Echoes of Eden: Explore Socotra

Mysterious, wild, and famed for its unspoiled natural beauty, Socotra is one of the planet’s most significant and well-preserved eco-systems. Here, the island’s ancient flora and fauna, as well as it’s unique culture and traditions, survives until the present day, appearing as an ancient Garden of Eden.

When to go
Nov-Apr
From Price
£16,000PP*
Ideal Length
7 Nights
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Experience Highlights

  • Encounter incredibly rare plant and tree species, including the fabled dragon blood trees, some of which are found nowhere else in the world
  • Stay in a comfortable tented camp that has been set up exclusively for you, complete with cotton sheets, plush rugs, cushions, silverware, and a telescope
  • Hike across mountainous landscapes, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and climb vast sand dunes, exploring many of the island’s natural hidden wonders
  • Learn about the Soqotri people’s ancient way of life, meeting with villagers and hearing myths and legends in unique interactions with local characters

The adventure begins as soon as you touch down on this captivating island, arriving into Hadiboh. Here, you will be met and accompanied by your local guide to a traditional Socotran house for a quick briefing before setting off on your journey. Take a scenic drive along the northern coast to reach Arher, where dramatic sand dunes contrast sharply against sheer rock formations. You’ll spend the afternoon here on the far eastern side of the island, exploring the unspoiled beaches, swimming in the clear waters, and climbing the impressive dunes. As night falls, enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars and settle into your luxury mobile camp that has been set up exclusively for you in this serene location.

Set out to discover some of the island’s famous flora in the protected area of Homhil, where your morning will be spent hiking through a magical forest, home to a variety of incense trees, including the Dracaena Cinnibari, the Frankincense tree and Adenium Obesum. Cool off in a natural infinity rockpool, boasting breath-taking views of the turquoise ocean below. Return to Arher for lunch before choosing between hiking a mountain ridge for jaw-dropping views of both the northern and southern shorelines, or visiting the traditional village of Erissel. Here, on the easternmost tip, immerse yourself in in the local culture, visiting a family home for a meal or a cup of Soqotri chai. Over the centuries, the island’s cultural traditions have changed very little, with its 60,000 inhabitants almost entirely isolated from the outside world. Stroll through the village at sunset, before heading back to camp for a peaceful dinner by the shore.

Today, discover Wadi Kalissan, one of Socotra’s hidden natural wonders. The journey to this remote area reveals a Mars-like landscape that is both eerie and beautiful. A short hike leads you to a series of freshwater pools surrounded by limestone, perfect for swimming or rock climbing. This afternoon will be spent exploring the Dihamri Marine Protected Area. Home to one of the richest coral reefs of the archipelago, this is one of the best locations for marine life on the island. Don your snorkelling gear to delve into this mesmerising underwater world, teeming with vibrant fish, moray eels, rays, parrotfish, and sea turtles. This evening, return to Dihamri beach for a relaxing dinner and a night of rest in your tent.

Journey to the Diksam Plateau, the largest dragon tree woodland in Socotra. These fascinating trees, known for their blood-red sap offer a rare and enchanting sight for which this area is renowned. The plateau also features deep valleys and limestone formations, with small nomadic settlements hidden within its crevasses. You’ll meet local Bedouin herdsmen and explore a gorge that drops 700 meters to the valley floor. Continuing through the Firmihin forest, learn about the tree resin and its properties before descending into Wadi Dirhur. This chasm features a natural waterslide, providing an exhilarating end to the day. The night is spent camping in this tranquil corner of the island, surrounded by wildlife.

Descend from the central highlands to the southern coast, where the plateau ends, and the Indian Ocean begins. Your destination is Aomak, the longest beach in Socotra, famous for its pristine white sand. The afternoon includes a journey to Dagub cave, known for its unusual rock formations and mythical atmosphere. This cave has long been used by villagers for ritual purposes and to shelter their cattle in the monsoon season. The day concludes with a visit to the Zahek dunes; bright, white fields of sand that seem to extend forever. You’ll have ample time to explore this island desert, climb the dunes, and take in the astonishing views before returning to your campsite for the night.

Your next two days are dedicated to exploring Detwah Lagoon, where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean. Meet with a local fisherman who inhabits a hidden cave and be amazed as he shows you the secrets of the lagoon – filled to the brim with puffer fish, sting rays and sea cucumbers. Nearby, the village of Qalansiyah offers a glimpse into the way of life on the island. Wander through the streets of Socotra’s second largest settlement, visiting the port with its host of traditional fishing boats and bustling markets, alongside your local guide. Set out on a hike to the highest peak in the region, rewarding you with panoramic views of Socotra’s diverse topography. The evenings are spent enjoying freshly caught seafood dinners prepared by your chef and camping by the lagoon. On your final day, embark on a boat trip, visiting the pristine beach of Shoab and looking out for playful spinner dolphins. End with a sunset walk along the shore, soaking up the last moments on this extraordinary island before returning to camp for your final night in Socotra.

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