pp

SAVE 5% ON TOUR PRICE!

Quote our exclusive code:  EYEOFSOCOTRA5  to receive a 5% discount on your tour!

Travelling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card . We love this card; it has saved us so much in fees.

We used WISE to pay for our trip to visit Socotra Island in 2019.

The Price of the Flight to Socotra

In 2023, the return flight from Abu Dhabi to Socotra costs approximately USD 900 per person. As there are limited options for Socotra, the charter flight is the only way to visit Socotra.

They have a monopoly and can charge anything they wish, so you don’t have any choice in getting to Socotra.

Back in 2019, we paid USD 1200 per person for our return flight to Socotra.

How To Get A Visa for Yemen?

The only way to secure a Yemeni visa for your visit to Socotra is by booking a tour with a local company.

Embassies are currently not issuing tourists visas. And as you can imagine there aren’t many Yemeni embassies in the world and only a small number of adventure travellers wish to visit Socotra.

Eye Of Socotra Agency can arrange your flights, tour packages and visa.

You can also obtain your visa if you know someone in Socotra who can facilitate this, especially if your visit to Socotra is not your first time there.

The Yemeni visa price is USD 150 ; you will receive it via email about 2-3 weeks before you arrive in Socotra.

Once you arrive in Socotra, your visa will be issued at the airport. The visa is valid for 30 days, and you must not have any stamps from Israel.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

How to Book a Tour to Visit Socotra

The season to visit Socotra is short, so you need to be quick! To book a tour to visit Socotra, check Eye of Socotra for dates of tours for this season (October- January).

Remember to quote code EYEOFSOCOTRA5 to save 5% on the tour price; it’s a significant saving!

Alternatively, this tour, which you can book on Tourradar , is another excellent option.

If you need visas for other countries – see our helpful Visa Page here

Learn more about Yemeni cuisine and check out these 20 most popular foods from Yemen .

You may also be interested in visiting some nearby countries that are also fascinating. These 10 reasons why you should visit Oman  should provide enough inspiration to book a trip here. 

Don’t miss our Perfect 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary for Oman.  This country is best explored on wheels to explore all the hidden wadis and amazing views.

And then, if you’re stopping by the UAE, it’s possible to visit Dubai on a Budget.  Seriously, stay somewhere nice and eat the best food; the details are covered in our post.

Travel Tips for Asia

We have many travel guides and tips for Asia— a fascinating continent!

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Asia, and our food map of Asia will inspire your food journey.

These top 5 best street foods in Asia are unmissable! We explain Central Asian food, including seven popular foods in this region.

Our Southeast Asia packing list will be helpful if you’re travelling here.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Not surprisingly, our top 10 best countries for food lovers include a few Asian countries.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Asia. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual Asian countries , or consider a regional eSIM for Asia (which covers 18 countries).

If your travels in Asia are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the best deals on group tours in Asia .

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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Why Visit Socotra-What to Expect in Socotra Island

15 comments . leave new.

Amazing, helpful, exciting info here Marty. Thanks for sharing! Absolutely love seeing your & Rach’s adventure updates on Instagram!

Thanks Shauna. Great to hear you are enjoying the journey. And yes Socotra was pretty special.

Eye of Socotra is the best choice for organizing a Socotra trip 👌

Hello. I’m intrigued and love traveling to untouched parts of the world. Would it be safe for me, as an American woman, to join a group of travelers via tour company? How many tend to be in the tours, if you know, and where are people from? Thank you!

Yes, we love to explore untouched parts of the world too – and Socotra was definitely one of our favourites. Yes, if you hold an American passport, you could still visit Socotra using a tour company. They will help you to arrange a visa once you book a place on the trip. There are several tour companies to choose from, but it’s best to choose a reputable one. We recommend using the one we went with. (details in our blog). Groups tend to be small, our group had 8 people. You can certainly book a private tour with a company also (only you or your friend(s), plus a driver/guide), but the price will be more. We enjoyed having other people to share the experience. The people who book this destination are from all over the world, just in our group we had Australian, South African, Lebanese, German, and Japanese. It’s definitely for people who like adventure, camping, outdoors, hiking, and natural beauty.

Thanks Marty, I hope it’s helpful for visiting there. Socotra seems like an exotic place. Even though flight tickets are a bit overwhelming it could be made simpler if you are travelling by an associated tour company. I have visited places like these which are raw and unique in their own way. But I don’t know if its possible to travel at this time due to the travel restrictions to so many countries. Any way seems like another place to my bucket list.

Socotra Eco tours ( http://www.socotra-eco-tours.com ) is the senior and best agency for organizing inbound tour to Socotra. All staff are local Socotris and well trained of Socotra environment and cultural attributes to Socotra. It is strongly recommended to come through locals.

Kind regards

Yes, we had a friend who visited Socotra with Socotra Eco-Tours and his feedback was very positive. He had a good experience travelling with you.

Thanks for the detailed blog! One question regarding the visa – have you experienced any issues entering other countries with a Yemeni stamp in your passports? I’ve experienced something like this with an Iranian visa and I’m curious whether it’ll be an issue. Thank you so much!

Hi Cindy, we have been told not to have a Yemeni stamp if you plan to travel to Libya and Afghanistan and since we were planning a trip there, we got new passports to not have any problems. Some countries might definitely find it unusual to have a stamp from Yemen, but hopefully explaining that you went to Socotra island can help. Don’t forget that if you have travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and/or Yemen, you are not eligible to obtain ESTA for the USA, but need an actual visa.

Ah, Socotra! One of the most interesting places on earth for sure. It’s sad that visiting this place also prevents from obtaining ESTA for the USA 🙁 How much are the flights from UAE to Socotra?

Round-trip costs around 950 USD.

As a citizen of the US, will I have any trouble getting back to the US from Socotra? Sorry, but I am a little confused about ESTA. This will probably go into your “Stupid Question” pile. ;~)

Hi Joan, If you’re an American citizen with a US passport, you don’t need ESTA so no need to worry 😉

I just clicked on the tour company above, and referenced by you. It appears that starting in September ‘23 until May ‘24 there will be flights on both Friday AND Monday!!! That would be much more convenient for those not wanting or unable to stay a whole week.

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How to get to Socotra

Updated March 2024,  How to get to Socotra was originally written in May 2019

Likely, the most asked question I receive from readers or people on social media is, “ how do I get to Socotra? “. Since 2019, I have been taking groups to explore Socotra alongside a local operator.

I first visited in 2014 with ease just before the war took hold in the mainland of Yemen and have been dying to get back there.

Since 2015 getting to Socotra has been extremely difficult and nearly impossible to get to.

In late 2018 it was announced that  Yemenia Airlines  flights would resume to Socotra from Cairo.

Weeks later in March 2021 it was announced that Air Arabia would start flying a route between Abu Dhabi and Socotra. In this post, you will find info on both flight routes.

Know that getting to Socotra is still not the walk in the park it was when I first visited in 2014, there are still a lot of hoops to jump through, but it is nonetheless possible. I will walk you through the steps in this post.

Start planning your trip here:  The Socotra travel guide Learn more about Socotra and plan a trip with the Bradt Socotra Guidebook

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Socotra?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

The Once Per Week Yemenia Flight From Cairo

On Sunday night, a flight connects Cairo, Egypt to Aden, Yemen, and continues on to Socotra Island on Monday morning. One thing to note is that this routing requires a permit from the Yemeni Ministry of Interior and isn’t the easiest thing to acquire, your local operator you book your trip through should be able to secure this for you a few weeks in advance of your trip.

Know that this schedule is subject to frequent changes.

The Air Arabia Flight From Abu Dhabi

In March 2021 it was announced that Air Arabia would begin flying an Abu Dhabi-Socotra route on Tuesdays. Starting in 2023, they added a second flight each week on Fridays during the high season (November-March). I’ll give more details about this route as well as the Yemenia flight later in this post

Price Of The Yemenia Flight

The Yemenia flight to Socotra from Cairo is not cheap. Yemenia currently has a monopoly on the route and that definitely reflects in the cost.

As of January 2024, the current price for an economy class roundtrip ticket from Cairo to Socotra is typically around $1,160 USD .

Price Of The Air Arabia Flight

The Air Arabia flight from Abu Dhabi is a bit less in cost and does not require stopping over in Seiyun.

As of January 2024, the current price for an economy class roundtrip ticket from Abu Dhabi to Socotra is $950 USD .

How To Book The Air Arabia Flight

• You cannot book the flight online
• It easiest to have your tour operator connect you with the rep at the Air Arabia office in Hadiboh to handle booking. Alternatively, you can make these arrangements directly from an Air Arabia office in the UAE

How To Book The Yemenia Flight

• As with the Air Arabia flight, it’s easiest to have your tour operator connect you with the rep at Yemenia who will book ticket for you. You can also have your tour operator put you in contact with the office to make payment by bank wire yourself
• Tickets can only be purchased in cash or via bank wire
• You need a security clearance from the Yemeni Ministry of Interior in order to use this flight as it routes through Aden. Your tour operator will provide this document to you
• A copy of your Yemeni visa and invitation letter (provided by the tour operator), along with a copy of your passport must be provided to Yemenia at the time of booking. Once the ticket is booked Yemenia will issue the ticket in your name and you’ll be given an e-ticket number that you will use when checking in at Cairo International Airport

I know the lists for both airlines seems pretty straightforward, but there are a few things that make ticking all these boxes off a little tricky.

Why Booking A Ticket To Socotra Can Be Difficult

• Either flight has a tendency to book out well in advance, especially the direct flight from Abu Dhabi.
• You must present a copy of your visa paper to the airline at check in. Yemen will not issue your visa more than 30 days before your planned arrival in Socotra.

How To Get A Yemeni Visa

The only way of securing a Yemeni visa is by contacting and booking a tour with a local operator. Here’s a few bits of info you need to know:

• Most all nationalities need a visa to enter Yemen, including Socotra
• Visas will not be issued by an embassy or consulate
• You must arrange a visa with a Yemeni operator (as mentioned previously) who will secure your visa in Yemen and send you a paper copy of your visa that you will print (2 copies) and carry with you
• Visas cost $150 USD and are valid for 30 days from the date of entry
• Visas will not be issued more than 30 days prior to your anticipated arrival
• Visas are only valid for entry 30 days from the date of issue
• Those with evidence of travel to Israel (even if Israel didn’t stamp your passport, but you have an exit/entrance stamp from a neighboring country’s land border with Israel) will be denied entry to Yemen and put on the next flight out at their own expense
• Please do not email me demanding to know how to get a visa without booking with a Socotri operator because you do not want to be guided/pay for it/etc. I do not make the rules and unfortunately, Socotra is not a cheap destination at present. If you want to visit so badly I suggest you start saving toward it or visit elsewhere as there are hundreds, if not thousands more easily accessed, less remote, and cheaper to visit islands on Earth. I cannot make Yemenia or Air Arabia lower the price of the flights and I cannot get operators to drop their prices.

Click here  to read up on all the info you need to get a Yemeni visa

HOW TO GET TO SOCOTRA FROM ABU DHABI

Abu dhabi airport information.

The Air Arabia flight to Socotra departs from the Abu Dhabi Airport, but this comes with a few caveats that I will list below.

To check in for the Air Arabia flight you will need:

• A printed copy of your Air Arabia e-ticket
• Your valid passport
• A printed copy of your Yemeni visa approval

Getting To Socotra: Air Arabia Flight 476 Abu Dhabi to Socotra

This flight departs Abu Dhabi and goes directly to Socotra once per week on Tuesdays between October and mid-May. They will sometimes add an additional Friday flight between November and April (same flight numbers and same times). In mid-May Air Arabia pairs down their schedule to a Tuesday flight every other week until September. This Air Arabia route is the easiest and most direct.

Current Air Arabia departing flight schedule:

Tuesday: 9:00 am: Depart Abu Dhabi for Socotra 10:20 am: Arrive in Socotra

Fridays (not all Fridays): 9:00 am: Depart Abu Dhabi for Socotra 10:20 am: Arrive in Socotra

Returning From Socotra: Air Arabia Flight 477 Socotra To Abu Dhabi

This flight also departs Socotra once per week on Tuesdays.

Current Air Arabia return flight schedule:

Tuesday: 11:50 am:  Depart Socotra for Abu Dhabi 3:05 pm:  Arrive Abu Dhabi

Fridays (not all Fridays): 11:50 am:  Depart Socotra for Abu Dhabi 3:05 pm:  Arrive Abu Dhabi

HOW TO GET TO SOCOTRA FROM CAIRO

Cairo airport information.

The Yemenia flight to Socotra departs from Cairo International Airport Terminal 1. There is a lot of security at this terminal in particular, but the process has sped up significantly and is a lot more organized.  I still recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours in advance of departure .

To check in for the Yemenia flight at Cairo Airport you must bring the following:

• Your e-ticket number issued by Yemenia at the time of booking
• 2 copies of your Yemeni visa approval paper
• A couple of copies of your permit from the Ministry of Interior
• A couple of copies of your Yemeni national security clearance paper (both this and your permit from the Ministry of Interior will be given to to by your operator)

*Please note that drones are completely illegal in Egypt. Expect to have difficulties on arrival if bringing one for Socotra and for you to be expected to leave it at the airport for the duration of your stay in Cairo until your departure (and that’s if you’re lucky, some have had them destroyed on the spot). Plan to arrive several hours early prior to departure to pick it up on your way out as well.

Getting To Socotra: Yemenia Flight IY 611/420 Cairo to Socotra

This flight departs Cairo (CAI) once per week on Sunday night, makes a stop in Aden (ADE) in mainland Yemen, then continues on to Socotra (SCT). As of 2024, this route requires a few hours in the Aden airport (3 am to 7 am).

On arrival in Aden, you will clear Yemeni immigration where you’ll need to hand over your passport, copy of visa, national security clearance, and Ministry of Interior permit. You will also need to pay a $15 USD ”stamp fee” too (no idea if this is official or not but this was my experience in March 2022. In January 2023 they did not ask us for this stamping fee, however, another group entering was asked to pay $5 per person, in April 2023 we paid $15 per person- so seems arbitrarily enforced).

On Monday morning you will board IY611 bound for Socotra with a brief stop at Riyan Airport in Mukalla (you will stay on board during the stopover).

Here is the current Yemenia flight schedule:

Sunday night – Monday morning: 10:30 pm (Sunday) : Depart Cairo for Aden 3:00 am (Monday) : Arrive in Aden 7:00 am (Monday) : Depart Aden 10:00 am (Monday) : Arrive in Socotra

Info About The Yemenia Stopover In Aden

This flight used to make a brief stopover in Seiyun before the flight continued on to Socotra, but now, as of 2022 the flight lands in Aden in the early hours of Monday morning, with the Socotra flight not departing until the following morning. You will stay on the airport grounds during the stopover.

You will need to collect your checked luggage in Aden. You will then take it and exit the arrivals hall. There is seating outside where you can wait if you’d like to hang around outside before entering the departure hall. There are also a couple small kiosks selling shai (tea) and snacks outside near the seating area.

Regarding Safety In Aden

Because I know some of you will ask…

Most travelers are hesitant to have to make a stopover in mainland Yemen, due to the long and still ongoing war in the country. The Aden Airport is pretty secure, surrounded by military. Note that you will not be leaving the Aden Airport when stopping over here.

Arrival In Socotra From Cairo/Aden

Flying time from Aden to Socotra takes about 3 hours. On arrival in Socotra, you will walk off the stairs of the plane, across the runway, and enter into the Socotra arrival hall.

Returning From Socotra: Yemenia Flight IY 421/612 Socotra To Cairo

This flight also departs once per week on Mondays. Same as the flight to Socotra, it will stop over in Aden but there is no overnight layover (unless your flight is late or you prefer to have one as there is a flight to Cairo the following day. The stopover time is approximately two hours if you are going to do it in one day.

Here is the current flight schedule:

Monday: 11:00 am:  Depart Socotra for Aden 2:00 pm:  Arrive in Aden 6:00 pm:  Depart Aden for Cairo 8:30 pm:  Arrive Cairo

Please note that much like the flight to Socotra, it’s not unusual for the flight to leave 2-3 hours late from Socotra.

Start planning for Socotra:  The Socotra Travel Guide

Taking The Cement Ship From Salalah, Oman to Socotra

From the port in Salalah, there is a cement ship that  departs  is supposed to depart for Socotra once per week. The boat isn’t exactly reliable as it could depart several days late, get canceled and moved to the following week, etc.

I did meet one Japanese tourist in Socotra in March 2019 that had arrived by the cement ship. She said she waited two weeks in Salalah before it finally departed. The ship can take 2-4 days to make the crossing. There is no food or water on board so you will need to come prepared. Anyone I’ve spoken to that have done it said that there are rats and cockroaches on board as well.

Reports come in that the cost of hopping on the ship is $100 USD per person. You will need to have arranged your Yemeni visa with a local operator in Socotra prior to getting on the ship. Note that this route does come with serious risks as piracy has kicked back up in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden in the last few years.

If you are not put off with dangers, risks, annoyances, and inconveniences of taking the cement ship and are still determined to travel this route please email me and I will put you in contact with my friend Faisal who can help facilitate this process.

Traveling Overland From Oman To Seiyun & Flying To Socotra

Yes. it’s possible , ( as of March 2024, Yemeni authorities are not letting foreign travelers across the border from Oman ) but know that this still comes with risks. Same as all other methods you will need to have a Yemeni visa pre-arranged prior to your arrival at the border.

As for getting the flight from Seiyun to Socotra, it is possible to book with the help of an agent. This method comes with serious risks as the mainland of Yemen is technically a war zone.

Some areas, of course, are in a better situation than others at the moment (I did see one man on Instagram who posted photos of him as a tourist in Yemen proclaiming “see Yemen is safe, everyone should visit, who wants to join me?!”, which is a pretty misguided, idiotic and factually incorrect statement).

This journey is best done with a highly skilled and knowledgeable fixer at this point who knows the security situations of the Hadhramaut and Al Mahrah regions. If you’d like to travel in mainland Yemen, I do arrange expeditions, so please contact me at adventuresoflilnicki @ gmail.com for more details as we do not post this information online publicly.

Issues Caused By The Yemeni Visa

Some issues may arise with having a Yemeni visa in your passport. I won’t lie, the first time I visited Yemen (2014) I was detained on arrival back to the USA because of it. A friend of mine who has been living and working in the US for many years on a green card got her green card flagged for her 2019 visit to Yemen, meaning she’s still permitted to enter the USA, but now on will go through extensive questioning.

Since the US travel ban began, it’s worth noting that travel to Yemen after March 1, 2011, will make you no longer for the ESTA visa waiver program in the USA (if you’re from an eligible country). That also means travel in Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria will void it as well.

So That Is The Step By Step Process Of How To Get To Socotra In 2024

Without a doubt, Socotra is one of my most favorite places in the world and I hope the best for it and its people’s future. If you have any questions on how to get to Socotra please ask in the comments below!

More Posts from Socotra & Yemen:

How To Get A Visa For Socotra (Yemen)

Socotra Travel Guide: The Jewel Of Arabia

Socotra Expedition April 9-16, 2024

8 Day South Yemen Expedition April 13-20, 2024

13 Day Socotra & South Yemen Expedition April 8-20, 2024

The Yemen-Oman Border Crossing

Visiting Sana’a, Yemen, A Travel Diary

Exploring The Sufi Crossroads In Tarim, Yemen

Yemen Travel: Everything You Need To Know

10 Days In Socotra: The Most Alien looking Place on Earth

How To Get To Socotra In 2024

Camping Under The Stars In The Yemeni Empty Quarter

A Journey Through Yemen’s Al Mahrah Region

Where The Wild Things Grow: Socotra’s Firhmin Forest

Socotra Packing List & Prep Guide

Wadi Hadhramaut Travel Guide, Yemen

A Guide To Traveling In South Yemen

A Journey Through Wadi Daw’an, Yemen

Visiting the Outer Islands of the Socotra Archipelago

Wanna Go To Socotra?

Socotra In Photos

Haid al Jazil: Central Yemen’s Most Beautiful Village

The Mud Skyscrapers Of Shibam: The Manhattan Of The Desert

Ancient Rock Art in Dahaisi Cave, Socotra

Visiting The Teetering Husn Fort In Qarn Majid, Yemen

Why I Traveled to Yemen in 2014

Socotra Tour: Camel Trekking & Rugged Coastlines

Socotra Archipelago Tour: Outlying Islands & Remote Peaks

26 thoughts on “how to get to socotra in 2024”.

Hey 🙂 Great post and very excited to think about this as a possible trip from Oman…unreliable cockroach boat here I come. Question – I have my own tent, and I’m wondering if you know the prices for me to pitch it somewhere? Do I need transport and a guide? Or is hitchhiking and local transportation possible, too? I’m a budget traveler 😉 Thanks for all the information.

HAHAHAHAHA unreliable cockroach boat is the most accurate reference to it I’ve seen yet!

hey Nicole，very nice post and I’m excited to think about the trip from China. Here’s some questions. If I already got B1/B2 but haven’t been to America, if I go to Socotra will it affect immigration or affect renew my visa？

That’s awesome. My understanding is that the “ban” only effects those entering on ESTA, so your B1/B2 visas should be okay.

Hi, if I already have an ESta for US, would it then be cancelled because I travel to Socotra? Trying to figure out how to solve this as i travel to US often for work with the esta and if I’m banned from esta it might be a bit more troublesome to apply for a visa

On the other hand, can you share the socotra travel itinerary or any trips for 2023?

Technically (from how I understand it) yes, it would, unfortunately, void your ESTA- though with that said I know of people continuing to travel to the US on an existing ESTA after having visited Yemen (or another blacklisted country) without issue, though I think you’re essentially at the the mercy of the CBP agent checking your passport on entry. So in your case it sounds like it would make things a bit challenging for you given that you do travel to the US for work often.

That all said I do have a departure lined up for 29 January – 6 February, 2023 if you do decide to visit next year!

Hi Nicole, Thanks for all your very well researched information. I have visited Socotra (the main island once) and Yemen (several times) previously, before the war. However, I’m exploring the possibility of a return trip to the archipelago. I was initially thinking about the boat from Oman. The cockroach infestation doesn’t put me off, but the prospect of waiting two weeks is more difficult to reconcile. Is the boat, any boat, still operating and is it still as unreliable? As an alternative, do you have any idea of the ticket cost from Seiyun to Socotra? The $1,000 tickets from CAI and AUH are just beyond my budget. Thanks very much in advance. Best, Nick

Hi Nick, The flights to Socotra from mainland are now going from Mukalla to Hadiboh now rather than Seiyun and run around $190 USD one way. The cement boat is still unreliable for the schedule o could get lucky or stuck waiting a long time in Salahlah

So glad I found this blog….thanks so much for the details, I really appreciate it!! We are planning a fishing trip there in March/April next year out of Abu Dhabi and I would have been put on the return flight as I have a Jordan and Egypt stamp in my passport, even though I have never been to Israel!

Need to read properly…”exit/entrance” not entrance/exit…..

Hope you enjoy it out there! Sounds like you’re going for the grand travelli out there. Re the Jordan/Egypt stamps, the only issue that would be caused by them is if you went to/from Israel into either Jordan or Egypt because they know what exit/entrance border points to look for

Super useful info! We are going to Socotra on 14th Feb. Our plan is the same as you outline – landing in Dubai and testing there. However, it is a news that Air Arabia can handle the transfer to Abu Dhabi. Can you share more details on that?

Hi Diana, Contact Air Arabia directly to see what the most up-to-date information on the transfer. Hope you enjoy Socotra!

Hi Nicole – Thanks so much for this… So, I will be travelling to Socotra from the US. I will fly to Dubai, then transit to Abu Dhabi, then to Socotra, then back to Abu Dhabi and back to Dubai. Question, regarding visas….. If I wish to spend a few days in Dubai, ideally after Socotra and before flying home to the US, how do I handle the visas?

When I initially land in Dubai from the US, do I get:

A) a transit visa to get to Abu Dhabi, then when I return from Socotra, I then get a tourist visa? OR B) just get a tourist visa when I first arrive in Dubai OR ?

Hey Timm, the local operator you’ve booked your Socotra trip with will handle you visa for Yemen- you will have a paper copy that you will present at boarding in Abu Dhabi and hand over on arrival in Socotra in return for your visa stamp.

Hi. Can you give me contact to Faisal? Thank you.

Hi, How much did all of this cost? The travel , the visa, accomodation everything? Thanks

The flights cost $800-1300 normally depending on route and what even is possible/available/etc. Per-day costs on the island if camping (this also includes your transport and guide) are usually a minimum of $140/day per person but can obviously go up depending on what you plan to do while there. If you want to stay in one of the two hotels in Hadiboh every night that will cost an additional ~$100/night (though these rooms are usually double occupancy). Your visa will cost about $150.

How do I get there from Oman please? We would like to drive to Abu Dhabi and catch flight. Are you aware of the current quarantine requirements?

I’m not sure 100% of the requirements driving into the UAE to Oman at the moment, but my assumption with how the “transit” in Abu Dhabi works, driving into the UAE from Oman may potentially cause problems. I would recommend contacting Air Arabia (or if you’re already in contact with an operator in Socotra, one of them) to confirm if it possible to drive to Abu Dhabi without having to take a 10 day quarantine.

Hi Nicki… Thanks for your posts, its great info… I have a quick question… what if you’re in Yemen already, can you get a flight from Seiyun to Socotra? Or would I have to leave Yemen, go to Cairo, and fly back to Socotra (via Seiyun)…?

Hi Noreen, Good question 🙂 If you’re going to be traveling in Yemen prior to going to Socotra you can hop the flight from Seiyun to Socotra. In order to do this, you’ll need to have whoever is guiding you in Mainland Yemen to arrange the ticket via the local Yemenia office in Seiyun in advance.

I believe the US doesn’t allow online ESTA applications from anyone who has been to Yemen since 2011, regardless of whether they have any trace of it in their passport. One has to apply for a B1/B2 visa to get into the US after this.

Yes, that is true

Hi there, great article. I have been looking into traveling to Socotra for awhile now since I heard about it from some fellow travelers that went awhile ago. I knew you can’t go to Yemen if you have been to Israel but I was wondering do you know if there are any countries that won’t let you in if you have been to Yemen. When I google this I just always get the sites that say don’t go to Yemen it is dangerous. Thanks!

Hi Daniella, I don’t believe there’s any restrictions for those with Yemen visas in their passports (aside from no longer being eligible for ESTA visa waiver for visitors to the US. When I visited Socotra earlier this year they did ask whether or not we wanted the stamp (there’s a slip of paper you have to keep with you until you depart the country that suffices for them).

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Matador Original Series

How to: Travel to Socotra Island, Yemen

S omewhere between 189 and 217 nautical miles off the coast of Yemen (depending on your source of information), and some 130 off the coast of Somalia, like a tiny, glittering tongue-stud in the gaping maw of the Gulf of Aden, lies the legendary island of Socotra (Suquṭra), ancient source of ambergris, dragon’s blood, frankincense, and myrrh.

Now an International Biosphere Reserve , it’s been called a Wonder Land , the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean , and one of The Most Alien Landscapes on Earth .

“It is one of those unique places in the world,” says Spanish toptrotter Jorge Sanchez, founder of the well-respected Travelers Exploits Club .

And it has a long and distinguished history of being very hard to get to.

With two annual monsoons (southwest from June-October and northeast from April-May), no natural harbor, not much anchorage to speak of, and a flourishing offshore piracy business, arrival by sea has always been problematic.

Thomas the Apostle is said to have been shipwrecked here sometime in the first century A.D., on his way to or from India. They say he built a church from the wreckage.

Marco Polo managed a safe landing, apparently, but noted the abundance of corsairs selling booty to the locals. For the generally uncooperative weather he squarely blamed the latter: a naked people he described as “ the most skilful enchanters in the world. ” He continues,

[I]f a ship is proceeding full sail with a favourable wind, they raise a contrary one, and oblige it to return. They can make it blow from any quarter they please, and cause either a dead calm or a violent tempest.

According to The Arabian Nights , Sinbad the Sailor made a brief call here on his fifth voyage , only to have his ship destroyed not by Socotran witchcraft but by a pair of huge, angry, possibly not entirely mythical birds-of-prey dropping boulders on it.

Birds of such description no longer factor among the 211 species on the Socotra Bird Checklist and the last Socotran witchcraft trials are said to have been held in the 1970s, but the corsairs, as always well-equipped with the latest in contemporary weaponry and chutzpah, are still very much in business.

According to Alan Lucas’ classic Red Sea and Indian Ocean Cruising Guide , “vessels have been grappled and towed into shore for looting.” Yachtsmen are advised to give the archipelago as wide a berth as possible.

Several local fishermen have been murdered in 2009, or have had their boats or engines taken out from under them at gunpoint. A freighter bound for Socotra with 2,000 tons of diesel fuel was taken by Somali pirates and held for ransom between January and April of 2009, causing a shortage of electricity on the island.

The silver lining, for diving enthusiasts, is an unparalleled underwater landscape of sunken vessels waiting to be explored.

Bill Altaffer, of Expedition Photo Travel in San Diego, was among the first tourists to Socotra after a new airstrip was built in 1999. It almost didn’t happen for him.

“We got on a plane in Sana’a,” he recalls.

It was a crummy plane, a Yemen Air piece of shit, and as we’re about to lift off there’s this big bang and flames shoot out of the engine.

Altaffer’s been to every country in the world, plus 300 island groups, disputed areas, territories, and colonies. He’s been to both poles. He’s surfed off every continent and skied on six. The dude was the first American to surf the legendary Queenscliff bombora off Manly Beach in Sydney (in 1962).

He wasn’t about to let a little equipment failure get in the way of his pioneering visit to what he describes as “an island full of blond people who are descendants of Alexander the Great.”

If it had come to it, he’d have gone through Aden, where weeks earlier the USS Cole had docked to a warm welcome of Al Qaeda-brand C-4 explosives. As it turned out, Yemenia found another plane in somewhat better condition.

Charles Veley, of San Francisco, who, by his own count, is The World’s Most Traveled Man, has been to 710 “countries, territories, autonomous regions, enclaves, geographically separated island groups, and major states and provinces.” When he gets to 762 he figures he’ll have been “everywhere” — that is, unless the number goes up before he gets there.

He hit Socotra early on December 31, 2004, back when there was only one flight a week, “so the choice was whether to turn around the same day or stay 7 days.”

Veley stayed for a couple of hours, found the landscape “remarkable and otherworldly,” and the people “super-friendly — much friendlier than on the mainland,” then got back on the plane in time to make a giant New Year’s Eve party and Sean Paul concert at the Sheraton in Addis Ababa.

When he goes back to Socotra, he says, he’ll spend 3-5 days and treat it “like a camping trip, because the hotels are basic and in the only town [Hadibo], and the scenery is far out of town.”

Until recently, Yemenia (Yemen National Airways) was the only airline with semi-regular service to Socotra (SCT). For a while it was almost daily, out of both Sana’a and Aden, through Riyan (RIY) at Al Mukalla.

Now, both Yemenia Airway (once a week) and Felix Airways (twice a week) fly to Socotra from Sana’s airport in Yemen. You can also fly into Socotra from Sharjah airport in the United Arab Emirates once a week.

And let us know how it goes!

Rules, Regs & Red Flags

For the latest travel advisories, piracy and terrorism updates, and general visa information, check the U.S. State Department’s oft-updated Yemen Page.

General Notes/Tips from Jorge Sanchez

You can hitch hike from the airport to Hadibo: the first car will give you a ride. In Hadibo there are several hotels, you can bargain for the price. The first one is where all tourists meet, Germans, Italians, and the rest. They organize trips, excursions, rent Land Rovers, etc. I went further downtown and found a nice hotel, cheap, with shower. But several nights I slept à la belle etoile, on the beach. People brought us mattresses to sleep on the sand. Fish is good and cheap, as well as goats. Transport is easy: just stop any pick-up and negotiate a price for the highlights of the island, especially the dragon’s blood trees and the oasis in the middle of the island, it’s all very cheap. Learn some Arabic, it’s very useful in negotiating prices. The only inconvenience is that beers are forbidden, and all alcohol, so it’s water or Coca Cola. Still, you will not regret visiting Socotra!

This article was originally published on July 27th, 2009.

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Destinations , Yemen, Socotra Island · Last Updated: November 24, 2023

Travel to Socotra – Everything You Ought to Know

🏖 If you intend to travel to Socotra or want to know more about what travel in Socotra looks like then welcome! Here I share a series of posts that provide some clarity on what to expect if you are planning a visit – clarifications on the safety side of things , the best tour operator to book with, and the best places to visit on Socotra Island , Yemen.

We planned, booked and made the journey to Socotra in March 2022.  After many years of longingly searching the web and each time falling further in love with the images that popped up, we knew it was a must on our travel bucketlist. 

In these series of posts, I share firsthand  our  experiences on  our  travel to Socotra. So read on to learn about visas, booking a tour and price, how to book flights, currency, tipping, what to wear and pack, the best time to travel  and so on. I love photography, so I share some tips on what to ask your travel guide so that you can capture the photos that you need.  

I also include my thoughts on sustainable and responsible travel on the island.  Information related to the dragon blood tree, camping versus hotels, volunteering opportunities and the UAE and Socotri relationship.

Basically, I share ALL the travel tips across a total of four posts . In other words, everything you’ll need to know for visiting Socotra. Have a look around… and contact me if you have ANY questions at all.

* This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Tourism & Travel to Socotra

One of the most unique elements to visiting Socotra is that just over 100 people visit per week. This is because currently just two flights arrive and depart a week.  The busiest flight, Air Arabia, arrives from Abu Dhabi with about 100 people onboard. Given it’s a turnaround flight a returning 100 people later the same Monday are bound for home via Abu Dhabi.

This number of visitors makes exploring Socotra island rather cozy.  You’ll bump into familiar faces, others on the same flight, as you travel around Socotra.   Expect to see many photographers, nature lovers and other off the beaten track travel lovers … they are all there for the same reason you are!

There are only a handful of tour operators and they will sponsor your visa so that you can enter the Republic of Yemen.  And they will take care of your every need.  

I recommend you read my post on booking the right tour to Socotra . In this post I explain further how tourism on the island works along with information about the tour type we booked, and the price . Otherwise read on for more on currency, packing and planning – the need to know stuff – to help you plan your travel to Socotra.

We teamed up with Inertia Network ! Use code: FREERANGE100 for a $100 discount (per individual)

Visas / Money and Tipping

The most widely accepted currency in Socotra is US Dollars.  The tours are essentially all inclusive and after you have paid your trip and put aside money for tipping the driver, guide and cook, there is little else to pay for.  Though it’s definitely a good idea to bring a little extra so that you can purchase small souvenirs here and there.

It is recommended to tip the guides, drivers and cooks 10-20 USD each per day .  This indication ranges between fair to generous, so depending on your overall level of satisfaction you can make the call here.

Also, you might occasionally be provided a guide to specific destinations such as Hoq Cave or within Firhman with the Dragon Blood trees.  Having some smaller USD notes is a good idea for tipping in these situations as well.

There is a really beautiful shop which you might have the opportunity to visit at the end of your visit which I just loved.  The Women’s Foundation has a lovely selection of handicrafts and by purchasing here you are also supporting a great cause.

These are arranged by your tour provider and are included in the overall tour fee. In 2013 Socotra was declared an autonomous governorate, and so they are now able to arrange visas directly on the island rather than through mainland Yemen. According to the tour providers this has made tourism a great deal easier for them to organise.

Read: Our guide to visas & the best guided tour of Socotra

Taking Kids to Socotra

Okay so this is a great question… and we had honestly intended on taking our two girls aged 7 and 9 to Socotra.  Following all the information we had read and people we had spoken to, we were advised that travel to Socotra is safe for children , and also that they would be very welcome.

We had gone so far as booking our two to come with us, and then in the last month, from a budget point of view we decided against it.  Given that we travel full-time , this type of holiday pushed our weekly budget well beyond what we would normally spend.  And so, we decided instead to enjoy some time away from the kids in a destination that we had long wanted to visit.  Time for ourselves for a change.

Tips for Taking Kids

If you plan to take the kids there are a few things I would suggest you keep in mind…

• The time of year you visit should be taken into consideration, as it can get very hot in April and May during the middle of the day.
• The walks up to the Infinity Lake and Hoq Cave are very steep and quite intense walks.  Children should be used to somewhat intermediate level mountain walks. The terrain is very rocky and at times unstable, so suitable footwear is a must. Our kids always travel with these Keens .
• If you choose to take the camping option, then you’ll often be staying on the beach, so the ocean is nearby. 
• The food is very good but quite simple, beans, fish, rice and salad.  If you have a fussy eater on your hands, then perhaps you want to bring extra snacks to keep bellies full.
• These Mosquito bands are a great idea for keeping them protected.
• Be aware seat belts aren’t really a thing on the island. If you want to bring a car seat it would be advisable to check with the tour provider.

Best Time to Travel to Socotra?

The travel season on Socotra begins in October and goes through till May .  The in between months are known as the windy months and can be a bit of a rough time to be in Socotra according to some expats we met living on the island.

April is beginning to get pretty warm and May I imagine could get a bit uncomfortable during the middle of the day, but this is a great time to see turtles nesting on the island.  December and January can be a bit wet, so my recommendation would be March and April.

We went in April and loved this time of the year.  The bottle trees were in bloom and the pink flowers dotted along the hillsides made for a stunning sight. Though I’m sure any time of the year you visit, you will have the adventure of a lifetime.

What to Pack for Socotra

If you are camping you will need a few things to keep comfortable.  I love my sleep and at the risk of sounding like a bit of a snob the camping is pretty rugged. So below are my tips for a more comfortable experience.

I have broken it down into two packing categories – must haves & recommended extras.

Packing Must Haves

• First aid kit – Fucidin, Imodium, general antibiotic, Panadol, plasters.
• Head torches are a very good thing to have for the cave walk and camping.
• A few rolls of toilet paper are always a good idea.
• A really good microfibre towel .
• Solar Power Bank – (this is the one we used and recommend). We charged our DJI mini drone, mobile phone and camera batteries on it most of the time. 
• A car charger with multiple ports – likewise with this.  There is no electricity if you are camping and these are an absolute must.
• Dual purpose water-friendly and hiking shoes. We can’t recommend our Tropic Feel shoes enough! One minute you’re on the beach, the next in the mountains, and they dry immediately, making them super practical for Socotra. I love the Canyons , while Mike prefers his Monsoons .
• Some seriously good sunblock – the sun is HOT and it burns!
• A very good hat and sunglasses.
• Protein bars – these were great for a bit of a pick me up when we needed them.

Packing Recommended Extras

• Foam mattresses are provided – however they are on the thin side so put in a thin inflatable mattress if you have room.  We attached ours to our pack.  And I tell you, the first night we didn’t use them, and sleep was very interrupted.  The following night, the inflatable under the foam mattress made ALL the difference.
• Sleeping bag – sheets are provided but I tend to feel the cold and ended up using my sleeping bag a couple of times.  
• Bring your own snorkel and mask – Our Cressi kit is a must for us. On the first morning when dolphins swam past us at 6 am on Arhar Beach I was grateful we had them with us at hand.
• Lifestraw bag – we used ours to reduce the amount of plastic water bottles we would use on Socotra Island.
• Camera Gear – DJI Mavic Mini drone (this is the one we have) and filters , camera with lenses and multiple batteries, Go-Pro with filters.  We keep everything packed in our Wandrd PRVKE camera bag . This is a god send for our travel and kept our gear sand and dust free.
• Alternatively combine your packing – gear and camera kit together – in this awesome little Tropic Feel Shell Backpack . Basically start with the shell and add the accessory of your choice – toilet bag / camera cube / wardrobe and so on.
• A 10 L dry bag was big enough for our week on the island.
• We brought packets of dates which we were able to gift when we felt it was appropriate in certain situations.
• Soap free shampoos and cleansers.  Because you will be camping off-grid you really want to be conscious about not putting soaps into the ocean.  We used these shampoo bars and soaps .
• If you are a coffee snob like me then grab a Nanopresso .  We don’t go anywhere without our one and I enjoyed starting the day with a quality cup of coffee. Read our Nanopresso review here.
• Ladies bring one of these menstrual cups (my fav) – trust me you don’t want to be messing around with anything else.

What to Wear 

Before I get into what to wear, I’ll remind you that you are off-grid. So, forget washing machines and dryers.  Your clothes will need to last the week, or two, if you stay longer.  Think light, quick drying, breathable fabrics .  We always pack super light and had three outfits each with us. We rinsed these in the wadis when they needed some freshening up which seemed to work very well.

Men will be fine wearing shorts and t-shirts.  Singlets are also fine, but I would advise that you keep a t-shirt on hand.  A long pair of trousers, and some light long sleeved clothing is good for the evening when the temperature drops.  Woman are slightly different so carry on below for more details.

Women Travellers

As a woman you need to think sensibly about what to take in terms of suitable clothing.   Remember Yemen is a strict Muslim country .  Local woman are seldom seen. And when you do see them they will likely be wearing full abaya, covered completely except for their eyes.  

This doesn’t mean that you’ll need to do the same, but as a courtesy you’ll need to keep in mind what you’re wearing at certain times. If in doubt ask your guide and he will let you know what is appropriate for the given situation.

The guides and drivers in Socotra are comfortable with foreigners in bikinis, shorts, singlets and vest tops.  So, the majority of the time, like beaches, walks into the mountains and the campsites you’ll be okay wearing this kind of thing.  However, when you get to towns and villages it’s best to be respectful and cover up .  Basically hair, knees and shoulders should be covered when entering these busier kinds of locations. 

I prefer to wear longer light clothing like cotton t-shirts and linen skirts to the ankle, which I can tuck up if I get hotter.  I put a scarf around my neck to cover my hair in case I need to. And I carry a long shirt in my bag to throw on if the situation presents itself.  

In other words, just be ready to cover up.  And if you ever get the opportunity to join the women in a village, take it!  They will shower you with curiosity and it’s a very special chance to get a glimpse into their lives.

Photography in Socotra and What to Pack

This is one of the most incredible destinations in the world. And if you are a photographer then chances are you are already familiar with some of the sights the island has to offer.  Including the Dragon Blood tree.

To clarify, I am by no means a professional photographer.  I just love to take photos and learn more the longer I experiment, read blogs and question other photographers.  So below are my tips from a hobbyist perspective.

Read: What makes Socotra so unique – 10 reasons to visit!

Drones in Socotra

If you are travelling in from Abu Dhabi then you will be able to bring a drone with you, and if you can then I thoroughly recommend it.  This island is one of the best places I have flown my drone.  

Keep in mind however, that charging them is no easy task.  The batteries require a lot of juice, so it’s better if you have a DJI mini .  Alternatively, if you are travelling with a bigger drone, then you may need to consider staying in the city hotel. This way you’ll be able to get it charged at the end of each day.

I recommend that you bring extra batteries, we travelled with three and used one each day.  Before each flight, we thought about what shots we wanted and so made calculated flight plans before each flight.

If you are travelling via Egypt, then getting a drone in may be more difficult. Check here for more.

Don’t forget to travel with some good CPL filters to take away ocean glares etc.

Bring your favourite camera and the best lenses you’ve got. 

A quick warning – the sand and dust gets everywhere !  I mentioned in the packing list above to be prepared with a dry bag, Wandrd PRVKE camera bag, or a Tropic Feel Shell Backpack .  And I also recommend a small travel cleaning kit.  We were constantly brushing dust and sand off the camera and lenses when it had been left out of the bag.

We also loved having a Go-Pro for the dolphins and the wadi where we were able to get a few clips of places that we couldn’t have got to otherwise.

Don’t leave your tripod behind if you want to get photos inside Hoq Cave. OR if you want to practice night photography under the Dragon Blood trees.  

I also met a photographer who was travelling with an iPhone for her night photography. She used a great little phone tripod , this combined with a 30 second exposure on her iPhone 12, I was very impressed by the photos she managed to capture.

Photography Tips

Let your guide know on the first day that you love photography and fingers crossed he will help you get what you need.  I specifically asked to sleep under a Dragon Blood tree and I’m so glad I asked as boy did he deliver.  

Note:  IF you book as part of a group tour the possibility of this will be less likely.  I definitely recommend travelling as a small group or couple to get the best photography opportunities.  We booked with Inertia Network for this reason.

Ask your guide if you can stay in Firhman Forest as this is the BEST place to photograph dragon bloods.

Also, wake early in the morning and get to the special sights early.  That way you’ll have them to yourself.  Alternatively stay longer till other travelers have left – we did this at the wadi and it was one of my favourite afternoons in Socotra.

More from my Travel Socotra Series

Don’t miss the other posts as each blog shares something new – 

• Is it Safe to Travel to Socotra
• A Socotra Tour Review & Guide to Tourism on the Island
• 10 Beautiful Locations and Reasons to Visit Socotra

Book with Inertia Network & use our discount code: FREERANGE100 for $100 off your trip to Socotra !

Just quote our discount code with the team at Inertia Network and they will kindly discount each traveller $100 off the booking . Cool right… actually you won’t find a cooler travel tour operator!

I hope this post has shed some light on your travel to Socotra.  And I urge you to contact me if you have questions that I have not covered here.

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February 1, 2023 at 1:51 pm

Happy to find this blog! Plenty of useful information 🙂 Socotra Island is such an unique place (and a hidden gem).

February 14, 2023 at 2:55 am

Oh wow… thanks for your message Elisa, I’m so happy to know you find it helpful. It certainly is a special place and I hope it continues to stay hidden ☀️

April 5, 2023 at 12:24 pm

Thank you for all the fantastic tips! I am just considering going, last day to decide is tomorrow, and had so many questions – most of them you were able to answer 🙂 Socotra is on my bucket list since a loong time, alonside with Yemen – which is obviously out of question now.

Still, foreign ministries of all Western countries I have checked say it’s DO NOT GO recommendation! So glad to see yours and some others’ reassuring tips…

April 5, 2023 at 5:08 pm

Hi Ida, thanks for your comment and I’m glad our tips helped. And you are right, there is so much conflicting information out there, particularly those posts published on government travel websites.

Feel free to get in touch with any unanswered questions… and if you decide to go, have the most incredible time!!!

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Socotra Travel Guide

Table of Contents

This is a Socotra Travel Guide by taste2travel.com

Date Visited: September 2022

Introduction

While a civil war rages on in Yemen, there is one part of that country which is completely safe to visit – Socotra .

The stunning beach, which I had to myself, at Detwah Lagoon.

Visas are required by almost all nationalities (see the ‘ Visa Requirements ‘ section below for more details) and can only be obtained through local tour operators, once you have signed up for a tour.

The only way of visiting Socotra is by joining an all-inclusive, 8-day, camping tour. The tours correspond with the once-per-week UAE government charter flight from Abu Dhabi, which operates each Tuesday.

As of September 2022, the cost of an 8-day tour, plus return airfare from Abu Dhabi is US$2,360 (1 pax tour) or US$1,910 (2 or more pax sharing a tour).

All costs have to be paid in USD cash, although there is an option to pay for your flight via bank transfer. Full details on all of this are included in the sections below.

Arher beach is a typical Socotran beach – spectacularly beautiful and completely deserted.

Socotra is an ancient land which broke away from the African mainland in the days of Gondwana.

Despite being located alongside one of the busiest shipping channels in the world, at the point where the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea meet, Socotra remains firmly off-the-grid, with the locals living a traditional life which hasn’t changed for centuries.

Arriving on Socotra from the glitzy, modern, world of Abu Dhabi is definitely a culture shock! Travelling to the island is like travelling through a wormhole – back into a way of life which existed in the 19th century!

Bottle trees come in all shapes and sizes.

Socotra is a sparsely populated, mostly undeveloped island, which is home to about 50,000 souls, most of whom live in traditional villages.

The only places on the island where you will find electricity are the two towns – Hadiboh and Qalansiya, which have a combined population of 12,000 souls and many more goats.

Elsewhere, some villages have solar panels and are able to generate some electricity.

Would you like to have this beach to yourself? Detwah Lagoon beach, Socotra.

The only accommodation, shops, banks and services are in Hadiboh. If you require something as simple as a power outlet for charging anything (e.g. camera batteries), you will need to return to either Hadiboh or Qalansiya.

As for communications – internet and telephone signal is almost non-existent on Socotra. The only signal towers are in the two towns but even there, the Wi-Fi signal is very weak.

Outside of the towns, the only chance locals have of getting a phone signal is by driving to a high point. They all know the places which provide the best signal.

Hayf and Zahek Sand Dunes are a highlight of the south coast of Socotra.

A trip to Socotra is all about disconnecting from the outside world and forgetting about making daily updates to your Instagram Story. The only time I could reconnect to the internet was upon my return to Abu Dhabi.

A swimming pool to myself at beautiful Wadi Kalysan.

From the weird flora, to the most spectacular of landscapes, Socotra offers plenty of jaw-droppingly beautiful sights. This is an island which is renowned for its strange, otherworldly landscapes – unlike anywhere else on planet Earth.

Beautiful Hala beach, a typical beach on the east coast of Socotra.

Recognising the significance of the island to humanity, UNESCO declared all of Socotra a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

The Dragon’s blood tree is THE iconic image of Socotra Island.

Socotra is an ancient land with alien landscapes – a dazzling gem in the Indian Ocean, which remains largely untouched and unaffected by the modern world – a rewarding travel destination for truly intrepid travellers!

Hadiboh, Yemen

Socotra is an island of the Republic of Yemen in the Indian Ocean. Despite Yemen being a part of the Middle East, Socotra, which lies off the coast of Somalia, and is an extension of the African continent, is considered to be a part of Africa.

Socotra is the largest of the four islands in the Socotra archipelago and represents around 95% of the landmass of the archipelago.

Socotra is famous for its ‘otherworldly’ landscapes.

The island lies 380 km (240 mi) south of the Arabian Peninsula, and measures 132 km (82 mi) in length and 50 km (31 mi) in width. Somalia lies 400 km (250 mi) to the west.

No shortage of stunning beaches on Socotra.

The vast limestone plateau rises up from the narrow coastal plain on the south coast of Socotra.

Socotra has three geographical terrains: the narrow coastal plains , a limestone plateau and the lofty Hajhir Mountains (1,503 metres (4,931 ft) , which rise up behind the main town of Hadiboh.

A large limestone ridge, Socotra is home to many fine white sand beaches.

Despite an ongoing war on the Yemen mainland, Socotra is safe, peaceful and very inviting.

Is Socotra safe to visit? Yes!

Despite the ongoing war on mainland Yemen, Socotra exists in isolated, peaceful bliss. It is completely safe to visit.

Young girls on Socotra.

The local Soqotri people are very welcoming and friendly and love seeing tourists on their island.

Independent Travel

Exploring the south coast of Socotra with Socotra Eco-Tours.

Can you travel independently to Socotra? Not really!

In order to get a visa, and hence a flight ticket, you will need to join an organised tour, run by a local tour operator on Socotra.

Socotra Tour Operator

My tour team from Eco-Tours (left – right), Ali (the guide), Abdulrahman (the driver) and Mohammed (Trainee Guide).

I travelled to Socotra with Socotra Eco-Tours who charge US$1,500 for an 8-day itinerary for a single traveller, or US$1050 for 2 or more travellers.

Tiny Hala beach – one of many amazing beaches on Socotra Island.

The tour cost includes visa, meals, accommodation (rough camping), driver and guide. It is fully escorted from airport pick-up to drop-off.

As a solo traveller, I was free to design my own itinerary.

Socotra tour operators provide tents and bedding plus meals. All campsites are in beautiful locations but mostly have no facilities.

A rainbow over Socotra.

Contacts Details for Eco-Tours

Email : holidays @socotra -eco-tou rs.com

Telephone : +967 777 007 588 (also WhatsApp)

Website : https://www.socotra-eco-tours.com/

This splendid wadi served as our lunch and bath spot on one day of our camping trip.

Socotra Flights

The weekly Socotra – Abu Dhabi flight at Socotra Airport.

There are currently two options for reaching Socotra:

• A weekly flight with Yemenia from Cairo (via mainland Yemen)
• A weekly, direct, flight from Abu Dhabi .

If you wish to fly on the Yemenia flight and are having trouble booking a ticket, you can book through Socotra Eco-Tours who act as an agent for the airline.

I flew from Abu Dhabi on what is a UAE Government charter flight which is operated by Emirates Aviation Services (not related to the more famous Emirates Airlines) who use an Air Arabia plane for the service.

The flight operates every Tuesday , leaving Abu Dhabi (Terminal 1) in the morning, returning later in the afternoon. The flight time between Abu Dhabi and Socotra is 2 hours, 15 minutes.

Despite a return ticket costing US$860 , this special charter flight is very popular, especially with European tour groups. I was told by a representative from the airline that the flight is sold out from October 2022 to May 2023.

I was able to get a last-minute ticket as I flew in September, just ahead of the main tourist season.

Best to book everything in advance!

Flight Schedule (operated by Air Arabia)

• Flight 9G-476 / Depart AUH 09:25 / Arrive SCT 10:40
• Flight 9G-477 / Depart SCT 12:10 / Arrive AUH 15:25

Contacts Details for Emirates Aviation Services

Telephone : +971 50 671 6175 (also WhatsApp)

Contact Name : Abdulla Yousef

Travel Season

September on Socotra is a wonderful time to visit – before the main tourist season begins.

The best time to travel to Socotra is from September to May . This is when the weather is most stable, although December is the wettest month.

While the weekly flight is reliable from September to May, flights at other times of the year are less reliable, due to strong winds and unfavourable weather.

Travel Costs

The two biggest expenses when travelling to Socotra are the cost of a tour and the airfare.

When travelling to Socotra, the two main expenses are the flight and the tour cost. As outlined in the previous section, these are:

• Tour Cost (8-days / All inclusive) : US$1,500 (1 pax) or US$1,050 (2 or more pax).

Tour costs must be paid in USD cash upon arrival on Socotra. There are no credit card facilities anywhere on Socotra and banks are almost non-existent.

• Return Flight (from Abu Dhabi) : US$860

The flight ticket must be paid for in USD cash at the airport on the day of departure, or via bank transfer. I actually met Abdulla Yousef for a coffee at Dubai Mall and paid him directly for my ticket.

Apart from these costs, a little extra USD cash will be required to cover any incidental costs and tips for the tour driver and guide.

If you wish to stay in a hotel in Hadiboh , rather than rough camping every night, a room at the Diamond hotel costs US$30 per night.

A school girl, in the 2nd largest town of Qalansiya.

Quite different to the Yemenis on the mainland, the Soqotri people are a Semitic ethnic group native to Socotra. The island has been settled for at least 2,000 years.

A young girl at Diksam plateau.

The Soqotri currently number around 57,000 with most living in remote, rural communities and in the capital and main town of Hadiboh (pop: 8,500). The 2nd largest town is Qalansiya which lies on the west coast and is home to 4,000 souls.

Very shy children at Diksam plateau.

The inhabitants speak the Soqotri language and are mostly Sunni Muslims.

Women on Socotra are rarely seen and are always covered in public.

The modern age has bypassed Socotra, which retains a very traditional way of life. Electricity, internet and shops can only be found in Hadiboh and Qalansiya.

While Socotra is home to 50,000 souls, the goat population is much larger.

Being a traditional Islamic society, women are rarely seen in public and are always covered. While young girls can be photographed, females older than adolescent age cannot!

Wherever I travelled on Socotra, I was surrounded only by men.

Despite the traditional way of life, some Socotran females travel to Egypt, along with many males from the island, to receive a tertiary education. Almost all attend a college in Alexandria and live in student accommodation before returning home. Some females can be found working in Hadiboh.

Houses on Socotra feature colourfully decorated wrought iron doors and windows.

The overwhelming majority of Socotrans live a traditional rural lifestyle, either fishing or raising livestock (goats, sheep, cattle and camels), which allows them to produce milk and meat for themselves and their community. Commerce on the island is minimal.

Being a close-knit community, everyone knows everyone. Wherever we travelled on Socotra, my driver and guide would often stop to say hello to friends.

My guide Ali, posing with the very cute daughter of a friend, in the town of Qalansiya.

There is a close bond between Soqotri which is the result of living a traditional life, isolated from the rest of the world, free from the distractions of a 21st century lifestyle.

Yemen and South Yemen

A map showing North and South Yemen, prior to unification. Source: Wikipedia.

For most of its history, what is today a united Yemen was two different entities – North Yemen and South Yemen .

During the colonial era, North Yemen existed as a state in the Ottoman Empire, with Sanaa serving as its capital, while South Yemen was administered by the British as part of British India. Aden served as the capital of South Yemen, which also included Socotra.

While you travel around Socotra, you will see the flag of South Yemen and rarely the flag of Yemen.

During its day, South Yemen had the distinction of being the only avowedly communist nation in the Middle East, receiving generous foreign aid and other assistance from the Soviets.

The two Yemen’s were eventually united on the 22nd of May 1990, becoming the Republic of Yemen .

The ongoing civil war today sees Iranian-backed (Shia) Houthi forces, which control all of North Yemen, fighting against a coalition of Saudi-backed (Sunni) forces which controls South Yemen.

Russian Tanks

One of many rusty Russian T-34 tanks which line the north coast of Socotra.

Despite the fact that Socotra is today safe, during the 1970-90s, the island was part of South Yemen aka Democratic Yemen, which was a pro-U SSR communist state. 

To protect the island from any potential invasion from the mainland, the USSR installed several dozen old and rusty T-34 tanks (from the days of WWII), along the north coast. Hardly functional at the time they were installed, these tanks served only as gun turrets. 

These broken relics can be seen in various places along the northern coastline.

The flag of the Republic of Yemen.

The flag of the Republic of Yemen was adopted on May 22, 1990, the day that North Yemen and South Yemen were unified.

The flag is essentially the Arab Liberation Flag of 1952, introduced after the Egyptian Revolution of 1952 in which Arab nationalism was a dominant theme. The same flag is today used by Egypt, Iraq, Sudan and Syria.

According to the official description, the red stands for unity and the bloodshed of martyrs, the white for a bright future, and the black for the supposed dark past.

You will rarely see the Yemen flag on Socotra, where the flag of South Yemen is flown instead.

The flag of South Yemen, officially the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen.

The Flag of South Yemen is the same as that used by the Republic of Yemen (i.e. the Arab Liberation flag) with the addition of a sky-blue chevron and a red star on the hoist side.

The flag was adopted on 30 November 1967 when South Yemen declared independence from the United Kingdom until the Yemeni unification in 1990.

Today, the South Yemeni flag is used by the separatist supporters from the Southern Movement and the Southern Transitional Council. It is this flag which you will see flown on Socotra.

The official currency of Yemen is the Yemeni rial.

The official currency of Yemen is the  Yemeni rial , which has the international currency code of YER.

Banknotes are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 250, 500 and 1,000 rials.

The Yemeni Civil War has caused the currency to diverge.

In southern Yemen , which is primarily controlled by UAE-backed separatists and the former government backed by Saudi Arabia, ongoing printing has caused the currency to plummet into freefall.

In northern Yemen , which is primarily controlled by Ansar Allah with support from Iran, banknotes printed after 2017 are not considered legal tender, and therefore, the exchange rate has remained stable.

1000 Yemeni rial banknotes.

Exchange Rates

Despite the current advertised exchange rate (on Google) of USD$1 = 250 rial, the exchange rate on Socotra at the time of my visit in September 2022 was:

USD$1 = 1,100 rial

Dragon’s Blood Tree

Dragon’s blood trees at Homhil Plateau Protected Area, Socotra, Yemen.

Most famous and iconic of all Socotri flora is the Socotran dragon’s blood tree ( Dracaena cinnabari) . While other species of this tree can be found in other parts of Africa and Arabia, the Socotran dragon’s blood tree is endemic to the island.

Since ancient times its red resin, from which the tree gets its name, has been highly desired.

A view of the Firmihin Forest on Diksam plateau.

The most prolific stand of Dragon’s blood trees on Socotra is in the Firmihin Forest on Diksam plateau.

A view of Dragon’s blood trees and the spectacular gorge at Diksam plateau.

However, during my visit the plateau was always shrouded in mist and fog with constant rain fall, making photography tricky.

Dragon’s blood trees on Homhil, Socotra.

The best photo opportunity was on Homhil where the trees were basking in brilliant sunshine.

Young Dragon’s blood trees in a nursery on Diksam plateau.

While there are many fine examples of Dragon’s blood trees on Diksam plateau, the tree is classified as ‘threatened’. It is believed the many roaming goats on the island love to eat the younger trees.

To counter this threat, a team of Czech researchers has established a protected nursery for young Dragon’s blood trees on Diksam plateau, adjacent to the tourist campsite.

My haul of Dragon’s blood tree resin which I purchased from a village on Diksam plateau.

The red resin from the Dragon’s blood tree has been in continuous use since ancient times as incense, medicine, dye and varnish. Today, villagers on Socotra sell packets of resin to passing tourists. The small haul pictured above cost me about US$3.

Socotran Frankincense Tree

Socotran frankincense trees (Boswellia socotrana) at Homhil Plateau Protected Area, Socotra, Yemen.

Frankincense, the resin produced by a species of Boswellia, was one of the most valuable commodities produced in the ancient world. Highly prized as fragrant incense, it was also widely used in medicine, cosmetics, and even cuisine.

Today, large quantities of Frankincense are traded around the world for use in religious ceremonies and for incense production.

Common to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, the species found on Socotra – Boswellia socotrana – is endemic to the island and is said to produce the best quality resin.

The best examples on Socotra can be found in a small grove at the  Homhil Plateau Protected Area .

Socotra Bottle Trees

Bottle trees can be found throughout Socotra Island.

If there is one tree which gives Socotra its otherworldly look then it must be the weird and wacky bottle tree.

Bottle trees are easily distinguished by their swollen trunks.

The species found on Socotra is Adenium obesum var socotranum , which is a poisonous plant, which explains why the many goats on the island leave it completely alone.

Pink flowers on a bottle tree.

Bottle trees can be found throughout Socotra, taking root in mostly hard limestone rock on vertical cliffs and high mountain plateaus. They also especially like sloping ground. 

Flowering Bottle tree on Socotra.

Each year, especially in March, the trees bloom with big, beautiful pink flowers. During my visit in September, I was able to find several flowering trees.   

Bottle trees like to grow in precarious locations.

Aloe Jawiyon

Aloe jawiyon is a species of aloe which is endemic to Socotra.

Aloe jawiyon is a species of aloe which is endemic to Socotra and is used by locals for medicinal purposes.

Birds of Socotra

Socotra Starling 

Socotra (female) starling.

The Socotra starling can be found throughout the island and always in mating pairs.

Socotra starlings (male on the left, female on the right) pair for life and can always be seen together.

A female Somali starling at Diksam plateau.

Socotra Sparrow

The Socotra sparrow is endemic to Socotra.

The endemic Socotra sparrow has distinct plumage which sets it apart from most other sparrows.

Egyptian Vulture

The widespread Egyptian vulture is a common sight on Socotra.

Egyptian vultures are widespread throughout Socotra, where they can be seen scavenging off rubbish heaps and anything else they can find.

Despite their name, this species of vulture is widespread and can be found in many regions between Spain in the west and India in the east.

Whenever I ate my meals on Socotra, I was quickly surrounded by Egyptian vultures, who were keen for any scraps.

Whenever meals were served at our campsite, shadows would circle overhead. Egyptian vultures looking for a feed!

Eventually they would settle on the ground around me, waiting for any scraps of food. My fellow dining companions during my week of camping!

Sightseeing

My Socotra Eco-Tours team, (left – right) Mohammed, Abdulrahman and Ali.

During my 8 days on Socotra, I covered the sights listed below on a tour with Socotra Eco-Tours .

I travelled in a Toyota 4WD which was expertly driven by the very capable Abdulrahman , who also served as the cook. The tour was led by my guide, Ali who was supported by a trainee guide, Mohammed , who was on a break from his studies in Alexandria, Egypt.

Fish vendors at the Central fish market in Hadiboh, Socotra.

The first day of the tour started with my arrival on Socotra from Abu Dhabi. After exiting the airport, we drove into Hadiboh to have lunch at the very busy Shabwah Restaurant.

Fresh tuna, seen here at the Central fish market, is always on the menu on Socotra.

The noisy, chaotic, less-than-hygienic, nature of the restaurant was a complete culture shock after many days spent dining in the ritzy malls of the UAE.

Fresh tuna for sale at the Central fish market in Hadiboh.

The capital and biggest town on Socotra is a collection of non-descript breeze-block buildings which line dusty, chaotic streets which are covered in litter. There is no organised rubbish collection on Socotra.

Hadiboh is small but does have some all-purpose shops, banks and currency-exchange facilities, a handful of café/restaurants, a market and a hospital. There are no shops elsewhere on the island! If you need anything for your week of camping, you need to purchase it in Hadiboh.

Handicrafts for sale at the Woman’s Co-operative in Hadiboh.

There are two places of interest which are the municipal fish market , which was built by the UAE government, and a Saudi-supported Women’s Co-operative where locally made handicrafts are offered for sale at very reasonable prices.

Di Hamri Marine Protected Area

A view of the coral-covered beach at the Di Hamri Marine Protected Area.

A short drive east of Hadiboh, the Di Hamri Marine Protected Area is home to an offshore coral reef and is the one place on Socotra where you can go diving with the one certified dive master on Socotra – the very friendly Naseem (Tel: +967 777 801 948) .

Sunset at the Di Hamri Marine Protected Area.

Located on a remote peninsula, Du Hamri is home to a small fishing. One of the residents of the village, Naseem, is the dive master.

A fulltime fisherman, Naseem has dive equipment, speaks English, and is happy to take tourists diving.

As a diver, I was keen to dive, but Naseem advised that visibility was very poor at the time of my visit (September) due to the ongoing monsoonal winds which were whipping the island every day during my visit.

He advised that the best months for diving are April and May.

A red mattress, my bed for the night, at the Di Hamri Marine Protected Area, a campsite without any showers or toilets.

The campsite at Di Hamri contains one sturdy building which is currently under construction. I slept the night on a red mattress under the cover of the building, my first night of camping. At the time of my visit there were no facilities such as toilets, showers etc.

Wadi Kalysan

The most amazing freshwater pool on Socotra – Wadi Kalysan.

On the 2nd day of my 8-day trip, we drove from the Di Hamri Marine Protected Area to the remote Kalysan Canyon , which is close to the south coast, with views of the Indian Ocean in the distance.

A view of the Kalysan Canyon, with the Indian Ocean in the background.

A 45-minute hike down into the canyon ended at the stunningly beautiful Wadi Kalysan , where a river of bottle-green , fresh water flows through a canyon of white, polished limestone.

Bottle trees at Wadi Kalysan.

Once again – we had this amazing sight all to ourselves.

The green waters of Wadi Kalysan pass through the very remote Kalysan Canyon.

A great place to swim and relax while Abdulrahman (our driver and cook) prepared lunch back at the camp sight.

Wadi Kalysan – a perfect freshwater swimming pool.

Our driver and cook, Abdulrahman prepared the most amazing Kingfish for lunch at Kalysan Canyon.

Our driver and cook, Abdulrahman prepared lunch at Kalysan Canyon.

The fish had been caught in the morning at Di Hamri by the dive master, Naseem, who had been out fishing earlier that morning.

Kingfish for lunch at Kalysan Canyon.

I chose to eat my lunch at the edge of the canyon, where I was joined by a number of opportunistic vultures.

My Kingfish lunch, with a view of the Kalysan Canyon and a vulture overhead.

Arher Beach Sand Dunes

A highlight of the east coast of Socotra are the towering white sand dunes which have been blown against the walls of the limestone massif at Arher beach.

A truly impressive sight are the towering white sand dunes at Arher beach.

Like large piles of talcum powder, the sand dunes at Arher beach are 150 metres (500 ft) in height).

Over millions of years, the strong winds which constantly whip the east coast, have blown the powdery white sand up against the cliffs of the limestone massif which runs along the coast.

The sand dunes of Arher beach, Socotra.

Yet another jaw-droppingly beautiful sight on an island which offers so many incredible views!

Sand dunes at Arher beach.

Our cave campsite at Arher beach.

Due to strong winds, our plan to camp overnight on the beach had to be abandoned. Instead, we camped in the shelter of a cave which overlooked the beach.

My guide, Ali, serving breakfast in the cave campsite.

Even in the shelter of the cave, the howling winds throughout the night tried their best to blow us all away.

Breakfast each morning usually consisted of flat bread (never fresh of course) with cheese spread and jam. This was served with a furnace of sweet black tea – delicious!

Sunrise over the east coast of Socotra, as seen from our cave campsite.

Located on the east coast, a short drive from Arher beach, is the truly beautiful Hala beach.

The only house on Hala beach.

Yet another stunning beach with was deserted when we arrived.

A fisherman, fishing on Hala beach, Socotra.

I managed to take a few photos of the empty beach before a friendly fisherman appeared to demonstrate his fishing skills.

Hala beach – a perfect swimming beach with not a soul in sight – until the friendly fisherman appeared!

He managed to catch a very tiny fish, which he then stuffed in his pocket!

A fisherman at Hala beach, showing me his catch, before he put it in his pocket.

Homhil Plateau Protected Area

A panoramic view of the countryside from Homhil.

Day three saw us climb the first of many steep, rough gravel roads to the Homhil Plateau Protected Area .

Video: The drive down from Homhil. 

Homhil is home to a stand of Socotra frankincense trees and many Dragon’s blood trees . Local villagers tap both trees to extract the valuable gum resin.

Frankincense trees on Homhil, Socotra.

Frankincense has been used since ancient times as an incense and fragrance. The Three Wise Men brought gold, frankincense and myrrh to the new-born king. Gold, of course, was valuable as currency, frankincense – a valuable perfume and myrrh – a precious ointment often used in the burial process.

Bottle tree on Homhil.

Today frankincense resin is sold around the world for incense production and religious ceremonies and is especially popular in the Middle East where it can be found in any souk.

Dragon’s blood trees at Homhil.

Photography was best on Homhil since the trees were basking in glorious sunlight – unlike Diksam plateau which was always overcast and foggy.

Diksam Plateau

Dragon’s blood trees on Diksam plateau.

Diksam plateau is home to the largest stand of Socotra Dragon’s blood trees to be found anywhere in the world.

Children on Diksam plateau.

The weather during our two days was constantly overcast, foggy and wet.

Socotra Dragon blood’s trees on the edge of the 700-metre-deep gorge.

For the locals, who live on the dry coastal plain, where it rarely rains, visiting the plateau is a special experience. The cool, wet weather is truly a world away from the arid, blistering hot coast.

Exploring Diksam plateau with Socotra Eco-Tours.

The plateau is dissected by the 700-metre (2,295 ft) deep gorge which drops vertically to the valley floor.

On one side of the gorge is the Fermhin forest , home to the largest stand of Socotra Dragon’s blood trees.

My campsite at Diksam plateau.

The village at Diksam plateau is home to a campground which includes a couple of buildings for cooking and sleeping and a toilet and shower facility.

I chose to sleep outside, in a tent, under the protection of one of the buildings – out of the constant drizzle rain.

Standing in the entrance of Dagub cave, Ali and Mohammed provide a sense of scale for the two gigantic columns inside the cave.

On an island full of unforgettable sights, Dagub cave was another fascinating stop.

Set into the limestone escarpment which runs along the south coast, this large cavern is completely open to the elements which has resulted in the former stalactites and stalagmites becoming discoloured due to exposure to oxygen and the elements.

The view from within the massive Dagub cave.

The entrance of the cave features two massive columns (i.e. a structure where stalactites and stalagmites have joined together to form a single column). These columns are easily 20 metres in height.

Dagub cave is set in the limestone escarpment which runs along the south coast.

Considering that stalactites and stalagmites grow at approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) per 1,000 years, these were formed over many millions of years. Today they lie exposed to the elements with vegetation sprouting from them.

The floor of Dagub cave is carpeted in a thick layer of Guano .

Also impressive is the fact that the floor of the cave is completely covered in a thick layer (a least 10 cm) of guano from the many bats and birds which inhabit the caves, the result of millions of years of pooping!

Amazing to see such a valuable resource lying untouched. Only on Socotra!

Located on the south coast, Amek beach served as our campsite for one night. I got to dine, and sleep, in this newly purchased tent which was wonderful.

Our campsite on the rugged south coast of Socotra was on Amek beach.

The long, exposed beaches on the south coast are pounded by the rough, turbulent waters of the Indian Ocean.

Swimming here is dangerous due to rips and currents.

The best swimming beaches on Socotra are on the north and east coasts which face the much calmer Arabian sea.

The campsite at Amek beach, on the south coast of Socotra.

The campsite at Amek beach features the usual rudimentary structures (no good if it starts raining!) plus an amenities block (pictured in the background) with pit toilets and showers – which are placed directly above the pit toilets!

A curious camel, checking me out, on Amek beach.

Hayf and Zahek Sand Dunes

The magnificent and surreal sand dunes on the south coast of Socotra.

A highlight of the south coast is the beautiful and totally surreal Hayf and Zahek sand dunes. Best photographed early morning or late afternoon when the light is especially moody.

Truly stunning and very special to have such a place to yourself!

Dramatic skies over the Hayf and Zahek sand dunes.

Incredible sand designs and stormy skies at the Hayf and Zahek sand dunes.

A photographer’s dream – the incredible Hayf and Zahek sand dunes.

One more image from the Hayf and Zahek sand dunes.

A school girl in Qalansiya.

Located at the far western end of Socotra, facing out towards Somalia and Africa, the island’s 2nd largest town, Qalansiya, is a sleepy settlement with nothing too redeeming to offer.

With a population of 4,000 – Qalansiya is the 2nd largest town on Socotra.

Most people drive through the dusty streets of sleepy Qalansiya, on their way to the nearby Detwah Lagoon.

I treated the tour company staff to a delicious lime juice at this shop in Qalansiya.

One stop worth making in Qalansiya is at the local juice shop. I treated the guys to a jug of freshly blended Socotra lime juice – so good in the baking midday heat.

Detwah Lagoon

On an island full of stunning beaches, the beach at Detwah Lagoon is possibly the best!

Wow! Wow! Wow! What a stunning sight!

After a week of driving around Socotra and photographing one amazing beach after another, the finalé came in the form of the spectacular Detwah Lagoon and the adjacent beach, both of which are tucked away behind a rocky hill which rises up behind the town of Qalansiya.

The locals on Socotra do not have a swimming culture and with no development anywhere, the stunning beaches on the island are always empty.

What an amazing sight – and absolutely deserted!

Of course, I had to go for a swim. An incredible experience to have such an amazing beach to myself. Anywhere else in the world, this would be lined with hotels and crammed full with bathers!

With its large granite boulders, the beach at Detwah Lagoon reminded me of beaches in the Seychelles.

Only on Socotra can you have such an idyllic beach to yourself.

An amazing beach to have to yourself!

Alongside the beach is Detwah Lagoon which is home to one family who fish and operate an informal campsite which is used by the different tour companies.

A view of Detwah Lagoon.

From the beach I walked to the campsite which overlooks the beautiful Detwah Lagoon. Like other campsites on Socotra, this campsite consists of a few rudimentary structures which allow you to keep out of the blistering sun during the day.

The campsite at Detwah Lagoon where I dined on freshly caught crab for lunch.

The campsite is operated by a young fisherman and his family, who live in the only house to be built on the shores of the lagoon.

The fisherman, who operates the campsite at Detwah Lagoon, offered me a freshly caught crab for lunch.

The fisherman offered me a crab which he had caught in the morning. This was an extra charge for which I paid US$4 – a charge which was totally worth it!

My lunch at Detwah Lagoon included a freshly caught crab.

My crab was served with a plate of rice and pieces of fresh tuna – which were overcooked.

All food on Socotra is served ‘well done’.

The fisherman at Detwah Lagoon showing me a baby stingray which inhabits the lagoon.

The shallow waters of Detwah lagoon provide the perfect nursery for cute baby stingrays. The fisherman showed me one juvenile ray which had a stinger in its tail.

A view of Detwah Lagoon at low tide.

If you’re walking around in the lagoon, its best to shuffle your feet, rather than stepping, which helps to stir up the sandy floor and will force any lurking rays to move on.

Qoba Crater Lake

A view of the Qoba crater lake which lies on the north coast.

Located on the north coast, a short drive from the main road, the Qoba crater lake is an enigma. No one seems to know when this was formed, but the saline water attracts local livestock.

Hajhir Mountains

The lofty peaks of the Hajhir Mountains are often shrouded un cloud.

Forming a towering backdrop to Hadiboh, the Hajhir massif is the highest mountain range on Socotra Island. The highest point of the range is Mashanig peak which lies at approximately 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level.

The road up to the top of the range is a very steep, poorly maintained gravel road which becomes slippery mud as you enter the fog/ cloud zone near the summit of the range.

Our 4WD, shrouded in fog and cloud, at the top of the Hajhir Mountains.

It’s best to check the cloud condition before driving to the top, and best not to go when cloud covers the mountains, although weather conditions at the summit change every 5 minutes.

A view down to the north coast from the Hajhir Mountains.

The drive up the steep, perilous gravel/ mud road takes almost one hour. If the mountain is covered in cloud, there is little to see!

Accommodation

My room at the Diamond hotel in Hadiboh costs US$30 per night.

Socotra Island is largely undeveloped and has been bypassed by the modern age. As such, the standard of everything, including accommodation, cannot be compared to the modern world.

Hotels are generally basic and camping grounds are very rudimentary.

There are a few hotels in the main town of Hadiboh but no accommodation options elsewhere. Most tours include a hotel on the last night so you can freshen up before your flight the next morning.

Those who do not wish to participate in camping can instead stay in hotels in Hadiboh and do daytrips each day. This option will cost you extra.

The island is small enough that it can be covered on day trips from Hadiboh.

The following hotels are located in Hadiboh:

• Summerland Hotel : the fanciest accommodation on Socotra with rooms starting at US$75.
• Diamond Hotel : a good mid-range option with rooms starting at US$30.
• Socotra Tourist Hotel
• Taj Socotra Tourist Hotel : Tel: +967 5 660 626

This cave on the east coast served as our campsite one evening.

While camping trips are the norm on Socotra, there are few established camping grounds. In some places, rudimentary shelters have been erected with very basic toilet and shower facilities. In other places, you camp rough, maybe inside a cave.

The best restaurant in Hariboh, the popular Shabwah Restaurant.

In Hadiboh, dining options are very limited, but everywhere you can find sweet, black tea.

A tea shop on Socotra. Tea, or chai is an integral part of life on Socotra.

The most popular restaurant in town is the Shabwah Restaurant which is where all tourists end up dining.

Sharing breakfast, and the largest piece of flatbread I’ve ever seen, at the Shabwah restaurant with my guide Ali.

During my stay on the island, eggs had not been available for weeks. On my last day, eggs were back on the menu at the Shabwah restaurant thanks to a boat which had arrived the day before.

Most meals on Socotra consist of rice with some sort of protein, normally freshly caught fish.

With almost all food imported by dhow boat from mainland Yemen, the island suffers food shortages during the windy season when boats are often cancelled.

Goats are everywhere on Socotra and love to steal your food (or anything else) while you have your back turned.

Special mention should be made of the large number of goats on Socotra – they easily outnumber the human population.

As cute as they look, the free-roaming goats are very mischievous and will steal any food whenever you have your back turned.

This is a problem since all meals on a camping trip are eaten outdoors. The goats are ever-present and will strike whenever you let your guard down.

Shooing away goats is a national pastime on Socotra. Very annoying!

A deliciously refreshing, icy cool, freshly blended, lime juice in the town of Qalansiya.

Something that should not be missed while on Socotra is the deliciously fresh lime juice, which is freshly blended using Socotra limes.

A blender full of delicious lime juice at a shop in Qalansiya.

The best lime juice on the island can be found at a juice shop in the smaller town of Qalansiya and at the Shabwah Restaurant in Hadiboh.

Visa Requirements

My departure stamp from Socotra.

Almost all nationalities require a visa to visit Yemen.

Currently, 11 nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival. To check your visa requirements, you should refer to the Visa Policy of Yemen .

My Yemen tourist visa.

Visas are included in the cost of a tour and will be emailed to you by your tour operator. The visa needs to be printed and presented upon arrival at Socotra airport.

Upon arrival at Socotra, your passport will be stamped and the bottom section of the visa form will be detached, stamped and handed to you. It’s important to retain this part of the visa which will need to be surrendered upon departure.

Getting There

A view of Socotra Airport.

Air Arabia operate the weekly UAE government charter flight from Abu Dhabi airport.

Just two airlines provide flights to Socotra:

• Emirates Aviation Services (UAE government charter flight which uses an Air Arabia airbus): Flies to/ from Abu Dhabi every Tuesday.
• Yemeni Airways : flies to/ from Cairo every Wednesday.

A view of Socotra from my Air Arabia flight.

Getting Around

Transport on Socotra is provided by your tour company.

All transport on Socotra is provided by your tour company.

Public transport is very limited with a few minibuses providing infrequent services for locals. Most locals tend to hitch rides by waiting by the roadside.

A Socotra car license plate.

Signage is totally non-existent on the island and with no WiFi signal, navigation apps do not work!

That’s the end of my travel guide for Socotra. If you have any feedback, please do not hesitate to leave a reply below. 

Safe Travels!

Socotra Travel Guide Socotra Travel Guide Socotra Travel Guide Socotra Travel Guide Socotra Travel Guide Socotra Travel Guide

Author: Darren McLean

Darren McLean is an Australian full-time digital nomad who has spent 36 years on a slow meander around the globe, visiting all seven continents and 236 UN+ countries and territories.

He founded taste2travel to pique one’s curiosity and inspire wanderlust.

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7 comments leave a comment.

Thanks for the very complete guide to Socotra… good to see an Aussie moving beyond the regular places. I am going there in March — I’m excited. As a funny note, it will not complete the 246 or 197 (depending upon which list you follow), but it WILL mean I have done at least 1 country of every letter of the alphabet (not including X).. 🙂

… not including ‘X’ or ‘W’… haha!

I follow a list of 246 countries and (populated) territories which can be downloaded from my website – it’s an editable Excel spreadsheet which readers can use to keep track of their country (and territory) count.

Thanks for the positive feedback regarding my Socotra Travel Guide. It’s an amazing destination. Enjoy your time there!

Was a fabulous trip.

Happy to hear you had a great trip.

Nice guide explored so many things. thanks for sharing its worth it.

Hi Sachleen,

Many thanks for your positive feedback, I appreciate it very much.

Are you planning a trip to amazing Socotra?

Safe travels!

Hello Dareen!

I really really enjoyed your report it was full of information. I was wondering do you have more photos to share?

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WELCOME TO SOCOTRA

A journey to the end of the world.

“The Socotra Archipelago in Yemen has long been a land of mystery. Over the centuries travellers returned from the Indian Ocean isles with bizarre tales - of trees yielding dragon's blood and cucumbers, forest of frankincense, and towering pinnacles in the mist.".

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What No One Tells You About Traveling to Socotra Island

Should you travel to Socotra Island in Yemen? It might be a bit strange for me to ask this question after you’ve seen some of the photos and probably wondering how to get there . The alien island of Socotra is incredibly unique so it’s not surprising that many people really want to visit. 

I’ve been wanting to travel to Socotra for years, but after my visit, I cannot honestly tell you if tourism in Socotra is entirely a good thing.

I’m not going to tell you not to go to Socotra, especially after I went myself (that would sound hypocritical, as I already experienced its beauty), but I would like to ask you to consider certain things before your visit as a tourist. I’m also aware that tourism in Socotra cannot be stopped.

Things to Think About Before Traveling to Socotra

How Much Are Locals Benefiting from You Traveling to Socotra?

Before the Yemeni war, there were only a few local Socotri companies and guides that could arrange your trip and recommendations were spreading through word of mouth.

These days in the era of the internet, blogs and Instagram, you can book a trip to Socotra through many agencies that specialize in these so-called ‘hardcore places’ – unsurprisingly none of them are locally based. Slogans of these companies are always the same and somehow promote the places as cool because your parents are afraid of going there: “destinations your mother would rather you stay away from”, “places you should not tell your mother about” and so on.

To be clear, I don’t think anyone should have any issues with a middleman making money off organizing a tour, especially when they’re doing all the legwork like booking your visas, flights, bringing tents, and talking to locals. Personally, I think it’s obviously fair.

Regardless of the “agency” or person you’re booking your trip with, your trip will be facilitated by the locals – there’s no way around it. The big question, however, is how much do the locals actually profit from you traveling there?

The price for a trip to Socotra isn’t a secret – regardless of whom you’re going with, it’s not cheap. Plus, due to just one weekly flight which for foreigners is crazy pricy ($800-1300ish return from Cairo or Dubai), it’s always a 7-day tour. Total tour prices range between $3000 and $4500.

As you can see these prices are different and the standard does not depend on the price, as there are no luxury hotels on Socotra (there are just 3 hotels and they’re not always available anyway), so you’re camping in remote places regardless of where you’re coming from.

I wrote a separate post about how locals are or aren’t always benefiting from your money . Locals charge a rate per person, so regardless if you’re a group of 4 of 15 it’s the same price. For a solo traveler, things would be more expensive as you still need a car.

The thing is, foreign guides don’t always know anything about the destination. In fact, quite often they’ve never even been there before . I went on a trip with one of these companies to another destination only to realize that the “guide” had never been there before.

Frankly, I wasn’t the only one in the group wondering where my money went (since I know how much things cost if you cut out the middle man), and more importantly what was the point of it.

What bugs me though, is when a company advertises conservation efforts, but then they bring their friends over making it 4 foreign “guides” coming on a trip on top of the local team. This did not provide anything extra for the guests that locals wouldn’t have provided.

Not to mention the fact that with 4 “guides” one would expect a very organized trip, but we never knew where we were going and we often felt rushed. Many photo opportunities were blocked because the organizers decided to take their own photos instead. I always thought that was the right and fair thing to do to give your paying group a priority.

Ironically, it was actually a “good tour”, because there was a big group on the island at the same time who sneaked alcohol in and was partying and yelling every night to the extent their drivers were so exhausted they could barely drive, as they weren’t able to sleep.

More importantly…

Ecotourism Issue in Socotra

Every single company arranging trips to Socotra is promoting ecotourism. Socotra is being introduced as a place to go remote camping, experience unique nature, sleep under the stars, and so on. 

According to the definition, ecotourism is: is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas. It conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education. Education is meant to be inclusive of both staff and guests.

Principles of ecotourism include:

• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Provide direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct, and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.

Quite frankly, this is definitely not what’s happening with tourism in Socotra in most cases. 

Let’s start with minimalizing social impacts and cultural respect, for example, Socotra is still a part of Yemen which means it’s a very Muslim country. Women are rarely seen and if they do come out they’re wearing full-on burqa and niqab. Yet, when tourists arrive no one is covering up. 

We were asked to cover our legs when visiting small towns, but anywhere else a bikini and shorts were a way to go because “there’s no one around”. I packed a bunch of long dresses, shawls, and covered swimwear, and never got to use most of it because everyone was running around in shorts and bikinis.

While it’s true that in most spots it was just our group and possibly another group of tourists, we did occasionally see women passing by, our drivers and cooks (about 8 of them) were local too and we always ran into local kids. I cannot claim and say that anyone was offended as I speak no Socotri and the guides claimed they’re “used to tourists”. 

I can only say that based on my deep conversations in other Muslim countries not everyone was happy with it. Especially when a tourist is walking in a crop top through Hadibo – the busy main town in Socotra.

Not to mention respecting local customs and wishes. Socotra is a place where you can camp wherever you want. In Diksam Plateau we camped in designated spots, not to disturb the villagers as advised by our local guide.

However, I was told that even a year before one of the foreign organizers decided to set camp next to Dragon Blood Trees and when locals objected, he decided to bribe them to let the group stay. 

There’s a thorough luggage check upon entry and exit from Socotra (although it’s just enforced on women’s carry-on bags on the way out) and you could see many bottles of alcohol being confiscated.

But, not all bottles were confiscated since one of the groups had crazy drunken parties screaming and jumping off tables every night next to other camps who wanted to sleep, not to mention very displeased local guides.

This doesn’t surprise me, considering the fact that one of the companies is advertising Socotra trips as: “Beaches, hikes, lagoons, camping, cold showers, dragon blood trees, smuggled booze, and lots of crazy stories.”

Dragon Blood Trees of Socotra

I’ve yet to see any company making any efforts regarding conservation. I’m highly aware that because of the situation in Yemen (for those unaware Yemeni Civil War is an ongoing conflict that began in 2015 between two factions; while Socotra wasn’t that much affected by it apart from Saudis blocking the access for a while, the island is still ruled by Yemen) doing anything at the moment is problematic, but tourists could help a bit.

Most dragon blood trees, which Socotra is mostly famous for, are very old and unfortunately, there are no new trees growing anywhere apart from a small nursery. Why? Because of hungry goats and wild typhoons. 

While we cannot do anything about the latter, the goat issue could be helped. Goats are very cute, but Socotra has way too many of them (goats were brought there by humans, they’re not endemic to Socotra) that are literally everywhere destroying the natural flora and eating baby dragon blood trees.

I felt the same way as some National Geographic journalists – it was quite sad to see. When I came back home and started reading up about it, many botanist enthusiasts interested in endemic species were quite saddened by what they saw. 

People would ask: why don’t locals do something about it? To put it simply, life in Socotra (or mainland Yemen) isn’t easy. It’s understandable that locals don’t have the resources or financial help to rescue the trees. 

However, we tourists do. Another remote island of South Georgia had a similar issue, but with rats. The whole project of removing the rats started with visitors’ ideas and donations and was successfully finished in 2018. It’s all possible with a little will, especially considering that people are can afford to pay a high price for a trip to Socotra can spare some money. 

The Trash Problem

It would be unrealistic for me to present Socotra as a natural paradise without mentioning that it’s also so full of trash that it can make many sad. There is literally not a square meter on land that doesn’t have goat feces (Socotra does have a goat problem), or trash, or both.

When I addressed the issue of trash o n social media many people weren’t aware of the presence of trash on beaches. Unsurprisingly, most people who travel almost exclusively to resorts or hotel beaches won’t see it, as trash is being cleaned every day by the staff.

Socotra isn’t alone in the trash problem. All over the world, including popular islands of Bali , Easter Island, Boracay (I actually received death threats for addressing this issue there, but the government finally closed the island a few years later) – all have this problem, Tulum , Maldives even has a dedicated trash islands that finally got more attention thanks to my friend Allison.

The truth is, many people don’t want to see it. When I asked some fellow Polish tourists leaving Socotra how they felt about it, their response was ‘what trash?’ . Another person told me that “people travel to have fun, not to care about the problems locals should fix, so they just ignore it when they see it.”

I sincerely hope not all tourists think that. In many places including Socotra, Syria (where a similar trash problem is an issue), or anywhere in Africa, locals aren’t in a position to do much on a bigger scale, or even a small scale. But we – those more privileged, do . We all share the same planet together and should take care of it together.

While our group did a beach cleanup that resulted in a full truck of waste within an hour, it changed nothing in the long run. It just made everyone feel a bit better and we got local boys to come help as well, but in a week things will look the same. If every group of tourists did it could be the start of a bigger initiative. 

Plastic is a problem everywhere, I’m not discovering something new with what I just told you. But, what baffled me was the amount of trash we – visitors, produced ourselves. Every meal resulted in a giant bag of trash if not two of them. 

When you ask a Socotri what do they eat every day the answer will be simple: rice, local bread, fish and occasionally a goat or cow. They’re used to it. For foreigners, they made spaghetti, brought vegetables, instant noodles, spicy sauce, and small water bottles.

As you can imagine, everything has to be imported to Socotra and with imported things, single-use plastic is coming as well.  Villages have no form of trash collection, so as a result the trash can get stuck there.

The Impact of Tourists on Socotra

If you look at TripAdvisor you can see that people loved the fact that there weren’t many other tourists on the island. Even back in 2019 there were about 15-30 foreigners on the island every week.

When I went – in March 2020, it was a completely different story. Our flight brought over 100-120 tourists, the flight before also had a high number and film crews, and the ones after (before the cancellations due to coronavirus) were sold out as well. 

Socotra got a break during covid as it wasn’t reachable, but now the interest and amount of tours available tripled.

One could think that even 200 people per week on the island would be great for the local economy, especially if you compare it to another natural spot – Galapagos, which welcomes over 2500 tourists per week. 

However, Socotra is just one island and all tourists go to the same spots, just on different dates. Once you’ve been to Socotra you realize that everyone goes to the same exact spots. If the number of tourists keeps increasing these spots won’t be the same anymore.

In places where tourists are a known source of income, such as Cuba , you can see children begging for candies, pens and basically anything. It’s a difficult subject of whether you should bring donations or not , as it gets children used to it. 

But, giving away a ton of candies and chocolates to locals and kids isn’t something tourists should be doing. In Socotra, locals have no access to dental care, why would we contribute to the damage of their teeth with all that sugar?

There are plenty of villages around Africa where at the first sight of a tourist, they yell for “bonbons” or “give me a pen” and it’s not a good thing for anyone. You could rather buy some dragon blood from the locals.

If you read anything about Socotra you must have heard of Abdullah the Caveman from Detwah Lagoon . Abdullah is a guy who was raised in a cave his mother was born in. But, based on some blogs you could think he’s an actual caveman. Which is not true.

He has a smartphone, speaks great English and these days lives in a nearby town with his wife and 7 kids. He comes to the cave to stay during rainy seasons, but mostly when he’s requested by the tourists.

A boulder next to the cave says ‘welcome’ on it, it’s not as remote as it may be presented. When we reached his cave another group of tourists was just leaving.

We got served some mussels Abdullah just caught and cooked for us and then requested to go fishing with him. It was supposed to be the best experience in Socotra – but frankly, it was the only one I decided to leave early and walk back to camp on my own. 

It wasn’t because of Abdullah. He was a very nice man who simply realized he could be a tourist attraction. He showed us how he fishes with bare hands to feed himself and his family in the lagoon. Whether it’s mussels, crab, fish, octopus he’ll catch it and eat it. There’s nothing wrong with that. 

He pulled a giant octopus from the water to show us and explained that they were friends. No one else dared to touch the little guy, but then it came to the pufferfish…

Most of the people in my group have never seen pufferfish, myself included. They’re cute and when they inflate they look even more adorable. Guess what became the biggest tourist attraction over a few days we stayed at Detwah Lagoon? Pulling these poor pufferfish out of the water to make them inflate and take photos. 

Locals might do it for tourists, but they don’t know any better. I’m not a sealife specialist, but even I knew this was horrible and it harms the pufferfish . Similar to pulling starfish out of the water, they can die because of it.

Ironically, all our foreign guides were prime persuaders of this behavior along with someone who runs a local travel agency back home. I left when I noticed how someone in my group was kicking the pufferfish because ‘it wasn’t coming out to the surface for him’. 

Our group wasn’t the only one that did it – every other group in Socotra was showing off their holding pufferfish photos claiming it was ‘the best experience ever’. Can you imagine what will happen when even more tourists come to the island?

EDIT February 2024: As Socotra is becoming more and more popular since my visit with almost every travel agency offering tours, I found out that currently even the crabs are tied down in the water so they are ready for tourists. Honestly, if you think Seaworld was bad this is next level bad.

I’m not telling you not to go to Socotra. I highly recommend you consider these issues, especially if you care for the environment.

While no one is perfect and even the biggest sustainability supporters made mistakes in the past, but if we all care for the future of Socotra we need to consider making things right.

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Lita Aumüller

Saturday 20th of April 2024

Hi there, I'm so so glad to have read your article about Socotra Island. Just to know about the pain and suffering. (Actually all over the world) I would like to buy Dragons blood from the local people and was wondering if you can connect me with someone reliable to buy. It will be sample of 3 kg and ongoing trade. Sincerely Lita South Africa

Tuesday 2nd of April 2024

We are a small group of ethically concerned tourists travelling to Socotra in a few days. We did our best to scout for a local Socotri company, I truly hope we made the right choice as they were one of the best reviewed local companies we found. However they did organise the flights and visas.

This was an important read and while I consider myself quite an aware and ethically conscious traveller, some of the things you wrote about punched me in the gut (eg the pufferfish..). I will not stay silent if I witness anything like this and will be sure to demand nature, animals and communities to be treated with the respect they deserve. I feel a bit torn now about going but naively hopeful that in the long run the tourism sector in Socotra can learn and transform to the benefit of the island and its communities and its fragile ecosystem.

Wednesday 28th of February 2024

This was a very insightful and helpful– thank you!

Monday 29th of January 2024

Couldn't help noticing a sort of condescending tone in your overall article on Socotra. You seemed bothered by the presence of other tourists, yet you were a tourist yourself (why did you feel the need to write that you saw other tourists leaving Abdulah's cave?). You seem bothered by the possibility of other tourists traveling to Socotra and possibly spoiling its natural beauty, yet you were one of those people who actually bought a ticket, packed the bags and went there for a week. If you worry so much about a place and wish to keep it tourist-free how about... em... NOT WRITING about it? Not 1, but 2 freaking articles. Yeah, you seem to care about the trash and the ecosystem there and brag about your trash picking but then you whine about tourists coming there when you are just a tourist yourself and write a very public blog about "hidden gems". This seems hypocritical.

Saturday 6th of January 2024

This was a very insightful and helpful summary - thank you!

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The Archipelago of Socotra is one of those “lost world” islands (Socotra island separated from the mainland six million years ago) where intrepid travellers – particularly those seeking exotic nature and wildlife in a remote tropical setting- can go days on end without rubbing shoulders with that less-than- endangered species: the tourist.

Known for decades as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean and the Pearl of the Arabian Sea, Socotra is like nowhere else in the world: a paradise of biodiversity, endemic flora and fauna and unparalleled beauty.

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Socotratravels.com is a complete eco-tourism destination guide to visit Socotra Island, with recommended tour packages that include detailed itineraries – tailor-made options to meet your convenience and requirements.

Our online booking system offers secure payment platform, whilst you can also enjoy flexible payment options.

You can find a comprehensive guide for Socotra Archipelago including flight options, Socotra Travel Tips for visitors, Socotra information , its history , Socotra fauna and flora , people and culture, Socotra Weather patterns.

We offer a variety of diversified trips and solutions, from boat excursions to 4X4 tours, trekking or camel riding through mind blowing, beautiful sceneries, an ancient culture and traditional villages.

Explore Socotra Islands with one of our amazing tours and excursions. Experience our treks, fishing offering, diving programs , island hopping. Whether you stay in a hotel or overnight in a tent, decide you want to recharge or explore nearby islands – choose how you want to experience the Islands! Don’t forget, Socotra Travel Center is here to help you customize your perfect trip .

Why Socotra Travel Center?

Socotra is our home. We are firmly committed to making sure our tours have a net-positive impact on the environment and communities we visit. We want to see people travel to and enjoy Socotra for generations to come!!!

With more than 20 years of experience, we are the Socotra experts. We have even pioneered innovative technology over the years to give our travelers a great experience. We do not promote commercial sales aimed at tourists, rather we ensure that our rates are reasonable, and some of the amount you spend will directly and positively affect people at village level.

We strive to ensure every effort is made to promote sustainability of the global environment, local community, culture and all people involved.

We’re committed to ensuring our trips remain safe for everyone – for our travelers, our tour leaders (Guides) and crew, and the people we visit along the way.

Socotra Archipelago is a dream destination for most, and for us too; we are passionate about these wondrous islands and their natural beauty and wildlife and we hope to share these wonders with you. Our team is always available to provide personalized advice and guidance while we help you plan your perfect trip.

With our carefully selected tours, we guarantee you will have an unforgettable experience.

Award winning company

More than 20 Years of Experience and received awards of excellence from travelers

Local Experts

We're a local travel company. When you book with us, you get best price.

Trusted Payments

Book via our secure payment platform. And enjoy our flexible payment options.

Popular Packages

Socotra group: the standard tour.

Amidst the gentle embrace of the Indian Ocean, where the Earth’s imagination takes flight and the surreal becomes reality, you’ll...

• June 4, 2024 32 Available
• August 20, 2024 32 Available
• August 27, 2024 32 Available
• September 3, 2024 32 Available
• September 10, 2024 32 Available
• September 17, 2024 32 Available

SOCOTRA CLASSIC: Discovery Tour

In a remote corner of the world, where the Indian Ocean whispers ancient tales, lies Socotra, an alien-looking place on...

• June 4, 2024 16 Available

SOCOTRA CLASSIC: Camping-Based Tour

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, where time takes on a different rhythm and nature wear its most surreal...

• June 4, 2024 13 Available

Socotra Travel Tips

Discover everything you need to know about Socotra trips:  When to go  to the Socotra, what to pack, other travel tips , and everything else you need with our  pre-trip checklist . What is the  weather  like? Can I stay in a Socotra hotel instead of camping? For answers to these questions and more, see our  Socotra FAQ .

Customize Your Trip

Tell us about your trip requirement. We will work together to customize your trip to meet your interest so that you have a memorable trip.

Sport & Activities

Scuba diving, kit surfing, hiking & trekking, paragliding, peak climbing, bird watching, hot deals and discounts.

We offer early bird discount, group discount, off season discount, and child discount 5% each booking

A Great Way To Start Vacation

Travel is the movement of people between distant geographical locations. Travel can be done by foot, bicycle, automobile, train, boat, bus, airplane, or other means, with or without luggage, and can be one way or round trip.

Featured Trips

South yemen explorer: the mystery discovery tour.

This tour is a great way to experience the natural beauty and cultural diversity of South Yemen.  This tour is...

• May 25, 2024 7 Available
• May 29, 2024 10 Available
• May 30, 2024 9 Available
• June 1, 2024 7 Available
• June 5, 2024 10 Available
• June 6, 2024 9 Available

Socotra Extension: Socotra & South Yemen Majestic Tour

This tour package is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the best South Yemen offers, from the unique...

• May 28, 2024 12 Available
• June 4, 2024 12 Available

SOCOTRA SPECIAL: The High&Low Tour

In the cradle of the Indian Ocean, where dreams meet reality, lies Socotra, an alien-looking place on Earth, a land...

• May 28, 2024 14 Available

SOCOTRA GROUP: The Adventure Tour

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, like a forgotten treasure on the Earth’s mantle, lies Socotra, an alien-looking...

• May 28, 2024 16 Available
• August 20, 2024 16 Available

SOCOTRA SECRATES: The Ultimate Adventure Tour

In the heart of the enchanting Indian Ocean, where myths intertwine with reality, awaits Socotra, a realm unlike any other...

SOCOTRA VIP: Hotel-Based Tour

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, where time dances to a different rhythm and nature dons its most surreal...

• June 4, 2024 9 Available

Happy Travellers

See testimonials and what our clients say about our services

Tailore-made Trip

Thank you so much for all the planning you did for us to make this an unforgettable vacation. We will definitely recommend to friends and family should they ever wish to visit Socotra or Yemen, to contact you ( Socotra Travel Center ). We also hope to return sometime in the future.

Family Vacations

Thank you, thank you, thank you so much. We had an amazing trip in Socotra. You could not have planned this any better nor had the staff more attentive, guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and the hotels were very nice. The luxurious Summerland Hotel is probably the best 4-star hotel in Hadibo. Camping in tent with fabulous food and a huge outdoor activities trekking among the forest of Dragon’s Blood Tree in Firmhin is unforgettable experience.

We will difinately recommand your tour company for friends and other families!

Adventure Trip

I will highly recommended your company and especially your guide and driver to all the people who ask about our trip to Socotra Islands. I can’t say enough about how helpful you were…

Birdwatching Trip

Hi, I’m back in Rome, and off on the birding trip tomorrow. I want to thank you personally for all the organisation and support for the amazing trip on Socotra.

Socotra Discovery Trip - 8 Days

Thank you in for your cooperation for second time. The travel to Socotra Island was  very very very good/fantastic. The customers were very happy about the excellent services (hotel, camping, food, and guide) that you have reserved. I thank you especially for your attention to our group and for the wonderful gift you sent me. I’m sorry that my English is bad and therefore I can’t thank you as I would if I could write in Italian.

“We had a great camping-based visit to the Socotra organised through socotratravels.com. I asked them to tailor pretty much everything which they did and stitched everything together seamlessly.”  

Socotra Islands Secrets Tour

“My friend and I booked a 8 day tour to the Socotra Islands through socotratravels.com.   They were absolutely wonderful to work with. Great service. after comparing several tour companies, I decided to go with Socotra Travel Center”  

EXPERIENCE OUR ACTIVITIES SURROUNDED BY BREATHTAKING SIGHTS THAT YOU CANNOT FIND ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD

Experience the socotra, socotra is adventure tourism.

The development of sustainable tourism is important to us. That is why our groups are not of many people. We also involve travelers in the conservation and promotion of Socotra’s Heritage, Fauna & Flora.

We can tailor any experience. If you want something exclusive or adapted to your activity, contact us, and we will customize your trip.

Think of all the stories you can share practicing your favorite activities:

• Trekking , surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and meeting the bedouins of the mountains.
• If you want to dive , you will think that you are in an aquarium full of marine life.
• Spotting dolphins ? Socotra is a privileged place.
• Have fun in the natural sea lagoons doing kayak or SUP .
• Fishing ? Our camera will be ready to immortalize a catch worthy of record.
• Wind? Yes, and a lot, a paradise always dreamed of by the best kitesurfers .
• Passionate about heights? dare to take a trip by gyrocopter or by helicopter .

Now, take a deep breath. After so much activity you need to relax. Observe the raw beauty that surrounds you, feel the sunset, touch the stars, embrace nature, and recharge your energy with a yoga session.

Connect with yourself! Connect with Socotra #TheMostAlienPlaceOnEarth

ENJOY SOCOTRA BY LAND, SEA, AND AIR

BOOK YOUR ACTIVITIES IN ADVANCE

If you want to practice any of these activities, let us know when you are booking. Some of them require a dedicated time that we need to match with the rest of the group.

We also create thematic trips customizing them to your favorite activities and interests. Follow our social media channels for more information.

All our activities are developed in collaboration with the Soqotris. Our team is Soqotri. We are actively investing in providing the resources and training for their own development and benefit of the community. We also actively participate in the development of the Women Association and promote the trade of local products.

The spirit and the energy of Socotra teach us a lesson of understanding, connection with nature and with the essence of life.

Travel with a purpose!

• Travel Packages to Socotra
• Is Socotra open for tourists?
• How much does it cost to visit Socotra?
• Is it safe to travel to Socotra?
• FAQs on Socotra Island?

• Experience Socotra
• The Socotra Island
• Tour Packages
• Plan Your Trip

Socotra Seaport Road,

Hadibo La Sirena Hotel,

Dubai Investment Park -1,