Day 1 – Arrival – Qalansiya Village & Overnight at Detwah Lagoon
Upon your arrival at Socotra Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your local guide and support staff, who will assist with your luggage and introduce you to the unique geography and culture of the island. From there, your journey begins.
Drive west (approx. 1.5–2 hours) through the central Hajhir mountains to reach Qalansiya, a traditional fishing village. It offers a glimpse into authentic Socotri life, with its colorful boats and mud-brick houses.
After a short visit through the village, you’ll head to Detwah Lagoon, a UNESCO-protected marine wetland and one of the most scenic spots on the island. The lagoon is known for its crystal-clear shallow waters, extensive sandbanks, and dramatic cliffside backdrop.
Spend the afternoon exploring the coastline, looking out for stingrays in the shallows, and enjoying a peaceful swim. A local fisherman, Abdullah, may guide you to natural tide pools filled with marine life.
Evening:
Relax with a freshly prepared dinner by your camp and enjoy stargazing under the vast, unpolluted Socotri sky.
Overnight:
Beach camping at Detwah Lagoon
Day 2 – Boat to Shoab Beach – Dragon’s Blood Trees of Firmihin Plateau
Early Morning: After breakfast, embark on a traditional fishing boat ride from Qalansiya to Shoab Beach, a pristine and remote stretch of powdery white sand accessible only by sea. On the way, you may encounter spinner dolphins and rare seabirds like Socotra cormorants.
Shoab Beach is a perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in calm turquoise waters. Its isolation makes it feel like a private island escape.
After a simple picnic lunch on the beach, return to Qalansiya by boat and begin your journey inland to the Firmihin Plateau (approx. 2–2.5 hrs drive, partially off-road).
Firmihin is home to one of the largest concentrations of the Dragon’s Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari) – Socotra’s iconic and otherworldly umbrella-shaped tree. The resin from this tree has been used for centuries as medicine and dye.
Walk among these ancient trees as your guide explains their ecological importance and mythology. You’ll also see panoramic views over the island’s highlands and valleys.
Evening:
A hearty dinner awaits at camp.
Overnight:
Camping on the Firmihin Plateau
Day 3 – Homhil National Park – Overnight at Arher Beach
Morning: After breakfast, drive east to Homhil National Park (approx. 1.5 hrs). This park is renowned for its rich diversity of endemic plants, including bottle trees and incense-producing frankincense trees.
A short but scenic hike leads to a natural infinity pool perched at the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea below.
You’ll learn about the park’s conservation efforts and spot many native species of birds, lizards, and flora that exist nowhere else on Earth.
Optional: For the adventurous, a trek down the mountain trail to the coast is possible, while others may drive down with the vehicle.
In the afternoon, drive to the eastern coast to reach Arher Beach, where towering sand dunes meet limestone cliffs and freshwater springs flow to the sea.
Climb the soft, golden dunes for a sunset view over the sea, or relax and swim at the river-mouth beach.
Evening:
Enjoy a freshly cooked meal and the sound of waves.
Overnight:
Beach camping at Arher Beach
Day 4 – Kalisan Canyon – Dihamri Marine Protected Area
Morning: Drive to Wadi Kalisan (approx. 1 hr), a hidden canyon with natural freshwater pools, small waterfalls, and smooth rock formations.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the canyon pools, or simply walk through the wadi with your guide, who will explain the hydrology and flora of the area.
Afternoon: Continue north to Dihamri Marine Protected Area, one of the most vibrant coral reef ecosystems on Socotra.
After settling in, grab your snorkeling gear and explore colorful coral gardens just off the shore. You’ll see species such as parrotfish, octopus, sea urchins, and sea turtles in the clear shallows.
Dihamri is also an excellent place to observe sustainable local fishing practices and learn about marine conservation on the island.
Evening:
Optional night walk along the reef or relax by the water’s edge.
Overnight:
Camping or eco-lodge at Dihamri Marine Area
Day 5 – Until we meet again
You came as guests and left as friends. We’re honored to have been part of your journey. With hearts full of gratitude, we wish you safe travels and joyful adventures ahead. Socotra will always welcome you back.
OCTOBER 2025-MARCH 2026 TOUR DATES
October
Every Tuesday-Tuesday Every Friday-Friday Sunday-Sunday Starting Oct 20
November
Every Tuesday-Tuesday Every Friday-Friday Every Sunday-Sunday
December
Every Tuesday-Tuesday Every Friday-Friday
January
Every Tuesday-Tuesday Every Friday-Friday
February
Every Tuesday-Tuesday Every Friday-Friday Every Sunday Sunday
March
Every Tuesday Tuesday Every Friday Friday Sunday-Sunday Until Mar 23