Socotra, a world apart…

Itinerary

Day 1 – Abu Dhabi (UAE) – Hadibu – Ayhaft Canyon National Park – Delisha Beach

• 05:00 – Meet the group at Abu Dhabi International Airport for check-in at the Air Arabia counter.
• 08:00 – Flight to Socotra, Yemen.
• 10:30 – Arrival in Hadibu, Socotra, where our local guide will welcome us and accompany us throughout the trip.
• Transfer from the airport to the capital, where we’ll check in at our hotel.
• Highlight: We’ll head to Ayhaft Canyon National Park (expect a bumpy ride) for our first encounter with Socotra’s unique nature.
• Then we’ll visit Delisha Beach, where you can swim in the sea, stroll along the shore, or simply relax and watch the sunset over the water.
• Dinner at a local restaurant.
• Overnight in Hadibu.

Day 2 – Homhil National Park – Arher

• After a local breakfast, we’ll drive to Homhil National Park, home to the legendary dragon blood trees and bottle trees.
• Highlight: We’ll hike to a natural infinity pool with a stunning view over the southern coast of Socotra – perfect for a refreshing swim.
• Picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
• Highlight: A short drive brings us to Arher Beach, where freshwater meets the sea. We’ll set up camp right on the beach.
• Optional beach walk before we drive to Ras Arsel, where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean.
• Dinner & overnight: Camping under the stars on Arher Beach.

Day 3 – Arher – Hoq’s Cave / Raw Ersil – Dihamri Marine Protected Area

• Early risers can climb a 300-meter sand dune at sunrise for an unforgettable view.
• Highlight: Hike to Hoq’s Cave, a fascinating 3-4 hour walk.
• In the afternoon, we visit the Dihamri Marine Protected Area. While the beach here is rocky, the underwater world is incredible – ideal for snorkeling or diving (snorkels can be rented for $5-10).
• Freshly caught fish will be served for dinner.
• Overnight: Dihamri campsite.

Day 4 – Zahek & Hayf – Dagub – Amak Beach

• The morning water is crystal clear – perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling before breakfast.
• After breakfast, we visit a local garden project where new dragon blood trees are being cultivated.
• We then drive (expect another bumpy ride) to the south coast to explore the towering Zahek & Hayf sand dunes and the beautiful Amak Beach.
• Take a refreshing dip or simply relax by the shore.
• Highlight: Picnic lunch in the shade near Amak Beach or in a nearby cave, depending on the sun.
• Dinner & overnight: Camping near Amak Beach, falling asleep to the sound of the waves.

Day 5 – Dixsam – Dihamri

• Highlight: Today we explore the Dixsam Plateau, the famous habitat of Socotra’s unique dragon blood trees.
• We stop at Dagub Cave, known for its fascinating rock formations.
• Photo stop at Shehahon Viewpoint, followed by lunch on the plateau.
• A short walk takes us to Wadi Derhur for a breathtaking view of the valley.
• We also visit the Fermahin Forest, the largest dragon blood tree forest on the island.
• Dinner & overnight: Camping amid the magical Dixsam landscape.

Day 6 – Qalansiya – Shuaab – Detwah Lagoon

• Early morning departure to Qalansiya, Socotra’s second-largest town.
• Highlight: From here, we’ll take a local fishing boat to Shuaab Beach, a pristine and remote beach often visited by dolphins. The boat ride offers incredible coastal views and rock formations.
• Relax on Shuaab, often considered Socotra’s most beautiful beach, before returning to Qalansiya.
• We end the day at Detwah Lagoon, known for its surreal landscapes. After setting up camp, we’ll take a walk through this breathtaking nature reserve.
• Overnight: Eco-camp by the lagoon.

Day 7 – Hadibu City Tour

• We drive back to Hadibu and spend the day immersing ourselves in local life and culture:
• Fish Market – Watch fishermen deliver their catch of the day and prepare it for sale.
• Door Maker’s Workshop – See artisans crafting intricate wooden doors, each one unique and full of symbolism.
• Women’s Association Centre – a place where women have the opportunity to work in a workshop and sell their creations.
• We’ll celebrate our final evening together with a farewell dinner.
• Overnight: Hotel stay in Hadibu.

Day 8 – Hadibu – Abu Dhabi

• We’ll return to Socotra’s airport for our departure flight.
• 11:50 a.m. Flight departs from Socotra, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 3:10 p.m.
• End of the tour.