Welcome to the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean
Join ECC Adventures this winter for an unforgettable journey to Socotra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the island's breathtaking landscapes, endemic flora & fauna, and rich cultural heritage with 3 exciting itinerary options.
Are you ready to uncover this hidden gem of the Arabian Sea?
Highlights
The Starter Experience
3 nights & 4 days itinerary - a short itinerary, but covering all the must-see sites of Socotra:
- Detwah lagoon: Beautiful lagoon and sandy beaches
- Shoab beach: A chance to spot dolphins
- Diksum plateau: Hike among the endemic Dragon Blood trees of Socotra
- Homhil Protected Area: Hike and swim in a natural infinity pool
The Classic Experience
4 nights & 5 days itinerary - Experience the most iconic sites of Socotra, including:
- Aher Beach: Relax on stunning shores
- Dimhari Marine Protected Area: Snorkel in crystal-clear waters
- Diksum Plateau & Homhil Protected Area: Hike among the iconic Dragon's Blood trees
- Kilisin Canyon: Enjoy a scenic hike and a swim at a secret waterfall
The Explorer Experience
7 nights & 8 days itinerary - Delve deeper into Socotra’s wonders:
- Explore: Ahmer and Omaq Beaches
- Snorkel or dive in the Dimhari Marine Protected Area
- Discover the expansive Hoq Cave, featuring magnificent stalactites and ancient inscriptions.
- Experience the magic of Homhil’s landscapes and relax in an infinity pool.
- Hike through the serene Dirhur Canyon and its lush flora.
This itinerary is perfect for those looking to appreciate Socotra’s unique beauty, history, culture, and biodiversity.
Upcoming Dates and Prices
- The Starter Experience - 3 nights & 4 days - 7,000 AED
Tuesday, 14th January 2025 - Friday, 17th January 2025
- The Classic Experience - 4 nights & 5 days - 8,250 AED
Friday, 17th January 2025 - Tuesday, 21st January 2025
- The Explorer Experience - 7 nights & 8 days - 10,450 AED
Sunday, 30 March 2025 - Sunday, 6 April 2025
Sunday, 6 April 2025 - Sunday, 13 April 2025
**2024-2025 ECCA Season Adventure pass holders are eligible to receive 10% off !
The Starter Experience - 7,000 AED
DAY 1 - Arrival at Socotra airport from Abu Dhabi
Arrive at Socotra Airport in Hadibu. We’ll head straight Detwah lagoon, a RAMSAR protected site, situated on the northwest corner of Socotra. An important breeding site for fish and local birds, you will also get the chance to chill out on the beautiful sandy beach before we head back to our camping site to catch a beautiful sunset.
DAY 2 - Boat ride to Shoab beach & dolphin watching and visit to Diksum Plataeu
Starting from Qalansiyah we will take a boat ride to Shoab beach which is easily accessible by sea rather than by land. On the way you will be able to spot dolphin pods who pass through this area frequently. Described by some travellers as, ‘mind-blowing’, you can have a relaxing day out on Shoab beach exploring the beach and it's surroundings.
Next we head off to one of the most anticipated visits of our trip; the enchanting Firmhen forest of Dragon Blood trees on the Diksum Plateau. Scientifically referred to as Dracena cinnabari, it is Socotra’s national tree and is found nowhere else in the world.
Diksum plateau is one of few places where you will find Dragon Blood trees which are strictly protected due to their uniqueness, taking hundreds of years to grow from a small bush to a tree.
DAY 3 - Visit to Homhil Protected Area
We drive to Homhil and start our 45-minute hike to reach a natural infinity pool and where you will have stunning views all around. We will also have lunch here with plenty of time for swimming before we head back to our accommodation to enjoy your last night on this timeless paradise.
DAY 4 - Departure from Socotra to Abu Dhabi
It’s time to say goodbye to one of the most enchanting islands in the world. After a specially prepared breakfast we will drive you to the airport and drop you off at departures.
The Classic Experience - 8,250 AED
DAY 1 - Arrival at Socotra airport from Abu Dhabi
Arrive at Socotra Airport in Hadibu. We’ll head straight to Dimhari Marine Protected Area for lunch and later snorkeling in its enchanting blue waters, teeming with vibrant coral reefs. After a sunset view, we’ll settle into our accommodation for dinner and rest.
DAY 2 - Boat ride to Shoab beach & dolphin watching and visit to Diksum Plataeu
Starting from Qalansiyah we will take a boat ride to Shoab beach which is easily accessible by sea rather than by land. On the way you will be able to spot dolphin pods who pass through this area frequently. Described by some travellers as, ‘mind-blowing’, you can have a relaxing day out on Shoab beach exploring the beach and it's surroundings.
We will also visit one of the most famous individuals on the island,Eli, also known as The Caveman. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Socotran culture and history.
Next we head off to one of the most anticipated visits of our trip; the enchanting Firmhen forest of Dragon Blood trees on the Diksum Plateau. Scientifically referred to as Dracena cinnabari, it is Socotra’s national tree and is found nowhere else in the world.
Diksum plateau is one of few places where you will find Dragon Blood trees which are strictly protected due to their uniqueness, taking hundreds of years to grow from a small bush to a tree.
DAY 3 - Visit to Homhil Protected Area
We drive to Homhil and start our 45-minute hike to reach a natural infinity pool and where you will have stunning views all around. We will also have lunch here with plenty of time for swimming before we head back to enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at our overnight camping site.
DAY 4 - Wadi Kilisin (Kilisin Canyon) and Arhr Beach
Today, starts with a drive to Kilisin Canyon for a hike. You have the oportunity to swim and explore the stunning views overlooking the canyon.
After lunch, the journey continues to the popular Arhr Beach. Time to enjoy dunes that tower over the sea, A feast for the eyes with sand dunes kissing the edge of the azure sea, creating a surreal landscape that will be etched on your memory forever.
Day 5 - Departure from Socotra to Abu Dhabi
It’s time to say goodbye to one of the most enchanting islands in the world. After a specially prepared breakfast we will drive you to the airport and drop you off at departures.
The Explorer Experience - 10,450 AED
Day 1 - Arrival at Socotra airport from Abu Dhabi
Arrive at Socotra Airport in Hadibu. We’ll head straight to Dimhari Marine Protected Area for lunch and later snorkeling in its enchanting blue waters, teeming with vibrant coral reefs. After a sunset view, we’ll settle into our accommodation for dinner and rest.
Day 2 - Wadi Kilisin & Arher Beach
Embark on a short hike in Wadi Kilisin (Kilisin Canyon) with a possible swim. Enjoy a picnic lunch before heading to Arher Beach, where we’ll set up camp and enjoy a beachside dinner.
Day 3 - Hoq Cave Exploration
We start early to explore the largest cave system out of about 30 on the island - Hoq Cave. The hike to Hoq Cave features stunning landscapes, and inside, you’ll find beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient inscriptions from travellers of the past.
Day 4 - Homhil Protected Forest
Visit the Homhil Protected Area, home to rare Dragon's Blood trees. Hike to a plateau with an infinity pool and breathtaking views, followed by dinner and camping at Omaq Beach.
Day 5 - Dirhur Canyon & Departure
Explore another cave and the serene Dirhur Canyon, known for its fresh water streams and diverse plant life.
Day 6 - Boat ride to Shoab beach & dolphin watching
We will take a boat ride to Shoab beach which is easily accessible by sea rather than by land. On the way you will be able to spot dolphin pods who pass through this area frequently.Described by some travellers as, ‘mind-blowing’, you can have a relaxing day out on Shoab beach exploring the beach and it's surroundings.
Once we get back, we drive to Qalansiyah to spend the night and your last day in Socotra.
Day 7 - R&R in Qalansiyah
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel in Qalansiyah, spending your last day in Socotra at your own pace.
We will have a farewell dinner arranged for the group allowing you to savour the tastes and sounds of this iconic island before we bid you farewell tomorrow.
Day 8 - Departure from Socotra to Abu Dhabi
After breakfast we will drive you to the airport in time to catch your flight back to Abu Dhabi.
Inclusions
-Visa
-Flight
-All 3 meals and refreshments
-All transportation on the island (4x4 A/C cars). Maximum 3 guests per vehicle
-Entry fees for national parks
-Camping gear throughout the trip (tent, pillow, mattress, sun beds, portable potties and portable water sprays)
-Final night's hotel accommodation
- English speaking tour guide, cook, helpers
Exclusions
-Personal expenses and any tips
-Diving equipment and gear
-Travel insurance
-Sun protection
-Comfortable clothes for travelling and sleeping
-Shoes for hiking
-Beach-wear
-Medications
-Toiletries
-Chargers and power banks
Please note that Socotra is an 'off-the-beaten path' destination and would therefore require a degree of flexibility. Access to supermarkets and special amenities will be limited. Please make sure to bring any special items you need within limits, making note that we will be camping throughout the tour and travelling by 4x4's with maximum of 3 guests per vehicle.
Is Socotra safe?
Socotra is a safe travel destination. It is seeing an increasing amount tourism from the UAE.
Although you are technically flying into Yemen, much of the infrastructure has been developed through UAE investment. You also have the option to stamp a seperate piece of paper at customs instead of your passport in case of worries of travelling to other countries in the future that might have issued travel-bans for Yemen.
Do I need a visa?
Yes! All nationalities require a visa to enter Socotra. It is hassle-free and we will get the visa for you, after you have made your booking.
What is the best time to visit?
Ideally from October to April.
How do I get to Socotra?
Flights from Abu Dhabi are available several days a week, taking about 1.5 hours. Once you've made your booking we will book your return flight. Please note that seats are limited and is available on a first come-first served basis.
What about accommodations?
Most nights will be spent camping, with facilities provided for comfort. Last night of each itinerary will be at a local budget hotel.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, a local English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the trip.
How do I stay connected?
Internet may be sparse, but UAE SIM cards work well on the island.
How can I be a responsible traveler?
Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles and respect the this endemic environment and its local culture.
Embark on this adventure with ECC Adventures and create memories that will last a lifetime!
