Socotra Secret Tourism Agency Socotra Secret

Practical

What to pack for Socotra

Travel light, and bring good protection from the sun. That is genuinely most of it — we provide the camping equipment, so the heavy things are not yours to carry.

We provide
Tent, sleeping bag, lights, Starlink at camp
Bring
Sun protection, US dollars in cash
Personal spending
Around $500 across a tour
Vaccinations
None needed
01

What we provide, so you do not need to bring it

We provide the camping side of things: sleeping bags, tents, lights, and Starlink internet at camp. You do not need to carry any of it with you.

That is the single biggest thing to know before you start packing, because it removes the bulkiest items from the list.

02

Sun

Good protection from the sun is most of the packing problem. Plan for being outdoors all day rather than for a change of scene in the evening.

03

Money

Bring US dollars in cash. Local exchange is available on the island once you arrive.

Around $500 is a sensible amount for personal spending across a tour. Your food, transport, guiding and entrance fees are already included, so this is for the things that are genuinely yours to choose.

04

What to wear

Dress is not strictly enforced, and nobody will trouble you about it. A head covering is recommended for women in town, and it is appreciated rather than required.

05

Health

No vaccinations or malaria tablets are needed. Taking them is a safe measure and entirely up to you.

Travellers with severe back pain should speak to their doctor first, as the roads are very bumpy. That is worth knowing before you commit rather than on day two.

06

What the conditions are actually like

On the camping tours the camps are basic. On the hotel-based tour the bathrooms are proper. Pack for the one you have chosen.

You need to be fit enough for rough travel — the roads are very bumpy. There is no long-distance walking on the camping tours beyond what you choose, but the driving is not gentle.

If you are unsure whether to bring something, ask before you buy it. We would rather answer a small question than have you carry something you did not need.

Ask us anything

Itineraries are sent on request. Message us and we will reply personally.

Fastest reply

Info@socotrasecret.com