| Code | Socotra Eco Tour – Standard |
| Duration: | 7 days (one weeks Socotra Island tour) |
| Suitability / level | Moderate |
| Group size | 4-16 PAX |
| Availability: | September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May. |
| Activity incorporate | Camping, trekking, snorkeling or diving(optional) |
Socotra Eco Tour Itinerary and Highlights
There are different kinds of Socotra Island tour packages. Socotra eco tour prices will vary depending on what you need and which Socotra tour operator you buy the tour from.
If you plan on a Socotra Island Eco tour, below can be the itinerary:
Socotra Eco Tour – What to do Each day.
The first day (Friday) (L, D)
Upon arrival at Socotra airport, you will meet your hotel’s naturalist leader, who will assist with the transfer to your hotel in Hadibo to acclimate and have lunch. The afternoon activity is visiting Ayhaft canyon’s collection of unique flora and observing many animal and plant species. We will then navigate to the Deleisha coast, consisting of pristine white sand, relaxing and swimming both in the sea and a freshwater lagoon, all with a beautiful mountainous background. There is also the possibility of witnessing a fabulous sunset from Deleisha. In the evening, return to Hadibo for a fresh seafood supper or explore what the town offers. Overnight and dinner will be at the hotel in Hadibo.
The second day (Saturday) (B, L, D)
After breakfast, we will make our way by 4×4 vehicles to the Dicksam plateau and Shebahon viewpoint. This area is renowned for the native Dragon Blood trees, the resin of which is collected, used, and traded by the people of Socotra. The site is also home to the endemic and rare Socotra bunting (estimated at 1,000 pairs). The Shebahon viewpoint gives a fabulous vista overlooking Daerhu canyon, where we will see unusual yet beautiful rock formations. We will then make our way down to the Wadi in the canyon for lunch and a swim in freshwater pools in the Wadi. After lunch, we will prepare our way to a very expensive beach of Aomak in the Indian Ocean. Dinner and overnight will be at Aomak beach.
The third day (Sunday) (B, L, D)
Today the cars will take us to Dogub cave, which overlooks a scattering of traditional villages below. The cave is interesting as many stalactites, stalagmites and pools of water have seeped through the rock over time. We will then witness the colossal dunes of Hayf and Zahek villages which have been pushed up against the mountainside by the seasonal winds of Socotra. If you feel fit, you can climb the dunes for a view worth the effort. After that, we will drive to the island’s northeast to Difarhu canyon, where we can see traditional villages and natural water pools at the bottom. The unusual Desert Rose tree clings to many places on the canyon walls. The vegetation here is lush green, and there are many birds. Then we will continue our way to the natural zoon of Homhil. Dinner and overnight camping at Homhil campsite.
The fourth day (Monday) (B, L, D)
Breakfast will be served at 6.30 am, and then you will walk along a selection of trails, one of which will take you to a natural pool and a view of villages below on the plain and of the sea. Homhil is home to many Dragons Blood trees, the resin of which is collected, used and traded by the people of Socotra. Frankincense trees are also prevalent here and deserve a close look. We hike down to the island’s northeast coast to Wadi Shifa (medium –two hours walking), where the cars can meet us. After a quick lunch, we will drive to the Arher area, a meeting point of fresh water from the mountain and saltwater from the ocean. Arher is also home to another magnificent sand dune. The remainder of the day is for swimming and exploration of this location. Dinner and overnight are Camping and spent at the Arher beach.
The fifth day (Tuesday) (B, L, D)
On the fifth day, you will enjoy the whole day next to the beach – swimming and sunbathing. If you want an adventure, you can visit the beautiful beach of Ras Irsal. Lunch will be at the Arher accompanied by watching and relaxing in the fresh running water of Arher beach. Fresh fish will be caught and barbequed to be ordered for dinner. The overnight will be under the clear sky decorated with stars of the beautiful beach of Arher.
The sixth day (Wednesday) (B, L, D)
Today you will head to the marine protected area of Dihamri. You will see Hoq cave, the biggest cave on the island. After spending about 6 hours enjoying the spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and unique ancient history, we will then carry on our way to Dihamri, home to one of the richest coral reefs and uniquely protected coral reefs in the archipelago. The marine creatures you will see whilst swimming /snorkelling include: parrotfish, Moray eel, Rays, Sea urchins etc. Dihamri is blessed with more than 200 fish species and 4 of the 5 coral species inhabit the island. This shallow reef will let even the inexperienced snorkeler enjoy its beauty. Do not touch the corals in the marine protected area, as this would cause irreversible damage. Dinner and overnight will be at Dihamri marine protected area campsite.
The seventh day (Thursday) (B, L, D)
After tossing your last hook in the reflective sea of sunshine, we move to Hadibo. From Hadibo we drive to Qalansiya to look around this charming and picturesque fishing town with its traditional houses and narrow alleyways. We then go to the protected area in Detwah lagoon, which is renowned for its spectacular landscape. Sting rays can be seen in the lagoon (Be careful while swimming). There is also a large array of sea birds to inspect at this location. Finally, we will begin our return journey to Hadibo Hotel, observing the last sunset on the island. You can buy souvenirs, T-shirts or books and visit the Socotra Women Association where Dinner and overnight are at Hadibo hotel and restaurant.
The last day (Friday) (B)
After an early breakfast, you will transfer to Socotra airport to visit the visitor information centre before the short flight back to the mainland.
What makes Socotra Island Tour special?
If you are looking for adventure, nature or comfort then Socotra is where to travel. Our vast array of activities offers something to tempt everyone. Trails also run throughout the resort, leading to numerous nearby valleys and canyons where you can swim in the crystal mountain waters, home to wild pools.
On Socotra island almost everything is strangely different: the beaches, the trees, the fauna, the rock formation etc. On your holiday to Socotra, you will realise that every place has its beautiful character different from the other places and seldom found anywhere else in the world. You have to feel and see this incomparable landscape yourself. You will never forget those few days of a special break from everyday routine!
This tour includes:
- 4WD cars (one car fit for 4 persons)
- local guide(English speaking)
- Accommodation
- Camping equipment (tents, mattresses, sheets, etc.)
- Entry fees in three protected areas (Dihamri, Homhil, and Detwah lagoon)
- Full board meal (include restaurants and campsite’s water etc.)
- Airport TSF (form and to the airport)
This tour excludes:
- Flights
- Drinks/Beverages with meals
- Tips/Gratuities to Drivers & Guides
- Portages
All Other Items Not Mentioned
Learn about all the Essential information regarding this tour and follow the Travel Advice.
If our schedule doesn’t work for you, one of our professionals can set up a private itinerary at your convenience.