SOCOTRA ESSENCE EXPEDITIONS present in-depth isle experiences
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Explore the essence of Socotra.

This Arabian island has – like the Galápagos – evolved in near-isolation. That means its UNESCO alien landscapes host one of the highest levels of species endemism, plenty of opportunity for adventure thrill and an enthralling cultural past and present.

Socotra Essence Expeditions is a licensed tour operator based in the heart of Socotra Island. We provide responsible tourism services to customers planning to visit Socotra Island, whether individually or in groups. Our expedition trips aim to preserve the unique and fragile environment of Socotra and to support the locals.

To express your interest and for further information, please contact us at: booking@socotrarootsexplores.com, or book a consultation with us by clicking on the button above.

There’s no public transportation nor car rentals on the island and locals don’t drive much either. Hotels are only located in the capital (Hadibo).

The tour doesn’t mean that you need to travel with a group. Many travelers go with their partner, friend, or even alone. It just means that your trip will be facilitated by a local agency. You’ll have a driver, cook, and guide. Sometimes all in one. 

– You come alone: $1550
– You come together (2-3 persons): $1150 (pp)
– You come with a group of 4-5 people: $1050 (pp)
– You come with a group of 6-9 people: $950 (pp)
– You come with a group of 10 people: $850 (pp)

Airport transfer in Socotra;
4×4 cars with premium service, comfortably seats + driver and all travelers have a window seat;
Double tent for single use (we provide bigger tents for couples) that we pitch and fold for you;
Mattress, bed sheets, pillow, pillow cover and blanket;
Food: 3 meals per day (we cater to most dietary and religious restrictions);
Purified drinking-water, coffee, tea, soft drinks;
Protected areas fees and other permit fees;
Boat cruise;
Assisted by guides who know the region inside out.

Flights Abu Dhabi to Socotra (return) $930
Visa $150

The 7-day expeditions can run all year round (from Tuesday to Tuesday) except between June and September when strong monsoon winds hit the islands, contributing to Socotra’s inaccessibility.

Our destination

The Socotra archipelago is known for its exceptional biodiversity and distinctive landscapes. Located in the northwest Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, off the coasts of Yemen and Somalia, it offers an untouched natural paradise with scenic mountains, pristine beaches, and rare endemic species including the incredibly beautiful Dragon’s Blood Tree.

The experience

This camping trip provides a fantastic opportunity to fully experience Socotra’s coastlines, mountains, canyons, and plateaus. You’ll travel by land cruiser across the island’s rugged roads to hike through forests and canyons, explore a complex cave system, swim in naturally-formed freshwater pools, walk white sand beaches, meet locals, embark on a boat ride to a secluded beach with perfect turquoise waters, look for marine life in lagoons, and scale massive sand dunes. What more could one ask for while surrounded by otherworldly landscapes? Expect to travel on foot, so bring a good pair of hiking boots, and get ready to camp under a sky full of stars every night while sharing meals and camaraderie with your local guides and travel mates.

Socotra is host to an extraordinary array of landscapes and endless possibilities. For those who love the water, crystal clear reefs, bioluminescence, and even the chance to catch a glimpse of a whale shark. Hiking unexplored mountain ranges, watching the sun rise over the dragon’s blood trees, and swimming in the fresh water wadis that crisscross the landscape. For the history buff, petroglyphs and rock art, including the western-most location of ancient Sanskrit in the island’s cave systems are waiting to be explored. The rest is up to your imagination. Let us know what you have in mind, and we’ll curate an itinerary to fit.