It all began with a vision of the future: share Socotra Island’s uniqueness and beauty through our guests’ direct experience. We at SOCOTRA PIONEER TOURS have always believed that the best way to visit a new destination is to approach it with the eyes of those who live there, and this is exactly what we offer. Unbelievable adventures, unforgettable experiences and memories which will last a lifetime are our purpose and the reason why SOCOTRA PIONEER TOURS has become one of the most pioneered travel service providers in Socotra Island-Yemen.
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Socotra Island is linked with numerous legends, some of which are universally well-known, including the legend of a phoenix that lived in this remote Island, as mentioned by old historians. But there is no doubt that Socotra is one of the most beautiful Arab islands, and its natural scenes have no match anywhere else in the world. Socotra is often dubbed the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean” because of its exceptionally high level of biodiversity and endemism in its terrestrial and marine ecosystem. This distinct “living museum” of botanical and zoological treasures sits at the crossroads of three biogeographically regions. It includes many unique endemic floras and faunas, including some plant varieties over 20 million years old.
Know MoreIt’s attractive, it’s a convenient 30-minute drive east from Hadiboh, and it’s great for a recuperative dip when you’ve just arrived. The good former ecolodge has closed but basic camping is still possible. Plus, there’s an impressive giant sand dune which the energetic can climb and slide down. The claim that it was called Delisha because someone exclaimed “it’s delicious!” might be a touch fanciful, however. Ernst Haeckel (1834-1919), the exhaustingly prolific German biologist, naturalist, evolutionist, artist, philosopher and doctor who spent his life researching and illustrating flora and fauna, sailed past the northers coast on 18 May 1882: his highly stylised painting of a sand dune with the same date is most probably Delisha.
He describes ‘the picturesque coast of Socotra, where the ravines are marked by immense fields of snow white sand, looking like glaciers sloping to the sea’. Nearby Delisha village has an important archaeological site.
Within the Conservation Zoning Plan, Homhil is classed as a Nature Sanctuary, which allows it the highest level of protection. It is included in all visitors’ itineraries, for its dragon’s blood trees, bottles trees and the beautiful ‘infinity pool’ as we called it. You have the choice of either driving there or walking, depending on the time available and the fitness (and age) of your group.
Don’t miss the chance to swim in the deep pools that collect in Socotra’s wadis (ravines). Wadi Dirhur, which divides Diksam plateau and Firmihin Forest, is on most itineraries. Wadi Killisan is harder to reach, but is hugely rewarding. This spectacular place belongs geographically more to the south but can also be accessed via the Momi plateau and – for those with strong legs and plenty of time – from Homhil, so is included here. It is one of Socotra’s hidden wonders and you need to be a good hiker to get there, but all reports are that it’s absolutely worth it for the series of turquoise pools of water, fed by small waterfalls, set in smooth, white limestone.
Within Socotra’s Conservation Zoning Plan Dihamri is classed as a Marine Nature Sanctuary, as is Rosh, which theoretically affords them the highest level of protection. Dihamri is home to one of the richest coral reefs in the archipelago so, if the weather is calm, this is a great place for snorkelling. Chris writes ‘Excellent snorkelling opportunities straight off the beach. In December there was 15-20m visibility, lots of corals and colourful fish, plus a chance of seeing turtles, reef sharks, huge leopard moray eels, octopus, crayfish, various rays, barracuda, scorpion fish, as well as dolphins further out sea’. At the eastern end of the beach is an extraordinary orange-coloured [pyramid-shaped rock, and it’s reported that the snorkelling is best around this rock. If it’s too rough to snorkel, Dihamri beach is richly rewarding with its carpets of coral fragments and shells. There is a campsite (no facilities) at the western end.
Socotra has been described as ‘like a Swiss cheese’ because of all the holes andcaves in its limestone. Hoq is a wonderful amalgamation of the standard cave delights of stalagmites and stalactites, with a rich history of early habitation to spike the imagination. This cave is one of Socotra’s most important archaeological sites and traces the arrival of visitors to Socotra from the 1st century BC up until the 6th century AD. Throughout Hoq Cave archaeologists have recorded a series of inscriptions,
pictograms and artefacts, and at the entrance are examples of some of the later medieval structures and water basins.The cave is believed to have been a religious sanctuary for mariners visiting the island who wrote their names in Indian Brahmi, South Arabian, Palymyrene and Bactrian scripts. These scripts were drawn using mud or charcoal and as such are extremely fragile and sensitive to the change that even a single visitor can bring. To prevent these scripts from being damaged and to preserve them for future generations we ask that all visitors to Hoq Cave do not progress beyond the marked area and refrain from smoking in the cave.
Also known as the Diksam Gorge, this place seems as though a giant has pulled a huge slab of soft limestone apart like a hunk of cheese, and then poured cool, clear water down the crack specifically for the delight of visitors. Mostly visitors will be looking down at the canyon, all 700m of it, and using its drama as a backdrop to their photos, but a dirt road crosses it at one point and this gives access to some gorgeous crab-filled paddling and swimming pools. Don’t miss the chance to swim in the deep pools that collect in Socotra’s wadis (ravines). Wadi Dirhur, which divides Diksam plateau and Firmihim Forest, is on most itineraries. Wadi Killisan is harder to reach, but is hugely rewarding.
Hotel or Luxury tents Depending on which tour you choose
Explore Socotra in a 4×4 Toyota Landcruiser
Knowledgable, friendly and bilingual, our guides will inform and care for you
One-of-a-kind landscape found no where else in the world.
I went to Socotra in 2017 when they didn’t have a social media page and it was an amazing experience that I will remember for a lifetime. It was a business trip and these days of break on the island were an immersion in uncontaminated nature and the beauty of a timeless place. Don’t hesitate to rely on them to discover the area and get to know the most remote places of Socotra.
Sono stata a Socotra nel 2017 quando ancora non avevano una pagina social ed è stata un’esperienza fantastica che ricorderò per tutta la vita. Si trattava di un viaggio di lavoro e questi giorni di pausa nell’isola sono stati un’immersione nella natura incontaminata e nelle bellezze di un luogo fuori dal tempo. Non esitate ad affidarvi a loro per scoprire il territorio e conoscere i luoghi più remoti di Socotra.
Mubarak has become a dear friend, while guiding us in Socotra. He is the man to make you feel at home in such an insane island of absolute beauty and light. Not only did we enjoy the nature and got in touch with the locals, we also got closer to the culture and its myths. Socotra is the definite destination for a time of adventure off the beaten track!🫶
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Socotra Island is a paradise for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Famous for its incredible biodiversity and rugged landscapes, the island offers a wealth of experiences, from diving to birdwatching. Whether you’re seeking an exciting escape or a peaceful retreat, Socotra tours offer something for every traveler. Here’s a guide to the top activities you shouldn’t miss during your next Socotra trip.
One of the best ways to explore Socotra’s natural beauty is underwater. Scuba diving in the island’s marine protected areas, such There are five main diving locations in Socotra: Dihamri Marine Protected Area with more than 80 kinds of corals and 150 fish species, Roush Marine Protected Area with a reef drop off about 1 km from the coast, Adho with deep dives, and the eastern tip of the island called Ras Irsil and western Shouab coast both with shipwrecks.
For those who prefer snorkeling, the crystal-clear waters of Omaq Beach at Nujad Plain and the serene Detwah Lagoon in Qalansiyah offer an unforgettable experience. These sites are highlights of any Socotra eco tour, allowing you to explore the untouched beauty of the island’s marine life.
For those who love adventure on land, Socotra’s dramatic landscapes provide excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. The Hajhir Mountains and Dixam Plateau, with its famous Shebahon viewpoint, are ideal locations to take in the breathtaking views of the island. Additionally, the ancient Hoog Cave, Dequb, and Halah Caves offer exciting exploration opportunities for visitors interested in Socotra’s geological wonders.
One of the most memorable ways to experience Socotra is by embarking on a camel tour. These tours provide an authentic way to explore the island’s northern and southern coasts, particularly near Hadibo. Riding a camel at sunset offers a peaceful and scenic way to discover Socotra’s natural beauty, and it’s an experience that makes Socotra trips truly unique.
Bird lovers will be thrilled by Socotra eco tours, which allow you to observe some of the rarest birds in the world. The island is a prime location for spotting species like the cormorants, flamingos, and various sea birds. Key birdwatching spots include the west coast, the heights of Dixam Plateau, and Qaryiah Lagoon. For those who enjoy nature in its purest form, Socotra tours focused on birdwatching are a must.
If you’re visiting between May and August, be sure to take part in Socotra eco tours that include turtle watching. The northern coast of Ghubbah is a prime nesting site for Loggerhead Turtles, and observing them in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience.
For those who enjoy Socotra fishing, the coastline between Qalansiyah and Shu’ab Beach is ideal for casting a line and reeling in a fresh catch. This area is not only great for fishing but is also home to dolphins that often swim near the shore, making it a popular destination for tourists. If you want a truly unique experience, combine Socotra fishing with dolphin watching for a day you won’t forget.
If water and air sports are your passion, Socotra offers the perfect settings. Amak Beach is ideal for windsurfing thanks to its strong winds and open coastline. For those seeking the thrill of soaring above the island, paragliding from Shebahon Viewpoint in Dixam Plateau provides unparalleled views of Socotra’s rugged landscapes.
To fully immerse yourself in Socotra’s natural beauty, consider spending a night at one of the island’s picturesque camping spots. The white sands of Deleesha Beach, the lush Homhil Area, and the serene Detwah Lagoon offer some of the best sites for camping. Sleeping under the stars in such remote, unspoiled locations is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, outdoor adventures, or simply want to relax in nature, Socotra tours offer a wide range of activities to suit every traveler. You can embark on Socotra eco tours that allow you to explore its stunning biodiversity, or enjoy more relaxed options like fishing, camel riding, or birdwatching.
For a seamless and enjoyable experience, book your tour with Socotra Pioneer Tours, the leading provider of Socotra trips. Whether you prefer a private tour or a group adventure, we can tailor the experience to your interests. Contact us via phone at +971563889374 or email info@socotrapioneertours.com to start planning your trip.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s last untouched natural paradises, where adventure and tranquility await!