Camping Socotra FAQs
- Schedule: Departures Saudia Arabia every Tuesday or Thursday 11:00 - 14:00; returns every Tuesday or Thursday 15:00 - 19:00.
- Pricing: Fixed at $900 per person.
- Availability: There are approximately 135 tourist seats per flight.
- Dates: 29th September 2026 till 20th April 2027
- Application: Our local travel agent will apply for the permit on your behalf.
- Processing Time: Usually takes 1–3 weeks.
- Format: You will receive a digital copy via WhatsApp or email approximately one week before departure.
- Cost: Fixed at $160 USD (processed as a separate fee from your $1100 flight ticket).
- Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Water shoes or sandals for wadis and beaches
- Modest clothing for public/town areas (covering shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable lightweight outdoor gear for hiking/camping
- A power bank for charging devices
- Personal headlamp/torch for camp and Hoq Cave
- Snorkel equipment (or you can rent at Dihamri)
- Sun protection (reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
- Crisp, new US Dollar bills for personal expenses or tips (cards are not accepted on the island)
Where can I book flights to Socotra?
Flights are operated by Yemenia Airways and must be booked through an approved agent like Camping Socotra.
Note: Due to high demand, these flights sell out quickly. We recommend booking well in advance to secure your seat.
Do I need a visa for Socotra Island?
All visitors require a Yemeni Entry Permit to visit Socotra. For the 2026 season, the process is as follows:
Important: You must print a colour copy of your permit to present at the Jeddah airport check-in counter. Digital versions on mobile devices will not be accepted for boarding.
What food is served, and can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
All meals are prepared fresh daily by our local Socotran chef using local seafood, fresh vegetables, rice, meat, and traditional breads. We readily cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements - just let us know when booking!
Is drinking water provided?
Yes, safe, chilled, sealed bottled drinking water in unlimited quantities in our 4x4 vehicles and at campsites. Additionally soft drinks, tea, and fresh fruit are provided throughout the entire trip.
How fit do I need to be for this itinerary?
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a moderate level of fitness will help you get the most out of the trip! Expect light-to-moderate hiking, including the scenic walk up to Hoq Cave (about 1.5–2 hours round trip) and walks around the Dixam Plateau. Feel free to go at your own rhythm—our guides can tailor all activities to suit you.
What should I pack for a week in Socotra?
We recommend bringing:
Is alcohol permitted on the trip?
No. Because flights to Socotra start in Saudi Arabia, bringing alcohol into the country—even in checked luggage or purchased at a transit airport duty-free—is strictly prohibited under Saudi law and subject to heavy customs penalties. Alcohol is also not available for purchase on the island of Socotra.
What currency should I bring, and can I use credit cards?
Credit cards, debit cards, and international banking services do not operate on Socotra. You must bring sufficient cash for personal expenses, local crafts, and tips. Crisp, clean, recently printed US Dollar bills (series 2013 or newer, without tears or heavy marks) are preferred by local vendors. The Yemeni Riyal is not available from Money Exchanges outside Yemen.
Can I bring and fly a drone on Socotra?
Drone regulations are strict in Socotra, and unauthorised drones are routinely confiscated at entry checkpoints. If you plan to fly, you must arrange an official permit in advance. Our team will be happy to assist you. Note, Saudi Arabia also have heavy restrictions on Drones and during scans of bags will often detain them at customs until departure flight.
Are there rules about photographing local residents?
Always ask for verbal permission before taking photos or making videos of the locals, especially women and children.
What kind of vehicles are used for the tour?
We use robust Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4s to tour Socotra. Many roads are not tarmac and no more than rocky mountain tracks or sand/sand dunes. Our expert local drivers will ensure a safe and exciting tour of the island.
Can I charge my cameras, phones, and batteries?
Because Socotra’s designated campsites are widecamps, there is no mains electricity. All our 4x4 vehicles feature USB charging points that can be used whilst driving between stops. In addition high capacity power banks or fully charged spare batteries are recommended.
When is the best time to visit Socotra?
The best time to visit Socotra island is from October to May, where the weather offers clear skies and low winds. During June and August the Khareef is at its strongest. The Khareef is Monsoon winds, making Socotra unsuitable for guests to visit.
Is tipping customary for the local team?
Tipping is appreciated by our local Socotran team. Budget around $50 to $100 per guest per week.
What is the luggage limit for the flight to Socotra?
Yemenia Airlines allow 1x 20 kg hold bag and 1 small carry-on bag (up to 7 kg). Soft bags and backpacks are recommended over hard cases that pack better in our 4x4s.
How should I dress, especially for female travellers?
While Socotra is relaxed around wild campsites and beaches (where standard swimwear and hiking gear are fine), the island is culturally conservative. In public areas, villages, and Hadibo town, both men and women should dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees (loose linen trousers or long skirts and T-shirts work well), while men should avoid short shorts in town.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria tablets?
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry into Socotra unless you are arriving from a yellow fever zone. Malaria risk on Socotra is low, but insect repellent is essential for sandflies and mosquitoes, particularly around coastal areas and wadis at sunset. We recommend consulting a travel clinic before departure for personal health advice.