SAFETY

  • Socotra is a safe destination. Isolated in the waters of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, the island is not involved in any political conflict. Despite ongoing conflict in mainland Yemen, Socotra enjoys stability and peace, and it is unaffected by the unrest in other regions.
  • Life in Socotra is friendly. There are no robberies on the island.
  • Inhabitants of Socotra are extremely kind and helpful. The islanders treat the visitors with remarkable hospitality.
  • It is a totally safe destination for solo female travellers as well

CURRENCY 

  • Currency: Yemeni Riyal. You can exchange money to Yemeni riyals in the local exchange  offices  in  the main town of Hadiboh (the exchange value may vary daily).
  • Other currencies accepted: US dollar and UAE dirham.
  • There are no ATMs on the island.
  • You need to bring cash with you (US $ ).
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ENTRY VISA

  • Entry visa is managed by our team.
  • We only need a copy of your passport to process your visa.
  • Most nationalities can get an entry visa to Socotra.
  • Check that your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of entry.

TECHNOLOGY & UTILITIES

  • Plugs & Sockets type G (like UK) standard voltage 220V-240. Kindly note that Socotra Unique Tours offers a complimentary car cigarette-lighter charger with multiple USB ports so that 2-4 people can charge devices at a time while driving around the island. Some camps have a generator we can run in the evenings, but they may or may not have sockets (Euro 2-prong, and British 3-prong) in which to charge electronics. We highly recommend carrying a solar charger and external battery packs (for charging camera batteries). For charging phones and tablets, a powerful USB power bank is convenient to charge electronics and bringing several additional camera batteries for photographers. Electricity is available in Hadibo and in the larger towns. Top tip: We highly recommend that you bring a powerful solar power bank to enjoy a totally hassle free charging experience throughout your journey. Don’t miss capturing any unique landscape or moment!
  • The recommended telecom operator on the island is Etisalat (UAE).
  • If you already have a UAE operator, phone calls are considered local.
  • Only data mainly with Etisalat telecom are available but the quality of the access varies depending on the zone of the island in which you are.
  • Standard use for text, pics and audio messages normally works smoothly, but for videos and large size files it doesn’t.
  • The real connection of this trip is with yourself.

DRESS CODE & CLOTHES

  • Although Socotra Island is a Muslim island, Socotris are very friendly and open to the tourists and their customs. Once said this, respect for the island’s inhabitants and the impact of their openness to tourism is highly appreciated. Women do not have to be covered. The vast majority of our time will be spent on the coastlines as well as in the plateaus, canyons, valleys, marine protected areas and natural reserves. Therefore, any sports clothes are considered an ideal choice. As for the length of the pants, for the hikes, they are recommended to be mainly by the ankle to cover from possible scratches. Shorts can be a good option only in the coastline areas. It is not advisable to wear very tight fitting clothes on the day you will be visiting Hadibo.
  • Socotra is an adventure destination. Nature is the jewel of the island and we are spending most of our time enjoying outdoor activities. It is a must to bring very comfortable clothes and footwear!!!
  • It is also a must to bring proper trekking or mountain shoes for dry and wet surfaces (there are hikes that require this footwear and not sneakers. We also recommend that trekking shoes have been previously used to avoid blisters and chafing).
  • Flip-flops or trainers for periods of rest or walks or hikes in softer terrain are perfect.
  • Cotton socks.
  • Swimwear.
  • Water-shoes as there are rocky beaches.
  • Diving equipment can be rented. We recommend that you bring your own flippers and snorkel.
  • Take jumpers or jackets for the evenings, especially for the time period from November to January and for your hiking activities in the highlands.

LANGUAGE 

  • Mother tongue: Soqotri.
  • Global language: a smile.
  • The most spoken language: Arabic.
  • Although not all Socotris speak English, their great communication skills, and, above all, their sympathy, will make it possible for you to always understand each other.

OTHERS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Don’t forget your camera, your chargers and your power bank to take the most breathtaking pics and videos ever before boarding your return flight from Socotra.
  • High protection factor sunscreen.
  • Wet wipes.
  • Sunglasses
  • Medicines are available in Socotra but  in poor variety. Do not forget to bring your own medication.
  • Insect repellent.

UNDERSTANDING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SOCOTRA & YOU

  • Socotra is a newly open adventure destination. It is very important that you commit with the tips above to respect and protect local sensibilities, nature and enjoy your interactive experience in a place, which has been practically isolated for ages.
  • It is illegal to remove any natural component of the island like corals, shells, seeds, plants… Socotra is a natural reserve protected by UNESCO. Protection of the Heritage, Fauna & Flora is a must.
  • Step back in time. The main jewel of this trip is nature. Accommodation experiences really immerse you. We are in a raw, remote, virgin destination, therefore expect humble and basic facilities.
  • The hiking tour involves lots of walking and some of the trails are rocky, dusty… It is must to bring the appropriated equipment as per the tips above.
  • The road trips around the island involve driving in a 4 wheel fully equipped jeep driving through mostly dirt roads and in rustic conditions.
  • Accessing Shu’ab beach involves sailing in fisherman boats. The ride is quite pleasant but can be bumpy at times.
  • Wi-Fi… no thank, you. Connect with yourself, Connect with Socotra.
  • Before taking pictures or videos it is appreciated to ask for permission. Socotris normally love it and want to be part of the shot. But also consider, everything is very new to them and in very remote parts of the island, and with women, can be a sensitive issue.
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WHAT TO BUY

  • We encourage people to support local economy by buying handicrafts from the Women Association, dates, honey, incense and other resins from Socotran local businesses.