The Socotra Archipelago is situated in the Arabian Sea near the coast of Yemen, and it is considered to be one of the most isolated and diverse bioregions.
The resultant geographical isolation has provided it with a substantially unique background whereby longer than one third of the plant species it hosts are endemic. This island chain is unique in its environment, and several places have described it as the Indian Ocean Galapagos.
Many tourists know Socotra as the place of dragon’s blood trees which look like they come from another planet. These trees are called Kino trees because of the red colored sap they yield which has been a traditional remedy as well as dye. The capricious forms of trees are combined with the specific look of Socotra whose landscapes are limestone plateaus, deep canyons and coastal sand dunes that make it seem like another planet.
There are numerous activities that a tourist can engage in while in Socotra, including trekking, diving, observing the wildlife among others. Exploring the interiors of Socotra island is also a treasure because one gets to discover the bizarre plant species such as the dragon’s blood trees, the bottle trees and the frankincense trees.
However, ordinary water activities such as swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving can be engrossing on Socotra’s beaches and around the coral reefs. The waters around it are rich in fish and other aquatic animals such as the dolphins and rays plus the different colored corals. Because the area is so remote, the reefs are remarkably pristine and for the most part unblemished by man’s touch. For those who are not up for a lot of running around there will be plenty of options for leisure.
Several bird species unique to Socotra island are also present , which definitely will be of interest to bird lovers. Many of these birds can only be found in Socotra including…Socotra warbler, Socotra sunbird, and Socotra sparrow are all endemic species which prefer island’s steep cliffs and isolated geography. This has also turned out to be true about the animals and other creatures such as reptiles and insects that are peculiar to the island.
Still, Socotra typifies the state of under-researched features because of limitations on accessing the island as well as the current conflict in Yemen. But for those who can come to Socotra, which is not an easy task at all, the island offers a feeling of exclusivity of untouched nature that developed here in complete isolation.
Mark