Visiting the Island of Socotra, Yemen: The Most Exotic Destination in the World
Looking for pristine beaches, bizarre landscapes, and delicious seafood? How about an epic destination that isn't already overcrowded with tourists? Well, we have just the place for you. Welcome to one of the most exotic destinations in the whole world- the Island of Socotra, Yemen.
One day we were staring at the map, and wondered what this tiny speck was in the Arabian Sea. We zoomed in and started to do a quick Google Search. We were blown away by the pictures! Then we found out it was a part of Yemen, and if you're a FRIENDS fan like we are, you can already tell why this got us even more excited.
Visiting the island of Socotra in Yemen was an adventure in itself, and all made possible by our incredible tour company. We spent a full week exploring all this tiny slice of paradise has to offer, and we're here to inspire you to add Socotra, Yemen to your bucket list. Are you ready?
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📍 Socotra Island Location
Socotra is an island that belongs to the country of Yemen. However, it's quite far from the mainland, about 350 km south. It is actually closer to the coast of Somalia, which is 230 km away. Situated in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden, it is off the eastern coast of the continent of Africa, and south of the Middle East.
The Island of Socotra is 350 km south of mainland Yemen.
How to Get to Socotra in 2024
Now that you know where Socotra is located, how exactly can you get there? Don't worry- we're here to answer any questions you may have.
🤔 Is it Easy to Visit Socotra?
Socotra is one of the most complicated places we've ever had to travel to. It's not as easy as searching for a flight and booking it. Actually, as a tourist there really is only one safe way to get there, and it's by flying through Abu Dhabi. (The other option is to fly from the mainland, but we definitely would not recommend that).
The government provides weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to Socotra through Air Arabia. When we visited (October 2023) there was only one flight weekly, on Tuesdays. This means that you can only go to Socotra for 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, etc. Starting at the end of this month though, there are now flights every Tuesday and Friday, allowing for a bit more flexibility while visiting Socotra, Yemen. Flights leave Abu Dhabi at 11 am, and come back at 1 pm.
Flights can only be booked via an agency, which means you can't simply book the flight yourself. Once you book your flight, you can then apply for the visa (which we'll get more into in the entry requirements section).
💵 How Much Do Flights to the Island of Socotra Cost?
Unlike traditional airlines, flights to Socotra do not vary in price. There is one fixed cost, which is currently $950 round-trip (it just went up from last year's flight price). Whether you book today or in a few months, the price will not change. However, there is only one flight twice a week, so there is definitely limited availability.
If you take a tour (which is pretty much a must), the agency should take care of the flights for you, which takes a lot of weight off your shoulders. Not all of them do, but Socotra Specialty Tours took care of ours, and we had nothing to worry about other than sending our passport info.
PS: We're now offering Socotra Tours through Off the Beaten Trips! It's the same operator and price, but we throw in a few extra goodies!
🧳 Luggage Allowance for Socotra Flights
Passengers are allowed 1 20 kg piece of checked luggage, 1 10 kg carry-on (with dimensions within 55 x 40 x 20 cm), and one personal item. Excess baggage charges are 15 AED per KG, and are paid at the airport.
🚐 Do You NEED a Tour to Explore the Island of Socotra?
Technically, you do not NEED a tour to explore the island of Socotra in Yemen. However, going on your own would be extremely difficult and stressful, for a few reasons.
Typically, we like to explore on our own, but Socotra is a special place, and we really would not have had the amazing time we did if we had attempted to do the trip on our own. Here's why:
- The Island's Infrasture: Socotra is not a well-developed island, and tourism is solely successful due to the tour companies. They actually work together to make sure that places are not overcrowded!
- The Lack of Resources: Socotra is rich in beauty, but definitely not a place that has a lot of local resources. This means there are only a handful of supermarkets (we say this loosely), most of them in the capital (far from the tourist attractions). There are only 4 hotels, and limited spots on campsites. We didn't see a single restaurant outside the capital, and no amenities to cook with. Tour companies take care of all meals, so that you don't have to worry.
- Little to No Signal: You can forget about Wifi in Socotra, and using your phone pretty much at all for that matter. There are only small pockets where you could potentially have a little bit of cell signal, and even in the capital it's not super strong. This means using your GPS would be impossible.
- The Road Conditions: Many of the unique landscapes can only be reached by pretty rocky roads, some of which also get flooded. It takes a professional to be able to safely navigate the roads on the island of Socotra, and the locals are true experts of getting you to each destination safely.
Entry Requirements for the Island of Socotra, Yemen
Now that you know how to get to Socotra, Yemen, let's dive into the other important details of visiting.
🤲🏼 Is Socotra Open for Tourism?
Socotra IS open for tourism! Here's how you can make it happen.
🛂 Visa Entry Requirements: Do I Need a Visa for Socotra?
Everyone visiting Socotra needs a visa, and it isn't as simple as going to an embassy. In fact, the only place you can get a visa is on the island of Socotra, Yemen itself.
How Do I Get a Visa for Socotra?
So if you need to get the visa on the island, how on Earth do you get it? The answer is that you actually need someone who is on the island to go apply for you. This is another reason that a tour agency is necessary. Unless you know someone on the island to do the paperwork for you, you will have to reach out to a tour agency.
If you plan on staying an extended amount of time (such as going to study Arabic or another form of a longer-stay) and aren't doing a tour, then you can still get a tour agency to do the paperwork for you, for an additional processing fee. (This is because it's a lot of work, and there are multiple signatures needed from different places in the capital).
If you are doing a tour in Socotra, then the agency will take care of this for you for just the simple price of the visa ($150 USD). It is processed within 30 days of your trip, as once it is accepted it expires after 30 days. Once you arrive in Socotra, the agency will be waiting for you with the visa, or will send it to you electronically.
Women do customs in a different line than men, so make sure to stay to the right for the private room. This is usually a much shorter line!
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Local Adjustments for the Island of Socotra, Yemen
In all of our guides we like to cover some of the "know-before-you-go" details of each destination. Here are a few local adjustments to keep in mind when visiting the island of Socotra in Yemen.
🗣 What Language is Spoken in Socotra?
Socotra actually has two different languages. They speak Arabic, and they also have their own local language, which is completely different than Arabic.
People on the island typically mix both languages together, making it particularly confusing, even if you do speak Arabic. Nevertheless, if you speak Arabic, it will certainly help!
Tour guides always speak English, and children tend to speak a tiny bit of English (and are super excited to use it!).
💶 What Currency is Used in Socotra, Yemen?
The currency used in Socotra is the Yemeni Riyal. Online the exchange rate says 1 USD gets you 250, but upon arrival we discovered that the actual exchange rate is around 1,400!
Is it Cheap to Go to Socotra?
While the country of Yemen is cheap, Socotra really is not that cheap. Packages to go to Yemen are a couple thousand dollars, and it's not because the tour companies are rolling in cash.
The reality is that between the flights, driver, guide, food, and camping materials, everything just adds up quickly.
While visiting Socotra, Yemen is not a cheap trip, we can say that it was absolutely worth every penny! It's like no other destination, and the experience unable to be replicated elsewhere.
📶 Does Socotra Have Internet? / Wifi on the Island of Socotra
The majority of the island of Socotra actually doesn't have electricity at all! The capital Hadiboh is the only place with somewhat reliable internet, and spots with electricity. At a couple of the campsites we had some electricity (such as simple lights), but the majority of the time we charged our electronics in the car.
We highly suggest bringing a strong adapter for the car that has regular plugs in it, as well as a power bank. Fully charge your phone and camera before arriving, and use the battery sparingly. We suggest keeping your phone in airplane mode the entire time to save battery as well.
🔌 Electrical Outlets on the Island of Socotra
Socotra uses a mix of European outlets and British ones. Truthfully though, you probably won't be plugging many things in. Regardless, we always carry a travel adapter with us that we can use anywhere around the world.
🚰 Is There Clean Water in Socotra, Yemen?
The tap water is not recommended to be drank by tourists, so bottled water is a must. However, Socotra Specialty Tours provided us with a reusable water bottle, and we refilled it with larger jugs of water, which helped us reduce our plastic use while on the island.
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Tours in Socotra, Yemen: What to Expect
Now that you know almost everything you need to know about getting to the island of Socotra, Yemen, let's get into the fun stuff!
We took an epic 8 day/7 night tour with Socotra Specialty Tours. This is the ideal amount of time to spend to see all of the highlights of the island of Socotra. The only area we didn't explore deeply were the mountains outside Hadiboh, as this needs more days, and is for those doing 10 or 14 day tours.
The island of Yemen, Socotra is full of beauty! Days start very early, as the sun rises around 5, and the sun starts beaming after just 30 minutes. There are typically a few main highlights a day, with 3 meals. Before the sun sets you'll settle at your campsite, have dinner, shower, and go to bed between 8 and 9.
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👀 Things to See in Socotra, Yemen
So what exactly will you be seeing on the island of Socotra? Well, here are a few things you can expect:
🏝 Beautiful Beaches
Socotra, Yemen has some of the most gorgeous beaches we've ever witnessed! Imagine white sands and turquoise waters like the Caribbean, but without the beach chairs, crowds, and chaos. Picture pristine beaches, and being able to enjoy it all on your own.
The Island of Socotra, Yemen has some of the most pristine beaches on Earth.
🌳 Unique Trees
The island of Socotra is particularly known for their exotic trees. The symbol of Socotra, Yemen is the Dragon Blood Tree, which is endemic to the island. You'll also find a ton of bottle trees, which have unusual shapes, and beautiful pink flowers in the springtime.
🏜 Large Sand Dunes
There are various areas around the island that are full of sand dunes. They all overlook the beautiful blue waters of the island, and are what make you feel as if the Caribbean has met the Middle East. There's even one area that offers camel rides!
🦇 Epic Caves
We've seen a lot of different caves throughout the years, but Socotra, Yemen really had a few that impressed us. One has a cool window overlooking the sea, one goes deep in and has a pool inside, and another you'll find a real cave man living in! All of them are unique in their own way, and add a bit of magic to the island of Socotra.
The island of Socotra has various unique caves.
💧 Incredible Wadis
Wadis are basically river valleys. They're found a lot around the Middle East, and are really fun for going for a dip. If you're daring enough, you can even jump off the cliffs into one of them!
🌌 The Most Incredible Sky Full of Stars
The beauty of not having a lot of electricity around the island of Socotra is that there is little to no light pollution! That means that as long as it's a clear night you'll be able to appreciate a sky full of stars like you've never seen before.
The sky was so clear actually that you could see the entire moon, even when it wasn't full! We also were able to see the Milky Way in plain site, and it was a great opportunity to work on our astrophotograpy. A plus? You can see them as early as 6/6:30 pm!
⚽️ Exploring Local Life
There is something so humbling about seeing how the people in Socotra, Yemen live.
Children play soccer on the beach, men sit on the ground in the circle drinking tea, and people in general just live a simple, but happy life. There aren't massive shops, big advertisements, or flashing lights everywhere. You'll truly feel like you went back in time hundreds of years, and there's something truly special about it.
You'll either start or end the trip in the capital, and get a glimpse into the one chaotic area of the island. It's completely different than the rest of what you'll experience, but it's definitely fun and eye-opening.
Amenities in Socotra, Yemen
One of the main concerns we get from people when asking us about Socotra has been about the facilities around the island.
Being that there is little infrastructure, we can totally understand the concern. We have traveled to a lot of places that are quite similar, so weren't super shocked when visiting. However, we're going to share everything you need to know so you are well prepared.
- Campsites do all have toilets. Some of them have regular toilets, and others only have pit toilets, which are basically a hole in the ground. It certainly isn't the most pleasant, but it is something you start to get used to.
- Toilets don't have toilet paper, but rather have a hose to wash off. Make sure to grab toilet paper, napkins, or tissues before going and you can throw them in the trash afterwards.
- Few campsites have proper sinks, so you may have to use the water from the shower or from the hose to wash your hands.
- Most camp sites have showers- some are in stalls, and some are from a faucet directly above the toilets. There is no hot water, but the water is never too cold either (it typically is hotter later in the day from the tank being heated up by the sun).
- There is no soap provided, so make sure to bring your own!
- You'll also have to bring your own towel.
- Tour companies provide tents with mattresses, blankets, and pillows.
- Camp sites are never super crowded, and there is plenty of space to have your own privacy while camping.
- Tour companies are well prepared with plenty of food, and cook right at the campsites. We also stopped at times for snacks and water at small local shops.
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What is the Cuisine of Socotra?
Socotra doesn't have a ton of native products, and it's very expensive to import to the island. For that reason the variety is a bit limited. However, you can expect to find a ton of fresh seafood (caught daily), a lot of beans, rice, and pasta.
We absolutely loved the food while we were in Socotra, Yemen, and really enjoyed our pescatarian diet for the week. The bread that they typically have for breakfast is also really good! It's thin and dense, kind of like a thick flatbread.
We also had quite a few local specialties from the island, which we encourage you to try. Here are a few of them:
🐠 Food in Socotra
- Bazellia (green peas with spices)
- Fasoolia (red beans with spices)
- Maasoob (banana with bread, cream and honey)
- Bhamri (fried dough similar to a doughnut)
- Malawah (thin flatbread)
- Saloona (potato stew)
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Is it Safe to Visit Socotra Now?
When people hear Socotra, Yemen, all they can associate with what they know is war.
Yes, there is some risky activity in the mainland, but the island of Socotra is a completely separate place!
Before getting on our flight we received so many screenshots from people saying the US government warns against traveling to Yemen including Socotra, and that there is "high armed conflict and a very high threat of kidnapping". As soon as we got there we laughed at this nonsense, as it is so far from the truth.
👮🏻♀️ Is Socotra Safe?
Socotra , Yemen just may be one of the safest places we have ever traveled to. The people are extremely friendly, and there is no crime on the island. Everyone knows everyone. People are always smiling, they welcome tourists with open arms, and we couldn't feel safer.
The island of Socotra is certainly underdeveloped, and there is a lot of trash in the capital. However, don't let the lack of infrastructure fool you. Everyone takes care of each other in Socotra, and it truly is one big community.
🐃 Are There Dangerous Animals in Socotra?
The only animals on the island are marine life, cats, cows, camels, and a lot of goats. The goats are everywhere and they walk around in harmony with the humans around them. The only thing you may have to worry about is them coming up to try to get your food!
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Other Things to Know About Visiting the Island of Socotra, Yemen
Now you know almost everything you need to know for visiting the island of Socotra in Yemen! But don't go yet- here are a few more helpful things to keep in mind.
☀️ Weather in Socotra, Yemen
Socotra, Yemen is very close to the equator, meaning it has extreme exposure from the sun. When the sun hits, it feels very hot, but when you're in the shade there is actually a drastic difference.
📆 What is the Best Time to Visit Socotra?
The tourist season in Socotra, Yemen starts in October, and finishes in May. This is because during the summer months it is monsoon season, so no one goes to the island in those months. We visited in October and had perfect weather most of the time.
March is a particularly incredible time to visit Socotra, as this is when the beautiful bottle trees start to bloom, and the island is full of pink flowers!
👗 What is the Dress Code for Socotra?
Socotra is a Muslim island, and you'll notice that women are covered from head to toe, often with only their eyes showing.
Does this mean you have to cover up too? No worries - tourists can dress as they want, and locals are getting pretty used to it! That being said though- if you happen to go into a town, particularly the capital, that's when it's time to cover up. You don't need to be covered head to toe, but you should definitely dress conservatively by wearing longer dresses, and not having your chest or back exposed.
As you'll be out in nature for the majority of the time, we suggest wearing light and comfortable clothing. The sun is strong in Socotra, and while nights are cool, it always stays pretty toasty in the tents, so you won't need any layers or anything.
Tourists are able to wear swimsuits, and only have to cover up inside towns.
🧳 How to Pack for a Trip to the Island of Socotra, Yemen
We packed so many things that we ended up not needing on our trip! First, here are a few things you can leave at home:
- Hair tools
- Make up
- Heels
- Fancy clothing
- Blankets & Pillows
Here are some of the things you shouldn't forget to bring with you:
- Sunscreen (the sun is extremely strong)
- Aloe (we mean really strong)
- Bug Spray
- Reusable Water Bottle (if you use Socotra Specialty Tours they'll actually provide you with one)
- Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Water Shoes (for the canyon)
- Sneakers (for the hikes)
- Small Bag or Backpack (to bring on activities) - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Travel Pillow Case (to have a free extra piece of luggage) - we include one with everyone who books through Off the Beaten Trips
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are the best in the market and last super long)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, shampoo, conditioner, soap)
- 2 Towels (one for the beach, one for showering)
- Travel adapter
- Car charger
- Bathing Suits
- Shorts
- T shirts
- Conservative clothing (for the capital)
- Camera (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Standard Lens for a dynamic range (we use the Sony GM 24-70)
- Wide Lens to capture great panoramas and astrophotography (we use the Sony GM 14 F1.8)
- Telephoto Lens to capture the landscapes closer up (we use the Sony GM 70-200)
- Tripod to get stability for astrophotography (We use the JOBY Rangepod Tripod)
- Drone (We use the Mavic Mini 4 Pro because it's super light and has incredible quality)
- Action Camera (we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof)
- Case Mate waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Casemate Waterproof Phone Pouch)
- Flashlight (for the caves and camping at night)
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🤔 Is Socotra Worth it?
Socotra, Yemen is one of the most exotic and exciting places we have ever been! The island of Socotra makes you realize how little we really need some of our modern conveniences, and allows you to fully immerse in the stunning nature it has to offer.
The people in Socotra are so kind, and the island is still yet to be discovered by mass tourism. The earlier you go to experience this magical spot on the Earth, the better!
Socotra, Yemen is one of the most exotic and beautiful places on Earth.
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