Socotra Island
The jewel of Yemen, and God’s heaven on Earth, Island of Socotra.
Its divine beauty has attracted several visitors worldwide to discover its outstanding aura and uniqueness. Also known as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, Socotra’s nature is one of the rarest around the world.
Despite the critical situation in Yemen, this islandremains a hotspot due to its stability and security.
Facts and Figures
Socotra is 3,796 km2 large, and has about 60,000 inhabitants. It is situated in the Indian Ocean, specifically in the southeast of Yemen. This island is home to 700 endemic species, of which 1/3 of these species are found nowhere else worldwide. In fact, in 2008 Socotra has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Still, this is not enough to describe the beauty of Socotra, you might wonder what this beautiful island offers? The perfect weather!
In Socotra the weather is warm and simply reasonable throughout the year. The hottest day would reach 33 degrees Celsius and the coldest day would only reach 22 degrees Celsius. Along its western mountains, the weather is usually humid,while in its eastern desert, it is most likely dry and extraordinarily hot.
If you are wondering what language is spoken there, it is Soqotri; a south Semitic language, and one of the Modern South Arabian languages, however, most people also speak Arabic.
Nature of Socotra
As mentioned earlier, Socotra’s nature is rare and unique. One of the most famous unique plants in Socotra is the dragon’s blood tree, one of the main reasons leading this island to be known as the ‘the most alien looking place on Earth’. The tree is known as ‘Dam al Akhwain’ in Arabic, literally meaning the ‘blood of two brothers’.
Socotra is not only unique with its rich-plant life and diverse species, but also with its beautiful scenery. Clear oceans, blue skies, and greenery nature with a hint of heritage and ancient beauty surround the island. The several stretching crystal clear lagoons are breath-taking, in which you can find locals fishing and introducing you around. Though, if you feel like connecting with more solidity, then the seamless sand dunes are therefor you. The light, smooth, sand is just the perfect mixture to bring you back to the calmness of the unexploited city.
In fact, in Socotra you can see all this, as well as witness the dreamy sunsets reflected upon the clear endless ocean. This beauty is worthwhile when engaging in several activities available in this island.Perhaps a hike to investigate the distinctive nature is ultimate, however exploring ancient caves might add the excitement to this. After all, a quick boat ride might encounter you with friendly herd of dolphins just within eye-sight.
Simply, Socotra is an island that conveys diversityand isolation at once. Simplicity is the modest definition of the residents andthe lifestyle of this island.
