Is Socotra safe? All you need to know for your trip
Socotra is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited! There’s truly nothing like it, and we still can’t believe we managed to see and experience this unique island. When we were planning our trip many people inquired about the safety of the island. Our friends and family kept asking us, “Is Socotra safe?” or questions like “Really, Yemen? Why do you want to risk your life?” – if you plan to visit this will likely happen to you too!
Over the years, Tourism on Socotra Island has grown significantly. In the last two or three years, interest in visiting this remote island has increased substantially. The number of direct flights increased from 1 to 5 making it easier than ever to get to Socotra.
It’s now more convenient than ever to visit, but despite its growing popularity one concern remains: Is Socotra safe to visit? The proximity of the ongoing civil war in mainland Yemen makes people feel uneasy, which is something we understand. That is why we wanted to share with you everything we know to hopefully inspire you to visit this last paradise on Earth.
We all have our own perceptions of risk and what we consider safe. We can only tell you from our perspective and everything we have heard and read. In our opinion, Socotra is safe to visit, but there are a few things that you need to be mindful of and prepare for.
In this post, we will cover what we have learned about the political situation in the region. We will also share other important things to consider when visiting this remote paradise. We will share with you all the information and then you can decide for yourself whether Socotra is an island for you.
Socotra: A brief overview
Location
So, let’s start with its location. Socotra is an island in the Indian Ocean with pristine white beaches and clear blue water. Think Maldives but without all the luxury resorts.
The island belongs to Yemen but is located over 380km from the mainland, isolating it from the conflict there.
Socotra is part of the Socotra Archipelago, which consists of 4 larger islands (Socotra, Abd al Kuri, Samhah, and Darsah) and 3 small islets.
In 2008, Socotra was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique biodiversity. More than one-third of its flora and fauna species occur nowhere else in the world! The Dragon Blood trees are the most famous plant on Socotra and the most unique trees in the world. They’re one of the reasons why this island feels out of this world.
Population and culture
There are approximately 50,000 people living on Socotra Island. Most residents live in the two biggest cities: Hadibu (around 8.5k) and Qalansiyah (almost 4k).
The inhabitants of Socotra are known as Socotris, a small community with African and South Asian origins. Their original language is Socotri, a South Semitic language which is often mistaken as a variety of Arabic, which is spoken on the mainland. However, both languages are used on the island and are often mixed in the same sentence.
Most Socotris follow Sunni Islam and its traditions and culture in their everyday life. When visiting, please respect the traditions and culture of the island. Please show respect and don’t take pictures of women in general – this is a big no on the island. If you want to take photos of men or children, make sure you ask them for permission first.
Before you fly your drone on the island, please speak to your guide and check that there are no villages in the area. Although it might seem like a remote location, we found out that some villages blend in very well with the local environment. We learned that local people don’t like drones, so please be mindful of that.
Is Socotra Safe for tourists? – The conflict and security
We want to start by saying that we are not experts on Yemen’s political or conflict situation. Just two travellers who wanted to visit the island. Before our trip, we conducted extensive research to determine whether Socotra is a safe place to visit.
The conflict and aftermath
The civil war started in 2014 when tensions between Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, and the government at the time reached a tipping point. The situation was a result of a slow destabilisation and growing protests following the Arab Spring in 2011 against corruption and poverty.
Over the years, the tension between loyalists and opposition grew, and in September 2014, Houthi fighters took over Saana, the capital of Yemen. Over the following months, fighting intensified, and on 6th February 2015, the rebels dissolved the government and took over the power in the North of Yemen.
In March, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia backed the government and started a naval blockade and airstrikes. This helped keep Houthi fighters off South Yemen but resulted in a terrible humanitarian crisis that lasts till this day.
Over time, the fighting and negotiations between the coalition and Houthis have been on and off, but the civilians in the mainland were the most affected.
How safe is Socotra in this conflict?
Socotra’s distance from the mainland (380km) kept it isolated and away from the conflict that affected the rest of the country. Through all of the years, the fighting NEVER spread onto the island.
However, the ongoing conflict indirectly affects the island and its people. Socotra heavily relies on food and supplies from the mainland, so disruptions to transport between the two limit access to them.
In addition, all commercial flights were cancelled after 2015, and for many years the only way to get between the mainland and the island was on a local boat or humanitarian aid plane.
In recent years, the situation has stabilised enough for the scheduled flights to be reinstated. At first, there was only one flight a week, but the number steadily increased over the years. In the current 2024/2025 season, this number increased to six flights a week! This proves that Socotra is considered safe for tourists to visit and is becoming a very popular destination.
General Safety: Is Socotra safe from theft and scams?
When we landed at Hadibu airport, the security process was quick and smooth. We saw a few soldiers at security, but other than that, there was no more security than at any other airport. After collecting our bags, we met our guide and hopped into the car, which was going to be our main mode of transport for the next ten days.
Before departing the airport area, soldiers at the entrance gate checked all our paperwork and waved us through.
At first, we didn’t notice it, but after a few days, we realized we hadn’t seen many police or soldiers around. Curious about safety, we asked our guide about it. It turns out that common crimes like theft or scams are not frequent in Socotra. He also told us that Socotra has a very low crime rate, which is why there is not much police around.
Socotris are incredibly friendly and welcoming towards travellers. They are also very proud of their beautiful island and want everyone to have the best experience ever exploring it!
Actually we felt safer in Socotra than in any other place we visited.
Health and Medical situation in Socotra
Hospitals
One major thing to consider when thinking of visiting Socotra, is the island’s limited healthcare facilities.
The only hospital on the island is located in the island’s capital, Hadibu. Whilst it provides a basic healthcare, it is a very small hospital with limited resources and medical staff. Many of the island’s attractions are a distance away from the capital, making it difficult to get back to town in the case of a major emergency.
This is especially a concern if you have any existing health conditions that would require medical attention – please check with your doctor or other medical professionals before travelling to remote destinations with an existing condition.
Medical Emergencies and Insurance
When planning a holiday the average traveller doesn’t always consider medical emergencies, because most tourist destinations have medical care is readily available. However on a remote island like Socotra is it essential to be prepared for that possibility.
For serious medical emergencies, especially those requiring specialized care, evacuation to a hospital in Yemen or even further afield may be necessary. This process can be costly, logistically complex, and time-consuming, making it vital to have comprehensive travel and health insurance.
Unfortunately, most traditional travel insurance products do not cover Socotra, so make sure you check your policy to see if your insurance allows for medical emergencies, including evacuation and repatriation if needed.
We personally chose to buy specialist ‘high risk countries’ insurance to cover our trip to Socotra, and we won’t lie it isn’t cheap! But considering the alternative is either risking your health or a very expensive airlift to the mainland, we don’t regret a thing!
Bring your first-aid kit with you.
In addition to having reliable and comprehensive insurance, we strongly recommend bringing with you a small personal first-aid kit.
The island’s remoteness with not many pharmacies means that access to basic medical supplies is limited. You can’t just stop at a local shop and get some paracetamol or ibuprofen when you’re in the mountains!
We recommend that you bring with you the essential items like painkillers, wipes, toilet paper and antibac gel. It’s also worth packing basic bandages, antiseptic, plasters, anti-inflammatory and allergy medications, and any necessary prescription medications that you might need during your trip. We’d also greatly recommend high SPF sunscreen, or better yet some long sleeved but loose fitting clothes to shade yourself from the sun.
Make sure you bring enough medication for the entire trip! Pharmacies on Socotra may not have all of the products you’re used to or need.
It is not safe to drink local water in Socotra.
Socotra can be a very hot and humid island. It is important to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to go on long hikes or spend time on a beach in the sun.
Make sure you always carry a bottle of water with you. Your guide will always have plenty of mineral water in the car, so ensure you bring some with you whenever you leave the car. We would strongly advise against consuming any drinks with ice or drinking from unfiltered sources .
Keep those mosquitos at bay.
Insect-borne diseases, like malaria, are another health risk in tropical regions. Even though Socotra is malaria-free, we recommend bringing insect repellent with you to avoid itchy bites, especially if you’re like Justin and the mosquitos just love biting you.
Even if you have sunscreen and insect repellent, we still recommend bringing loose-fitting and long-sleeved linen shirt and trousers. They will protect you from mosquitoes in the evening and from sunburn during the day.
Personally, we didn’t have any issues with mosquitos during our trip (but we did have a lot of bees on the coast who were very interested in our sweet tea).
Is Socotra Safe – Natural Hazards
Socotra is hands down the most breath-taking island we’ve ever set foot on! It’s a place like no other but, as with any untouched destination, it comes with its own challenges.
Understanding these potential dangers and risks can really help you stay safe and have the most enjoyable trip. So, let’s check them out!
Extreme Weather
One of the main natural hazards in Socotra is extreme weather! The island has only two seasons: monsoon/cyclone season and tourist/travel season. From May to September, the area is subject to extreme winds, raising sand and dust making it difficult to see or breathe.
On top of that, the temperatures are incredibly high during this time, making it even more challenging to be outside. If this wasn’t enough, there is also heavy rain causing flooding and making it extremely dangerous to visit some of the most beautiful places on the island.
The best time to visit Socotra is during the cooler, dry months from October to April when the weather is much milder. There’s a reason most of the flights and tours are within this time period – you’ll find it hard to even make it to the island in the monsoon season!
Remote Areas
Another risk when visiting Socotra is the island’s rugged terrain and remote areas. And trust us, it can be very remote there!
The island is home to rocky coastlines, steep mountains, deep caves, and very isolated beaches. While these landscapes give Socotra its extraordinary beauty, they also pose a considerable risk for those who try to explore it on their own.
There is a reason you can’t visit this island alone. You must always always have a guide and a driver with you. The terrain is treacherous, and getting lost in the remote landscapes is extremely easy – roads are not signposted and can often be very rugged, you need to be an expert off-road driver to make it to some of the locations.
With no emergency services, in the event of an injury or accident, any help may be very far away. Ensure you don’t leave the camp and go alone in these remote areas. Always hike with your guide who has knowledge and experience in navigating the remote terrain.
Wildlife and Safety
Whilst Socotra doesn’t have large predators, there are still a few small animals that you should be aware of and if possible avoid. The island is home to venomous snakes, including the Socotran horned viper and certain species of scorpions.
In addition, jellyfish and stingrays found in Socotra’s waters can cause intense pain or allergic reactions, so you should swim and walk in the water with caution. Small sting rays, especially, can easily hide at the bottom and be invisible at first glance. Karo stepped onto one but luckily didn’t get stung by it.
How to get to Socotra
Due to its remote location and limited flight options reaching Socotra is not easy. The most common route is via the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Egypt. Direct commercial flights operate from Abu Dhabi and Cairo to Socotra, usually once or twice a week. Check our post for everything you need to know how to get to Socotra.
However, keep in mind that you can’t simply purchase a plane ticket to Socotra online. You must book through a local travel agency or guide for your visit.
As we mentioned before, you cannot visit the island on your own; you have to have a guide and driver with you. You hire them through a local agency, and they will help you book your ticket and arrange your visa for you as well.
Is it safe to drive in Socotra?
Limited Infrastructure
Once on the island, transportation options are extremely limited. There is no public transport and no taxis. Unlike other tourist destinations, you can’t rely on buses or other services to get around.
As we mentioned above, your only option is to explore the island is with a local driver and/or guide in 4×4 car. Self-driving is technically possible but highly discouraged due to the challenging terrain, lack of road signs, and potential for breakdowns in remote areas.
Road Conditions – how safe it is to drive in Socotra
There is only one main road on the island – RR01. It runs north of Socotra and connects the east and west sides of the island. The road is paved in a few sections close to the capital, but all other roads are mainly unpaved.
Driving conditions can be difficult, especially after heavy rains, which may wash out roads or make them impossible to pass. Some areas, particularly mountainous regions, require careful manoeuvring and off-road driving skills. We recall driving back from Firmihin forest, amazed by our driver’s skills as the road was the most challenging one we’ve ever encountered. We were inching forward at a couple of miles per hour on paths that are more potholes than roads!
Driving Safety and Considerations
Driving in Socotra is unlike driving in most parts of the world. There are no traffic lights, barely any road signs, and almost no enforcement of traffic rules. Animals, including camels and goats, frequently roam the roads, creating unexpected hazards.
Another thing to note is that Socotra has no petrol stations as we know them. You can get petrol in plastic bottles on the side of the road or have it decanted to your petrol can. Fuel availability is very limited outside Hadibu town so any long trips have to be well planned by guide and your driver.
For safety reasons, all visitors must hire a local guide and a driver. These people know the island’s challenging terrain and can organise the best routes to ensure the most incredible experience.
Seriously, if you’re not an expert in off-road driving we wouldn’t attempt it, and although if you stick to the main road along the coast you would be fine. However many of the most interesting and beautiful attractions are further inland.
Is it safe to camp in Socotra?
Unlike popular tourist destinations, Socotra has no major hotels or luxury resorts. Absolutely none! When you visit the island, you must stay in eco-lodges, basic guesthouses/hotels, or campsites.
Guesthouses and hotels
Eco-lodges, often run by local families, provide a basic yet comfortable experience. Guesthouses or hotels are located mainly in Hadibu, the island’s biggest town. They offer accommodations with simple amenities and are more comfortable than camping.
However, they come with a significant disadvantage – they are all in just one area in Socotra, Hadibu. This means you have to wake up early in the morning to drive to places you want to explore and then drive back to your hotel or guesthouse at the end of the day. It means you won’t get to fully experience the Socotra island.
This way you will miss out on waking up in a new place every day. You will miss the most beautiful sunrises, or having dinner by the campfire with millions of stars above you. You don’t get to experience this if you decide to stay in the guesthouse or hotel.
Camping
We think opting for camping during our trip was the best decision ever. It turned out to be way more comfortable than we thought, and we woke up to the best views of our lives.
One thing to note on camping. There are different ways to camp in Socotra. You can opt for a tour agency that uses simple and basic tents or one with yurt-style spacious tents with many modern facilities (incl. Portable toilets). The more ‘luxury’ style you choose, the more expensive your trip will be.
We opted for the simple tent option as we wanted to have a more authentic experience. We did bring our own very comfortable large cotton sheet, which turned out to be one of the best decision we made. At nights its way too hot for us to sleep under blankets like the locals!
Is Socotra safe – Final Tips
Planning stage
Use a Reliable Tour Operator
There are many tour operators on the island. Do your research and book a reputable one that provides the level of services you need. Ensure you ask to see the photos of camping sites, tents and equipment, and be clear on what is included and what is extra.
We personally used the Socotra EcoTours to get our guide and driver for our trip. We read a lot of blog posts which mentioned them as well as spoke to people who used them before.
The owner of the company, Rudwan, answered all of our queries and questions we had. He gave us peace us mind and assured us that Socotra is safe to visit for tourists. He also ensured we had the best team with us for our trip. Turns out we had the best driver (who is also the best cook) on the island and one of the best guides. We spent 10 days on Socotra with them and it was the best holiday we’ve ever had. During this time we did 3 day hike in the mountains, exploring beaches and some of the most impressive caves we visited. with them and it was the best holiday we’ve ever had.
Bring Sufficient Cash
ATMs are scarce and unreliable, and most places don’t accept credit cards. Make sure you bring enough U.S. dollars to cover all your expenses. The price usually includes accommodation, food, transportation, guides, and drivers. However make sure to carry extra cash for tips or purchases at the local market
Stock up on Essentials
There are no supermarkets in Socotra. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, snacks, toiletries, and anything else you might need. Shops in Hadiboh have a minimal selection of essentials
Prepare for Limited Medical Facilities
Socotra has very basic medical services, and no advanced hospitals are on the island. Bring a well-stocked first aid kit, any necessary prescription medication, and basic medical supplies for minor injuries or illnesses. Although your tour operator should have their own first aid kits, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Once in Socotra
Be Cautious When Swimming and Hiking
Socotra has strong ocean currents and no lifeguards on the beaches. Always check water conditions before swimming and avoid risky areas. When hiking, watch out for rocky and steep terrains, and avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar areas, as it’s easy to get lost.
Respect the Local Culture and Customs
Socotra is a conservative island with strong cultural traditions. Dress modestly, especially in towns and villages, and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals. To respect cultural norms, avoid public displays of affection.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Safely
Socotra can get really hot during the day. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and dizziness, especially when hiking during midday. When eating local food, choose freshly cooked meals and avoid consuming untreated water to prevent stomach issues.
Summary
We hope that we have shown you that Socotra is safe to visit and significantly safer than mainland Yemen. With no war-related violence, low crime rates, and a welcoming Socotris, it is a unique destination. The island is peaceful and unspoiled, perfect for explorers seeking a unique getaway.
While the island offers stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity, you must be prepared for minimal medical facilities, rough road conditions, and limited accommodation options. Necessities such as fuel, food, and day-to-day essentials we’re used to are not something readily available.
Despite these challenges, Socotra is an absolute dream destination for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. We spent 10 days hiking and exploring this beautiful island and felt safer than ever.
