15-Day Socotra and South Yemen Private Tour Package

Your tour to Yemen and Socotra begins with your arrival in Socotra.

In the afternoon, after you arrive at the Socotra Airport in Hadibo, the capital of Socotra Island, our local guide and driver will warmly meet you at the airport. Then you will head to the Beachside Hotel to check in. When you first arrive on this island, you will be able to feel the unique tranquility of this place, along with the sea breeze from the Indian Ocean and the raw natural atmosphere.

After a brief rest and lunch, embark on your first exploration stop in Socotra: Delisha Beach. Delisha Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Socotra Island, featuring pristine, fine sand and a massive white dune. In the late afternoon, you can climb to the top of the sand dune to admire the sun slowly sinking into the Indian Ocean.

Kind Reminder:
There is a shortage of resources on Socotra Island. Please use water and electricity sparingly and abide by the ecological rules.

Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Beachside Hotel

After breakfast, you will head to the Homhil Protected Area to begin exploring the natural wonders of Socotra. Due to its long isolation from the mainland, the island has grown a wealth of endemic plant species, among which the most famous is the "bottle tree," also known as the "desert rose".

By hiking into the Homhil Protected Area, you can see the bottle trees growing between the valleys and rocks, creating a stark contrast to the desolate terrain. At noon, experience the natural sea-view swimming pool. This small water pool is formed by natural rocks, with clear seawater combining with the magnificent sea view.

In the afternoon, you will continue to Arher Beach, one of the most breathtaking natural dune landscapes on Socotra Island. The massive white sand dunes stretch all the way to the azure coastline. The most unique feature here is the meeting of desert and sea. You can enjoy the view of pristine white sand dunes on one side and the deep blue Indian Ocean on the other. Climbing to the top of Arher Sand Dune allows you to overlook the entire coastline.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Beachside Hotel

This morning you will head to Hoq Cave, one of the most famous natural caves on the island. Hike a difficult path and then enter the cave. The interior space of the cave is enormous, with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and naturally formed rock structures. Some areas still preserve traces of ancient texts, adding a mysterious touch to this cave. Not only can you visit the geological wonders of Socotra, but you can also learn about Socotra's history and culture.

In the afternoon, you will travel to the Dihamri Marine Protected Area. This area is regarded as one of the best marine ecological experiences on Socotra. Beneath the clear and transparent water lies a rich coral ecosystem. While snorkeling, you can see colorful tropical fish swimming among the corals. If the season is right, you may also have the opportunity to encounter sea turtles.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Beachside Hotel

After breakfast, you will explore Kalysan Canyon. Hike into the depths of the canyon, which boasts the largest freshwater pool on Socotra Island, allowing you to swim and relax in a natural pool during your journey. The natural turquoise colored pool is flanked by white cliffs on both sides. Here, you can enjoy cliff jumping and sunbathing to your heart's content.

In the afternoon, you will continue your hiking exploration along the canyon, searching for the desert roses that grow among the rocks. Every spring from March to April, the desert roses bloom with pink flowers, creating an astonishing scene among the barren rock.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Beachside Hotel

Today you will explore the most classic landscape area of Socotra. In the morning, head to Dirhur Canyon and hike deep into the canyon. Here, there are spectacular rock formations and clear freshwater pools. You can swim in a cool freshwater pool.

In the afternoon, you will venture to Firmihin Forest, which is the largest concentration of dragon blood trees in the world. The dragon blood tree is the symbol of Socotra. They have a unique umbrella-shaped canopy, with branches and leaves spreading out in all directions, as if coming from another planet. Local residents used to collect the red resin secreted by the dragon blood trees and use it for traditional medicine and dyeing purposes. This ancient tradition is still continuing in some areas to this day.

In the evening, you can enjoy the stunning sunset among the dragon blood trees and experience camping under the alien-like dragon blood trees.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Dragon Blood Tree Forest Campsite

In the morning, you will wake up in the wild dragon blood tree forest. After having breakfast, leave the dragon blood tree forest campsite and continue to explore the southern area of Socotra.

Your first stop of today is Omaq Beach, which is a charming coastal beach on Socotra. Omaq Beach is even more peaceful and primitive, with a white and soft sandy beach. The seawater there presents a beautiful blue-green color. You can swim in the clear Indian Ocean waters and experience the pure nature far away from the modern world.

In the afternoon, you will continue to Zahek Sand Dunes and Hayf Sand Dunes, where you can see the striking scene of huge white sand dunes, exposed mountains, and azure oceans. Standing at the top of the high sand dunes, you can overlook the sprawling coastline and the surrounding scenery of Socotra.

Before dusk, head to the Dagub Cave. This cave is relatively easy to reach. The entrance of this limestone cave offers a dramatic coastal view. From the entrance of the cave, you can see the traditional village and the distant sea. Enter the cave and discover stalactites, stalagmites, and the endemic bats.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Zahek Sand Dunes Campsite

Today is the most anticipated day of Socotra's journey, and you need to wake up early. Around 4-5 am, you will take a boat to Shuab Beach. You may have the opportunity to encounter groups of dolphins accompanying your boat and occasionally jumping out of the sea. Shuab Beach maintains an almost pristine state, with pristine white sand beaches, transparent seawater, and an almost undisturbed environment. You can swim in the clear water or snorkel to explore the rich marine life.

Later, you will explore Detwah Lagoon, known for its bright turquoise waters, long white sandbar, and rich marine life. If it is during the spring months from March to April, you can also climb the cliff to admire the blooming desert roses and take photos of the popular desert rose pictures taken against the backdrop of Detwah Lagoon that are popular on social media.

Return to Hadibo town in the evening to rest at the hotel. Prepare for the next day's trip to the mainland of Yemen.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Beachside Hotel

After breakfast, pack your luggage, and you will conclude your journey on Socotra Island. You will transfer to Socotra Airport and board the flight to the southern city of Yemen, Aden.

After arriving in Aden, you will complete the relevant procedures and then proceed to the hotel for check-in. Aden is located at the southern end of the Arabian Peninsula. It is an important port connecting the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Arab world, and was once a crucial node on the trade route.

Today, you will stay at the hotel to rest and prepare for the exploration of Yemen's civilization in the coming days.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Aden

After breakfast, you will embark on an in-depth tour of Aden city. Firstly, you will visit Sira Fortress, standing on a volcanic hill. This historic fortress overlooks the entire Gulf of Aden and is one of the most representative landmarks of Aden.

Then, delve into the Crater District, which is one of the most historically significant areas in Aden. The streets are lined with traditional Arab and British colonial architectural styles. Strolling through the streets to explore the ancient markets and mosques, you can experience the local living atmosphere.

Next, you will visit the Tawila Tanks, an ancient water reservoir with a history of over a thousand years. This ancient water conservancy project witnessed the development history of Aden as an important trading port. In the afternoon, head to the seaside area of the ship dock to experience the colonial charm left over from the British era in Aden. Enjoy the unique coastal landscape formed by the harbor, lighthouse, and spectacular volcanic terrain.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Aden

After breakfast, you will head to the airport and take Yemen Airlines to Seiyun. After arriving at Seiyun Airport, the local guide will take you to the Hawta Palace Hotel for check-in. After checking in, take a short rest at the hotel to alleviate the fatigue caused by long-distance flights.

If time permits, you can get a preliminary understanding of the local customs and culture of Seiyun under the guidance of the tour guide. In the evening, you can gaze at the ancient city of Shibam, which is known as the "Manhattan of the Desert". Enjoy the layered mud-brick buildings under the setting sun's glow and experience the unique charm of this thousand-year-old city.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hawta Palace Hotel

After breakfast, you will explore Seiyun city and visit one of the most iconic buildings in the Hadhramaut Governorate, the Al Kathiri Palace & Museum. This magnificent mud brick palace was once the residence of the Kathiri sultans and now houses a museum showcasing a rich collection of historical relics and ethnic cultural heritage.

Later, you will head to the renowned academic center of the Islamic world, Tarim. Tarim is known as the "City of Saints" and boasts hundreds of mosques and religious colleges. Visit the towering Al-Muhdhar Mosque, as well as the unique Seven Domes in Aynat.

Afterwards, you will visit the Tomb of Prophet Hud, which is highly respected by Muslims. You can learn about the profound religious traditions and cultural beliefs of the local area. Return to the Hawta Palace Hotel in the evening to rest.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hawta Palace Hotel

After breakfast, you will head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient city of Shibam. This mud-brick city, with a history of over five hundred years, is renowned for its "skyscrapers" that reach up to eight to ten floors. It is regarded as a pioneer in modern high-rise urban architecture.

You can stroll through the narrow ancient alleys and delve deep into the interiors of traditional tower-style houses. Climb to the rooftop to overlook the entire ancient city and the surrounding desert landscape. Then, you can freely explore the local traditional handicrafts and antique shops.

In the afternoon, you will drive deep into the magnificent Wadi Dawan and pass by Haid Al Jazil, a village built on the edge of a cliff. This mud brick village is one of the most classic landscapes of Hadhramaut. Arrive at Haid Al Jazil Resort Hotel in the evening and spend an unforgettable night in the stunning cliff village.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Haid Al Jazil Resort Hotel

This morning, you will wake up in the beautiful valley scenery. After having breakfast, you can start to deeply explore the Wadi Dawan. Walk along the scenic ancient mountain path to the village of Hawfah, and experience the traditional lifestyle of the valley residents that has been passed down for generations.

Continue to explore Al-Hajarayn, a legendary village located on the rock known as one of the most photogenic places in Yemen. Later, visit the colorful and exquisitely decorated Buqshan Palace to learn about the history and architectural art of the local wealthy merchant family.

Then, you will travel to the historical villages of Al-Khuraybah and Al-Rubat, where you can admire the well-preserved traditional mud-brick architectural complexes and experience the unique architectural wisdom and cultural heritage of the Hadhramaut region. In the evening, return to Hawta Palace Hotel for the night.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hawta Palace Hotel

After breakfast, you will take a car back to the city of Seiyun and continue exploring Seiyun. Firstly, visit the historic Al Fales Fortress to learn about the local defense system and regional history that has lasted for hundreds of years.

Then, take a stroll through the Seiyun traditional market, where you can witness the daily life scenes of local people and experience the most authentic Yemeni culture up close. You will particularly visit the renowned Hadhramaut Honey Store and taste the Yemeni honey, which is hailed as one of the world's top natural honeys.

After lunch, you will head to Seiyun Airport to take a domestic flight back to Aden. After arrival, check into the hotel and rest.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Aden

Your 15-day mainland Yemen and Socotra tour comes to an end now. According to the flight schedule, you will depart from Aden and then transfer either to Cairo or Jeddah before returning home. The specific flight details will be based on the actual ticket issued. If there is a direct flight from Seiyun to Cairo or Jeddah on the departure day, you will not need to stay in Aden and will go directly to the transfer destination.

Meals: B
Accommodation: N/A