Complete guide to everything you need to know about traveling to Socotra with Eagle Socotra
โธ
Travel & Logistics
How do I reach socotra
The main route is via flights to Socotra Airport (Hadibo). Most travelers connect through cities like Abu Dhabi, Cairo, or Yemen mainland. Tour operators can assist with flight bookings.
Do I need a visa?
Yes. Even though Socotra is part of Yemen, a visa is required. Most operators arrange it in advance. We assist with the entire process.
When is the best time to visit ?
October to April is ideal. Weather is mild, rains are minimal, and hiking/activities are safer and more enjoyable.
Is Socotra safe?
Socotra is geographically remote and peaceful. Traveling with a reputable guide like Eagle Socotra is recommended for the best experience.
What currency is used?
Yemeni Rial (YER). Cash is widely used; credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.
โธ
Booking, Payment & Cancellation
What's included in the tour price?
โ Included:
1- Permits, camping gear, meals (3/day)
2- Local guides, transport, camel/porter support
3- Park fees and all planned activities
โ Not included:
1- Flights, insurance, personal expenses
2- Tips, and optional extras
What's not included?
Flights, insurance, personal expenses, tips, and optional extras (diving, drone permits, souvenirs).
How far in advance should I book?
At least 4-8 weeks, especially in peak season, to secure flights, guides, and permits.
What is your cancellation policy?
Partial refunds may apply if canceled weeks ahead; no refund close to departure. We provide full policy details at booking.
โธ
Accommodation & Camping
Do we stay in hotels?
Mostly camping under the stars. Hotels or guesthouses are used on arrival and departure nights.
What camping facilities are provided?
Tents, sleeping mats, basic cooking gear. Showers and toilets may be limited or portable.
Must I carry all my luggage?
No. Daypack only; heavy gear is carried by camels or porters.
โธ
Health, Safety & Equipment
What fitness level is required?
Good general health. Hikes are 5-7 hours/day on uneven terrain.
What gear should I bring?
Hiking boots, trekking poles, hat, sunscreen, light clothing, rain shell, water bottle, insect repellent, headlamp, and personal meds.
Is drinking water safe?
Purified water is provided. Bring a refillable bottle.
What about medical and evacuation support?
Guides carry first aid. Serious emergencies can be evacuated, but remote areas may delay transport.
Can I use a drone?
Only with permits. Certain areas restrict drones. Always ask in advance.
โธ
Flora, Fauna & Environment
What makes Socotra unique?
High endemism: ~37% of plant species exist nowhere else. Dramatic landscapes and alien-looking terrain.
Can I collect plants or artifacts?
No. It's prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Is there wildlife risk?
Low. Occasional insects or small reptiles. Use repellent and avoid walking at night alone.
How do I minimize environmental impact?
Follow "Leave No Trace": carry out waste, avoid trampling plants, use biodegradable soap, respect wildlife.
โธHiking Programs & Activities
Do we hike every day?
Most days involve hiking; arrival and departure are lighter.
How far do we hike daily?
10-20 km depending on terrain. Some days are shorter or easier.
Is the itinerary flexible?
Guides adjust for weather, pace, and conditions for safety and enjoyment.
Guides adjust for weather, pace, and conditions for safety and enjoyment.
Are maps or GPS tracks provided?
Yes - route notes, maps, and GPS files may be shared.
Can we include diving or snorkeling?
Optional water activities can be arranged depending on location and season.
Are photography tours possible?
Yes - Socotra's landscapes and wildlife are ideal for photography. Guides can recommend best spots and timing.
โธFamilies & Special Considerations
Is Socotra suitable for children or elderly?
Some programs focus on sightseeing and short walks, combining beaches, valleys, and cultural visits.
Are there family-friendly programs?
10-20 km depending on terrain. Some days are shorter or easier.
Can special dietary needs be accommodated?
Vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-sensitive meals can be arranged with advance notice.
What about internet and communication?
Limited or no connectivity in remote areas. Some guesthouses in Hadibo have Wi-Fi.
โธWeather & Clothing
What if it rains during my trip?
Light rain is possible. Hiking continues with rain gear. Extreme weather may cause itinerary adjustments.
What clothes should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing for daytime, warm layers for mornings/evenings, waterproof jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes.
โธ
Travel & Logistics
How do I reach socotra
The main route is via flights to Socotra Airport (Hadibo). Most travelers connect through cities like Abu Dhabi, Cairo, or Yemen mainland. Tour operators can assist with flight bookings.
Do I need a visa?
Yes. Even though Socotra is part of Yemen, a visa is required. Most operators arrange it in advance. We assist with the entire process.
When is the best time to visit ?
October to April is ideal. Weather is mild, rains are minimal, and hiking/activities are safer and more enjoyable.
Is Socotra safe?
Socotra is geographically remote and peaceful. Traveling with a reputable guide like Eagle Socotra is recommended for the best experience.
What currency is used?
Yemeni Rial (YER). Cash is widely used; credit cards may not be accepted in remote areas.
โธ
Booking, Payment & Cancellation
What's included in the tour price?
โ Included:
1- Permits, camping gear, meals (3/day)
2- Local guides, transport, camel/porter support
3- Park fees and all planned activities
โ Not included:
1- Flights, insurance, personal expenses
2- Tips, and optional extras
What's not included?
Flights, insurance, personal expenses, tips, and optional extras (diving, drone permits, souvenirs).
How far in advance should I book?
At least 4-8 weeks, especially in peak season, to secure flights, guides, and permits.
What is your cancellation policy?
Partial refunds may apply if canceled weeks ahead; no refund close to departure. We provide full policy details at booking.
โธ
Accommodation & Camping
Do we stay in hotels?
Mostly camping under the stars. Hotels or guesthouses are used on arrival and departure nights.
What camping facilities are provided?
Tents, sleeping mats, basic cooking gear. Showers and toilets may be limited or portable.
Must I carry all my luggage?
No. Daypack only; heavy gear is carried by camels or porters.
โธ
Health, Safety & Equipment
What fitness level is required?
Good general health. Hikes are 5-7 hours/day on uneven terrain.
What gear should I bring?
Hiking boots, trekking poles, hat, sunscreen, light clothing, rain shell, water bottle, insect repellent, headlamp, and personal meds.
Is drinking water safe?
Purified water is provided. Bring a refillable bottle.
What about medical and evacuation support?
Guides carry first aid. Serious emergencies can be evacuated, but remote areas may delay transport.
Can I use a drone?
Only with permits. Certain areas restrict drones. Always ask in advance.
โธ
Health, Safety & Equipment
What makes Socotra unique?
High endemism: ~37% of plant species exist nowhere else. Dramatic landscapes and alien-looking terrain.
Can I collect plants or artifacts?
No. It's prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Is there wildlife risk?
Low. Occasional insects or small reptiles. Use repellent and avoid walking at night alone.
How do I minimize environmental impact?
Follow "Leave No Trace": carry out waste, avoid trampling plants, use biodegradable soap, respect wildlife.
โธHiking Programs & Activities
Do we hike every day?
Most days involve hiking; arrival and departure are lighter.
How far do we hike daily?
10-20 km depending on terrain. Some days are shorter or easier.
Is the itinerary flexible?
Guides adjust for weather, pace, and conditions for safety and enjoyment.
Guides adjust for weather, pace, and conditions for safety and enjoyment.
Are maps or GPS tracks provided?
Yes - route notes, maps, and GPS files may be shared.
Can we include diving or snorkeling?
Optional water activities can be arranged depending on location and season.
Are photography tours possible?
Yes - Socotra's landscapes and wildlife are ideal for photography. Guides can recommend best spots and timing.
โธFamilies & Special Considerations
Is Socotra suitable for children or elderly?
Some programs focus on sightseeing and short walks, combining beaches, valleys, and cultural visits.
Are there family-friendly programs?
10-20 km depending on terrain. Some days are shorter or easier.
Can special dietary needs be accommodated?
Vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-sensitive meals can be arranged with advance notice.
What about internet and communication?
Limited or no connectivity in remote areas. Some guesthouses in Hadibo have Wi-Fi.
โธWeather & Clothing
What if it rains during my trip?
Light rain is possible. Hiking continues with rain gear. Extreme weather may cause itinerary adjustments.
What clothes should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing for daytime, warm layers for mornings/evenings, waterproof jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes.
