Is Socotra safe?
Socotra's geographical distance from the mainland ensures that the island remains unscathed from potential regional unrest. As such, Socotra remains peaceful and safe, while the locals are very friendly and welcoming. Socotra Daher's team guarantees every traveler's well-being with their status in the local society and meaningful network.

How do I get to Socotra?
You can reach Socotra only by taking the flight from Abu Dhabi, UAE (Zayed International Airport). From Abu Dhabi Socotra Daher takes care of the rest of your trip, booking your flights to and from Socotra and managing the visa process.

Do I need a visa for Yemen? How do I get the visa?
Yes, a Yemen visa is needed for most nationalities to visit Socotra with only a few exceptions. Socotra Daher will arrange the visa for you and send it to you by email; you should receive it about two weeks before your trip.
Your original visa will be delivered to the airport.

Will my passport get stamped with a Yemeni stamp?
If you prefer not to have your passport stamped to avoid challenges when travelling to other countries, Socotra Daher's representative at Socotra's airport can ensure that your passport is NOT stamped.

What is the best time to visit Socotra?
Each season has its charms, but the main season is October to May. Summer monsoons make the weather too unstable and unreliable for traveling.

How do I book a trip?
Just drop us an email or a WhatsApp message, and Socotra Daher's team will arrange the rest of the details, from helping you decide the best itinerary based on your preferences to finalizing the necessary logistics.

What is the preferred currency to use on the island? Are credit cards accepted?
Only cash payments are accepted on the island. The preferred currency is USD, or alternatively EUR.

What is the accommodation on the island?
Hotels are available only in the capital, Hadiboh. These are simple hotels with en-suite private bathrooms. However, camping in unspoiled remote places, is the best way to explore the island. On Socotra Daher’s trips, each person can enjoy a single’s tent, while couples can share. All camping equipment is provided, along with help in setting and packing the camp.

What facilities will be available during camping?
Some camping spots are remote, isolated and untouched, so they have no facilities. Other camps, the so-called Eco Camps, have simple, shared facilities, showers, and toilets. Hotels have en-suite private bathrooms. Depending on the itinerary you may use one or all options above.

How do I move around the island?
For the duration of the itinerary, you will be transferred in comfortable 4x4 cars with a local driver. If you choose to explore the island on foot (hiking), camels and camel minders may support you. Individual travel or car hire is not possible on the island.

What is the food like? What if I have dietary requirements?
Socotra Daher provides three freshly cooked meals per day that usually include pasta, rice, fresh fish, chicken, pulses, vegetables, salads, bread and fruits, served as a buffet. All dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) can be accommodated, but you need to notify the team in advance. Bottled drinking water is provided daily, but you must bring your own reusable water bottles to avoid plastic pollution. Plates, mugs, glasses and cutlery will be provided.

Any health warnings I should be aware of?
No specific vaccinations are required, just the usual travel precautions (currently - hepatitis A and B, and tetanus). Socotra is malaria-free; no prophylactics are needed. Mosquitos can be a nuisance though, so bring suitable clothing and repellents. Do not forget to bring water-resistant sunscreen.
There is a hospital in Hadiboh for emergencies.
Travel insurance is highly recommended.

What is the mobile and WIFI coverage? What are the charging options?
Yemeni mobile networks operate on the island. The UAE Etisalat network has some coverage as well. You can buy a SIM card at the Abu Dhabi airport and activate roaming. Hadiboh hotels have WiFi connections. However, most of the remote camping spots have no coverage at all, so be prepared to be unreachable at times. Socotra Daher's team will share their phone numbers so you can be reached in an emergency. You can charge your phones and other equipment in the cars or with generators.

How can I contribute to Socotra’s sustainable development? How can I help?
By participating in a trip prepared and arranged by Socotra Daher, you are already contributing to the island's economy by offering work to the locals and shopping in their stores.
We count on you to behave sustainably, not waste food or water, and dispose of your garbage correctly.
However, if you would like to make an extra donation, school supplies for children (notebooks, pens, pencils, colors, books, etc.) would be appreciated. During Socotra Daher's trips, you may visit one or two local schools, interact with the children and the teachers, and donate useful items directly to them.