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Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Socotra Island, a remote paradise where otherworldly landscapes await, so very far from the beaten path!
Our journey will begin in Abu Dhabi, where we’ll spend a night before flying together as a group to Socotra Island, one of the most remote and ecologically unique places on Earth. From the moment we arrive we’ll be surrounded by landscapes unlike anywhere else and witness nature in its finest form. From the vibrant coral reefs of Dihamri Marine Reserve to the ancient Firmhin Forest, home to the world’s largest concentration of Dragon Blood Trees, we’ll constantly be met with awe-inspiring moments. We’ll visit quiet fishing villages and remote communities, where traditions have remained unchanged for generations, offering a rare glimpse into Socotra’s way of life. As we explore the island’s secluded beaches, rugged canyons, and hidden caves, we’ll swim in clear waters, discover rare plants and wildlife found nowhere else, and experience the island’s cultural heritage.
During the trip we’ll be accompanied by our local team, who will not only cook for us, but will also also ensure that we’re as comfortable as possible while camping in these remote locations, allowing us to fully experience Socotra’s incredible wilderness.
This is a rare opportunity to experience Socotra Island in its purest form—a journey through one of the world’s last truly untouched destinations!
*Please note: The price of this tour includes one night in Abu Dhabi, roundtrip flights between Abu Dhabi and Socotra, and one night in Abu Dhabi at the end of the tour. Due to the island’s extremely limited flights, this arrangement ensures our group travels together without the risk of missed connections.
Price - Shared room
$4300
Price - Single room
$4685
Book with Confidence
To reserve your spot on a tour, a $500 deposit will be required. However, you can book with complete peace of mind as this deposit will be refundable – minus a 3% transaction fee – for 30 days. For our complete payment/refund policy, please READ HERE.
If you make a deposit for a tour within 90 days of the tour start date, the deposit is non-refundable.
Snorkel in Dihamri Marine Reserve, one of the world’s most remote coral reefs
Explore the Hoq Cave, with ancient writings and stunning formations
Wander through Firmhin Forest, home to endemic Dragons Blood Trees
Spot dolphins at Shuaab Beach, exploring mangroves and swimming in pristine waters
Hike through the otherworldly landscapes of the Homhil Natural Reserve
Visit the fishing town of Qalansyia, with its narrow alleys and scenic beach
Spend unforgettable nights camping under a sky full of stars in spectacular locations
Discover the surreal landscapes of various protected aresa filled with endemic trees and plants Abu Dhabi (UAE) / arrival day
Feb 9
Highlights: Arrival in Abu Dhabi, welcome dinner
Included: Dinner
Upon arrival at Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport, you'll be picked up and transferred to our conveniently-located hotel. In the afternoon we'll all gather for an orientation meeting before sitting down for our welcome dinner. → Overnight in a 4* hotel
Abu Dhabi » Hadiboh (Socotra Island) » Dihamri Marine Reserve
Feb 10
Highlights: Arrival in Socotra Island, Dihamri Marine Reserve
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We'll start our first full day with the short 2-hour flight to Socotra Island! After clearing immigration we’ll drive through Hadiboh, the island’s small but lively capital, straight to the Dihamri Marine Reserve. This coastal sanctuary is home to one of the most untouched coral reefs in the region, teeming with marine life such as parrotfish, eels, manta rays, and sea turtles. You’ll have the chance to snorkel in the clear waters, take a swim, or simply relax on the shore and take in the scenery. As the day winds down we’ll make our way to our nearby campsite, where we’ll settle in before enjoying dinner. → Overnight camping in the Dihamri Marine Reserve
Dihamri Marine Reserve » Wadi Kalesan » Arher Beach
Feb 11
Highlights: Wadi Kalesan Valley, camping in Arher Beach
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we'll set off on a 2-hour drive to Wadi Kalesan, a peaceful valley known for its freshwater springs. Here you’ll have the chance to take a refreshing dip in the natural pools or just relax and take in the scenery. After some time by the water, we’ll have lunch before continuing to Arher Beach, where freshwater streams flow into the Arabian Sea. With its massive white sand dunes and clear blue water, this is a great spot for swimming, walking along the shore, or simply enjoying the view. We’ll spend the rest of the day here before setting up camp for the night and having a freshly prepared dinner cooked by our team. → Overnight camping in Arher Beach
Arher Beach » Hoq Cave » Arher Beach
Feb 12
Highlights: Explore Hoq Cave, Arabian Sea/Indian Ocean
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we’ll drive to the village of Terbak, where we’ll begin our hike to the Hoq Cave entrance, one of Socotra’s most fascinating natural landmarks. Once we reach the entrance we’ll step inside and explore its massive chambers, where crystal-clear pools reflect towering stalactites and stalagmites. The cave walls are covered in ancient inscriptions, left behind by sailors and traders who stopped on the island centuries ago. Some artifacts found here date back over a thousand years, giving us a glimpse into Socotra’s long history as a stop along ancient trade routes. After our cave exploration, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our journey to Ras Erissel, the easternmost point of Socotra, where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean. We’ll take time to walk along the shoreline, observing the striking contrast between the blue waters and the limestone cliffs. As the day winds down we'll return to Arher Beach, where our cooks will prepare dinner before we rest for the night under the open sky. → Overnight camping in Arher Beach
Arher Beach » Homhil Protected Area » Aomaq Beach
Feb 13
Highlights: Homhil Protected Area, Hayf and Zahek sand dunes
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we’ll travel to the Homhil Protected Area, known for its distinctive landscapes and rare plant life. Our drive will take us through valleys and open plains before we arrive at Homhil, where we’ll follow a walking trail leading to a natural pool with a beautiful view of the coastline and nearby villages. Homhil is home to Socotra’s famous Dragon Blood Trees, with their thick trunks and umbrella-like tops. Their red sap, called "dragon’s blood," has been used for medicine, dye, and incense for centuries. The area is also filled with Frankincense trees, whose resin has been harvested and traded by locals for generations. After a picnic lunch we’ll continue south, stopping in a few villages along the way to meet locals and get a glimpse of life in this remote part of the world. Later we’ll arrive at the towering Hayf and Zahek sand dunes before settling in at Aomaq Beach, a perfect location to spend the night. → Overnight camping in Aomaq Beach
Aomaq Beach » Degub Cave » Dixam Plateau » Firmhin Forest
Feb 14
Highlights: Degub Cave, Dixam Plateau, Derhur Canyon, Firmhin Forest
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we’ll drive to Degub Cave, where we’ll explore its natural rock formations, including unusual stalactites, stalagmites, and small pools of water that have formed over time. From there we'll head to Dixam Plateau and the Shebhon Viewpoint, an area known for its large concentration of Dragon Blood Trees. The viewpoint overlooks Derhur Canyon, a rugged valley with dramatic rock formations shaped by wind and time. We’ll then descend into the canyon, where we’ll have a relaxing lunch, take a walk through the area, and have the chance to cool off in the freshwater pools. Later in the afternoon we’ll visit Firmhin Forest, home to the highest concentration of Dragon Blood Trees on the island. These trees, found only in Socotra, have been growing here for thousands of years. Depending on our pace, we’ll camp for the night at either Alkebany campsite or within the quiet surroundings of Firmhin Forest, enjoying dinner under the trees. → Overnight camping in Firmhin Forest
Firmhin Forest » Qalansiya » Detwah Lagoon Protected Area
Feb 15
Highlights: Fishing town of Qalansiya, Detwah Lagoon
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we’ll drive to Qalansiya, a traditional fishing town known for its simple whitewashed houses. After a short stroll through town and interacting with the community, we’ll continue to the Detwah Lagoon Protected Area, a coastal stretch known for its calm, shallow waters and surrounding sand dunes. The lagoon is home to a variety of marine life, including pufferfish, stingrays, octopuses, and sea cucumbers, making it a fascinating place to observe the island’s unique ecosystem. Birdwatchers will also have the chance to spot various seabirds along the shoreline. After spending the afternoon exploring, we’ll have dinner and camp overnight by the lagoon, surrounded by one of Socotra’s most beautiful natural settings. → Overnight camping in Detwah Lagoon
Detwah Lagoon » Shua'ab Beach » Hadiboh
Feb 16
Highlights: Sua'ab Beach, dolphins, Hadiboh, Delisha
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early in the morning we’ll take a boat ride along the coast to Shua’ab Beach, a quiet, remote spot with crystal-clear waters. On the way we’ll keep an eye out for spinner dolphins, which often swim alongside boats in this area, as well as cormorants and other seabirds resting on the rocks. Once we arrive you’ll have time to walk along the shore, explore the nearby mangroves, and swim in the waters. Those interested can also try line fishing from the boat, a traditional method still used by local fishermen. In the afternoon we’ll return by boat to Qalansiya for lunch before driving back to Hadiboh. The rest of the day will be free to relax or explore town on your own before we come together for a final dinner and overnight stay on this surreal island! → Overnight in a 3* hotel in Hadiboh
Hadiboh » Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Feb 17
Highlights: Flight to Abu Dhabi, farewell dinner
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast we'll drive to the Socotra Airport for our flight back to Abu Dhabi. Once we arrive we'll check-in to our hotel and have some free time. We'll then meet up for our farewell dinner in order to celebrate this once in a lifetime experience! → Overnight in a 4* hotel
Abu Dhabi / departure day
Feb 18
Highlights: Departure day
Included: Breakfast
You'll be transferred to the Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport in time for your departing flight.
Wandering Earl Tours group leader
Small group (maximum 12 participants)
9 nights (3*/4* hotels and camping)
Roundtrip flights from Abu Dhabi to Socotra Island
All transportation within Socotra Island (private 4x4 vehicles)
Local English-speaking guide
All mentioned activities and entrance fees
Breakfast everyday, 7 lunches and 9 dinners
Water throughout the trip
Gratuities at hotels/included meals
All airport transfers
Socotra Island's visa 
Flights to/from Abu Dhabi
Passport/UAE visa fees
Optional meals and activities
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Gratuities 
Physical Level: Moderate/High
Please note that this unique adventure can involve the following: Light hikes, long hours outdoors in warm temperatures, early mornings, jeep rides on rough, unpaved roads, basic accommodations (including camping with no access to bathrooms), basic meals, and other potentially challenging scenarios. To get the most out of the experience, you should be comfortable walking for up to two hours at a time and prepared for a week of camping in remote locations.
Accomodation
This tour includes 3*/4* hotels in the cities, as well as 6 nights of basic camping experiences. While we're camping, sometimes we'll have tents and other times it will be under the stars. All hotels feature private bathrooms, while the camping sites do not have bathrooms or may have shared bathroom in some cases. Tents, mattresses, and blankets will be provided. Those who book a single room will have their own tent while camping. Please note that electricity may be intermittent, and hot water will not be common. However, the experience will indeed be truly unforgettable! * Please note: If you book a shared room and we cannot find another traveler to share that room, there will be an extra surcharge for having a single room.
Transport
Throughout the tour, we’ll be traveling around the island in 4x4 SUVs, with about three guests per vehicle. This will allow us to easily navigate the island’s diverse landscapes and rugged terrain. In addition to driving, we’ll also take two boat trips during the tour, each lasting between one and two hours, as well as a round-trip flight to/from Abu Dhabi.
Meals
Breakfast every day, 7 lunches and 9 dinners are included. Given the remote nature of the island, food options will be simple, and variety will be limited. Our private team will be preparing meals for us throughout the trip, but they will be basic. Here’s a general idea of what to expect: Breakfast: Eggs, beans, cheese, and bread Lunch: Rice, chicken or fish, vegetables, bread, and fruit salad Dinner: Vegetables, beans, salad, spaghetti, and omelets *Please note that alcohol is not available on Socotra Island.
Sustainability
As with all of our trips, we aim to offer as sustainable an experience as we can. We seek out ways to limit plastic use, trash is recycled where possible and we avoid mass tourism activities that cause harm to the environment and/or do not benefit local communities. With Socotra Island, we want to ensure that everything we take with us to the island, we will take out of Socotra Island as well.
Small Groups
This tour requires a minimum of 8 participants and has a maximum of 12 participants in order to ensure the best small group tour experience. With such a small group, you'll be able to enjoy unique, rewarding activities that would not be accessible with more people. That's the kind of trip we love to offer!
Itinerary Changes
While we do our best to follow the itinerary, changes may be made to any aspect of the tour due to a variety of potential situations or unforeseen circumstances.
