Socotra Island, Yemen: An Adventure in a Natural Reserve
Socotra Island in Yemen is entirely a natural reserve and not a well-known tourist destination, making a visit there an adventure in itself.
Potential Difficulties:
- Very slow internet.
- Quality of the provided food.
- Weather fluctuations.
- Available accommodation is good but not luxurious.
- Food:
- Most of the food will be seafood, mandi, Yemeni dishes, rice, and pasta.
- We recommend bringing your preferred food items like croissants and protein bars.
- Night Activities:
- There are no night activities, so we recommend downloading all your movies and series on your phones and iPads.
- The internet works if you have an Emirati SIM card and can access WhatsApp and basic apps.
- Safety:
- The island is far from the conflict and war in northern Yemen, making it safe as it is located in the Indian Ocean.
- We recommend bringing sunscreen and a thermal water bottle.
- Transportation:
- Two or three participants will share one car (usually a Land Cruiser).
- The driver is available with you around the clock.
- Shopping:
- There are some grocery stores, and we have some in the camps.
- Hadibo Airport:
- One of the most modest airports, so be prepared and flexible to carry your own luggage.
Beauty of the Island:
- Socotra Island is known for its beautiful deserted beaches, strange plants, biodiversity, and the hospitality of the local people.
- It is famous for its Dragon’s Blood trees and stunning natural landscapes with towering sand dunes and deep valleys, making it one of the most beautiful UNESCO sites in the world.
Activities:
- Exploring and swimming on the beaches.
- Learning about the culture of the Socotri people and their differences from Yemenis.
- Watching dolphins.
- Discovering strange plants and trees.
- Camping experience, in short, it is eco-tourism.
Travel Tips:
- The flight is direct from Abu Dhabi to Socotra.
- Check the list:
- Download your movies from Netflix.
- Your snacks.
- Your medications and supplements.
- Sunscreen (SPF).
- Thermal water bottle.
- Mosquito repellent cream and spray.
- Sunglasses and hat.
- Your cameras and chargers.
- Cash (dollars).
- Light summer clothes.
- Sandals and slippers.
- Stomach and diarrhea medications.
- Seasickness medication.
- Portable charger.