The journey begins on Diksam Plateau, a unique landscape home to a variety of flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. The biodiversity and stunning panoramic views make it an ideal spot for trekking, camping and bird-watching.
Ayhaft Canyon is a hidden gem, nestled deep in the heart of Socotra. There, you can explore hidden pools, see ancient rock formations and hike through a canyon surrounded by towering cliffs. If you are lucky, you might even spot a gazelle or two.
The Homhil Protected Area is one of Socotra's prime conservation areas. The vegetation is notably different with bigger trees, creating a lush green environment. Trekking through the area is a great way to observe Socotra's flora and fauna.
The journey continues to Detwah Lagoon, where you can kayak through crystal-clear water, relax on a secluded beach, or swim beneath the stunning limestone cliffs.
The Skand Peak is the highest point on Socotra, standing at 1,503 meters above sea level. Hiking to the peak, you will witness a fabulous view of the entire island. It's highly recommended to camp overnight, so you can relish the spectacular star-filled sky.
Firmhin Forest is a unique forest consisting mainly of dragon's blood trees, with some of them being over 1,000 years old. It's an ideal spot to admire the forest's unique flora and fauna and take some incredible photos for memories.
Qalansiyah Beach is not only renowned for its length of approximately seven kilometers but also for the splendid corals that surround the area, making it a perfect place for snorkeling and scuba diving.
On the last day, visit the laid-back capital of Socotra, Hadibo, and explore the traditional socotran markets (souqs) selling local products like frankincense, perfumes, and handicrafts.
The best way to explore Socotra is through a 4x4 vehicle with a knowledgeable driver, as the road conditions can be challenging. It's recommended to book a package tour that includes a car rental, driver, fuel, and accommodation for a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The estimated cost for the package tour is around YER 30000 for eight days.
If you have more time, consider a visit to Dihamri Marine Protected Area to catch a glimpse of the turtles nesting onshore. The best time to visit Socotra is from October to April when the weather is pleasant, and the island is at its greenest. If you have less time, you can skip some of the days or shorten them to fit your travel schedule.
Socotra Airport (SCT) is the main airport on the island located 5 kilometers away from the capital city of Hadibo. Nonstop flights to Socotra are available only from Yemen. The airport is small with limited facilities, so make sure to carry any essentials you might need for your trip.