When you see anything about Yemen in the media it’s normally not good. With airstrikes and terrorism normally topping the headlines. Yemen, however, is a big country with diverse landscapes, people and different safety situations. Socotra is far away from the mainland and is isolated in many ways not just distance, but it is still a part of Yemen. So, is it still dangerous to visit?
Political Stability on Socotra Vs Mainland Yemen
Due to Socotra’s distance and isolation out in the Indian Ocean, it is insulated against most of the conflict that has taken place on mainland Yemen. In fact, Socotra has not seen any major fighting at all and has not been targeting by any local groups or outside actors either. While mainland Yemen has seen multiple airstrikes in Houthi-controlled territory and more recently Hadramaut region has also seen civil unrest with the local government been taken over by the Southern Transitional Council (STC), Socotra however has remained safe and stable.
Is it safe for women?
This is often a question posed when people are looking to travel to the Middle East. For women, Socotra is absolutely safe and poses no additional risks. You will have to dress conservatively when you arrive and when you are in towns, but a part from wearing a headscarf travelling Socotra will be surprisingly relaxed for both women and men.
What are the main risks on Socotra?
As you will be outside a lot of your time, and you will be visiting many lagoons, reefs and amazing beaches your biggest danger will be sunburn! So, we absolutely recommend you bring sunscreen so you can spend as much time as you want in the sun.
It is also handy to remember that when snorkelling around coral reefs, that it is always a “look but don’t touch” policy. While many animals on the reef can be beautiful some can be poisonous or have spines, so it is always best to never touch anything on a reef.
Another thing to remember when being in the sun is to stay hydrated! This may seem simple, but we have seen many people who come from colder climates simply fall ill in places where they aren’t used to the temperatures. Thankfully the solution is just to drink lots of water!
Cultural etiquette and local laws to be aware of
Socotri people, just like people on Mainland Yemen are overall quite conservative and following Islamic traditions. This means that when you are in the town of Hadiboh you will have to follow the dress code. For women this means long sleeves and pants or a skirt and a headscarf. For men, this also means long pants. When you are outside of these areas then there is no dress code required.
Public displays of affection are also discouraged for couples visiting the island. Of course, you can be affectionate outside of populated areas as there’s no one there to care.
Alcohol is forbidden in Yemen, and you won’t be able to buy it on the island. You are however able to bring 2 litres with you to the island is you are a non-Muslim. These can be consumed while you are camping in remote areas. This rule does not apply to travel to mainland Yemen.
Is Mainland Yemen too dangerous to visit?
Yes and no. Even though the Hadramaut region has recently had a shift in power and is now under control of the STC. The security situation there is still safe enough for foreigners to visit, however you will absolutely be required to be accompanied by a guide. For Sana’a and other areas under Houthi control, it is not advised to try and visit these areas at all.
Are there other risks on the island?
The main other risk is the windy season from late May to end of September. During this time Socotra can experience some extreme weather including cyclones. During this time however tours don’t run as flights are regularly cancelled due to the strong winds. Our group tours will take place between October to May outside of the windy season.
Is it safe to travel solo to Socotra?
To travel to Socotra, you need to be with a guide at all times. Technically this means independent travel of the island is not allowed. However, with limited resources on the island you will want to be with a local guide to get around. You don’t have to join a group tour, but it is the best way to see the island for a good price.
How to join a Saiga Socotra group tour?
You can see our tour dates available on the Saiga Tours website here . To join secure your place on the tour, send us an email to [email protected] .
