Tours Activities

Trekking and camel ride:

Arriving in Socotra by plane or by sea, the first glance at the mountains of the island might make you think that only expert and trained hikers can go trekking. You should not miss a walk in the mountains of the island. You do not need to be particularly trained and equipped; the itinerary chosen by your guide will respect your requests.

For those fascinated by unexplored regions, the island of Socotra offers trekking routes with breathtaking views. In the vast region of the “Higher Mountains” and the “Dicksam plateau”, the trekking possibilities are unlimited and chosen according to the requests and abilities of the participants.

The regions of: Scant, Tinnera, Firmihin, Dersmotin are also very popular destinations among trekkers, as well as the Ayhaft Canyon and the Momi plateau. Other interesting routes are found in the southeastern part of the island.

We recommend that you always be accompanied by a local guide as the paths are not marked in any way.

DIVING:

The best time for diving on Socotra is the period from September to October and from March to May, when wind falls and the sea calms down.

We have pleasure in organizing diving tours for you on Socotra. We offer you to take advantage of professional knowledge of local guide, the only certified dive-master on the island, who has been studying the Archipelago’s undersea world for many years.

One of the most interesting diving sites is the “Sunrise” wrack lying at a depth of 25-27 meters at the sandy bottom in Shuab Bay.

The “Sunrise” ship created an artificial reef almost in the very center of the bay, which sandy bottom and moderate depth (not more than 30 m) attracts countless numbers of sea dwellers. Here one should be careful of skates reaching up to 3 meter in diameter. The old fishing nets entangled in the ship’s gear also represent a danger to divers. Sometimes there are strong currents and low visibility. But in February-March the sea gets very calm and it is quite possible to watch tens of fish species schooling around the wrack.

This wrack is worth staying one more day in Shuab Bay to make a few dives.

Other Socotra’s diving sites are also very interesting. The most prominent ones are as follows:

• Eastern Cape Ras Di Erissel is the place where numerous ships have been colliding with the rocks covered by the water area of a few square miles for centuries. These are an improper mapping of the island, strong winds and very heavy currents combined with a low visibility of this area that caused hundreds or maybe even thousands shipwrecks here. The whole of the shallow water area that covered with the fragments of ancient ships. There are also a few big recent and preserved shipwrecks, which remain insufficiently explored for the present. The place has seven diving sites.

• Dihamri Marine Protected Area is famous for a great variety of corals and fish species. It has five diving sites with the deepest dives up to 50 meters. Night dives are also possible.

• Rosh Marine Protected Area is famous for a reef stretching for about 1 km off the coast. It has one big diving site with dives between 10 and 15 meters. Night dives are also possibile.

• Adho has 2 diving sites with dives up to 30 meters.

Socotra fishing:

Socotra, the best GT destination in the world is now possible to fish again.

Socotra is in the north Indian Ocean, so almost all the fish of this sea are present.

The most important sportfish is GT, but in October, there is a huge migration of Spanish mackerel, and a migration of pelagic crabs, that float on the water causing a continuous feeding by many kinds of trevally such as Golden Trevally, Yellow Spotted Trevally, Bludger Trevally, and Black Tip Trevally.

Many kinds of coral fish are present such as Red Snapper, Green Jobfish, Rusty Jobfish, Coral Trout, and different species of grouper and emperor.

From shore, it is possible to find Indian Permit, Bonefish, small Threadfin, Leerfish, Bream, and Bluefin Trevally.

On jigging, it is possible to catch everything, amberjack is present too.

Sharks are also present but rarely hooked on lures, the most catched are Fox Shark on Jigging.

The best seasons to fish in Socotra are autumn and Spring because in summer and winter the wind is very strong and the sea very rough.

Camping:

For those who love unspoiled nature and adventure, Socotra Island is the perfect destination. Sleeping in a tent is the best way to enjoy the wonders of nature and to get to know the friendliness of the island’s inhabitants. Fresh fish will be cooked on the fire in the camping area, you will wake up to enjoy the sunrise over the sea, surrounded by cliffs and white sand dunes, you will enjoy a wonderful sunset sipping a spiced tea and you will dine by “candlelight” under a star sky.

You will have to do without the comforts you are used to but you will immediately realize that you feel a strange sense of satisfaction and happiness in being able to do without the superfluous and in enjoying and appreciating what will be offered to you: a little fresh water to wash yourself, a hot meal and a perfect symbiosis with the nature that surrounds you. You will never forget the days spent in this incomparable nature completely outside the stress and routine of everyday life.

Socotra Surfing

• The best surfing season in Socotra is from October to March, with optimal wave heights and conditions for experienced surfers.

• Top surf spots include Qalansiyah Beach, Ras Ersel, and Aomak, each offering unique experiences and varied wave types.

• Surfing gear rentals are available locally, with prices ranging from $10 to $20 per day for surfboards and $5 to $15 for wetsuits.

• Socotra's vibrant surf culture fosters camaraderie among surfers, with local events showcasing traditional music and dance.

• Safety is crucial; check surf reports, stay hydrated, and surf with a buddy for an enjoyable experience.

• Best Time to Surf

  With its stunning beaches and consistent waves, Socotra offers a unique surfing experience for adventurers looking to ride the swells of this remote paradise. The best time to surf here mainly falls between October and March, when the winds and swells align perfectly to create ideal conditions. During these months, you'll find larger swells and more favorable winds, making for exhilarating rides.

  To help you plan your surf trip, here's a quick overview of the best surfing months in Socotra:

  MonthWave HeightWind ConditionsOctober5-7 ftModerateNovember6-8 ftStrongDecember7-9 ftVariable

  In January and February, conditions peak, offering thrilling waves that challenge even seasoned surfers. However, don't overlook March, as it still presents great opportunities before the winds shift. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and be flexible with your plans to catch the best conditions. With the right timing, you're bound to experience the exhilarating surf that Socotra has to offer!

• Socotra is home to some of the most breathtaking surf spots you'll ever encounter, each offering its own unique charm and wave conditions. One of the must-visit locations is Qalansiyah Beach, where you'll find powerful swells rolling in from the Indian Ocean. The stunning backdrop of white sand and turquoise waters creates a picture-perfect setting for your surf session.

  Another gem is Ras Ersel, known for its consistent breaks and beautiful rock formations. Here, you can ride long, peeling waves that cater to both beginners and advanced surfers alike. The local vibe is welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow surf enthusiasts.

  Don't miss out on the less crowded spot at Aomak, where you can enjoy a more secluded experience. The waves here can be challenging, but the thrill of conquering them is unlike any other.

  Lastly, the northern coast features the iconic Khor Uhaymir, a hidden treasure with breathtaking views and reliable waves. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or simply soaking in the scenery, Socotra's surf spots promise unforgettable experiences that will keep you coming back for more.

  Surfing Conditions

  When you hit the waves in Socotra, you'll quickly discover that the surfing conditions are as diverse as the island's stunning landscapes. The unique geography and seasonal winds create a variety of surf experiences, ensuring that every surfer finds their perfect ride.

  Here's what you can expect:

  1. Crystal-Clear Waters: Picture yourself gliding over pristine waters, where you can see the vibrant marine life beneath you. It's a surreal experience that adds to the thrill.

  2. Varied Wave Types: From mellow beach breaks to powerful reef breaks, Socotra caters to all skill levels. You'll find something that challenges you, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro.

  3. Consistent Swells: The swells here are dependable, especially from April to October. You'll relish the feeling of catching wave after wave, making each session memorable.

  4. Breathtaking Backdrops: As you surf, you'll be surrounded by stunning cliffs and unique flora, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that enhances your time on the water.

  Embrace the exhilarating conditions that make Socotra a surfing paradise, and let the waves carry you into an unforgettable adventure.

dolphin and whales watching

Dolphin and whale watching involves observing whales and dolphins in their natural habitats, often on guided boat tours to Showab beach. These tours can provide close-up encounters and educational experiences, contributing to both recreational tourism and research on socotra island