Socotra

Socotra has to be one of the most unique places I have ever traveled to. In fact, much of its flora and fauna can’t be found anywhere else on Earth! It is nicknamed “The Galapagos of the Indian Ocean,” and for good reason. From its towering sand dunes to its bright blue waters, from alien-like dragon blood trees to secluded white-sand beaches, Socotra is a place you do not want to miss! It is remote, untouched, and truly otherworldly.

Where is this alien-like island located?

Socotra sits right in the Arabian sea, about 385 kilometers, or 240 miles, off the coast of mainland Yemen, and not too far east of Somalia. It is one of the four islands that forms the Socotra Archipelago, and is approximately 132 km long, and 49 km wide.

When is the best time to visit?

Socotra has a crazy monsoon season from June to September, which is characterized by strong winds, and high seas, making travel to and around the island pretty difficult. Therefore, the best time to visit is between October and May, when the weather is more calm. You will find that many travelers aim for March to April when the island is in full bloom. This is the perfect time to catch the unique Socotran Bottle Trees in their glory, as well as enjoy relatively milder temperatures (key word being “relatively” because it’s always HOT!)

Is it difficult to get to?

Socotra is definitely a bit more difficult to get to than other destinations, but do not let this deter you from going! There are many flights to and from Socotra, but the most common way is via Abu Dhabi International Airport, with direct charter flights to Socotra operating twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Most travelers go for exactly one week due to the limited flight schedule. I went, for example, from Tuesday to Tuesday. For me, this was the perfect amount of time to explore the island without feeling rushed.

Keep in mind that these flights are usually arranged through a tour operator, which you will have get in contact with a few months in advance. In fact, almost all visitors travel to Socotra through local or regional travel companies that will handle your flights, visas, permits, and accommodations. This actually makes things much easier because they guide you through the whole process, secure your seat on the chartered flight, and take you all over the island once you arrive!

There are many travel companies to choose from. I personally went through Tour Socotra, but I have heard great things about other companies! Some of the big ones include: Welcome To Socotra, Socotra Eco-Tours, and Traveling Socotra.

I recommend researching a few companies to compare prices, itineraries, and group sizes in order to find the one that best fits your travel style.

How much does it cost for a one week trip?

I will admit, Socotra was not the cheapest destination I have traveled to. Because of the fact that you have to visit with a tour company, you are essentially paying for a fully organized tour for an entire week. With that being said, it is important to remember all the things the price does include: your guides set up your camp, provide juices and bottled water, cook your meals 3x a day, and drive you across the island to see all the best spots.

Most one-week tour packages range from around $1,500-3,000, depending on the company, group size, and level of comfort. However, this price does include the round trip charter flights (which are $$$ on their own!), visa assistance, all meals and drinks, accommodation (which is camping), transportation, and guided excursions.

Plus, besides putting some money aside for tips, you won’t really be spending any money while you are on the island. There just isn’t much to spend money on unless you are in the main town of Hadibo, which you will likely only visit for a few hours on one of the seven days.

What does the accommodation look like?

Well, since Socotra isn’t super touristy (yay!), there is a definite lack of official hotels, and honestly, that is part of the fun. Most travelers camp their way around the island, and your camp will be set up in the most unique and beautiful spots. For example, our first campsite was on a secluded beach that we had to take a boat to get to, and our last campsite was right at the bottom of the largest sand dune on the island! Your campsites will look straight out of a movie.

Of course, it is not luxury travel. On our trip, we had a portable toilet that was set up each night with the rest of the camp - which, as you can imagine, gets dirty quickly - as well as a portable bucket shower for rinsing off. Most days though, you will bathe in nature like in natural springs that flow from the mountains, or in the ocean. It can be an adjustment, but I am someone who showers daily, and it was not bad at all!

There are a couple of basic guesthouses near/in the main town of Hadibo, but you most likely won’t be staying here. We stayed at a hotel for one night, but only because our scheduled flight was delayed by a whole day! Otherwise, its all about embracing the outdoors, and sleeping under the stars.

Is it safe?

This has to be one of the most frequently asked questions. Socotra is technically owned by Yemen, yes. However, it is a world away from the mainland, both geographically and politically. The island has remained peaceful and welcoming, with none of the conflict that affects other parts of Yemen affecting the island of Socotra.

During my time in Socotra, I felt completely safe. I could walk around by myself in the main city of Hadibo at night, and talk with the locals without a second thought. Tourism is small and tightly regulated, and the locals are incredibly hospitable. In short: yes, it’s completely safe - and it might just be one of the most peaceful places you will ever visit!

With that being said, if you aren’t convinced yet, keep scrolling to see some of the images I captured during my week on this incredible island :)

Also, feel free to contact me if you have any other questions!!