Dark tourists flock to 'alien island' you can only get to via WhatsApp
Socotra Island, part of Yemen, is a haven for tourists but with a travel advice warning from the UK Government, it's not a getaway for the faint-hearted and it's very hard to reach
A beautiful island with alien trees and crystal blue waters is one of the hardest places to get to in the world.
Socotra Archipelago is unlike anywhere else. Sat 200 miles off the coast of mainland Yemen, close to the Horn of Africa, it is home to a unique array of plants and wildlife.
Tourists visiting the island can find respite under the shade of the dragon blood tree, a species native to the island known for its densely packed evergreen branches and named after the crimson-coloured sap it produces. Along the coastline, you'll find long sandy beaches against a backdrop of emerald waters and up north, near the village of Qalansiyah, the Detwah Lagoon is surrounded by dazzling white sands.
UNESCO recognises Socotra Island as a site of universal importance due to its biodiversity, with nearly 40 percent of its plant species being exclusive to the island. The surrounding islands, including Socotra, are also notable for their land and sea bird breeding spots and unique coral reefs, which are home to over 700 species of coastal fish.
Yemen, along with Somalia and Afghanistan, is typically viewed as one of the globe's most perilous nations. The civil war in the country has made travelling there incredibly dangerous, with the UK's Foreign Office warning simply: "FCDO advises against all travel to the whole of the Yemen due to the unpredictable security conditions. If you're in Yemen, you should leave immediately."
While Socotora is covered by that advice—meaning visitors travelling there do so at their own peril and risk having their insurance invalidated—the archipelago has a very low crime rate and has been little impacted by the 11-year war that continues to rage on the mainland.
The main difficulty for those dreaming of visiting is how to get there.
Janet Newenham is a professional traveller who has spent years visiting some of the world's most inaccessible places. Since visiting Iraq several years ago, Janet has organised small group trips for women to some of these places. Including, in February, to Socotora.
"It's a paradise island off the coast of Yemen. People in the extreme travel community know about it, but a lot of people don't," Janet told the Mirror.
"It's hard to get to. There are two flights a week from Abu Dhabi, but you can't book them in a normal way. You have to book them through WhatsApp. It's through Emirates Aviation, and it's a humanitarian charter flight. You have to WhatsApp them and then send a bank transfer.
"It was absolutely incredible. I never knew there were places like that in Yemen. It has bright blue water, white sand beaches, and dragon's blood trees. You won't find them anywhere else in the world."
Due to a lack of hotels on the island, the group camped on the beach and in the mountains during their seven-day trip. "No hotels. No toilets. It was quite an extreme trip. It was like being on a desert island. You do see some tanks in Socotora, but they're not from a recent war."
Tour operator Socotra Island Expeditions describes the archipelago as "a benign security environment" which has not seen any acts of violence towards foreigners in recent years. Adventure seekers will need to secure an appropriate visa for travel before arrival, however, most travel agents can support tourists through the procedure, in addition to outlining the best travel routes and seasons.
Janet, who lives in Bali, Indonesia but comes from Cork in Ireland, runs small group trips through her website Janets Journeys.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
3 hours ago
- Wales Online
Foreign Office warning after holidaymakers are detained
Foreign Office warning after holidaymakers are detained The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for more than 48 countries There is a growing concern about the number of tourists arrested (Image: Getty ) The Foreign Office has revised travel advice for 48 countries during the past few days. It follows growing concern about the number of British tourists being arrested for drug trafficking abroad. During the past few months, UK nationals have been detained in countries including Spain, Ghana, Sri Lanka, Germany, Indonesia, Chile, and the United States, often after being caught with narcotics in their luggage. One of the most high profile cases has been that of Bella Culley, who went missing Thailand. The 18-year-old from Teeside is currently held in a prison in Georgia on suspicion of drug offences. Prosecuters are investigating 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish found in a travel bag at Tbilisi International Airport, the BBC reports. If found guilty, Miss Culley faces up to 20 years in jail or life imprisonment. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has revised its Safety and Security advice for 48 countries, highlighting the dangers of involvement with illegal substances. Article continues below In some countries, even traces of cannabis on clothing can lead to arrest, and blood and urine tests may also be conducted. The advice read: "There are severe penalties for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including cannabis. Airports have excellent technology to detect items, including in the baggage of transiting passengers." For those planning a trip abroad, it's essential to stay informed by checking the latest travel advice on the website, which provides detailed information for 226 countries. The updated guidance for most countries states: "Updated information on the risks of being involved with illegal drugs, including cannabis. This includes the risk of arrest if you are found carrying drugs when transiting through the airport." The advice underscores the harsh consequences of drug offences: "Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. "You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through airports." For those heading to Greece, the Foreign Office cautions: "Airports in Greece have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here "This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. Possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs can lead to a long prison sentence. Nitrous oxide is illegal to buy or sell for recreational use. You could be arrested or fined." A similar alert is in place for the Netherlands, which reminds tourists: "Airports in the Netherlands have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers." Article continues below The message is equally as stern for those bound for Turkey. Here, being caught with, using, or smuggling banned substances - including cannabis - can come with extremely harsh penalties. Even those only passing through airports may find themselves facing prison terms of between four to 24 years, as well as hefty fines.
Metro
12 hours ago
- Metro
Peru should be your next travel destination – and not for Machu Picchu
While most of us are familiar with Machu Picchu, the country that lays claim to this wonder of the world has only recently come to the fore of global travel consciousness. Drawn by the ancient Incan citadel, a growing number of travellers are waking up to the wealth of attractions that Peru has to offer. Blending indigenous, Spanish, and international influences, the rich cultural fabric of this South American destination rewards visitors with breathtaking landscapes, wondrous wildlife and fascinating history — plus top-tier hotels and some of the finest cuisine in the region. Here, Metro makes the case for Peru, with six reasons it should be next on your holiday hit list. Kicking off with the obvious big ticket item, this stone fortress is perched some 2,500 metres above sea level, shrouded in clouds, and ringed by a crown of mountain peaks. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Regarded as one of the world's most important archaeological sites, Machu Picchu is UNESCO-protected and was chosen as one of the 'New Seven Wonders of the World' in a worldwide internet poll in 2007. Cut through the queues and get to the heart of it by joining a Mountain Lodges of Peru walking journey to this historic icon. The prestigious locally owned and operated Andean Lodge travel organisation offers a unique route paired with expert guides to facilitate the best possible experience, traversing uncrowded trails and traditional communities before reaching the jaw-dropping ruins themselves. For proximity to these ruins, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo is your check-in of choice. Sitting in the shadows of the Lost City, the luxury lodge resembles a quaint Andean village with terraced hills, waterfalls, stone pathways and only 83 whitewashed suites tucked into the lush cloud forest. The idyllic eco-resort also offers the perfect pre or post-Machu Picchu experience: a traditional Andean sauna. Constructed from bamboo and fresh eucalyptus leaves, hot stones are heated in a fireplace at its centre, over which more eucalyptus leaves are placed. Guests sit in candlelight, inhaling the vapours. Post-sweat, you can jump into the natural spring water pond outside for a refreshing dip. Winning the 'world's leading culinary destination' title for six years running, Peru and its food – a fusion of tradition and exciting ingredients – has exploded onto the world stage. And at the centre of this explosion is the country's capital, Lima. Legitimately a global gourmet hotspot, the 'World's 50 Best Restaurants' guide puts Lima in the same league as New York and London after featuring it more times than any other city. To experience the lauded fare firsthand, book a table at Kjolle. The first solo restaurant from celebrity chef, Pia Leon, who rose to fame as the head chef of Central (named the 'World's Best Restaurant' in 2023) a tasting menu here is truly money well spent if you want a celebration of Peruvian produce and its culinary history. For a double whammy of haute hotel and haute cuisine, base yourself at the prestigious Hotel B. Easily the coolest check-in in town — and Lima's only Relais & Chateaux property — this restored colonial mansion turned 20-suite, boutique hotel is set in the bohemian, artsy district of Barranco. True to its location, the hotel houses a unique art collection with over 300 original installations. Food-wise, the in-house restaurant focuses on native ingredients and local delicacies (including crispy guinea pig). After dinner, head upstairs to the rooftop terrace bar and sink a few pisco sours while the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. For a grassroots look at the culinary aspect of the capital, book a spot on Viator's Food & Art: Lima Colours and Flavours Walking Tour. A half-day walking tour through the city's Chorillos and Barranco neighbourhoods takes in top sights and local markets, with pit stops to sample delicious, authentic Peruvian snacks and staple dishes. Situated in southeastern Peru among dramatic Andean panoramas, the culturally rich city of Cusco is one of Peru's most popular destinations. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain town is a medley of ancient Inca temples and monuments, colonial architecture and modern buildings. A destination in itself, it's also a great base for exploring nearby Inca sites such as the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Base yourself at Inkaterra La Casona, a 16th-century, former colonial manor (one of the first Spanish buildings in Cusco) that is now a 5-star hotel located steps from the main square. The 11 suites are set around a Spanish courtyard, replete with antique furniture, pre-Columbian textiles and original murals. Each room features plush touches such as freestanding tubs and heated floors to soothe tired feet after a day of trekking. A small yet perfectly formed spa offers bespoke treatments. Top tip: the 'De-Stress' treatment comes highly recommended. A small dining room and terrace serves a delectable menu showcasing local ingredients, including slow-roasted merlot lamb shanks and Andean trout. For an immersion into Cusco's best street grub, snack and sightsee on a Curious Monkey Food Tour. Locally owned and operated, this small group tour offers a tasty lesson in the culture and traditions of Peru. Over half a day, expert guides connect you with food vendors, from the oldest empanada stand in the city, to a lauded, local Peruvian coffee and chocolate emporium. Come evening, meat-lovers should beeline to Cusco's best steakhouse, Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse where a selection of meats — including 20 hour slow-cooked pork ribs and delicious alpaca — are presented on volcanic hot stone platters and marinated in drool-worthy sauces. While Machu Picchu gets all the hype (and the tourist traffic), there are ways to get off the tourist trail to visit small, relatively unknown Incan temples, that you'll likely have to yourself. Peru is set for a record-breaking tourist year in 2025, and it pays to plan ahead. Viator offers a horseback tour that takes in four temples in the nearby Sacsayhuaman Archeological Park. The half-day guided adventure follows a portion of the Inca Trail and traverses spectacular Andean countryside and temples. You'll learn about religious sites and Andean culture from your guide, and even join in an ancient ritual to experience the mysticism of the Andes yourself. History lessons and cultural encounters aside, exploring near-deserted temples on the back of a horse will make anyone feel like Indian Jones. Machu Picchu is the most visited site in South America and the iconic Inca Trail to its boundaries is, by proxy, heaving with tourists. Annually, millions upon millions flock to the mysterious citadel via the well-worn hiking trail. It's crowded, pricey and hectic. For those who want to experience the dramatic and unspoiled Peruvian Andes without jostling for elbow space, look no further than the Lares trail. Mountain Lodges of Peru offers the ultimate crowd-free multi-day alternative to reaching Machu Picchu on their Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu experience — a journey that takes guests through the ancient history, living culture, and magnificent landscapes of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Expert guides tailor your experience from a daily list of activities and cultural exploration options as you wind through remote communities, farms and friendly faces. Next, as the afternoon hits, you will settle into one of the eco-lodges that sit along the route. Here, your luggage awaits you, along with a specially prepared dinner made using fresh ingredients, alongside spacious beds and personal hot tubs with views overlooking the landscape. It's post-hike pampering at its absolute best. For nature lovers, a journey to Peru is not complete without exploring the Amazon. Winding through countless jungles, it is the world's largest rainforest. No river is bigger in volume than the mighty Amazon; its banks are home to some 40,000 plant species (with 16,000 types of trees alone) and over 5,000 animal species. It's this immense biodiversity that makes the Peruvian Amazon an absolute must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. And you don't need to have the prowess of Bear Grylls to do it. Delfin Amazon Cruises offers visitors the chance to sail the waters of the Amazon on three and four-night cruises on its 42-passenger ship, the Delfin III. More Trending If you've always wanted to see this storied jungle, this is the way to do it — with great food, expert naturalist guides, activities such as piranha fishing, and a private cabin where you can rest and refuel. Skiffs carry passengers out on jungle hikes, bird-watching expeditions and even river swimming and kayaking. All the while, guides will help you spot everything from endemic pink river dolphins and piranhas, to sloths and jaguars. No machete or mosquito netting required. MORE: Europe's 'nowhere place' is a quiet Italian gem with flights from £17 MORE: TUI relaunches UK flights to forgotten year-round sunshine destination after 3 years MORE: I tried to do Cannes on £30 a day – a champagne town on a Fanta budget
Daily Mirror
20 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
'Best city in France' that's just as good as Paris but with fewer tourists
The beautiful city in the south of France is considered to be the best in the country, yet it remains relatively unknown to tourists compared to the likes of Paris A stunning and captivating French city, hailed as the country's finest, remains a hidden gem to many tourists. This fortified city is nestled in the south, approximately 50 miles east of Toulouse. It can be reached from Paris via a six-and-a-half hour train ride, or an eight-hour car journey. However, it's recommended to visit the city from Barcelona, which is a mere three-and-a-half hours by car. On average, the city welcomes three to four million visitors annually, a stark contrast to the 47.5 million that flocked to Paris last year. Over 54 percent of these were international guests, showcasing the city's worldwide allure, according to Road Genius. Carcassonne, situated in the Aude department of Occitania, spans 25 square miles, considerably larger than most small towns in the department. The rivers of Aude, Fresquel and the Canal du Midi all meander through the city, reports the Express. Today, the city stands as a spectacular testament to medieval fortification, with its encompassing 13th-century defences, buildings, streets and Gothic cathedral. As such, it's reputed to possess the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe. The Catholic cathedral - Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne - was constructed in the 13th-century as a parish church. However, following damage from warfare a century later, it was reconstructed as a fortified church. In 1803, St Michael's was elevated to cathedral status. Its exquisite stained glass dates back to the 14th- to 16th-centuries. One can embark on a guided boat tour along the Canal du Midi, which can last an hour or more. After exploring all the passageways and parapets, you're just minutes away from Carcassonne where you can discover vineyards, wine caves and ruined castles, including the Cathar castles erected by triumphant French Crusaders. The area has been populated since the Neolithic era and held significant strategic value for the Romans, who occupied the city until the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The citadel - known as the Cité de Carcassonne - was established during the Gallo-Roman period (260-72 AD) and is renowned for its 1.9-mile double surrounding walls punctuated with 52 towers. Its exceptional representation of architecture and planning earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1997. On Tripadvisor, the fortified city has been praised as "well preserved and interesting", making it ideal for those seeking to experience an "looking to see an authentic French fortress." The city was demilitarised under Napoleon Bonaparte and the Restoration, falling into such a state of disrepair that the French Government contemplated demolishing it in 1849. This proposal sparked outrage, with Jean-Pierre Cros-Mayrevieille (the mayor of Carcassonne) and writer Prosper Mérimée spearheading a campaign to preserve it as a historical monument. The decision was subsequently reversed and restoration work commenced in 1853, under the guidance of Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. Owing to its UNESCO status, the city heavily depends on tourism for its economy, alongside manufacturing and winemaking. It's situated on what were historically the trade routes connecting the Atlantic with the Mediterranean, and the Massif Central with the Pyrénées. The Ville Basse, or "low town", constitutes the more contemporary part of Carcassonne, housing 48,000 inhabitants. It was founded in 1240 following the expulsion of defiant citizens from the Cité. Despite being torched by Edward the Black Prince in 355 when he failed to seize the citadel, it remains the commercial hub of modern-day Carcassonne.
