Is a trip to Socotra dangerous?
Socotra is isolated on the Horn of Africa between Yemen and Somalia. Politically, the island belongs to Yemen, but is a very safe and peaceful destination. It is mainly controlled by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Due to its great distance from the Yemeni mainland, Socotra remains unaffected by the political unrest and conflicts that occur in some parts of Yemen. Travel is via Abu Dhabi and the Yemeni mainland is not entered at any time. The inhabitants of Socotra are a very warm people and welcome us with open arms. There is no crime on the island and even female tourists can enter without any problems and feel completely free and safe.
How to get to Socotra?
Die Anreise nach Socotra scheint auf den ersten Blick ein große Hürde zu sein, tatsächlich ist es aber garnicht so kompliziert. Der beste und einfachste Weg ist ein Flug von Abu Dhabi. Online kannst du keine Flüge nach Socotra buchen, allerdings können wir das für dich organisieren! Kontaktiere uns einfach.
Der Socotra Flug geht bis zu 3x in der Woche immer
Dienstags
Freitags
Sonntags
Wichtig: Bitte kontaktiere uns so früh wie möglich. Die Flugtickets nach Socotra sind stark begrenzt und oft sehr schnell ausverkauft. Wer ein Ticket erhalten möchte, sollte sich daher viele Monate im Voraus bei uns melden.
Step 1: Making contact
The best way to get in touch with us is via email or WhatsApp. You can simply fill out the form at the bottom of the website and we will contact you promptly to plan your desired tour together.
Step 2: Choose your travel date
Simply select your travel dates - you can find all available departure dates here. Flights always depart on Tuesdays and Fridays, and travel is possible from October to May.
Step 3: Organizing flights
Once we have put together a suitable tour for you, we will book your flight to Socotra via our local contacts.
Step 4: Visa processing
In the next step, we will organize your Socotra visa for you. Simply send us a digital copy of your passport. You will receive the visa from us by email shortly before your departure.
Step 5: Arrival in Abu Dhabi
First fly to Abu Dhabi. We recommend arriving 1-2 days before your Socotra flight and staying overnight in a hotel. This way you can relax and ensure that you are at the gate on time on the day of departure.
Step 6: Flight to Socotra
The big day has arrived, you will now fly to Socotra and start your unique adventure! Our local guides will pick you up directly at the airport.
Discover Socotra tour offers
The perfect Socotra trip for everyone: Whether on a best-of tour group tour, an adventurous hiking expedition, an adventure photo tour, a romantic trip for two or an individual trip according to your wishes. Discover our diverse tour offers now.
When is the best time to travel to Socotra?
The ideal time to visit Socotra is between October and May, when the weather is mostly warm, sunny and dry. Occasionally there may be rain. From October to February, temperatures range between 17°C and 30°C. From March onwards, temperatures rise and can reach up to 37°C. In the summer months, the island is not open to tourism due to the monsoon.
Unterkunft auf Socotra, wo werde ich übernachten?
Auf Socotra wirst du in einem eigenen Einzelzelt untergebracht. Während der Reise erkunden wir verschiedene Orte der Insel und schlagen unser Camp täglich an einem neuen Platz auf. So erlebst du die einzigartige Natur Socotras aus nächster Nähe und übernachtest stets mitten in beeindruckenden Landschaften. Das komplette Campingequipment – einschließlich Zelt und Matratze wird dir von uns vor Ort zur Verfügung gestellt, sodass du dich um nichts kümmern musst.
What will I eat and drink on Socotra?
During our time on Socotra, an experienced kitchen team will accompany us and prepare three delicious meals a day. Unlimited water is available at all times. Depending on the region, we will enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients: Freshly caught fish and vegetables await us on the coast, while in the interior of the island there are dishes with chicken, sheep or goat, served with rice. Thanks to cool boxes with ice, all food stays fresh. We are happy to consider your individual wishes, such as vegetarian options or allergies - just let us know in advance so that we can adapt the menu accordingly.
We also ensure that sufficient water is available on our tours and hikes. Every participant has unlimited access. To protect the environment, we ask you to bring reusable bottles and refill them when needed to avoid plastic waste. Remember to drink enough during all activities to keep you comfortable and well hydrated.
How do I pay in Socotra? In which currency?
On the island of Socotra, the Yemeni Rial is used for payment. We recommend bringing US dollars with you, as these can easily be exchanged locally. However, all costs are already included in all the tours we offer, so it is not absolutely necessary to carry cash. Nevertheless, we advise you to plan a small reserve for souvenirs and tips. Around 100 US dollars per person is sufficient. There are no ATMs and card payments are not possible.
Are there toilets and showers on the Socotra trip?
Most campsites have basic toilets and showers. Please be aware that the hygiene standards are not comparable with European conditions. Some days there are no sanitary facilities and we have to use nature as a toilet. Remember to bring biodegradable toilet paper to protect the environment.
Do you have an internet connection on Socotra?
In most places on Socotra there is no internet, which gives us the opportunity to experience nature in its full beauty and without distractions. In a few places there is slow 3G reception. To use the connection you will need a SIM card from Etisalat, which you can buy in Abu Dhabi before your trip. Please note that e-SIMs purchased online will not work on Socotra - a physical SIM card is required.
How do I behave correctly on my trip?
On Socotra, it is important to respect the local culture and environment. If you want to take photos of locals, always ask permission beforehand - this shows respect and is greatly appreciated.
To protect the unique nature of the island, please make sure to use eco-friendly soap and shampoo. These help to minimize the environmental impact and preserve the fragile ecosystems.
We ask for special consideration when dealing with women. Respect cultural customs and avoid behavior that could be perceived as inappropriate. In this way, you will contribute to a harmonious coexistence and show appreciation for the traditions of the island.
Can I bring a drone into Socotra?
It is not permitted to carry a drone in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is therefore possible that your drone will be temporarily confiscated when you enter the country. However, it will be returned to you as soon as you start your onward journey to Socotra.
On Socotra itself, bringing a drone is generally not a problem. However, since October 2024, travelers have to pay a fee of $105 to be allowed to use the drone on the island. Please let us know in advance if you would like to bring a drone so that we can register it for you in advance. This will ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Hotel on Socotra?
Yes, there are a few hotels on Socotra that we can book for you. Be aware that these hotels are not comparable to western standards. These hotels are all located in Hadibu, the capital of Socotra. If you really want to understand and explore the island in depth, I recommend a camping tour, e.g. our Best of Socotra Tour , so you are super flexible and can travel the entire island.
Best Of Socotra Tour
The Best of Socotra Tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience one of the most extraordinary adventures of their life. In a small group, you will discover the most fascinating places on the island. You will be guided by one of Socotra's most experienced English-speaking guides and his well-coordinated team. Off-road land cruisers will take you to the most remote regions, where you will pitch your tent in beautiful natural locations. This creates a real sense of adventure - intense, authentic and unforgettable.
My experience on Socotra
In March 2023, I traveled to the island of Socotra for the first time to shoot this documentary.
I've been returning regularly ever since. I have now been able to experience the island five times. Each of these trips has been an adventure full of unforgettable moments, inspiring encounters and breathtaking nature experiences.
It is a great honor for me to now help other people to get to know this unique island. I personally accompany my photo tours as a guide. But I also work in the background on the best-of tours or private trips. Together with my local friends and partners, I make sure that every trip is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Feel free to contact me via WhatsApp - I will be happy to help you make your dream of Socotra come true.
What should I bring with me?
Clothing
- Sweater/Hoodie/Sweater
- T-shirts, underwear, socks
- Light, comfortable clothing that can get dirty
- Light jacket for the nights
- Shorts
- Long outdoor trousers
- Swimming trunks, swimsuit
- Hiking boots
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Sports shoes
- Headgear/sun hat
- Sunglasses
Hygiene/medicines
- Sun cream with a high protection factor
- Eco-friendly soap and toothpaste
- Environmentally friendly shower gel and shampoo
- Biodegradable toilet paper/wetting paper
- Mosquito repellent spray
- Lip balm
- Ibuprofen
- Hut sleeping bag, (sleeping bag, pillow)
Technology
- Torch/head flashlight
- Large power banks!
Miscellaneous
- Snorkeling equipment, if you don't want to rent it
- Cash USD
- First aid kit for emergencies
Contact us
The quickest way to find out more about Socotra is to send me a WhatsApp!
+49 15223146108
Or sign up here and we'll get back to you in a few hours!
Learn more >
Click through the individual pages to find out more about your Socotra trip.
The most extraordinary journey of your life awaits you!
