Socotra – Expedition to the Lost World, the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Language
English / Hungarian
Location
Socotra
Run
Every week
About the trip
Step into the most isolated, alien landscape on Earth: walk through mythical dragon’s blood tree forests, cruise alongside wild dolphins, and camp under a star-filled sky at the foot of snow-white sand dunes!
🗓 Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Socotra, Qalancia & The Paradise of Shoab Beach
Arriving at Socotra Airport, we head straight to the fishing village of Qalancia on the western tip of the island. We board a traditional wooden boat and cruise to the completely isolated, turquoise waters of Shoab Beach. Along the way, there is a very high chance that wild dolphins will swim alongside our boat. In the evening, we set up our first wild, scenic campsite.
Day 2: The Breathtaking Detwah Lagoon
We spend the morning at Detwah Lagoon, widely considered one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the world. The view of dazzling white sandbanks meeting the shallow, crystal-clear water in a thousand shades of blue is truly stunning. We walk through the lagoon, spot unique marine life (such as stingrays and pufferfish), and then head inland toward the heart of the island.
Day 3: The Mystical Firmhen Dragon’s Blood Tree Forest
We climb onto the Diksam Plateau to enter the realm of the iconic dragon’s blood trees (Dracaena cinnabari), which are found nowhere else on Earth. Walking through the Firmhen Forest feels like stepping onto a sci-fi movie set or a prehistoric world. We learn about the history of the tree's medicinal red resin and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local Bedouins.
Day 4: The Snow-White Sand Dunes of Zahek
We head toward the southern coast of the island, where the monumental, blindingly white sand mountains of the Zahek Dunes cascade directly into the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. We walk barefoot through the fine sand, climb the dunes for a perfect panoramic view, and camp under a canopy of stars right in the heart of the desert.
Day 5: Degub Cave & The Hidden Oasis of Wadi Klisan
In the morning, we visit Degub Cave, nestled in a massive cliffside fissure, before continuing our journey to one of the island's most beautiful canyons, Wadi Klisan. Here, we can refresh ourselves and swim in natural, turquoise limestone pools tucked away between steep rock walls.
Day 6: Trekking to Hoq Cave & The Gigantic Dunes of Arher
In the morning, an energetic 4-hour trek takes us up to the monumental Hoq Cave, which features massive stalactites and ancient inscriptions inside. In the afternoon, we travel to Arher Beach, where giant white sand dunes lean against towering cliffs, and fresh mountain springs flow directly into the sea. This is one of the island's most spectacular campsites.
Day 7: Hadibu – The Colorful Capital of the Island
We say goodbye to the wilderness and return to the main hub of Socotra, the town of Hadibu. We visit the local market, where you can pick up unique Socotran souvenirs, raw honey, and traditional spices, while gaining a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. We spend our final night in a comfortable city hotel.
Day 8: Farewell to the Lost World & Departure
In the morning, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Jeddah, where we catch our connecting flight back to Budapest with memories that will last a lifetime.
Tour Price
Price Includes
✓ Exclusive Camping Experience: 6 nights of accommodation at scenic locations in fully equipped campsites, featuring comfortable tents, mattresses, and bedding.
✓ City Accommodation: 1 night in Hadibu at a comfortable 3-star hotel at the end of the tour.
✓ Gastronomy: 3 main meals a day, freshly prepared by our private accompanying chef using local ingredients.
✓ Refreshments and Snacks: All soft drinks, unlimited drinking water, fresh fruits, and snacks provided inside the 4x4 vehicles.
✓ Comfortable Transport: Modern 4x4 vehicles (Toyota Land Cruiser), with 4 passengers per vehicle, including drivers and fuel for the entire island.
✓ Expert Team: Experienced local guide, private chef, and camp helpers, accompanied throughout the journey by a Hungarian tour leader.
✓ Programs: All entrance fees to protected nature reserves and the Shoab Beach boat tour.
✓ Transfers: All airport transfers on the island upon arrival and departure.
Price Does Not Include
❌ International Flights: Flight tickets and taxes for the Budapest–Jeddah–Budapest route
❌ Saudi Transit Visa: E-visa fee required for entering/transiting through Saudi Arabia
❌ Personal Travel Insurance, Traditional Tips: Tips for local crew, including drivers, chef, and guide. Personal expenses
Important Information
• The order of activities may change due to local conditions or weather
• Booking is confirmed upon payment of the deposit
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