Travelling Advice to Socotra Island

Travelling to Socotra may be thrilling and beneficial for everybody. In this incredible Island, you can Savour amazing experiences whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or alongside friends. For first-time visitors to Socotra , planning a trip can be daunting. Our comprehensive guide to planning your inaugural visit to Socotra offers invaluable tips and strategies to ensure a flawless and memorable experience.

Consider these things while planning a trip to Socotra Island:

Visas may be required for travel to Oman depending on your native country. Make sure your visa is valid for the entire stay so you can exit without problems. In order to get a visa , you only need to send a scanned colour copy of your passport, valid for at least six months, so that the tour operator you booked with will process the visa with the Immigration Passports and Nationality Authority. Visa processing takes 3-5 working days and once it’s processed, your agency will send you a scanned coloured copy of your visa (by email or WhatsApp)., which you will use to board your flight to Socotra. Your original visa document  a wait for you at the immigration desk.

As for stamping your passport, As we know that some people do not prefer to get their passports stamped . This can be happened in case you do not want get it stamped however, your agency should make a letter of application to the immigration authority one week prior your arrival , hence the immigration office will take into consideration and the stamp will stamped external on original visa .

How to get there?

The current best option is United Arab Emirates carrier Air Arabia with direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Socotra every Tuesday and some Fridays.

When to go

Socotra is best visited between October and April when it’s colder and nicer. May is very and temperatures can reach 39°C . June- September is monsoon and strong windy season ,making outdoor activities uncomfortable. During peak season (December–January), it’s advisable to book flights and tours  well in advance to mitigate against price increases and secure your desired options.

What to Wear

The residents of Socotra have become accustomed to seeing tourists and are more easy-going about dress and modesty compared to other Middle Eastern regions, however, being respectfully dressed is always appreciated by the locals. While visiting more remote and smaller villages with less exposure to tourists it is recommended that women cover their knees and past their shoulders with loose-fitting clothes. Headscarves are not required.

Stay how long?

To really experience Socotra, we recommend 7-10 days. You’ll have time to see all the most wonderful  destination on Socotra .If you have extra time, Socotra  boasts numerous hidden beauties awaiting exploration, beckoning travellers to delve deeper into its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. You’ll experience Socotrai culture and natural beauty more the longer you stay.

Eat what?

Socotrai and Yemeni food combines Arabic, East African, and Indian culinary traditions.. Some must-try dishes:

·        Shiwaya:  Underground-cooked marinated beef from Yemeni cuisine.

·        Machboos: Chicken or lamb-based hot rice meal.

• Tea is a popular drink, served either with mint or milk and coffee is often flavored with spices
• Socotran-grown fruits and vegetables, home-cooked Middle Eastern dishes, freshly laid eggs, homemade pasta, and rice.

Travel tips for Socotra Island

Consider these additional tips to elevate your travel experience:

• Respect local customs: Socotra is a conservative Island with deeply rooted traditions. Exercise cultural sensitivity by dressing modestly, particularly when visiting local villages , to honor local customs and traditions during your visit.
• Stay hydrated: Socotra’s climate can be hot and dry, especially in the summer months. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities.
• Carry cash: While credit cards are almost none , it’s always advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.
• Plan for Ramadan: If you’re visiting during the holy month of Ramadan, be aware that many restaurants and shops may have altered operating hours. Respectful behavior during fasting hours is appreciated.
• Pack sunscreen and protective gear: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential items to protect yourself from the strong sunlight, particularly if you’re spending time outdoors.
  
• Drones : If you are using drone while visiting Socotra, be alert  not using it in the village or city of Hadibo  as people are very sensitive capturing them with drones especially families . Drones fees are &100 per person and a letter of permission should  be obtained from the immigration authority office and Tourism one week or two weeks prior your arrival via the agency arranged with .
  
• Stay connected: Internet may be accessed in a few places in Socotra with an Etisalat SIM card (easily purchased in the Abu Dhabi airport), but the connection is very slow. In some campsites like Dihamri marine procted area or Roush Star link satellites is available and in the capital city of Hadibo Your local guides are also able to provide hotspots if needed but we suggest that you use this time to get disconnect and truly connect with the unique beauty and majesty of Socotra
  
• Device Charging:  Our remote Island has minimal access to electricity and, for the most part, visitors and locals rely on car cigarette-lighters to charge electronics. So, although you will be able to use the charger in tour’s 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser, we suggest you bring an external power bank with you to ensure you can recharge your devices with ease.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to navigate and enjoy all that Socotra  has to offer during your travels. Planning your inaugural trip to Socotra  may pose challenges, but these helpful suggestions coupled with the expertise of Tour Operators in Socotra will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Be sure to pack your camera to capture the abundance of picturesque moments awaiting you.

You can reach us out via +971563889374 or email : info@socotrapioneertours.com for more inquiries regarding , private or group tours on  our beloved Island or any advice needed .