SOCOTRA'S ULTIMATE
Hiking adventure

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Socotra, where transport will be arranged to collect you from the Airport. There is only one flight on departure day so you’ll be leaving Abu Dhabi at 08:00 and arriving on the island at 09:30. We recommend buying your flights at least 5/6 months in advance as there are a limited number of seats available. Please contact us if you have any questions about this.

We will provide you with lunch and an afternoon excursion for a short walk in Ayhaft National Park and a refreshing swim in a natural pool.

For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based in Habido, the main town of Socotra. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of most unique and spectacular mountain landscapes.

Distance – 11km, Elevation – 350m, Time – 5 Hours

The Homhil Plateau hike is one of Socotra’s most magical walks, taking you into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The trail climbs gently from the coast into a plateau scattered with the island’s iconic dragon blood trees and frankincense groves, their strange, umbrella-like shapes standing against the sky. As you wander through this unique forest, the air is filled with the scent of resin and the sound of wind across the plateau, giving the place a timeless, mystical atmosphere. The highlight is reaching the natural infinity pool, where fresh spring water gathers on the edge of the cliffs before spilling toward the sea. From here, the view stretches endlessly across turquoise ocean and rugged valleys below, making it one of the most photographed spots on the island. It is not a difficult hike, but the blend of surreal trees, sweeping views, and quiet pools makes Homhil one of Socotra’s most unforgettable experiences.

Distance – 14km, Elevation – 900m, Time – 7 Hours

The hike from the Diksam Plateau to Skand Peak (1,226 m) is one of the most rewarding treks on Socotra, taking you from sweeping highland plains into the rugged heart of the island’s mountains. The route begins in the vast landscapes of Diksam, dotted with dragon blood trees that seem sculpted from another world. From here, the trail climbs steadily along rocky ridges and narrow paths, with constant views over deep canyons and valleys carved by seasonal rivers. As you ascend, the vegetation shifts from scattered succulents and frankincense groves to bare cliffs and windswept rock, emphasising the sense of isolation and raw beauty. The final push to Skand Peak, the highest accessible summit on Socotra, rewards hikers with panoramic views that stretch from the island’s green interior to the shimmering blue of the Arabian Sea. It is a demanding hike, with steep sections and loose footing, but the combination of surreal trees, dramatic geology, and vast horizons makes it one of Socotra’s signature adventures.

Distance – 12km, Elevation – 700m, Time – 5,5 Hours

The Adonah hike is one of Socotra’s most beautiful canyon walks, leading you deep into a hidden valley where turquoise pools, towering cliffs, and lush vegetation create a striking contrast to the island’s arid uplands. The trail begins with a descent from the plateau into the canyon, winding past frankincense and bottle trees clinging to the slopes. As you reach the canyon floor, the scenery changes dramatically: sheer rock walls rise above you, while natural pools of crystal-clear water invite you to pause for a swim. The path follows the riverbed, sometimes scrambling over boulders or crossing shallow streams, before reaching shaded groves of palms and villages where traditional life continues largely unchanged. Though moderately challenging, with a steep climb back out of the canyon at the end, the hike is never overly technical, and the reward is a journey into one of Socotra’s most enchanting hidden landscapes. For those seeking variety — water, greenery, culture, and rugged geology all in one — the Adonah canyon is a must.

After several days of exploring Socotra’s wild trails, today is a chance to slow down and enjoy the island at an easier pace. You might spend the morning wandering through local villages, meeting friendly residents, and browsing small markets for handicrafts, incense, and traditional foods. Another great option is a trip to one of Socotra’s pristine beaches, such as Detwah Lagoon near Qalansiyah, where turquoise waters and white sand create one of the most idyllic spots in the Indian Ocean. The lagoon is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to rich marine life and migratory birds. Here you can swim, relax, or take a boat ride with local fishermen to nearby hidden coves and deserted islets. With its unique blend of raw beauty, biodiversity, and traditional culture, a rest day on Socotra offers just as much wonder as the hikes themselves.

Distance – 8km, Elevation – 350m, Time – 5 Hours

A rewarding summit hike that offers sweeping views over both Albania and Montenegro, this trail begins with a steady ascent through dense forests and flower-filled meadows. As the elevation increases, the path becomes rockier, eventually leading to the sharp ridgeline of Maja e Rosit. The summit provides one of the most spectacular panoramas in the Albanian Alps, with rugged peaks in every direction. This is a great choice for experienced hikers looking for a high-altitude challenge near Theth.

Distance – 14km, Elevation – 700m, Time – 5,5 Hours

The Ayhaft Canyon hike is one of the most accessible yet rewarding walks on Socotra, offering a lush oasis tucked between the island’s arid mountains. The trail begins at the mouth of the canyon, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on either side, and follows a riverbed shaded by tamarind, fig, and date palms. As you walk deeper into the gorge, the air grows cooler and the sound of running water accompanies you, with natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim. Birdsong echoes through the canyon, and it’s common to spot endemic species like the Socotra sunbird flitting among the branches. The route is not difficult and can be adapted to different lengths, making it ideal for a half-day adventure or a relaxing complement to more demanding treks. With its mix of greenery, water, and dramatic geology, Ayhaft feels like a secret garden — a place where Socotra reveals its softer, more tranquil side.

After an incredible week exploring the wild beauty of Socotra, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey onwards. Transport will be arranged to take you to the airport. The only flight departs Socotra at 11:00 and arrives in Abu Dhabi at 14:15.

As you leave Socotra behind, you’ll take with you memories of dramatic coats, wild, white sand beaches, and unforgettable adventures in one of most breathtaking and unique landscapes in the world. Until next time!