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Socotra Island On hold

A Call to Empathy in a Globalized World

The turmoil in the Middle East feels distant for many, a flicker on the news cycle. But the truth is, we're, after all, inextricably linked. The tremors of this war, like aftershocks of a giant earthquake, travel far and wide, impacting us in ways we might not even realize.


It's with a heavy heart that I announce the indefinite postponement of our upcoming trip to Socotra. While seemingly unrelated, this decision stems from a deep sense of responsibility. We have the power to make choices with our resources, our time, and our energy. In this climate of escalating violence, taking a tourist trip feels incongruent. 


This isn't just about me. This is about a global consciousness, an understanding that empathy transcends borders. The pain, the suffering, the yearning for peace in the Middle East – it echoes across the world, a call to action that demands our attention.

By choosing to pause this trip, I'm taking a stand. It's a small act, yes, but it's a stand nonetheless. It's a vote with our dollars, a commitment to being more awake to the interconnectedness of our world.


Let's use this pause not just for Socotra, but for ourselves. Let's educate ourselves on the conflict, pressure leaders for peace, and most importantly, cultivate empathy. Let's recognize the shared humanity that binds us all, and work towards a future where the struggles of one region don't become the burdens of the world. This is our collective call to be better, to be more aware, and to use the power we have to build a more peaceful and compassionate world.

Resource to learn more: Global Conflict Tracker

The Basics

Unleash Your Empathy

Where We Will Stay

airplane wing in clouds

  • GROUP SIZE: Up to ten (10). Double occupancy available
  • PRICE: ~ 2808 USD
  • Packing List
  • Global Rescue Travel Insurance


USD cash is king on Socotra. There are no

ATMs and credit cards cannot be used on

the island. Notes should be new and in

good condition.


Socotra, situated at a considerable distance from the tensions surrounding Houthi-controlled Yemen, has a longstanding reputation for isolation and safety.


Presently, the island is under the control of a UAE and Saudi-led council dedicated to overseeing security. Rest assured, Socotra is considered a safe destination. However, we advise staying informed about any travel advisories and following local guidelines during your visit. Your safety remains our top priority.

Where We Will Stay

Unleash Your Empathy

Where We Will Stay

camping at night by a dragon tree

During our journey around the island, our accommodation will primarily involve camping in the wilderness. It's important to note that some camps may lack running water, so it's advisable to be prepared for such conditions. Rest assured, we provide all the necessary camping equipment, including sleeping bags, to ensure you don't need to worry about preparations. Embrace the adventure as we explore and camp in the scenic and untamed landscapes of the destination.

Unleash Your Empathy

Unleash Your Empathy

mountains and sea

Pre-trip workshops: Dive deep into the concept of "unsettled empathy" and explore how travel can challenge your biases and open your heart to diverse perspectives.

Flexible adventure: Choose from a curated menu of activities and excursions, or design your own adventure based on your interests and passions.

Reflective moments: Integrate meditation, yoga, or journaling into your daily routine to deepen your self-awareness and connection to the present moment.

Lifelong connections: Meet like-minded individuals from all walks of life who share your passion for travel and personal growth


DAY 1

DAY 1

  • Meet at Abu Dhabi airport for early flight to Socotra.
  • Arrival in Habido, greeted by local Socotri guide.
  • Drive to Qalansiya, second-largest town, with a stop at abandoned Soviet tanks.
  • Enjoy a breathtaking view of Detwah Lagoon, trek down to the beach for relaxation.
  • Walk to campsite for a substantial lunch.
  • Climb nearby hill for a panoramic sunset view of Qalansiyah and Detwah.
  • Dinner and overnight camping at Detwah Eco-campsite with facilities.

DAY 2

DAY 1

DAY 2

  • Early morning boat trip to Shoub beach with scenic rock formations and native birdlife.
  • Possibility of encountering dolphins during the journey.
  • Relax and swim at Shoub, the island's most beautiful beach.
  • Return to Qalansiya by boat.
  • After lunch, trek along the shores to visit Abdullah Alloi's cave, the local "caveman."
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and tea.
  • Quick tour of the lagoon with Abdullah, showcasing marine life such as pufferfish, sea cucumber, squid, starfish, and sea urchin.
  • Camping at Detwah Eco-campsite.

DAY 3

DAY 1

DAY 2

  • Early start, 2-hour drive to Diksam Plateau – home of Dragon’s Blood Trees.
  • Walk through the Trees to a viewpoint overlooking Wadi Dirhar, a stunning canyon dividing Diksam and the Firmihin forest.
  • Lunch under the shade of a Dragon’s Blood Tree.
  • Post-lunch dip in a freshwater creek in Wadi Dirhar.
  • Off-road 4×4 drive to Firmihin forest, followed by a sunset hike to the forest's top for a spectacular view of thousands of Dragon’s Blood Trees.
  • Set up camp at Diksam, Dinner and overnight.

DAY 4

DAY 4

DAY 4

  • Morning walk to the nearby Dragon’s Blood Tree nursery.
  • Head to the South coast for the breathtaking sand dunes along the coast.
  • Drive across the dunes, with ample photo opportunities.
  • Visit the cave of Dagub if time permits.
  • Enjoy a swim at Amak Beach.
  • Lunch amid a palm date tree forest next to the beach.
  • 2-hour drive north to our campsite at Dihamri Marine Sanctuary – ideal for trying out sunset/nighttime snorkeling.

DAY 5

DAY 4

DAY 4

  • Morning spent scuba diving and snorkeling (extra cost).
  • Drive inland and south to Killisan canyon and pools. Off-road drive followed by a 45-minute trek to reach the destination.
  • Enjoy swimming in the turquoise pools and jumping from ledges into crystal-clear water.
  • Picnic lunch.
  • Drive to Arher Beach campsite, known for the massive sand dune climb.
  • Free time to explore the area; those up for it can climb the 300m-high dune (recommended for sunrise).
  • Dinner and overnight camping with a fire.

DAY 6

DAY 4

DAY 6

  • Explore the area known for the renowned Dragon Blood trees, with plenty of bottle trees and cucumber plants.
  • After a 30-minute walk, reach a breathtaking crystal-clear pool with panoramic views of the southern part of the island.
  • Swim and relax at the "infinity pool" before returning upstream for a picnic lunch under the palms.
  • Drive back to Arher beach, stopping at the Socotra folklore museum along the way.
  • Dinner and overnight stay in Arher.

DAY 7

DAY 7

DAY 6

  • Wake up next to the ocean and climb the sand dune (again..!) before sunrise if you dare. Cool off in the sea and rinse off in the freshwater streams.
  • Drive to Raw Erisel, the meeting point of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.
  • This is the point where freshwater and saltwater meet creating a natural phenomenon.
  • Lunch at Delisha Beach! A beautiful white beach complete with a shipwreck.
  • Visit the Yemeni Foundation & development for Socotra. Learn how the foundation is doing great work educating the youth of the island in conservation, foreign languages and computer skills.
  • Check into the newly opened Heathrow Hotel (Yep, it’s near the airport) – now the only hotel on the island with functioning AC & Wifi!
  • Freshen up and get rid of all the sand before our last dinner together.
  • Dinner and overnight in Hadibo.

DAY 8

DAY 7

DAY 8

  • Free time before we catch our flight to Abu Dhabi.
  • Arrival at approx 17:00 local time.

pink flower tree

TIPS FOR BUILDING EMPATHY

  •  Chat with guides, servers, and fellow travelers about daily life, challenges, and joys on the island
  • Dive into the island's colonial past and beautiful resilience/resistance
  • Open ears, open heart: Ask questions, listen actively, and strive to see the world through others' eyes while being grounded in your own


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