Any Socotra list should really cover more than 7 points. We go several times a year and still come back feeling like we missed something. But here’s where to start.
1. Walk the Dragon Blood Tree Groves
Umbrella canopy, dark red resin, a shape that doesn’t look like it belongs here. The densest groves are on Diksam Plateau and in Firmihin forest. On day three you walk through them to a viewpoint above Wadi Dirhur canyon, swim in the freshwater creeks at the bottom, then hike to the top of Firmihin at sunset with thousands of Dragon Blood Trees below you.
2. Catch Sunset on the Detwah Lagoon
A short hike up to the viewpoint above the lagoon. At the top: white sand, turquoise water and a sunset you’ll want to shoot until it’s completely dark. One of the most photogenic spots on the route.
3. Swim in the Canyon’s Freshwater Pools
Wadi Dirhur and Kalesan are Socotra’s defining contrast: dry rocky plateau, then suddenly a green valley with clear natural pools. After a day in the heat, this feels like the best moment of the trip.
4. Sleep at Detwah Lagoon
Most nights on this tour you’ll be in a tent. Night one is at Detwah — a short hike to a viewpoint above the lagoon before dinner, then a fire, food and a sky with no light pollution for hundreds of kilometres. You’ll also camp at Diksam, Dihamri Marine Reserve and Arher. Each spot is different.
5. Boat to Shoub Beach
No road reaches Shoub. The morning boat from Qalansiyah passes sea caves and, on most trips, dolphins. The beach is white sand and clear water with nothing built on it.
On the way back, the tour stops to meet Abdullah, he was born in a cave on the lagoon, still lives there. He walks you around the water: pufferfish, sea cucumbers, squid. Fresh seafood and tea included.
6. Hike to Hoq Cave
Three hours return. Inside: chambers big enough that your torch doesn’t reach the ceiling, cool air, silence. On the walls inscriptions left by sailors crossing the Indian Ocean, some over a thousand years old. One of the best things on the island.
7. Eat Like a Local
Order samak mofa: a whole fish with spices, baked in a clay oven or over coals. For breakfast: flatbread, honey, omelette, goat’s cheese and fresh fruit. Simple and very good.
Planning a Trip to Socotra
We run small groups across the island — Detwah Lagoon, Diksam Plateau, Hoq Cave and everything in between. Local contacts, English-speaking guides, people who have been coming here for years.
Check our upcoming Socotra Tours or get in touch
