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.

Why Socotra?

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 SPOT where time seems to have stopped long ago? Or perhaps it doesn’t even exist at all?
There, nothing is like what we're used to. It’s quite likely that you won’t encounter many tourists, only the locals and the island’s wild nature.

Due to changes in flights, there is currently only one flight a week to Socotra. This means something special – a chance to see the island as it was years ago. More rugged. Quieter. More authentic.
And the truth is, Socotra is becoming more popular every year because of social media. SPOTS like this don’t remain a secret for long.

We have chosen the perfect time – when the bottle trees begin to bloom, and their pink flowers contrast with the rocks and desert. A brief window that makes the landscape even more surreal.

You'll see extraordinarily strange endemic species, relax on pristine beaches, and fall asleep under stars you'll never forget.

Upcoming Journeys

20 Apr 2026

20/04/2026

-

28 Apr 2026

28/04/2026

SOLD OUT

December 2026

Sign up now, and we'll write to you as soon as we have confirmed dates for the plane tickets.

Nature

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.

Landscapes

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.

The Experience

Camping Under the Stars

7 nights in a tent.
At one of the wildest SPOTS you've likely ever seen.

Every night, our camp is in a different SPOT – among dragon trees, beside a lagoon, under dunes, or by the ocean. The local team sets up the camp for us – tents, a communal dining area, lights, everything necessary for comfort in the middle of nowhere.

We have portable toilets and showers, and the food is prepared on SPOT – fresh fish, seafood, hot dishes and breakfast with a view unlike any other.

At night, there's no light pollution. Just stars.
A lot of stars.

Itinerary

Day 1

Flight to the Arabian World

We're off to Saudi Arabia. A layover in Jeddah – a city of contrasts between modern skyscrapers and the ancient district of Al-Balad.

This is the transitional day. A shift in pace. We leave Europe behind and enter another cultural zone, with different scents and colours.

In the evening, we land in Abu Dhabi and stay overnight near the airport. Tomorrow, we fly to a SPOT that looks like another planet.

Day 2

The Heart of the Island and the Dragon Forest

Landing in Socotra, we immediately leave the feeling of the 'normal world' behind us. From the airport, we head straight into the island’s interior – towards Dirhur valley. Palms, a freshwater pool in the wadi, first plunge and first lunch amidst a landscape that already starts to look surreal.

In the afternoon, we climb towards the Diksam plateau – over 700 meters above the sea. Here legends live: dragon trees and quirky bottle trees. Locals say that the forest was born from the blood of a wounded dragon. The truth doesn't matter – the SPOT looks just like it.

In the evening, we camp amidst the forest. The first dinner under Socotra’s sky. The first feeling that this will not just be a journey.

Day 3

Sand, Caves, and Ocean

The morning begins with the sunrise over the plateau. Then we head south - past cliffs, small villages, and endemic trees that you won't see anywhere else in the world.

We stop at Omak Beach - for swimming, a walk, and a picnic by the shore. After that, we enter Digub Cave - stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millennia.

Towards the end of the day, we reach the Zaheq dunes - a desert landscape that meets the sea directly. The sunset here is calm and vast. Dinner is fresh fish by the camp, with stars appearing one by one.

Day 4

Lagoon Detwah and the Cave Man

We wake up amidst the sand and sea. The sunrise paints the dunes in gold. We set off towards Detwah Lagoon – one of the most beautiful SPOTS on the island. We stop at a vantage point, then head down to the beach for swimming and relaxation.

In the afternoon, we might meet the legendary 'Caveman' – the man who lives in a cave by the lagoon and is part of Socotra's living history.

The evening ends with a short hike during sunset and dinner by the sea. If we're lucky – lobster fresh from the ocean.

Day 5

By Boat to Shoab

The day begins with a boat ride from Qalansiyah to Shoab Beach. We sail past white, pink, and red cliffs. Dolphins often appear. Occasionally – even a whale shark.

Shoab is wild and almost deserted. Swimming, beach, time without schedule. In the afternoon, we move to Arher Beach – our camp sits at the foot of huge dunes shaped by monsoons.

Here, the sea and desert meet without transition.

Day 6

Homhil & the Endless Pool

A brief transfer and a picturesque trek take us to Homhil – one of the most iconic SPOTS in Socotra. The natural infinity pool overlooks the Arabian Sea. You swim, with only rocks and the horizon beneath you.

At sunset, we reach the edge of Arher Beach – where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean. The current is strong, the view – mesmerizing.

Dinner is again fresh and simple. We sleep early – tomorrow, we rise with the sunrise.

Day 7

Wadi Klisen & the Bottle Trees

In the morning, we explore Wadi Klisen – a valley of white cliffs and natural pools. Swimming, jumping, moments of silence.

In the afternoon, we return to the land of bottle trees. The golden hour here is something you can't really explain – you can only capture it or simply remember it.

Our last dinner is under the stars. No city noise. Just the wind and the valley.

Day 8

Until we meet again

In the morning, we pack up the camp and head back to Hadibo. We stop by local shops for incense, honey, scarves, and small island treasures.

Transfer to the airport and fly back to Jeddah.

Mae alsalama.
Socotra is never truly left behind – it stays with you.

Day 9

Jeddah > Sofia

After a buffer day and an overnight stay in Jeddah, we catch the flights back to Sofia.

Day 10

From Jeddah a to Bulgaria

On the final day of our adventure, we'll gather our luggage, photos, and emotions, and take them back to Sofia.

* 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.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION

In Socotra, even the nights are part of the adventure

Under a star-studded sky, amidst landscapes that seem like they're from another planet, comfort comes from simplicity—and from the feeling of being truly far away from everything. Our camps are set in impressive SPOTS—from the dunes of Arher to the dragon tree forests in Fermhin—blending the island's raw beauty with essential conveniences.

Camping with Style - Standard or Luxury Tents

We offer two types of accommodation – standard expedition tents, included in the tour price, and more luxurious tents as an upgrade for those who want extra space and comfort after a long day on the roads of Socotra. Besides the added space, they come with a thick inflatable mattress, blankets, and a spot to stand and relax – ideal for couples or travellers who love adventure but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. The additional cost is $400 for a double and $700 for a single tent, and the team will take care of all the setup and takedown – you’ll simply enjoy the scenery.

WHO WILL BE YOUR GUIDE?

Martin Bonov

Marto is the person behind the lens and one of the driving forces of Panic Frame – a digital nomad, photographer, drone pilot, and traveller with a fondness for the wild and almost untouched spots of the planet.

After dozens of adventures with us and his tailored programmes for Madeira, the Azores, Utah and Arizona, and Tromsø, he is organising one of the most dreamed-of and eagerly awaited destinations - Socotra.

Marto will do everything possible to ensure we get the most out of Socotra – to discover the most beautiful landscapes, the most magical moments, and that silence which cannot be described, only experienced.

hi.marto

Dive into adventure!

9 days

12 travellers

Price per person

€4,420

Includes plane tickets, 2 nights in Jeddah, camping nights in Socotra, transport, guide, food, and more.

Price excluding flights

€3,620

Includes everything except the plane tickets to Jeddah and the 2 nights there. Plan your flights on your own.

Become a part of our community

Itinerary

Day 1

Flight to the Arabian World

We're off to Saudi Arabia. A layover in Jeddah – a city of contrasts between modern skyscrapers and the ancient district of Al-Balad.

This is the transitional day. A shift in pace. We leave Europe behind and enter another cultural zone, with different scents and colours.

In the evening, we land in Abu Dhabi and stay overnight near the airport. Tomorrow, we fly to a SPOT that looks like another planet.

Day 2

The Heart of the Island and the Dragon Forest

Landing in Socotra, we immediately leave the feeling of the 'normal world' behind us. From the airport, we head straight into the island’s interior – towards Dirhur valley. Palms, a freshwater pool in the wadi, first plunge and first lunch amidst a landscape that already starts to look surreal.

In the afternoon, we climb towards the Diksam plateau – over 700 meters above the sea. Here legends live: dragon trees and quirky bottle trees. Locals say that the forest was born from the blood of a wounded dragon. The truth doesn't matter – the SPOT looks just like it.

In the evening, we camp amidst the forest. The first dinner under Socotra’s sky. The first feeling that this will not just be a journey.

Day 3

Sand, Caves, and Ocean

The morning begins with the sunrise over the plateau. Then we head south - past cliffs, small villages, and endemic trees that you won't see anywhere else in the world.

We stop at Omak Beach - for swimming, a walk, and a picnic by the shore. After that, we enter Digub Cave - stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millennia.

Towards the end of the day, we reach the Zaheq dunes - a desert landscape that meets the sea directly. The sunset here is calm and vast. Dinner is fresh fish by the camp, with stars appearing one by one.

Day 4

Lagoon Detwah and the Cave Man

We wake up amidst the sand and sea. The sunrise paints the dunes in gold. We set off towards Detwah Lagoon – one of the most beautiful SPOTS on the island. We stop at a vantage point, then head down to the beach for swimming and relaxation.

In the afternoon, we might meet the legendary 'Caveman' – the man who lives in a cave by the lagoon and is part of Socotra's living history.

The evening ends with a short hike during sunset and dinner by the sea. If we're lucky – lobster fresh from the ocean.

Day 5

By Boat to Shoab

The day begins with a boat ride from Qalansiyah to Shoab Beach. We sail past white, pink, and red cliffs. Dolphins often appear. Occasionally – even a whale shark.

Shoab is wild and almost deserted. Swimming, beach, time without schedule. In the afternoon, we move to Arher Beach – our camp sits at the foot of huge dunes shaped by monsoons.

Here, the sea and desert meet without transition.

Day 6

Homhil & the Endless Pool

A brief transfer and a picturesque trek take us to Homhil – one of the most iconic SPOTS in Socotra. The natural infinity pool overlooks the Arabian Sea. You swim, with only rocks and the horizon beneath you.

At sunset, we reach the edge of Arher Beach – where the Arabian Sea meets the Indian Ocean. The current is strong, the view – mesmerizing.

Dinner is again fresh and simple. We sleep early – tomorrow, we rise with the sunrise.

Day 7

Wadi Klisen & the Bottle Trees

In the morning, we explore Wadi Klisen – a valley of white cliffs and natural pools. Swimming, jumping, moments of silence.

In the afternoon, we return to the land of bottle trees. The golden hour here is something you can't really explain – you can only capture it or simply remember it.

Our last dinner is under the stars. No city noise. Just the wind and the valley.

Day 8

Until we meet again

In the morning, we pack up the camp and head back to Hadibo. We stop by local shops for incense, honey, scarves, and small island treasures.

Transfer to the airport and fly back to Jeddah.

Mae alsalama.
Socotra is never truly left behind – it stays with you.

Day 9

Jeddah > Sofia

After a buffer day and an overnight stay in Jeddah, we catch the flights back to Sofia.

Day 10

From Jeddah a to Bulgaria

On the final day of our adventure, we'll gather our luggage, photos, and emotions, and take them back to Sofia.

* 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.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION

In Socotra, even the nights are part of the adventure

Under a star-studded sky, amidst landscapes that seem like they're from another planet, comfort comes from simplicity—and from the feeling of being truly far away from everything. Our camps are set in impressive SPOTS—from the dunes of Arher to the dragon tree forests in Fermhin—blending the island's raw beauty with essential conveniences.

Camping with Style - Standard or Luxury Tents

We offer two types of accommodation – standard expedition tents, included in the tour price, and more luxurious tents as an upgrade for those who want extra space and comfort after a long day on the roads of Socotra. Besides the added space, they come with a thick inflatable mattress, blankets, and a spot to stand and relax – ideal for couples or travellers who love adventure but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. The additional cost is $400 for a double and $700 for a single tent, and the team will take care of all the setup and takedown – you’ll simply enjoy the scenery.

WHO WILL BE YOUR GUIDE?

Martin Bonov

Marto is the person behind the lens and one of the driving forces of Panic Frame – a digital nomad, photographer, drone pilot, and traveller with a fondness for the wild and almost untouched spots of the planet.

After dozens of adventures with us and his tailored programmes for Madeira, the Azores, Utah and Arizona, and Tromsø, he is organising one of the most dreamed-of and eagerly awaited destinations - Socotra.

Marto will do everything possible to ensure we get the most out of Socotra – to discover the most beautiful landscapes, the most magical moments, and that silence which cannot be described, only experienced.

hi.marto

Dive into adventure!

9 days

12 travellers

Price per person

€4,420

Includes plane tickets, 2 nights in Jeddah, camping nights in Socotra, transport, guide, food, and more.

Price excluding flights

€3,620

Includes everything except the plane tickets to Jeddah and the 2 nights there. Plan your flights on your own.

Become a part of our community

Itinerary

Day 1
Flight to the Arabian World
Day 2
The Heart of the Island and the Dragon Forest
Day 3
Sand, Caves, and Ocean
Day 4
Lagoon Detwah and the Cave Man
Day 5
By Boat to Shoab
Day 6
Homhil & the Endless Pool
Day 7
Wadi Klisen & the Bottle Trees
Day 8
Until we meet again
Day 9
Jeddah > Sofia
Day 10
From Jeddah a to Bulgaria

* 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.

ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION

In Socotra, even the nights are part of the adventure

Under a star-studded sky, amidst landscapes that seem like they're from another planet, comfort comes from simplicity—and from the feeling of being truly far away from everything. Our camps are set in impressive SPOTS—from the dunes of Arher to the dragon tree forests in Fermhin—blending the island's raw beauty with essential conveniences.

Camping with Style - Standard or Luxury Tents

We offer two types of accommodation – standard expedition tents, included in the tour price, and more luxurious tents as an upgrade for those who want extra space and comfort after a long day on the roads of Socotra. Besides the added space, they come with a thick inflatable mattress, blankets, and a spot to stand and relax – ideal for couples or travellers who love adventure but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. The additional cost is $400 for a double and $700 for a single tent, and the team will take care of all the setup and takedown – you’ll simply enjoy the scenery.

WHO WILL BE YOUR GUIDE?

Martin Bonov

Marto is the person behind the lens and one of the driving forces of Panic Frame – a digital nomad, photographer, drone pilot, and traveller with a fondness for the wild and almost untouched spots of the planet.

After dozens of adventures with us and his tailored programmes for Madeira, the Azores, Utah and Arizona, and Tromsø, he is organising one of the most dreamed-of and eagerly awaited destinations - Socotra.

Marto will do everything possible to ensure we get the most out of Socotra – to discover the most beautiful landscapes, the most magical moments, and that silence which cannot be described, only experienced.

hi.marto

Dive into adventure!

9 days

12 travellers

Price per person

€4,420

Includes plane tickets, 2 nights in Jeddah, camping nights in Socotra, transport, guide, food, and more.

Price excluding flights

€3,620

Includes everything except the plane tickets to Jeddah and the 2 nights there. Plan your flights on your own.

Become a part of our community

Let's head to Socotra!

Upcoming journeys

20 Apr 2026

-

28 Apr 2026

SOLD OUT

December 2026

Sign up now, and we'll write to you as soon as we have confirmed dates for the plane tickets.

By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?

1

Fill out the registration form. We'll give you a call to introduce ourselves and we'll need the required details for the contract and insurance.

2

You'll receive a contract, insurance, and invoice – pay a 50% deposit and the balance will be due 45 days before departure.

3

A month before the expedition, we'll remind you about the journey with a detailed email filled with insights about the destination, flights, and more.

Included in the price:

Flights from Sofia to Jeddah and back, including standard hand luggage and a checked-in suitcase of up to 23 kg.

Charter flights from Jeddah to Socotra and back, including checked baggage

Hotel in Jeddah for two nights (one on the way there and one on the way back if you purchase the package with flights included from Sofia)

All transport expenses and transfers

All overnight stays detailed in the itinerary

Tourist Visa for Socotra ($150)

Visa for Saudi Arabia (~$120)

4x4 jeeps with a local driver and travel with 3 people per jeep (window seat for everyone)

Complete camping gear and tents, which will be set up and packed away by our team, not by you (full service)

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner by a local chef + snacks + water every day on Socotra.

All types of fees, including for entering protected areas

Boat Tour

Well-trained and seasoned local guides fluent in English

Bulgarian guide throughout (Martin Bonov)

Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000

What's not included:

Accommodation in a large tent - 5m diameter, plenty of SPOT for your luggage and height that allows you to walk upright inside. Sleep on a comfy inflatable queen-size mattress. Additional charge of $400 for double and $700 for single accommodation.

Services not mentioned in the programme

Personal Expenses

Tips for guides and drivers ($100-150 total)

Diving (with full equipment), where available ($120-$150)

Alcohol and Drinks

Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"

Let's head to Socotra!

Upcoming journeys

20 Apr 2026

-

28 Apr 2026

SOLD OUT

December 2026

Sign up now, and we'll write to you as soon as we have confirmed dates for the plane tickets.

By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?

1

Fill out the registration form. We'll give you a call to introduce ourselves and we'll need the required details for the contract and insurance.

2

You'll receive a contract, insurance, and invoice – pay a 50% deposit and the balance will be due 45 days before departure.

3

A month before the expedition, we'll remind you about the journey with a detailed email filled with insights about the destination, flights, and more.

Included in the price:

Flights from Sofia to Jeddah and back, including standard hand luggage and a checked-in suitcase of up to 23 kg.

Charter flights from Jeddah to Socotra and back, including checked baggage

Hotel in Jeddah for two nights (one on the way there and one on the way back if you purchase the package with flights included from Sofia)

All transport expenses and transfers

All overnight stays detailed in the itinerary

Tourist Visa for Socotra ($150)

Visa for Saudi Arabia (~$120)

4x4 jeeps with a local driver and travel with 3 people per jeep (window seat for everyone)

Complete camping gear and tents, which will be set up and packed away by our team, not by you (full service)

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner by a local chef + snacks + water every day on Socotra.

All types of fees, including for entering protected areas

Boat Tour

Well-trained and seasoned local guides fluent in English

Bulgarian guide throughout (Martin Bonov)

Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000

What's not included:

Accommodation in a large tent - 5m diameter, plenty of SPOT for your luggage and height that allows you to walk upright inside. Sleep on a comfy inflatable queen-size mattress. Additional charge of $400 for double and $700 for single accommodation.

Services not mentioned in the programme

Personal Expenses

Tips for guides and drivers ($100-150 total)

Diving (with full equipment), where available ($120-$150)

Alcohol and Drinks

Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"

December 2026

12 travellers

9 days

€3,620

-

€4,420

December 2026

12 travellers

9 days

€3,620

-

€4,420

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.

Forbes logo

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.

Forbes logo

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.

Forbes logo