Socotra Island-The Galapagos of Indian Ocean

Socotra, The Galapagos of Indian Ocean,
8 Days, 7 Nights

Day 1: Arrive in Socotra
On arrival at Socotra airport you will be transferred to the hotel in Hadibo to acclimatise and have lunch. The afternoon activity is a visit to Deleisha coast which consists of pristine white sand, relaxing swimming both in the sea and also in a freshwater lagoon, all with a beautiful mountainous background. There is also the possibility of witnessing a fabulous sunset from Deleisha. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Hadibo.

Day 2: Qalansyia/Detwah Lagoon
We drive to Qalansyia to look around this charming and pictures fishing town with its traditional houses and narrow alleyways. We then go to the protected area of Detwah lagoon, which is renowned for its spectacular landscape. Sting rays can be seen in the lagoon, so take care when swimming. There is also a large array of sea birds to be seen at this location dinner and overnight at Detwah beach.

Day 3: Shua’ab area and Dixsam
From Qalanis we can take a boat to Shuaab area to see the dolphins playing and swim in near a very pure and clean long sandy beach, once arrive Shuaab area we can have a look on the mangrove area. Be sure to look out for Spinner Dolphins along the way Line fishing may also be possible from the boat. Cormorants also frequent the area. In late afternoon we take the boat ride back to Qalansyia. Then will make our way by 4×4 vehicle to Dixsam plateau and Shebahon viewpoint. This area is renowned for the native Dragon Blood trees, the resin of which is collected, used and traded by the people of Socotra. The Shebahon viewpoint gives a fabulous vista overlooking Daerhu canyon where we will see unusual yet beautiful rock formations. We will then make our way down to the wadi in the canyon for lunch and an easy-going walk and maybe also to swim in the freshwater pools in the wadi. Dinner and overnight camp in the wadi.

Day 4: Amak/Dagub cave
Today we travel to the south of the island, with visits to villages along the way. Our first destination is Amak beach where we can swim in the clear water of the Indian Ocean. For lunch we will go to Dagub cave, which overlooks a scattering of traditional villages below. The cave itself is of interest as there are many stalactites, stalagmites and small pools of water that has seeped through the rock over time. We will then witness the colossal sand dunes of Hayf and Zahek which moves by the seasonal winds of SocotraDinner and overnight camp at Amek beach or Zahek sand dunes.

Day 5: Difarhu canyon/Qaria and Arher beach
After breakfast we will drive to the north east of the island to Difarhu canyon where
we can see traditional villages and natural water pools at the bottom of the canyon.
The unusual Desert Rose tree clings to many places on the canyon walls. The
vegetation here is lush green and there are many birds. We then make our way to
Qaria lagoon which is a must for all bird lovers as it is the largest lagoon on Socotra
and attracts Flamingo, Grey Heron and Greenshank amongst others. Lunch will be
under the palm trees by the lagoon. The rest of the day is spent at Arher, which is a
meeting point of fresh water from the mountain and salt water from the ocean. Arher
is also home to another magnificent sand dune. If you are feeling especially fit, you
can climb the dunes for a view that is truly worth the effort.. The remainder of the day
is for swimming and exploration of this location. Dinner and overnight camp at Arher.

Day 6: Huq cave and Dihamri marine protected area.

Today we make an early start and drive to the base of Huq cave and make our way up
towards the cave entrance by foot. The cave itself is 2.5 kilometres long and holds a
wealth of Socotri history. Inside we can find stalactites, stalagmites and a rim
pool. Then driving to marine protected area of Dihamri which is home to one of the
richest coral reefs of the archipelago. There are many marine animals to be seen
whilst swimming/snorkelling include: Parrotfish, Moray eel, Rays, Sea urchins, etc.
We would like to remind people not to touch the corals in the marine protected area as
this would cause irreversible damage, dinner and overnight in Dihamri marine
protected area.

Day 7: Homil P.A
Today we make our way to Homhil protected area, taking in the fabulous sceneries of
deep ravines and plains along the way. Once at Homhil, we can walk a selection of
trails, one of which takes us to a viewpoint where there is a natural pool and a view
villages below on the plain and of the sea. Homhil is home to many Dragons Blood
trees, the resin of which is collected, used and traded by the people of Socotra.
Frankincense trees are also prevalent here and deserve a close look. dinner and
overnight in the hotel.

Day 8: Departure from Socotra
After an early breakfast, we will transfer to Socotra airport

Group size: 3-8 people

The price for the above itinerary is 

Services included:
These prices are fully inclusive of
1- airport transfers, 4×4 vehicle and driver,
2- all transport,
3- well experienced English speaking local guide,
4- all accommodation,
5- food, mineral water and,
6- protected areas entry.
7- Boat trip to Shuaab for watching dolphins.
8- Camping gear (tent, matters, sleep pads).

Services not included:
1- Yemeni VISA fee(150$)
2- Air tickets (international & domestic).
3- Guides and drivers tips
4- Please bringing your own mask and snorkel for snorkelling