The wide sand dunes of Arher on Socotra, ready for an expedition

Packing list for Socotra

So you can enjoy your Socotra adventure to the full, here’s the ultimate packing list for one of the most extraordinary and fascinating places in the world.

The short answer

Tent, mattress, pillow, drinking water and meals are provided by us. All you need is your clothing, personal hygiene items, tech for the offline days and your key travel documents. Pack as light as you can, because your luggage travels with you every day over dusty tracks.

The packing list

Clothing

  • Jumper, hoodie or sweater
  • T-shirts, underwear, socks
  • Light, comfortable clothing that can get dirty
  • A light jacket for the evenings
  • Shorts
  • Long outdoor trousers
  • Swimming trunks, swimsuit or bikini
  • Hiking boots
  • Flip-flops or sandals
  • Trainers
  • A hat or sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • A sleeping-bag liner (sleeping bag, pillow)

Hygiene & medication

  • High-SPF sunscreen, 50+
  • Eco-friendly soap and toothpaste
  • Eco-friendly shower gel and shampoo
  • Biodegradable toilet paper and wet wipes
  • Insect-repellent spray
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Sanitising wipes
  • Lip balm
  • Ibuprofen, a first-aid kit, personal medication

Tech

  • A large power bank
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Headphones
  • Torch / head torch
  • A universal adapter
  • Charging cables for all your devices

Documents

  • Passport (valid at least 6 months)
  • Printed flight tickets
  • Printed visa
  • Travel-insurance documents
  • Emergency numbers (saved offline)

Other

  • Snorkelling gear, if you’d rather not hire it
  • Approx. 50 to 100 USD in cash for souvenirs and personal spending
  • A first-aid kit for emergencies
  • A water bottle

Insider tips from experience

  • Go big on the power bank: There are barely any sockets on the island. A 20,000-mAh power bank keeps your phone and camera going for several days.
  • Break in your hiking boots: New boots on gravel tracks are a bad idea. Break your hiking boots in a few weeks beforehand.
  • Eco-friendly soap: Socotra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Please use biodegradable soaps and shampoos.
  • A small daypack: A light backpack for daily outings; the rest stays in the vehicle.
  • Sleeping bag for Oct–Feb: The nights can get cool, especially in the highlands.

What you can leave at home

  • A big suitcase: a 40–60 litre backpack is enough and more practical
  • Your own tent and camping crockery: we provide it all
  • Lots of cash: there’s little to buy on the island, and all the essentials are included
  • Smart clothing: leave it at home

FAQ

Do I have to bring a tent?

No. We provide the tent, mattress and pillow. You only need your personal things and, depending on the season, a sleeping bag.

Which shoes do I need?

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots for the demanding tracks and trails. Add light shoes such as sandals or flip-flops for camp, beach and the hot days.

How can I power my devices during the Socotra trip?

Please remember to bring a large power bank. You can also charge on the move in the car via our inverters, which we bring along on the island.

Back to all travel info
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AccommodationWhat’s provided at camp. HealthFirst-aid kit and vaccinations. Best time to visitWhat you need depending on the season.
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Let’s plan your Socotra trip.

We take care of everything. You just have to pack and come.

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