Best Time to Travel to Socotra

Socotra, being a part of Yemen, is the epitome of charm. Whether locals or tourists, people love to visit. Nonetheless, to visit Socotra, timing is important to get the experience you're wanting. Let’s see the best time of the year to explore this mesmerizing island.

What Is the Best Time to Travel to Socotra?

October to December

October and November are good times to travel to Socotra. The first two months also experience the transition of windy to wet monsoon. Hence, this period is apt to relish new air or life to the island and the greenery starts flourishing. December tends to see the most rainfall, but rarely every day or all day. It usually comes in the form of rainshowers. The benefit to this is that the island is lush and green and the temperatures are very comfortable for hiking and being outside!

Exploring the hidden gems of Socotra for nature lovers is the perfect activity for October and November. They can do mountain activities and savor the lush landscape. Nonetheless, sometimes in November and December the sea can be more rough preventing guests from snorkeling or taking the boat to Shoab. We try our best to have every guest experience every activity, but safety is our number one priority.

January to February

January and the beginning of February are also great times to travel to Socotra. The rains have mostly stopped and there are still a few clouds in the sky to keep the temperatures more comfortable. The sea is typically starting to calm as well, making water activities more pleasant. The island is still green and lush from the rains and the bottle trees are just starting to flower!

February to April

When to visit Socotra? The best time is between February and April. This is the time when the bottle trees have the most flowers (the peak blooming season is around the middle of March). You will also be met with cloudless skies, calm seas (the BEST snorkeling/diving conditions and a smooth boat to Shoab beach), and unlimited stargazing opportunities at night. The only downsides to this time of year are that, since it's the most popular time, there are more guests on the island and the temperatures are quite hot due to the lack of cloud cover. Coming prepared with light, longsleeve clothing, a hat, and environmentally friendly sunscreen is a must for this time of year...as is drinking ample water.

June to September

These months are considered the "off season" as the windy monsoon takes over, particularly on the north coast of the island. In Hadibo, the wind speed is around 80 kph, from about 10pm-4pm the next day, every day for nearly three months. We do not run tours during this time.

Mini Travel Guide to Socotra

You have already figured out the best time to travel to Socotra, but what is the best way to get to this island? There is a direct 2 hour flight from Abu Dhabi to the island. Here at Socotra Specialty Tours, we book and arrange everything for our guests!

Please remember that Socotra is entirely Muslim, which requires guests to dress modestly. Loose dresses are pertinent for women, particularly when they decide to go to the villages.

Hand sanitizers and eye drops are effective to secure your skin and eyes from irritation and other issues. Some other things you can pack include fast-drying towels, a fan that is battery-powered, lip balm, lotion, toothbrush and toothpaste. Besides, it is suitable to go for environmentally friendly products like sunscreen, soap and shampoo.

What are the regions of Socotra?

When To Visit Socotra in 2025? While finalizing this matter, it is better to decide on the region to see as well. You can even tour to multiple areas like Northeast, Northwest and Central Socotra. In the latter, there is Diksam, which is well-known for Dragon’s Blood Trees and its nursery. Also, such trees are there in Firhmin forest, which is also in Central Socotra.

For relishing a famed fishing port as well as narrow streets, visit the Qalansiah, which is at Northwest Socotra. It also comprises Detwah Lagoon that is one of the prettiest parts of this island. Northeast Socotra has Hoq Cave, encompassing distinctive rock formations. Then, there is Crab City, which is the home to sand crabs.

Socotra Specialty Tours: For a Secure & Enjoyable Experience

Socotra Specialty Tours is one of the emerging and safest options to travel to this island in Yemen. We offer a plethora of amenities, such as a visit visa, adventure tour of multiple days, a guide who is well-versed in English as well as memories which will stay with you forever.

You can explore the best hiking trails on Socotra island too. Besides, you can stay under the watchful eye of our guide, which will assist in learning about different sites and amassing ideas on enjoyable activities. We will provide the camping equipment as well, including blanket, pillow and tent.

Conclusion

Socotra is an amazing island with different weather during the tourist season. Planning your journey at a time that will allow you to have the experience you want is very important. If you'd like calm seas and a fresh island, come in October/November. If you prefer cooler temperatures and a lush, green island, come in December/beginning of January. For the most flowers and calm seas come in February-April.