Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Socotra safe?
Socotra is a peaceful haven, a safe place for tourism. Socotra’s safety owes a lot to its isolated location. Located about 340 kilometers south of mainland Yemen in the Indian ocean. Much is spoken about the conflicts in mainland Yemen. While Yemen grapples with internal conflicts, Socotra has been completely isolated from any distress related to those conflicts.
Is Socotra safe to visit as a solo female? Yes, without any doubt.
2. When is the best time to come to Socotra?
The island is a bit cooler from December-March, but really any time from October-May there will be spectacular views and an amazing experience waiting for you! on a fairly large (and very incredible) island with a max of 130 other tourists per week. No concerns about mass tourism.
3. Best Dragon blood spots
The best places for dragon blood trees are Diksam Plateau (especially the canyon at sunrise) & Firmihin where there is a dense forrest of trees.
When does the bottle tree and Dragon’s blood tree bloom? The bottle trees (Desert Rose) blooming from the end of March. but Dragon blood tree blooming from April up to May.
4. Do you need a tour on Socotra?
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).
5. Accommodation
The island is best experienced through camping! Each night you’ll sleep in a different beautiful location in your own private tent. Step back in time. The main jewel of this trip is nature. Immerse you in nature. We are in a raw and remote destination, therefore expect humble and basic facilities.
During the tours, travelers stay in comfortable tents. Our tents are equipped with all that is necessary: upgraded mattresses, fresh bed linen, blankets and pillows. Our guides take care of everything too, they pitch your tent and prepare your mattress, so you only need to bring your personal belongings
Most of the camping are in designated camp sites. There are some basic hotels in Hadibo, but we don’t usually recommend these as the best base to explore from.
6. Device charging
In Socotra, plugs & Sockets British-style type G, characterized by three rectangular pinsstandard. Voltage is 220V-240V. Travelers should ensure they bring suitable adapters for their devices.
Electricity supply is limited to Hadiboh. We strongly recommend bringing a car charger or portable power source that can be used with a vehicle’s cigarette lighter to keep your devices charged.
7. Wifi
There is no wifi in the Socotra. Only data mainly with Etisalat telecom and the quality of the access varies depending on the zone of the island in which you are.
To use the internet, It is most convenient to buy Etisalat (physical) SIM card with a travel package of 8 Giga at the Abu Dhabi Airport. That way you will be connected almost everywhere on the island.
8. Drone law
Travelers bringing drones to Socotra will need to secure permission for drone usage on the island. Cost $100.
Getting the permit is straightforward. Your local tour operator must file a request with the local government, and the permit will be granted on the same day. This way, you can fly your drone legally.
However, you must be mindful of where you should not fly your drone, so please speak with your tour guide if you are unsure.
9. Incredible food
Breakfast, lunch and dinners are included in our tours. Three meals per day (we cater to most dietary and religious restrictions).
Travelers discover new flavors and enjoy gastronomic delights by tasting delicious dishes of local cuisine prepared by our chefs.
The food we serve includes freshly caught seafood, Socotran grown fruits and vegetables, home cooked middle eastern dishes, free range chicken, freshly laid eggs, homemade pasta and rice.
10. Language
Mother tongue: Soqotri.
Global language: a smile.
The most spoken language: Arabic.
Although not all Socotris speak English, their great communication skills, and, above all, their sympathy, will make it possible for you to always understand each other.
11. Souvenirs
We encourage people to support local economy by buying handicrafts from the Women Association, dates, honey, incense and other resins from Socotra local businesses.
12. Do they stamp my passport on Socotra Airport?
Yes, the immigration passport and Nationality authority at Socotra airport will stamp your passport during entering and leaving Socotra. But if you don’t want your passport to be stamped, that is possible as well .
Just let us know in advance and then we will submit a request to the Immigration and Passports Authority to avoid stamping your passport on the day of your arrival and the day of departure.
