Socotra
Dive into another dimension – a place where nature paints with peculiar shapes, prehistoric plants, and landscapes that seem plucked from dreams.
Socotra
Dive into another dimension – a place where nature paints with peculiar shapes, prehistoric plants, and landscapes that seem plucked from dreams.
WhySocotraWhere to next?
The Yemeni island dazzles with prehistoric landscapes and unique plants
The world is full of extraordinary places, but Socotra is in a league of its own, as the Americans would say. In fact, this island in the Arabian Sea, part of the Indian Ocean, is otherworldly. The unique flora and fauna that call this place home are the main culprits. About 37% of the flora, over 90% of the reptiles, and 95% of the land snails are endemic. They can't be found anywhere else on the planet and captivate with their, to say the least, peculiar appearance. The reason for this uniqueness is Socotra's long-standing isolation from the mainland.
Although it's Yemeni territory, the island is closer to Africa—located about 240 kilometers east of the Horn of Africa and 380 kilometers south of the Arabian Peninsula. Scientists believe Socotra was once part of the supercontinent Gondwana, but it split off during the Miocene epoch.
Is this journey meant for you?
Challenge
Comfort
Nature
Culture
In another time, in another world
Do you want to see and feel a place where time seems to have long stopped? Or perhaps it doesn't exist at all? There, nothing is like what we're used to. It's quite likely you won't encounter other tourists, nor many locals. Instead, you'll witness extraordinarily strange endemic species, relax on pristine beaches, and fall asleep under the stars.
Upcoming Journeys
December 2026
9
SPOTS
This is a wish list destination for next year. If enough people sign up, we’ll make it happen!
More9first-come, first-served
About the Journey
Flora and Fauna
The entire island is not unintentionally included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list.
Only Hawaii, New Caledonia, and the Galapagos Islands in the world have more endemic species, but they are spread over a much larger area. Socotra is perhaps most famous for its bizarre trees, and we'll have plenty of opportunities to admire them. The star among them is the dragon blood tree, which looks somewhere between an umbrella and a mushroom. Only here grows the cucumber tree, which resembles a cucumber but also the hairstyle of an early Seal.
The local desert rose is also known as the bottle tree, and once was called “the ugliest tree in the world,” but it's actually quite amusing. We'll also see frankincense trees, which are likely native to Socotra as well. Their rare aromatic resin is used in religious rituals, perfumery, and as a universal healing remedy. Since ancient times, the resin of another local tree, myrrh, has been used as a perfume and for medicinal purposes.
The variety of birds on this quirky piece of land is also vast, and we will encounter all kinds of birds. In the crystal-clear emerald green waters, we'll delight in the abundance of all kinds of fish and other marine creatures – huge pods of dolphins, crabs, lobsters, cuttlefish, rays, shrimps, coral reefs.
Alien land on Earth.
Despite its modest size, Socotra boasts a diversity of landscapes.
As a reward for the long journey here, we'll find endless beaches with snow-white sand, sometimes piling into high dunes along nearby cliffs, lagoons enclosed by sandbars, deep canyons, natural freshwater pools, oases with palm groves, coastal plains, limestone plateaus adorned with karst caves, and a mountain rising about 1500 metres in the interior. For a carefree break from the hikes, we'll indulge in swimming and snorkelling.
Natural wonders also await us underground – in two caves that awe with their majestic stalactite and stalagmite formations. We'll enjoy overnights in the great outdoors, where the pure air and absence of light pollution will present us with unforgettable views of the star-studded sky.
Day 1
Arrival at Socotra, the protected marine area of Dihamri
Our guides will pick us up from the airport and take us to a restaurant in the island’s largest town – Hadibu, where we’ll have lunch. Afterwards, we’ll head to the nearby protected marine area of Dihamri. It’s home to some of the richest coral reefs in the Socotra archipelago. Here, we can relax on the beach in huts made of palm leaves, swim in the Dihamri bay, or indulge in snorkelling, with equipment available for hire. Marine species we may see underwater include parrotfish, moray eels, rays, sea urchins, and if we’re lucky, turtles. We can also use the services of the "Dihamri" diving centre to dive into the bay.
Dinner and overnight stay in Dihamri
Day 2
Wadi Kalisan and Homhil
After breakfast, we'll journey to Wadi Kalisan. 'Wadi' is a traditional Arabic term for a river valley, typically with steep sides. Sometimes, the word can refer to a dry riverbed that only holds water during heavy rainfall. However, the deep Wadi Kalisan is even suitable for swimming, as it's filled with numerous crystal-clear freshwater pools and waterfalls. The canyon is utterly breathtaking, and the descent on foot (and climb back up) takes about 45 minutes. During this trek, we'll pass by the famous (and very oddly-shaped) bottle trees, which are endemic to the island.
Next, we'll head to the protected area of Homhil, enjoying the enchanting landscapes of deep gorges and narrow plains along the way. We'll stop by the island's largest freshwater lagoon—Karia—where we hope to see flamingos, herons, large green-backed moorhens, and other members of the feathered kingdom. Once we reach Homhil, we can stroll along several paths, one of which leads to a viewpoint with a natural pool. From it, you'll get a view of a village nestled in the plain below and the sea beyond. Homhil is home to many dragon's blood trees—the most distinctive symbol of Socotra and the island's most famous plant, also considered the national tree of all Yemen. Known as dragon's blood, this name comes from its blood-red resin, which locals collect for personal use and sale. The area is also rich in frankincense trees, which are worth seeing as well.
Dinner and overnight in Homhil, outside the local campsite.
Day 3
Hawk Cave, the Dunes, and Archer Beach
After breakfast, we'll head towards the Hog cave. During the journey, we'll have the chance to admire stunning landscapes: beautiful beaches and valleys dotted with low shrubs and endemic trees.
Thanks to Socotra's terrain of limestone plateau and mountains, the island is full of cave systems. During our expedition, we will explore one of the largest caves – Hog, with its underground water sources, animals, and archaeological finds. The 2.5-hour climb to the cave entrance will be challenging, but it's definitely worth the effort. The cave system is at least 10 km long, and we'll take a gentle 2 km walk inside, marvelling at many huge stalagmites and stalactites, as well as a natural pool.
Afterwards, we'll move on to Archer, where the prevailing western winds have piled up sand dunes 150 meters high against steep rock walls. From one of the granite massifs, a freshwater stream emerges, meeting the salty sea water on the beach. Here we can relax on the green grass around the stream, swim in the sea, or, if we're feeling fit, climb a huge sand dune to enjoy a fantastic view of this enchanting place.
Dinner and camping at Archer.
Day 4
Defarkhu Valley, Amek Beach, Dagub Cave, the dunes at Haif and Zahek
After breakfast, we will head to the southern part of the island, visiting small villages along the way. Our first destination is Amek Beach, where we can swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. For lunch, we will go to the Dagub Cave, which offers a view of the traditional villages scattered below. The cave itself is fascinating, with many stalactites, stalagmites, and water pools that have seeped through the rock over time. Next, we will see the enormous sand dunes at Haif and Zahek, piled up on the mountainside by the seasonal winds of Socotra. Here, we can also test our fitness by climbing the dunes for truly unique views.
Dinner and camping on Amek Beach
Day 5
Diksam Plateau, Derhur Canyon, Firmhin Forest
After breakfast, we will travel to Diksam. The plateau and gorge of this name are undoubtedly the most impressive limestone landscapes on the island. The gorge's walls drop vertically for 700 m to the valley floor. We will walk along the edge of the gorge to see the whimsical dragon blood tree plantations and expansive karst formations (long narrow grooves in the limestone terrain, bordered by sharp ridges). Parts of the plateau have collapsed into the gorge, forming 'lost worlds' accessible only to buzzards and vultures. The plateau is home to nomadic Bedouin shepherds who move their herds from one place to another. They will welcome us with a cup of tea, and we will be able to see their many houses, built on the rock ledges where the plateau meets the gorge.
The forest at Diksam is the last location with a large number of dragon blood trees. Nowhere else in the world can such densely growing trees of this rare species be found. The locals will show us how they used to collect the precious red resin from the trees and how they still do, albeit on a smaller scale.
After we've filled our cameras with as many photos of dragon blood trees as possible, we'll continue on to Derhur Canyon. After the Diksam plateau, towards Firmin Forest, the road descends 400 m into a deep chasm cutting through the granite, offering a completely different atmosphere compared to the heights of the plateau. The lush floor of the verdant canyon is dotted with palm trees, under the shade of which yellow-bellied green pigeons and Senegal doves fly.
Dinner and overnight in Firmin Forest
Day 6
Kalansiya, Detwah Lagoon, the golden beach of Shouab Bay
In the morning, we'll continue to the neighbouring Detwah lagoon, a protected marine zone famed for its stunning landscape. Here, the white sandy spit surrounded by the turquoise waters of the bay will charm us. It's undoubtedly one of the island's most beautiful sights. You can dive into the shallow sea and relish the incomparable beauty and tranquillity of this place. Just be cautious of the stingrays that visit the lagoon. It is also home to numerous sea birds. We can take a boat to the Shu’ab area to see the playful dolphins and swim near a very pristine and lengthy sandy beach. On the way, don't forget to look out for the long-beaked dolphins, a type of small dolphin. Cormorants are often spotted in the area too. Once we arrive at Shu’ab, we'll have lunch, and the afternoon is free for swimming and enjoying the untouched beach surroundings, complemented by mangrove forests. In the late afternoon, we'll return by boat to Qalansiyah. If you're in the mood for seafood for dinner, fishing from the boat is possible.
Dinner and overnight stay at the Detwah campsite
Day 7
Delisha Beach
This afternoon, we'll visit the town of Hadibu and Delisha Beach, famed for its pristine white sands teeming with crabs. Here, we can unwind, taking a dip in both the sea and the freshwater lagoon. For those brimming with energy, there's the opportunity to climb a massive sand dune, offering a panoramic view of the beach. We might also witness the magical sunset from Delisha.
Dinner and overnight stay in Delisha
Day 8
Departure from Socotra
After an early breakfast, we'll head to Socotra Airport. While we wait for our flight, we can buy gifts from the souvenir shop.
* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.
Dive into adventure!
8 days
20 travellers
Price per person
€3,280
Includes plane tickets, all accommodations, transport, guide, food, and more.
Price excluding flights
€2,800
Includes everything except flights to Abu Dhabi. Plan your flights independently.
Become a part of our community
Day 1
Arrival at Socotra, the protected marine area of Dihamri
Our guides will pick us up from the airport and take us to a restaurant in the island’s largest town – Hadibu, where we’ll have lunch. Afterwards, we’ll head to the nearby protected marine area of Dihamri. It’s home to some of the richest coral reefs in the Socotra archipelago. Here, we can relax on the beach in huts made of palm leaves, swim in the Dihamri bay, or indulge in snorkelling, with equipment available for hire. Marine species we may see underwater include parrotfish, moray eels, rays, sea urchins, and if we’re lucky, turtles. We can also use the services of the "Dihamri" diving centre to dive into the bay.
Dinner and overnight stay in Dihamri
Day 2
Wadi Kalisan and Homhil
After breakfast, we'll journey to Wadi Kalisan. 'Wadi' is a traditional Arabic term for a river valley, typically with steep sides. Sometimes, the word can refer to a dry riverbed that only holds water during heavy rainfall. However, the deep Wadi Kalisan is even suitable for swimming, as it's filled with numerous crystal-clear freshwater pools and waterfalls. The canyon is utterly breathtaking, and the descent on foot (and climb back up) takes about 45 minutes. During this trek, we'll pass by the famous (and very oddly-shaped) bottle trees, which are endemic to the island.
Next, we'll head to the protected area of Homhil, enjoying the enchanting landscapes of deep gorges and narrow plains along the way. We'll stop by the island's largest freshwater lagoon—Karia—where we hope to see flamingos, herons, large green-backed moorhens, and other members of the feathered kingdom. Once we reach Homhil, we can stroll along several paths, one of which leads to a viewpoint with a natural pool. From it, you'll get a view of a village nestled in the plain below and the sea beyond. Homhil is home to many dragon's blood trees—the most distinctive symbol of Socotra and the island's most famous plant, also considered the national tree of all Yemen. Known as dragon's blood, this name comes from its blood-red resin, which locals collect for personal use and sale. The area is also rich in frankincense trees, which are worth seeing as well.
Dinner and overnight in Homhil, outside the local campsite.
Day 3
Hawk Cave, the Dunes, and Archer Beach
After breakfast, we'll head towards the Hog cave. During the journey, we'll have the chance to admire stunning landscapes: beautiful beaches and valleys dotted with low shrubs and endemic trees.
Thanks to Socotra's terrain of limestone plateau and mountains, the island is full of cave systems. During our expedition, we will explore one of the largest caves – Hog, with its underground water sources, animals, and archaeological finds. The 2.5-hour climb to the cave entrance will be challenging, but it's definitely worth the effort. The cave system is at least 10 km long, and we'll take a gentle 2 km walk inside, marvelling at many huge stalagmites and stalactites, as well as a natural pool.
Afterwards, we'll move on to Archer, where the prevailing western winds have piled up sand dunes 150 meters high against steep rock walls. From one of the granite massifs, a freshwater stream emerges, meeting the salty sea water on the beach. Here we can relax on the green grass around the stream, swim in the sea, or, if we're feeling fit, climb a huge sand dune to enjoy a fantastic view of this enchanting place.
Dinner and camping at Archer.
Day 4
Defarkhu Valley, Amek Beach, Dagub Cave, the dunes at Haif and Zahek
After breakfast, we will head to the southern part of the island, visiting small villages along the way. Our first destination is Amek Beach, where we can swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. For lunch, we will go to the Dagub Cave, which offers a view of the traditional villages scattered below. The cave itself is fascinating, with many stalactites, stalagmites, and water pools that have seeped through the rock over time. Next, we will see the enormous sand dunes at Haif and Zahek, piled up on the mountainside by the seasonal winds of Socotra. Here, we can also test our fitness by climbing the dunes for truly unique views.
Dinner and camping on Amek Beach
Day 5
Diksam Plateau, Derhur Canyon, Firmhin Forest
After breakfast, we will travel to Diksam. The plateau and gorge of this name are undoubtedly the most impressive limestone landscapes on the island. The gorge's walls drop vertically for 700 m to the valley floor. We will walk along the edge of the gorge to see the whimsical dragon blood tree plantations and expansive karst formations (long narrow grooves in the limestone terrain, bordered by sharp ridges). Parts of the plateau have collapsed into the gorge, forming 'lost worlds' accessible only to buzzards and vultures. The plateau is home to nomadic Bedouin shepherds who move their herds from one place to another. They will welcome us with a cup of tea, and we will be able to see their many houses, built on the rock ledges where the plateau meets the gorge.
The forest at Diksam is the last location with a large number of dragon blood trees. Nowhere else in the world can such densely growing trees of this rare species be found. The locals will show us how they used to collect the precious red resin from the trees and how they still do, albeit on a smaller scale.
After we've filled our cameras with as many photos of dragon blood trees as possible, we'll continue on to Derhur Canyon. After the Diksam plateau, towards Firmin Forest, the road descends 400 m into a deep chasm cutting through the granite, offering a completely different atmosphere compared to the heights of the plateau. The lush floor of the verdant canyon is dotted with palm trees, under the shade of which yellow-bellied green pigeons and Senegal doves fly.
Dinner and overnight in Firmin Forest
Day 6
Kalansiya, Detwah Lagoon, the golden beach of Shouab Bay
In the morning, we'll continue to the neighbouring Detwah lagoon, a protected marine zone famed for its stunning landscape. Here, the white sandy spit surrounded by the turquoise waters of the bay will charm us. It's undoubtedly one of the island's most beautiful sights. You can dive into the shallow sea and relish the incomparable beauty and tranquillity of this place. Just be cautious of the stingrays that visit the lagoon. It is also home to numerous sea birds. We can take a boat to the Shu’ab area to see the playful dolphins and swim near a very pristine and lengthy sandy beach. On the way, don't forget to look out for the long-beaked dolphins, a type of small dolphin. Cormorants are often spotted in the area too. Once we arrive at Shu’ab, we'll have lunch, and the afternoon is free for swimming and enjoying the untouched beach surroundings, complemented by mangrove forests. In the late afternoon, we'll return by boat to Qalansiyah. If you're in the mood for seafood for dinner, fishing from the boat is possible.
Dinner and overnight stay at the Detwah campsite
Day 7
Delisha Beach
This afternoon, we'll visit the town of Hadibu and Delisha Beach, famed for its pristine white sands teeming with crabs. Here, we can unwind, taking a dip in both the sea and the freshwater lagoon. For those brimming with energy, there's the opportunity to climb a massive sand dune, offering a panoramic view of the beach. We might also witness the magical sunset from Delisha.
Dinner and overnight stay in Delisha
Day 8
Departure from Socotra
After an early breakfast, we'll head to Socotra Airport. While we wait for our flight, we can buy gifts from the souvenir shop.
* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.
Dive into adventure!
8 days
20 travellers
Price per person
€3,280
Includes plane tickets, all accommodations, transport, guide, food, and more.
Price excluding flights
€2,800
Includes everything except flights to Abu Dhabi. Plan your flights independently.
Become a part of our community
Day 1
Arrival at Socotra, the protected marine area of Dihamri
Day 2
Wadi Kalisan and Homhil
Day 3
Hawk Cave, the Dunes, and Archer Beach
Day 4
Defarkhu Valley, Amek Beach, Dagub Cave, the dunes at Haif and Zahek
Day 5
Diksam Plateau, Derhur Canyon, Firmhin Forest
Day 6
Kalansiya, Detwah Lagoon, the golden beach of Shouab Bay
Day 7
Delisha Beach
Day 8
Departure from Socotra
* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.
Dive into adventure!
8 days
20 travellers
Price per person
€3,280
Includes plane tickets, all accommodations, transport, guide, food, and more.
Price excluding flights
€2,800
Includes everything except flights to Abu Dhabi. Plan your flights independently.
Become a part of our community
Let's head toSocotra!
Upcoming journeys
December 2026
9
PLACES
This is a wish list destination for next year. If enough people sign up, we’ll make it happen!
More9first-come, first-served
By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?
1
Sign up in the form and get on the waiting list.
2
We'll get in touch with you via email and phone if we organise it again.
Included in the price:
Flights from Sofia to Abu Dhabi and Socotra, and back, including standard carry-on baggage and a checked suitcase up to 23kg.
Flights from Sofia to Abu Dhabi and Socotra, and back, including standard carry-on baggage and a checked suitcase up to 23kg.
All transport expenses and transfers
All transport expenses and transfers
All overnight stays detailed in the itinerary
All overnight stays detailed in the itinerary
Tourist Visa
Tourist Visa
4x4 vehicle and camping gear
4x4 vehicle and camping gear
Food, cooking gear, a chef, and ample water supplies
Food, cooking gear, a chef, and ample water supplies
All types of fees, including for entering protected areas
All types of fees, including for entering protected areas
Sailing Expedition to Shuab
Sailing Expedition to Shuab
Well-trained and seasoned local guides fluent in English
Well-trained and seasoned local guides fluent in English
Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000
Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000
What's not included:
Services not mentioned in the programme
Services not mentioned in the programme
Personal Expenses
Personal Expenses
Tips for guides and drivers
Tips for guides and drivers
Alcohol and Drinks
Alcohol and Drinks
Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"
Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"
Let's head toSocotra!
Upcoming journeys
December 2026
9
PLACES
This is a wish list destination for next year. If enough people sign up, we’ll make it happen!
More9first-come, first-served
By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.
WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?
1
Sign up in the form and get on the waiting list.
2
We'll get in touch with you via email and phone if we organise it again.
Included in the price:
Flights from Sofia to Abu Dhabi and Socotra, and back, including standard carry-on baggage and a checked suitcase up to 23kg.
All transport expenses and transfers
All overnight stays detailed in the itinerary
Tourist Visa
4x4 vehicle and camping gear
Food, cooking gear, a chef, and ample water supplies
All types of fees, including for entering protected areas
Sailing Expedition to Shuab
Well-trained and seasoned local guides fluent in English
Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000
What's not included:
Services not mentioned in the programme
Personal Expenses
Tips for guides and drivers
Alcohol and Drinks
Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"
December 2026
20the man
8days
€2,800
-
€3,280
9
PLACES
December 2026
20the man
8days
€2,800
-
€3,280
9
PLACES
Other Journeys in Africa
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
Who are we?
Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
Who are we?
Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
Who are we?
Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.
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© 2018-2025 Panic Frame and Travel
Licence number: RK-01-8245 / 28.07.2022
Insurance policy number: 13052410000640 / 20.08.2024
Subscribe
Be the first to discover upcoming adventures, exclusive deals, and events.
By clicking the "Subscribe" button, you agree to our Privacy Policy
TRAVEL WITH US
© 2018-2025 Panic Frame and Travel
Licence number: RK-01-8245 / 28.07.2022
Insurance policy number: 13052410000640 / 20.08.2024
Subscribe
Be the first to discover upcoming adventures, exclusive deals, and events.
By clicking the "Subscribe" button, you agree to our Privacy Policy
TRAVEL WITH US
© 2018-2025 Panic Frame and Travel
Licence number:
RK-01-8245 / 28.07.2022
Insurance policy number: 13052410000640 / 20.08.2024