March 2026: They said it couldn't be done - or shouldn't be attempted at a time like this - with much of the Middle East in uproar, expats being evacuated and flight routes changing by the day. Even in normal times Socotra is accessible only by once-weekly flights from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Luckily, I took the punt and got myself there - and back.

Since ancient times Socotra has been renowned for its healing and aromatic resins, endemic plants gums, the world’s best aloe, amber, musk and pearls.

Modern pundits marvel at Socotra's exceptionally rich and distinct flora and fauna. It is home to 825 plant species of which 308 (37%) are endemic: species are found nowhere else on Earth.

Only by booking with an accredited local tour company can would-be tourists can obtain a Yemeni visa for Socotra. I chose Welcome to Socotra and was not disappointed. We were an unusually small group, no doubt due to the political situation, but got on well. All accommodation is in tents, pitched each night by the support team