Socotra:
The Lost World Expedition
Yemen
8 days / 7 nights
Journey to one of the most extraordinary and isolated islands on Earth, where alien landscapes, ancient forests, towering sand dunes and turquoise oceans create a world unlike anywhere else.
Located in the Indian Ocean, hundreds of kilometres from mainland Yemen, Socotra is often described as the most alien-looking place on Earth. Home to extraordinary endemic wildlife, bizarre plant life and landscapes that seem almost prehistoric, this untouched remote island offers an experience few travellers will ever have. Less that 0.0006% of humans to be precise.
From hiking through forests of iconic Dragon Blood Trees and exploring enormous limestone caves to swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, climbing giant sand dunes and camping beneath some of the most spectacular night skies imaginable, this expedition is designed for those who want to experience something truly different.
Over eight unforgettable days, we'll explore the island's wildest landscapes, discover its unique biodiversity, encounter fascinating wildlife and immerse ourselves in a place that feels untouched by the modern world.
This is not a holiday. This is an expedition to the Lost World.
Expedition at a glance
Physical Difficulty: 5/10
Technical Difficulty: 2/10
Fitness Required: Average
Family Friendly: 10+ Recommended
Comfort: 5/10
Facilities: 6 Nights Premium Camping & 1 Night Hotel
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 1,500m
Climate: Tropical / Arid
Wildlife: 9/10
Photography: 10/10
Experience Needed: None
Group Size: 6 Max
PERFECT FOR YOU IF...
You want to visit one of the most unusual destinations on Earth.
You love wildlife, nature and exploring remote environments.
You want an adventure far beyond ordinary tourism.
You enjoy hiking, swimming, camping and exploring.
You want to see the famous Dragon Blood Trees in their natural habitat.
You love photography and extraordinary landscapes.
You want to experience a destination that less that 0.0006% of humans have ever experienced.
THIS MAY NOT BE FOR YOU IF...
You require luxury hotels and modern facilities every night.
You dislike camping or spending extended periods outdoors.
You aren't comfortable travelling somewhere remote.
You prefer relaxing holidays over active exploration.
You're uncomfortable with early starts, hiking and changing conditions.
full itinerary
16th Nov - Day OneARRIVAL IN SOCOTRA — DETWAH LAGOON & QALANSIYAH
Upon arrival at Socotra Airport, we'll be welcomed by our experienced local guides and begin our journey west towards Qalansiyah, travelling through dramatic landscapes and traditional island communities.
After arriving at our coastal campsite and enjoying our first freshly prepared lunch, we'll set out to explore the spectacular Detwah Lagoon.
This breathtaking coastal landscape is one of Socotra's most famous natural wonders, where brilliant turquoise waters meet enormous white sand dunes and rugged limestone mountains.
We'll hike around the lagoon, climb the surrounding dunes and take in panoramic views across one of the most beautiful coastlines imaginable.
As the sun begins to set, we'll head to an elevated viewpoint overlooking the lagoon, watching the colours change across the ocean and surrounding mountains.
We'll finish our first day with a campfire and freshly prepared lobster dinner beneath the stars.
Our first night on Socotra is just the beginning.
17th Nov- Day TwoSHOAB BEACH — DOLPHINS, TURQUOISE WATER & HIDDEN PARADISE
Today we'll wake early for an unforgettable boat journey along Socotra's dramatic coastline towards the remote and spectacular Shoab Beach.
Accessible by boat, this extraordinary stretch of coastline is famous for its white sand, crystal-clear water and rugged mountain backdrop.
During our approximately 45-minute boat journey, we'll keep our eyes open for dolphins, which are often encountered in the surrounding waters.
Upon arrival, we'll have time to swim, explore the shoreline and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in the Indian Ocean.
After returning to our campsite for lunch, we'll continue exploring the remarkable Detwah Lagoon area, including a visit to meet one of the island's most famous local inhabitants, known as the Caveman.
We'll spend the afternoon exploring the coastline, taking photographs and enjoying the incredible surroundings.
As evening approaches, we'll hike to another elevated viewpoint to watch the sunset before returning to camp for dinner around the fire.
18th Nov - Day ThreeDRAGON BLOOD TREE FOREST — DIXAM CANYON & FIRMIHIN
After breakfast, we'll travel towards the island's mountainous interior, stopping along the way to see abandoned Soviet-era tanks and admire the spectacular views across Dixam Canyon.
Our destination is the extraordinary Firmihin Forest, home to one of the world's most remarkable concentrations of Dragon Blood Trees.
These bizarre umbrella-shaped trees are found naturally only within the Socotra archipelago and are among the most recognisable plants on Earth.
Their unusual appearance, ancient evolutionary history and distinctive red resin have made them symbols of Socotra's unique biodiversity.
After arriving at our forest campsite, we'll head out on a scenic hike across the plateau, surrounded by hundreds of these incredible trees.
Following lunch, we'll embark on a longer afternoon hike through the forest, exploring this extraordinary ecosystem and learning about the plants and animals that make Socotra so special.
Our hike finishes at a dramatic cliffside viewpoint, where we'll watch the sunset across the rugged mountain landscape.
Tonight, we'll camp surrounded by Dragon Blood Trees beneath the stars.
19th Nov - Day FourFIRMIHIN PLATEAU — INTO THE ANCIENT FOREST
After an early breakfast, we'll set off on our most challenging hike of the expedition, spending approximately four hours exploring the rugged Firmihin Plateau.
As we travel through this extraordinary environment, we'll encounter incredible Dragon Blood Trees, unusual rock formations and spectacular views across Socotra's mountainous interior.
The island's long isolation has allowed countless species to evolve independently, creating an ecosystem unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Along the way, we'll take time to appreciate the unique vegetation, look for endemic wildlife and capture photographs of the otherworldly surroundings.
After returning to camp for lunch, we'll have time to rest before setting out on a shorter afternoon hike through the forest.
As the sun begins to disappear behind the mountains, we'll enjoy another unforgettable sunset among the Dragon Blood Trees.
We'll finish the evening with dinner and a campfire in the heart of the forest.
DESERTS, CANYONS & THE NATURAL INFINITY POOL
20th Nov - Day FiveAfter breakfast, we'll leave the mountain forests behind and begin travelling through Socotra's dramatically changing landscapes.
Our first stop is Degob Cave, where we'll explore the surrounding limestone formations before continuing towards the enormous Zahek Sand Dunes.
We'll then continue towards Kalysan Canyon, a spectacular natural landscape of steep cliffs, rocky formations and beautiful freshwater pools.
After lunch in the canyon, we'll travel towards Homhil Protected Area, stopping along the way to photograph Socotra's remarkable Desert Rose trees.
These unusual plants, with their swollen trunks and sculptural branches, are another example of the island's extraordinary endemic plant life.
At Homhil, we'll hike through the protected landscape towards its famous natural infinity pool.
Perched high above the surrounding coastline, this beautiful freshwater pool offers incredible views across the mountains and ocean.
We'll continue towards Arher, and we'll camp close to the enormous sand dunes where Socotra's mountains meet the Indian Ocean.
21st Nov - Day SixARHER SAND DUNES & HOQ CAVE
We'll begin today with an early morning hike across the spectacular Arher Sand Dunes.
These enormous white dunes rise dramatically against towering cliffs, creating one of Socotra's most iconic landscapes.
We'll climb the dunes and take in breathtaking views of the coastline, where brilliant blue ocean meets pristine white sand and rugged mountains.
After descending, we'll have time to relax and swim before returning to camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, we'll head towards one of the island's most fascinating natural attractions — Hoq Cave.
Hidden within Socotra's limestone mountains, this enormous cave system contains extraordinary stalactites, stalagmites and ancient geological formations.
We'll explore the cave, discovering an incredible underground world formed over thousands of years.
After our adventure, we'll return to our coastal campsite for another evening around the campfire.
22nd Nov - Day SevenDIHAMRI MARINE RESERVE — SNORKELLING & DELISHA BEACH
After breakfast, we'll travel to Dihamri Marine Reserve, one of Socotra's best-known locations for underwater exploration.
The surrounding waters are home to colourful coral reefs, tropical fish and a remarkable variety of marine life.
Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy optional snorkelling or scuba diving, exploring the underwater world with local professionals.
For those who prefer to stay on land, we'll also explore the surrounding coastline and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
After lunch, we'll continue towards Delisha Beach, another spectacular stretch of Socotra's coastline, where we'll have time to explore and relax.
Later in the afternoon, we'll travel to Hadibu, Socotra's capital, where we'll check into our hotel for the final night of the expedition.
We'll finish the evening with dinner and the chance to reflect on an unforgettable week of adventure.
HADIBU — FINAL EXPLORATION & DEPARTURE
23rd Nov - Day EightAfter seven incredible nights exploring one of the most extraordinary islands on Earth, our expedition comes to an end.
We'll begin the morning with breakfast before heading out to explore Hadibu, Socotra's capital and main population centre.
Here, we'll experience a different side of island life, seeing the local streets, communities and everyday culture that make Socotra so fascinating.
Following our final lunch together, we'll transfer to Socotra Airport for our return flight to Jeddah.
From the alien forests of Dragon Blood Trees and enormous desert dunes to remote beaches, mountain caves and turquoise lagoons, this is a journey that will stay with us forever.
We'll leave with extraordinary memories, new friendships and the experience of having explored one of the world's most remarkable destinations.
The Lost World of Socotra! Until the next adventure.
DATES & PRICES
November 16-23 2027 & 2028
£500 to secure your spot - £3995 total
Payment plans available
*£500 non refundable deposit to secure your spot & remainder to be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
8-day / 7-night guided Socotra expedition
Airport pickup and drop-off on Socotra
Private chauffeured 4×4 transport throughout the expedition
Maximum three guests per vehicle, each with a window seat
Experienced English-speaking local expedition guides
Tarzan as expedition group leader
All scheduled national park and protected area entry fees
Premium camping equipment, including small room sized tents, mattresses, pillows and bedding
Portable shower and toilet facilities at campsites
Hotel accommodation on the final night in Hadibu
Three freshly prepared meals daily during the expedition
Daily snacks and drinks
Boat excursion to Shoab Beach
Guided hiking and exploration throughout the itinerary
Visits to Dragon Blood Tree forests, caves, lagoons, dunes and coastal areas
Starlink internet access where available
Expedition WhatsApp group
Pre-departure support and assistance with travel arrangements (flights/visas etc.)
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
International flights**
Visas**
Travel and medical insurance**
Personal camping equipment and clothing
Drone permits — approximately $150 per drone
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Tips for guides and local staff
Additional activities not specified in the itinerary
Medical expenses or emergency evacuation costs
**We will help you with flights, visas and permits.
travel insurance
All guests must have suitable travel insurance that covers trekking and adventure activities. We recommend True Traveller because it's designed for adventure travel and we've partnered with them to offer cover.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Highly trained and experienced guides
Our team of certified local guides knows every trail, cave and beach on the island. With years of experience and deep cultural knowledge, they transform every tour into a personal journey of discovery. Because safety is our top priority, every trip is led by a lifeguard and first-aid certified guide.
Nutrition Preference Experience
A curated menu of vibrant, natural colours and culinary palette designed by our on-board chef. We follow the rhythm of the island, locally sourcing fresh meals daily. From the coast to the plateau, we personalize every meal to your nutritional preferences and dietary needs.
Best camping gear in Socotra
We provide top-quality camping equipment sourced from the best eco-friendly brands. We care about every small detail and everything you need for a comfortable sustainable adventure. We Implement modern smart energy‑efficient equipment, to minimize operational carbon emissions.
Is socotra safe?
The answer: Yes, absolutely. If you’re hesitant about traveling to Socotra due to headlines about the wider region, here is what you need to know:
1. World-Apart Geography
Socotra is located 380 km (240 miles) off the coast of mainland Yemen in the open Indian Ocean. Because of this extreme geographical isolation, the island has remained completely untouched and isolated from mainland conflict.
2. An Unbroken Track Record
Life on the island is peaceful, welcoming, and entirely disconnected from mainland affairs. Socotra has maintained a consistently safe environment for locals and visitors alike.
3. Growing Global Interest & Easy Access
Last season alone, an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 international travelers visited the island from all over the world. If Socotra is on your bucket list, don't let distant headlines hold you back. You'll find a peaceful sanctuary, otherworldly landscapes, and warm hospitality waiting for you.