Embark on an unforgettable 15-day Yemen and Socotra tour across the diverse landscapes and culture. This journey will take you from the ancient cities and vast deserts to the serene shores of the Arabian Sea.
The first part of this itinerary is a mainland Yemen tour. The market in the ancient city is filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices and an exotic atmosphere. You will visit landmarks like Sana, Shibam, and Mukalla.
Then you will step into a world lost in time, the mystical island of Socotra. Socotra is far from the mainland and is rarely visited by people. You can see the endemic dragon blood tree, the bottle tree, and the dreamy starry sky.
Prepare for an adventure into a land of unparalleled beauty and history now!
Highlights
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sana'a, the ancient mud-brick city of the Hadhramaut, and Wadi Dawan, the oasis in a valley.
Experience a variety of terrains and landscapes and travel through deserts, canyons, mountains, oceans, coral reefs, and the dragon blood tree forest.
Witness the ultimate clash between civilization and nature and get a glimpse into the unique flora and fauna.
Travel in a group limited to just 12 people, with an English-speaking local guide and a professional photographer.
Blend comfort with adventure: relaxing on the beaches, camping, hiking, and exploring ancient cities.
Enjoy a perfectly balanced tour of Yemen and Socotra with seamless flights and private transfers.
Itinerary
Your Yemen tour begins when you arrive in the historic port city of Aden. You will be greeted by your tour guide and driver. And then set off on a drive tour towards the magnificent Wadi Dawan (or Wadi Doan), which will take you approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Wadi Dawan is a desert valley known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history. You can visit the ancient traditional villages and mud brick buildings. Strolling in the wadi, you can dive into local life. Late in the afternoon, head to the viewing spot and appreciate the gorgeous sunset view of Wadi Dawan.
Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Wadi Dawan
After breakfast, travel to the ancient city of Shibam. Shibam is known as the "Manhattan of the Desert" and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the mud-brick tower houses, which represent one of the earliest and most impressive examples of vertical urban planning.
Your exploration will continue to the city of Seiyun, and you will visit Seiyun Palace (Sultan Al Kathiri Palace), the former residence of the Kathiri sultans. This palace, with its white outer wall and intricate decorations, offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal past. You can explore the rich historical relics in the palace.
The remaining time is for optional activities. You can experience dune bashing in a 4×4 off-road vehicle or ride a camel to travel across the golden sand dunes.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Seiyun
In the morning, enjoy a scenic 3 to 4-hour drive that takes you from the beautiful desert to the stunning coastal city of Mukalla on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
You can travel through the city and wander along the beach promenade. Enjoy the magnificent coastline views and immerse yourself in a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. This is the perfect opportunity for free photography and relaxation. You can capture the vibrant life of locals and enjoy crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Mukalla
Prepare for a day of epic travel after breakfast. Drive 5 to 6 hours to Al-Mahrah. On the way, you will travel through and take photos of untouched wilderness and red sand.
In the evening, you will be welcomed into a traditional Bedouin tribe, where you will enjoy Bedouin hospitality and spend a wonderful night with the local Bedouins. Enjoy the campfire dinner and share stories under the stars.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Al-Mahrah
This morning, you will begin your journey back towards Aden. Upon your return to Aden, the remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy. You can choose to take photos of the beauty of Aden or delve into the vibrant local markets for textiles and handicrafts.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Aden
Today, you will take a 2-hour morning flight from Aden to the nation's capital, Sana'a. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel to check in.
The afternoon is set aside for free time, allowing you to relax by yourself. You might choose to take a gentle walk around your hotel's neighborhood or relax and prepare for tomorrow's exploration.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Sana'a
Today, you will focus on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sana'a Old City. The city is like an open-air museum, with a history of thousands of years. Your guide will lead you through this old city and explain the history and traditional architecture of this architectural wonder.
Your cultural tour includes a visit to the grand Al-Saleh Mosque, the largest in Yemen. Immerse yourself in the vibrant vibe of the traditional markets, where the air is filled with the scent of spices.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Sana'a
Bid farewell to the bustling capital and take a scenic 2-hour drive to Al-Hajjarah village. Marvel at the ancient village located on a rocky cliff. The undulating terraces are layered and spread out on the mountainside. Capture the perfect moments to take photos of the most beautiful villages and terraces.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Haraz Mountains
Take a flight from Sana'a back to Aden and then transfer to Socotra. After arriving, check into a hotel by the seaside.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Hadibo
Today, you will set out for Detwah Lagoon, with a breathtaking stretch of coastline. The lagoon is surrounded by pristine white sands and home to a variety of birdlife and marine creatures. Clear, turquoise waters create a perfect, mirror-like reflection of the sky and surrounding views.
Camp by the seaside in the evening and enjoy the beautiful night.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Detwah Lagoon Campsite
In the morning, travel to Qalansiya fishing village, where you can take a boat tour to Shuab Beach. You may have a chance to encounter dolphins on the way.
In the afternoon, you will head to Diksam Plateau, home to Socotra's most famous Dragon's Blood Tree. The unique plants create an atmosphere as if you were on another planet.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Diksam Plateau Campsite
Today, you will delve deeper into the heart of the Dragon's Blood Tree forest. Venture to the Firmhin forest. You can see the unique landscapes and the rich biodiversity, and learn about the red resin and its functions.
In the afternoon, you will continue to Amoak Beach, where the desert dramatically meets the turquoise sea. You can enjoy the soft sand in a peaceful atmosphere.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Amoak Beach Campsite
Today, pay a visit to Dagub Cave. The entrance to this massive cave is an awe-inspiring sight. Standing at the entrance of the cave, you can appreciate a magnificent view of the coastline and the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea. Step into and discover a world of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
Later, venture to the nearby Zaheq Sand Dunes, a great place to witness a breathtaking Socotra sunset. You can climb up a high dune and watch as the sun colors the sand dunes even more charming. As night falls, you can admire the beautiful night sky without any light pollution.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Zaheq Sand Dunes Campsite
Today, you will travel to Wadi Kalisan and start with a hiking tour around Kalisan Canyon. The crystal-clear swimming pools are impressive.
Head to Homhil Protected Area with the striking bottle trees. Bottle trees are also known as the desert rose, because they will bloom with pink flowers from early March to late April. Experience the infinity pool where you can swim in the refreshing water and enjoy the breathtaking ocean views.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Homhil Protected Area Campsite
In the morning, you will head to Dihamri Marine Reserve, a paradise for snorkelers. Enjoy snorkeling in the morning to discover rich coral reefs and a wide variety of marine creatures.
In the afternoon, return to Hadibo and board the departure flight.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: N/A
Include/ Exclude
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Private local English-speaking tour guide and driver service
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Private air-conditioned car with ample space
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Private transfers from hotel to attractions, airport or train station
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All admission fees and expenses mentioned in the itinerary
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Hotel accommodation with breakfast
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Meals mentioned in the itinerary. Meals specified in itinerary as B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner.
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Our 1-on-1 travel consultation and tailor-made service
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International flights not included in the itinerary
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Visa fees, if required
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Meals not included in the itinerary
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Optional excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
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Personal expenses
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Gratuities for guides and drivers
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Customs taxes, overweight baggage fees, baggage storage fees
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