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Experience Untouched Wilderness of Socotra -A Camping Trip to A Desert Paradise

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Hosted By
Payal K. and Ankita G.
Experience Untouched Wilderness of Socotra -A Camping Trip to A Desert Paradise

Details

Welcome to Socotra!

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as TravelholicShe takes on Socotra! Socotra is an isolated island in the Arabian Sea, part of Yemen, located off the Horn of Africa. It is renowned for its unique biodiversity, with over a third of its plant species found nowhere else on Earth, including the striking Dragon’s Blood tree.
This itinerary is custom built for an unforgettable adventure, immersing ourselves in nature, breathtaking landscapes, and the rich heritage of this extraordinary area.
A visit to Socotra includes exploring its otherworldly landscapes, from towering Dragon’s Blood trees to pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters. We can trek through rugged mountains, swim in natural lagoons, and experience the island’s unique wildlife. Socotra’s remoteness also offers a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path adventure, with opportunities to interact with local culture and camp under the stars.
Join us as we traverse diverse landscapes and connect with a one-of-a-kind destination on this once-in-a-lifetime trip!

Accommodation
Our camping accommodations in Socotra offer a comfortable yet rustic experience, with spacious tents set in breathtaking natural surroundings. Enjoy essential amenities, including cozy bedding and fresh meals, while staying immersed in the island’s pristine wilderness.
Everyone will get their own tent for the trip so you’ll have some private space!

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Day 1
| Arrive to Socotra airport then transport to Ras Erisel which is located at the eastern end of the island where the Arabian sea and Indian Ocean meet. Afterwards we depart to the Arher area, which is a meeting point of freshwater from the mountain and saltwater from the sea. Arher is also home to a magnificent set of sand dunes. Dinner and overnight stay at Arher campsite. |

Day 2
| After an early breakfast we will dive to Terbak Village where Hoq Cave is located. We will then hike up for 1.5 hours until we reach the entrance of the cave, before spending an hour inside. Hoq is the largest cave on the island, being over 3km deep. It holds a wealth of socotri history and is full of archaeological findings, such as paintings, pieces of pottery. The cave offers an overwhelming beauty and variety of crystal decoration, like stalagmites, stalactites and calcite floors and overnight stay at Arher campsite. |

Day 3
| After breakfast we will drive to the natural zone of Homhil, which is home to many endemic plants like Dragon's Blood Tree, Frankincense Tree and Desert Rose. Once in Homhil we will walk along a selection of trails, one of which takes us to a viewpoint where there is a natural swimming pool with a view of the village below on the plain and the Arabian sea, then We will drive to Dihammri, where we will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the marine protected area, home to one of the richest coral reefs on the archipelago. (Snorkeling gear can be hired from the diving centre), Then we will visit Delisha beach with pristine whites and full of crabs you will relax with swimming. There are also possibility of watching fabulous sunset from Delisha.

Overnight in Delisha beach.

Day 4
| After an early breakfast we will dive to kalishan canyon which features a beautiful waterfall and many places to swim and relax. After a leisurely lunch we will drive to Nugged, visit Zaheg dunes, overnight in Aomak campsite. |

Day 5
| Early morning, swim in the Indian Ocean. After that having breakfast, drive to Dagub cave is the smallest one on the island for walking just only 10mins. Afterwards we will carry on to Dixam plateau ( 700m above sea level) and Shebahon viewpoint this area is renowned dragon blood trees the resin of which is collected and used and traded by the people in Socotra. The area is the also home to the endemic and rare Socotra bunting estimated at 1000 pairs, after that we will drive down to Wadi Dirhur Canyon where we will hike alongside the lush vegetation and natural water pools and we will have our lunch in the canyon. In the afternoon drive to Firmahin which is forest of dragoon blood tree, also to picture the old man who lives near the forest with his wife also he is a nice guide and he can guide you to a nice place.

Overnight in Firmahin protected area. |

Day6
| After breakfast we travel to the west of the island to explore the Detwah Lagoon, this is a marine protected area renowned for its magical landscape and some of the best views on the island. Lunch will be with the caveman and after lunch he will take us around the Lagoon to show us (octopus, mussel, star fish, cucumber, turtle). Dinner and overnight stay at the nearby Qalansiya Campsite. |

Day 7
| After early breakfast we take a boat trip out to the remote beach of Shuaab. We are very likely to see spinner dolphins and other sea life during the boat ride. Once in Shuaab we can swim, relax and enjoy the pristine beach as well as exploring nearby mangroves. Then lunch , Dinner and overnight in Detwah .

Day8
| Fly Back To Abu Dhabi |

IMPORTANT NOTES: The price includes the visa (usually $160) but does not include your flights to Socotra – which you can either choose to book direct with the Emirates Charter Humanitarian flight or have us book for you – the price is around USD $930 return from Abu Dhabi to Socotra and the entire group must travel on the same flight in and out.

What’s Included
All domestic transport
All camping style accommodation
Airport pick-up day trip starts
All Activities, as listed
Meals, as listed
Visa fees

Excluded
Unspecified meals
Personal expenses
International Flights
Travel Insurance
Tips for guides

Itinerary Note:
This itinerary, as always, is open to small changes depending on the weather, flights, etc. Fear not, if we must make any adjustments, it will be to swap something out with an equally, if not better, experience!

Is the trip open to both Males & Females ?
Yes it is a mixed group trip.

I’m Ready! How Do I Book?
Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Socotra? To secure your spot with a USD 1050 deposit. The remaining balance will be paid on arrival in Socotra. Need a custom payment plan? No problem! Reach out to us, and we’ll create a plan that works best for you. Remember, spots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait!

Why Are Deposits Non-Refundable?
The deposit for your trip is non-refundable for several important reasons. Once you book, we will start planning and preparing for your journey. This involves engaging staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every detail is perfect. These preparations incur upfront costs from the moment your booking is confirmed. Additionally, the non-refundable deposit ensures that all participants are committed to the trip. We understand that plans can change, so we strongly recommend all travellers have trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances that might affect their ability to participate.

How Physically Demanding is the Trip?
This trip is designed to be accessible to everyone in good health. Activities include moderate walks, snorkelling and light to moderate hikes. It’s not overly strenuous, but a basic level of fitness will help you enjoy the experiences to the fullest! Also please note that most of this trip will be CAMPING!

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?
Absolutely! Even though we’re camping we can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Please inform us of your specific needs in advance so we can ensure your dietary requirements are met.

For Booking Reach us at
Mobile - +971 505488478
Email: ankita@travelholicshe.com

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