Climate

Warm, wild and different every season – that’s Socotra.

The island has a tropical desert climate, with temperatures above 25°C all year round. Thanks to the diverse landscape – from the coast to the deserts to the mountain ranges – the weather here changes not only according to the season, but also according to the altitude.

☀️ Best time to visit: from end of September to May

 

☀️ September – November = Socotra in full green

After the summer monsoons, nature awakens – the green landscape, fresh air and temperatures up to 30°C create ideal conditions for swimming, hiking and more demanding treks. A short rain shower occasionally appears, but it is more refreshing than it is disruptive.

 

☀️ December - January  =  "coldest season"

For some, the most pleasant months on the island – they are the coldest of the whole year. Temperatures around 26-28 °C, dry and stable weather.

The nights remain warm – they do not drop below 22 °C. Perfect time for trekking and all activities from camping to getting to know the local culture.

In the higher elevations of the island, especially in the mountainous areas above 1,000 meters, the weather can be very changeable. When the wind picks up the perceived temperature can be significantly lower than the thermometer would indicate. Even if it is around 25-28 °C during the day, the wind combined with the altitude can make you feel uncomfortably cold, especially when camping in the evening or early morning ascents.

 

☀️ March – May = the greatest drought and a pink miracle

Socotra is covered in the pink color of flowering bottle trees (Adenium socotranum – endemic to the island).

Temperatures climb to 30 °C and the sea is mirror-calm – ideal for diving and snorkeling. This is the season for lovers of the sea and natural wonders.

Not suitable for most classic travelers. From May to September, the southwest summer monsoon arrives on Socotra, bringing with it extremely strong and dry winds from Africa. These winds can last for weeks and reach a strength that completely prevents normal tourist movement around the island.

Camping is practically impossible – tents cannot be safely erected and maintained due to the strong winds.

Cooking outdoors is not possible, because open fires or stoves are immediately blown away by the wind.

Access to most attractions is limited or completely blocked – some areas are completely closed due to weather conditions, others cannot be safely reached due to impassability or risk.

 

☀️ Water? It comes at night

Annual rainfall ranges from 150 mm on the coast to 1000 mm in the mountains, but night dew is key to life on the island, which moistens the soil, especially at higher altitudes.

Socotra is not a “destination for our summer”. Each season has its own charm – and if you know when and where to go, you can have a completely unique experience.

I will be happy to advise you on the ideal date depending on what you want to experience.