Ready for an unforgettable adventure on one of the world’s most unique islands?
Then our Socotra Photography Event is exactly for you.
Socotra Event runs April 3–10, 2026, with a 2:1 shooting ratio. Confirmed fashion models include Ilvy Kokomo and Olya Shevchuk.
This week combines fashion and landscape photography in an untouched natural paradise — a place that feels like another planet.
Discover and photograph Socotra’s wild, raw beauty: from giant white dunes and turquoise lagoons to mysterious caves and surreal dragon’s blood trees that exist nowhere else on Earth.
about event
ABOUT SOCOTRA
Socotra is often called the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean” — and for good reason. It’s one of the most isolated landforms on Earth, a fragment of the ancient Gondwana supercontinent. The island lies in the Indian Ocean between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa, around 240 km east of Somalia and 380 km south of Yemen. Together with its neighbouring islands Abd Al-Kuri, Samha, and Darsa, it forms the Socotra Archipelago, one of the most botanically diverse island groups in the world.
Socotra is home to 825 plant species, of which 308 are found nowhere else on Earth. Because of its extraordinary biodiversity, UNESCO declared the island a World Heritage Site in 2008. Its surreal landscapes — from coastal plains and limestone plateaus to the rugged Hagghier Mountains — make it feel like stepping into another world. The island’s semi-desert climate stays warm year-round, with strong monsoon winds between June and September.
GALLERY
Is It Safe to Travel to Socotra?
Yes.
Socotra officially belongs to Yemen, it’s an extremely peaceful island, mainly controlled and supplied by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Travel is organized via Abu Dhabi, and you never enter the Yemeni mainland.
The locals are warm and welcoming, and there is no crime on the island.
Even female travelers can move freely and feel safe at all times.
The Most Extraordinary Adventure of Your Life
Prepare for adrenaline-filled rides in 4x4 Landcruisers through unreal landscapes few people have ever seen.
Socotra is still a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered before the wave of tourism arrives.
During these 8 days, you’ll experience:
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Gigantic white sand dunes
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Surreal dragon’s blood tree forests
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Mysterious caves
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Magical beaches
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Turquoise lagoons
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Deep canyons and gorges
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Pristine coral reefs
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Rich and diverse flora and fauna
This trip is as much a creative adventure as it is a mental reset — a week without stress, internet, or rush.
Just nature, light, and photography.
MODELS
In order to respect Socotri culture and religion this event will not include nude-art genre.
The styling will be provided by Ilvy Kokomo.
Ilvy Kokomo
Olya
MEALS
We will enjoy freshly prepared meals cooked by local chefs traveling with the group. Expect a mix of traditional Socotri dishes all made with fresh local ingredients.
Meals often include freshly baked bread, seasonal fruits, seafood (fish, lobster, squid), and local goat meat. Dining is a unique experience — whether on the beach, in the mountains, or under the stars — always fresh, flavorful, and authentically Socotri.
The Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival | Arher Sand Beach
After arriving in Socotra, we drive to Arher Beach, where a freshwater creek meets the sea.
Evening fashion shoot on the white dunes and blue waters at sunset.
Night under the stars between two massive dunes — perfect for night photography.
Day 2 – Arisel Cape | Homhil Sanctuary
Sunrise fashion photoshoot in the dunes, then drive to Arisel Cape, where the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea meet.
Continue to Homhil Sanctuary, known for dragon’s blood and bottle trees, and a natural infinity pool with a sea view.
Overnight camping at Homhil.
Day 3 – Kaleesan White Canyon | Dihamri Marine Protected Area
Morning at Kaleesan Canyon, surrounded by blooming bottle trees and natural pools.
Afternoon at Dihamri Reef — snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography in one of Socotra’s richest coral reefs.
Overnight at Dihamri Eco-Campsite.
Day 4 – Wadi Defarhu | Hayf & Zahak Sand Dunes
Drive through Defarhu Canyon, visiting traditional villages and swimming holes.
Evening fashion shoot on the massive Hayf and Zahak dunes glowing in the sunset.
Overnight at Hayf campsite.
Day 5 – Digub Cave | Dirhur Canyon | Firmhin Forest
Explore Digub Cave and the dramatic Dirhur Canyon, then move to Firmhin Forest, home to the largest collection of dragon’s blood trees on Earth.
Evening shoot among the trees.
Overnight at Firmhin.
Day 6 – Detwah Lagoon | The Caveman Abdullah
Morning shoot, then head west to Detwah Lagoon, a turquoise bay and protected wetland.
Meet Abdullah “Ellyia”, the local cave-dwelling legend who lives by the lagoon.
Overnight at Detwah Eco-Campsite.
Day 7 – Boat Trip | Shoab Beach
Boat trip to Shoab Beach, a secluded paradise where dolphins often swim alongside the boats.
Relax, swim, photograph, and enjoy the last sunset over the lagoon.
Overnight at Detwah.
Day 8 – Departure
Final sunrise shoot at Detwah Lagoon.
After breakfast, visit the local women’s association for souvenirs before flying back to Abu Dhabi.
(Itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather and local conditions.)
WE TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING
Price: €4500
You only need to arrive in Abu Dhabi — from there, we organize everything:
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Flight and visa for Socotra
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Tent and sleeping equipment
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Local guides and cooks
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Transportation and transfers
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Meals and drinks throughout the week
You can simply focus on creating and enjoying.
BRIEF INFO
Price: €4500
Deposit: €1000
Non-shooting partner: €3000
Group size: 4–8 participants
Shooting ratio: 2:1
Meeting point: Abu Dhabi Airport, UAE
Included:
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Flights Abu Dhabi ↔ Socotra
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Yemen visa (no stamp in your passport)
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All local transfers in Landcruisers
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Full board (3 meals/day, drinks included)
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Tent accommodation (single tent, mattress, bedding provided)
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Fashion shoots with our models during sunrise and/or sunset (1-3 hours per day)
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Local guide and driver team
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Boat tour to a remote beach
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Picture review on the last evening
Excluded:
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Tips
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Snorkeling or diving equipment
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Travel insurance (must cover Socotra)
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Drone permit (€105)
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Flights to/from Abu Dhabi
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Meals in Abu Dhabi
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Alcohol and personal expenses
Our experience in socotra
We went to Socotra two years ago and fell in love with this island. It was truly the most beautiful place we have ever been to. The locals were welcoming, and our guide and driver took great care of us.
We explored the incredible Fermhin Forest, climbed Arher Dunes, swam in Wadi Kaleesan, snorkeled among colorful fish, took a boat to a remote beach surrounded by hundreds of dolphins, explored deep caves, ate fresh food, and swam in the turquoise Arabian Sea.
At every place, we wished we could photograph models during sunrise and sunset. When the trip ended, we were amazed and also sad it was over. We promised to come back — and this time, with a group of talented photographers to capture the island’s beauty alongside our professional models styled by Ilvy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Socotra dangerous?
No, Socotra is an extremely peaceful destination. Although the island is part of Yemen, it is characterized by its remote location, which makes it safe. The people are warm, hospitable and there is no crime. We will reach the island via Abu Dhabi and will never set foot on the Yemeni mainland.
Is it safe for women?
Yes, completely. The locals are respectful and friendly.
Can I charge my batteries?
Electricity is limited. Bring spare batteries, power banks, and solar chargers. We’ll also have a voltage converter in the cars.
Are there showers and toilets?
There are very basic showers and toilets at most campsites, but not everywhere. However we will have portable toilets and showers for those campsites where the amenities are missing. It is advisable to bring wet wipes as hygiene standards are not very high.
Do I share a tent?
No, every participant gets their own tent.
Do I need camping gear?
No, our local partner provides the camping equipment (tent, mattress, pillow, sheets, blanket).
What currency is used?
Yemeni Rial (USD also accepted). No ATMs or card payments, so bring cash, also small change for tips and shopping..
Recommended photo gear:
Camera with manual settings, wide and telephoto lenses, tripod, ND/polarizing filters, reflector, drone, power banks, and laptop
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Can I bring a non-photographer partner?
Yes, for an additional €3000
Internet connection?
Almost none — and that’s part of the charm.
Flights and visa?
Included. We arrange both flights (Abu Dhabi ↔ Socotra) and the Yemeni visa. But you have to arrange flights to Abu Dhabi yourself (recommended arrival April 2, recommended departure April 11), as well as the hotel in Abu Dhabi the night before (April 2-3) and the night after (10-11th April).