The adventure begins with your flight from Abu Dhabi to the remote island of Socotra, often described as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean.” Upon arrival, our local team will welcome you and assist with formalities before sharing your first island meal in Hadibo, Socotra’s vibrant little capital.

From here, the landscapes shift quickly. We head to Delisha Beach, a tranquil stretch where soft white sands meet both the turquoise sea and a calm freshwater lagoon. It’s the perfect setting to breathe in the island air, enjoy a refreshing swim, and slow down to Socotra’s rhythm.

By late afternoon, we continue east to Arher, a spectacular coastal site where a freshwater stream trickles from the mountains directly into the sea. Towering sand dunes rise dramatically against the cliffs, offering those who climb them sweeping sunset views over the coastline. This is where we settle in for our first night beneath Socotra’s star-filled sky.

Highlights of the Day:

• Arrival in Hadibo – First impressions of Socotra’s vibrant island life.
• Delisha Beach escape – Swimming in both the turquoise sea and a calm freshwater lagoon.
• Sunset above Arher dunes – A breathtaking panorama from more than 100 meters high.

Travel Details: Flight: Abu Dhabi → Socotra (Air Arabia); Driving distance: ~50 km; Driving time: ~1.5 hours; Overnight: Arher Beach camping (- / L / D)

We rise early and set off toward Terbak village, the starting point of today’s hike. A steady climb brings us to the entrance of Hoq Cave, one of Socotra’s greatest natural wonders. Extending more than three kilometers into the mountain, the cave reveals vast chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering crystal formations. At its far end lies a tranquil freshwater pool, an almost mystical sight in the cool darkness. Exploring these cathedral-like caverns feels like stepping back into a world untouched by time.

In the afternoon, we head further east to Ras Irisseyl, the island’s easternmost point, where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean. Here, a small fishing village greets us with scenes of daily life as boats return with their afternoon catch. Just beyond, the shoreline transforms into the quirky “Crab City,” where thousands of tiny sand crabs build intricate, castle-like mounds above their burrows during low tide. The blend of raw seascapes and playful natural artistry makes for a fitting end to the day.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike to Hoq Cave – Explore vast chambers filled with crystalline formations and a hidden pool.
• Ras Irisseyl – Stand at the meeting point of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.
• “Crab City” Beach – Witness thousands of sand crabs shaping tiny fortresses at low tide.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~70 km (round trip); Hiking time: ~1.5–2 hours (moderate hike to cave entrance); Cave exploration: ~2–3 hours inside Hoq Cave; Overnight stay at Arher Beach camping (B / L / D)

After breakfast, we journey north toward Homhil National Park, a landscape alive with endemic flora found nowhere else on Earth. Towering Dragon’s Blood Trees, fragrant Frankincense, and delicate Desert Roses frame our path as we follow scenic trails. One trail leads us to a spectacular viewpoint where a natural pool rests high above the cliffs. Taking a dip here feels surreal—the water stretches toward the horizon like a natural infinity pool, with sweeping views of villages and the endless Arabian Sea below. Along the way, you may encounter locals selling dragon’s blood resin and frankincense, a reminder of the island’s rich traditions.

In the afternoon, we head to the sea at Dihamri Protected Area, one of Socotra’s richest marine habitats. The shallow coral reef here shelters an astonishing variety of life—over 200 fish species and four of the island’s five coral species. Whether snorkeling or diving, you’ll be immersed in a vibrant world of parrotfish, turtles, moray eels, rays, and countless other colorful creatures. With equipment available locally, even beginners can easily explore this underwater paradise.

Highlights of the Day:

• Homhil National Park – Explore surreal trails among Dragon’s Blood Trees, Frankincense, and Desert Roses.
• Infinity pool viewpoint – Swim in a cliffside pool with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
• Snorkeling at Dihamri – Encounter thriving coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles and parrotfish.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~60 km; Hiking time: ~1.5–2 hours in Homhil; Snorkeling/diving: Optional; gear rental available on-site; Overnight stay at Dihamri Marine Protected Area camping (B / L / D)

This morning, we leave the coast behind and journey southeast along rugged tracks into some of Socotra’s most dramatic inland landscapes. Our first stop is Daburk Waterfall, where cool waters plunge into a natural pool—a refreshing spot to swim and appreciate the raw beauty of the island’s highlands.

From there, we descend into Wadi Kalisan, a spectacular gorge filled with crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. The 45-minute hike in and out takes us past striking bottle trees, their swollen trunks twisting against the cliffs. Along the way, we meet a local hermit who lives in a cave, demonstrating his way of life—calling his goats and sharing his daily routines—offering an intimate glimpse into Socotra’s timeless traditions.

Our route continues to the Momi Plateau, where sweeping views extend over the Arabian Sea. Here, Frankincense, cucumber trees, and bottle trees scatter across the rocky landscape, their strange forms silhouetted against the sky.

By late afternoon, we reach the southern coast at Omak Beach, where the golden dunes of Hayf and Zahek tumble straight into the sea. This “sea of sand” is a surreal landscape to explore, and as the sun sets over the water, the dunes glow in vibrant shades of orange and gold.

Highlights of the Day:

• Swim beneath Daburk Waterfall—a refreshing oasis in the rugged southeast.
• Wadi Kalisan trek – Hike among bottle trees and swim in freshwater pools.
• Hayf and Zahek Dunes – Walk across shifting sands that meet the sea at Omak Beach.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~120 km (mixed asphalt and dirt tracks); Hiking time: ~1.5 hours (round trip) in Wadi Kalisan; Overnight stay at Omak Beach camping ( B / L / D)

After breakfast by the coast, we begin the day at Duogab Cave, an immense cavern facing the ocean. Its dramatic setting and cool interior make it a striking stop before we head inland toward the highlands.

Our journey takes us deep into the Hajhir Mountains, where the vast Dixam Plateau stretches across the island’s rugged heartland. This is the realm of nomadic Bedouin herders, who still move with their goats across the rocky terrain, preserving an ancient way of life. Along the way, we pause at the local middle and high school, where classrooms open their doors to visitors. Here, you’ll meet teachers and students—and, if you wish, even lend a hand by practicing English with the children.

In the afternoon, we set out on foot to the legendary Firmin Forest, home to the largest remaining concentration of Dragon Blood Trees in the world. Their umbrella-shaped canopies create an otherworldly skyline. With a local herder as our guide, we learn about the ancient tradition of harvesting the trees’ deep red resin. From there, we descend into Derhur Canyon, where surreal rock formations give way to freshwater pools, perfect for swimming.

As the day draws to a close, we climb to the Shebon viewpoint, where the setting sun casts a golden light across the canyon and the strange silhouettes of Dragon Blood Trees—one of Socotra’s most unforgettable sights.

Highlights of the Day:

• Duogab Cave – A dramatic sea-facing cavern offering sweeping coastal views.
• Firmin Forest – Walk among the planet’s last great woodlands of Dragon Blood Trees.
• Shebon viewpoint – Watch the sunset over Derhur Canyon and the iconic trees of Socotra.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~100 km; Hiking time: ~2–3 hours (Firmin Forest & Derhur Canyon); Overnight at Dixam Plateau camping (B / L / D)

Leaving the mountains of Dixam behind, we journey northwest toward Qalansiah, the island’s second-largest town. Its narrow streets and weathered houses give a glimpse of Socotra’s traditional life before we continue to one of the island’s true jewels—Detwah Lagoon.

This protected marine sanctuary is famed for its surreal beauty: a crescent-shaped white sand peninsula extending into waters of brilliant turquoise. Here, you can swim, wander barefoot along the shimmering shoreline, and watch the play of light across the lagoon. The area is also home to abundant birdlife and diverse marine ecosystems.

Adding to the magic, we meet Abdullah, a local whose home is a cave overlooking the lagoon. With his warm humor and deep knowledge of the sea, he guides visitors in spotting marine creatures and shares stories of life by the water. It’s an encounter that makes Detwah feel even more vibrant and unforgettable.

Highlights of the Day:

• Qalansiah Town – Explore the island’s second-largest settlement, rich in tradition.
• Detwah Lagoon – Swim in its turquoise waters and stroll along the striking white sand peninsula.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~90 km; Driving time: ~2 hours; Overnight: Detwah Beach camping, (B / L / D)

The day begins with a short drive back to Qalansiah, where local fishing boats are waiting to carry us westward along the coast. Out on the open water, we look for pods of spinner dolphins, often seen leaping and playing alongside the boats. Our destination is the pristine Sha’ab Beach, where soft white sands and turquoise waters invite you to swim, snorkel, and relax in this remote corner of the island.

After a leisurely morning by the sea, we return to Detwah for lunch and one last chance to savor its tranquil setting. In the afternoon, we travel inland to the lush Ayhaft Canyon National Park, a fertile valley filled with freshwater pools perfect for swimming. All around, Socotra’s endemic flora thrives—Desert Rose, Tamarind, and Cucumber Trees—while the air is alive with birdcalls, from the bright Socotra Sunbird to the endemic sparrows and starlings.

By evening, we return to Hadibo, the island’s lively hub and its only real town. Here there’s time to wander the streets, pick up local products, and enjoy a final glimpse of Socotra’s community life before settling into a comfortable hotel.

Highlights of the Day:

• Dolphin boat trip – Spot spinner dolphins and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Sha’ab Beach.
• Ayhaft Canyon – Swim in freshwater pools surrounded by endemic plants and diverse birdlife.
• Hadibo Town – Explore the island’s only city and shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

Travel Details: Boat excursion: Qalansiah → Sha’ab Beach (return by boat); Driving distance: ~80 km total; Overnight: Hotel in Hadibo (B / L / D)

After breakfast, we take time for one final stop before departure: the Dragon’s Blood Tree nursery near Hadibo. Established in 2006, this project protects the island’s most iconic species by nurturing young trees in a controlled environment. Since goats graze freely across the island, many saplings are lost before they mature, making the nursery vital to preserving Socotra’s unique landscape for future generations.

With this last glimpse of the island’s conservation efforts, we transfer to Socotra Airport for your return flight via Abu Dhabi, carrying memories of an otherworldly journey.

Highlights of the Day:

• Dragon’s Blood Tree nursery – Learn how Socotra’s most famous tree is being preserved.

Travel Details: Driving distance: ~15 km; Transfer to airport for Flight: Socotra → Abu Dhabi (Air Arabia); (B / – / –)