Before we cross the border into mysterious Yemen, we’ll make a brief stop in Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival in Jeddah, we’ll explore a city transforming into a futuristic metropolis of the Middle East. Among modern projects and endless construction sites, the future tallest tower in the world is rising here. After completing entry formalities, we’ll immerse ourselves for the first time in the atmosphere of a country that has only recently opened to the world. In the evening, we’ll taste local specialties, let the Arabian rhythm wash over us, and rest before continuing our journey. First night in Jeddah.
Today, Jeddah will show us its more relaxed side. Situated on the shores of the Red Sea, it’s one of Saudi Arabia’s most cosmopolitan cities, and during the day we’ll discover its contrasts—from modern skyscrapers and luxury districts to old alleyways where time seems to have stood still. We’ll stroll along the famous Corniche waterfront promenade, past beaches, modern cafés, and the iconic King Fahd Fountain, which shoots water dozens of meters high above the sea.
The greatest charm, however, lies in the historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A labyrinth of narrow streets, old merchant houses built from coral stone, wooden roshan balconies, and the scent of cardamom, coffee, and oriental spices will remind us of the days when Jeddah was an important stop for traders and pilgrims heading to Mecca. Among traditional markets and small workshops, we’ll discover the authentic atmosphere of old Arabia, which still blends here with a vibrant modern world. In the evening, we’ll enjoy local cuisine and our last Saudi night before continuing our journey. Night in Jeddah.
Arrival on the island of Socotra, located in the Indian Ocean. From the exotic airport, we’ll head about half an hour to the capital, Hadibo. Lunch, followed by departure to the beautiful white-sand beaches near the capital.
The island loop begins. On one side, beautiful beaches with rich marine life; on the other, the island’s interior with trees known as “dragon’s blood.” Our first steps lead us to the Homhil Nature Reserve, where we’ll see our first bottle trees as well as dragon’s blood trees. We’ll also walk through a narrow canyon, and at its end awaits a surprise—an infinity pool with a divine view of the azure Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, we’ll head to the stunning sand dunes in the Arher area. This is where our true adventure begins.
Each day is completely different. Today begins with a short climb to the top of a white sand dune—the view over the surroundings will be like something out of a fairy tale. After breakfast, right by the beach, we’ll embark on another roughly 2.5-hour trek to a cave system admired by archaeologists around the world. Czech cavers even helped in its exploration. This is definitely something you wouldn’t expect to find here.
Transfer to the Dihamri area, known for its rich underwater world. If you’ve already dived or snorkeled in the Red Sea, what lies beneath the surface on Socotra will surprise you even more.
Today we’ll head to the south of the island, passing through local villages. Our first stop will be Amak Beach, where we’ll swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. If the weather is favorable, we’ll also cool off in the island’s green valleys, known as wadis. The rivers in these valleys are crystal clear. After lunch, we’ll reach sand dunes that literally meet the ocean. Right beside them, we’ll set up camp—just a stone’s throw from the sea.
Before lunch, we’ll visit another cave, Daqub. Afterward, we’ll climb into the mountains, gaining a view of the island from a high plateau at over 700 meters. Dramatic valleys, dragon’s blood trees, and unbelievable vistas await us. We’ll also see the largest forest of dragon’s blood trees on the island—it will take your breath away. Another beautiful day behind us.
Detwah Lagoon is known for its turquoise sea, into which stretch white sandbars. The most famous photographs of the island are taken right here. We’ll spend the afternoon on the beach and around the nearby lagoon, which teems with life. You’ll be surprised.
For those interested, there’s also a sunrise over the lagoon. After breakfast, we’ll board a local boat and sail along the coast to another stunning beach accessible only by sea. If we’re lucky, we might spot dolphins, sea turtles, or rays. In the afternoon, we’ll return to the capital, Hadibo, and for dinner enjoy local tuna.
Flight from Socotra back home via Jeddah to Vienna (depending on flight schedules, we’ll land in Vienna on either day 10 or 11).
Jeddah (Saudi Arabia):
Socotra:
Our mission is to organize unconventional expeditions to less-visited countries around the world, off the main tourist trails.
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We offer you a distinctive kind of travel experience, tailored precisely to each client’s individual requirements. Your trips will be prepared by Martin Navrátil, a traveller and tour guide with over 20 years of experience from almost every country in the world. Over the course of his travels he has created hundreds of tours, not only to well-known places but also to destinations people don’t normally visit — from the South Pole and Baikonur to countries that require a great many permits and specialist experience.
It is precisely this experience that forms the foundation of our tailor-made trips. This is a distinctive kind of travel experience, adapted down to the very last detail to your wishes. Whether you’re a small group of friends or a company team, we’ll put together an itinerary based on whatever appeals to you most — culture, nature, history, food, adventure, or a combination of everything.
Our job is to turn your travel dreams into reality. We don’t offer “packages,” but experiences tailored precisely to you. Traveling with us isn’t just about the place you visit — it’s about the stories we’ll create together and the memories you’ll always love coming back to.
