Socotra Weather Guide

When planning a trip to Socotra Island, one of the first questions travelers ask is: “When is the best time to go?”
Because of its remote location in the Indian Ocean, Socotra has a very unique climate shaped by the monsoon winds. Knowing the weather patterns will help you choose the right season for hiking, camping, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the island’s beaches.

1. Socotra’s Climate in General

Socotra has a tropical desert climate influenced by the Indian Ocean monsoons. The island experiences two main travel seasons and one “closed” season:

• 🌴 Mild Winters (October – February): Green, cool, and perfect for hiking.
• 🌞 Warm Spring (March – May): Dry and sunny, great for snorkeling and photography.
• 🌬️ Summer Monsoon (June – September): Strong winds, rough seas — the island is inaccessible to visitors.

👉 See our [Socotra Geography and Climate Guide] for more background.

2. Month-by-Month Weather in Socotra

• October – November: Start of the season. Rain showers bring lush greenery and waterfalls. Perfect for trekking.
• December – February: Cool and comfortable. Average 20–25°C (68–77°F). Best time for hiking, camping, and cultural tours.
• March – May: Hotter and drier, averaging 26–33°C (78–91°F). Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and beach camps.
• June – September: Strong monsoon winds up to 60 km/h. High seas and isolation. No tours operate during this time.

👉 Check our [Socotra Adventure Tours] for seasonal itineraries.

3. How Weather Shapes Your Trip

The weather directly affects your experience on the island:

• ⛰️ Hiking & Trekking: Best between October–February when it’s cool and green.
• 🐠 Snorkeling & Diving: Best from October–May when waters are calm.
• ⛺ Camping: Possible in both seasons, but mountain nights can be cold (bring layers!).
• 📸 Photography: November–February offers dramatic skies, while March–May has bright colors and golden light.

4. Packing Tips for Socotra’s Weather

• 🥾 Hiking boots and light layers for mountain treks.
• 🧢 Hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing for the coast.
• 🧥 Warm jacket for nights in the Hajhir Mountains.
• 🩱 Swimwear and snorkeling gear for the beaches and reefs.

👉 Explore our [Socotra Packing List] for more travel tips.

5. Best Time to Visit Socotra

If you want:

• 🌿 Green landscapes & hiking → October–February.
• 🌊 Snorkeling & warm beaches → March–May.
• 🚫 Avoid travel → June–September (island closed).

Conclusion: Travel With the Seasons

Socotra’s weather is one of the reasons the island feels so untouched. By traveling in the right season, you’ll experience its mountains, beaches, and coral reefs at their best.

At Socotra Phoenix Tours, we plan itineraries around the seasons so you can hike, snorkel, and camp in comfort — while experiencing the island’s true beauty.

👉 Start planning with our [Socotra Tour Packages].