Socotra, the fabulous Yemeni island that few people know about

2025-11-16 22:04:00, Kuriozitete CNA

Socotra is a remote Yemeni island in the Indian Ocean, known for its extraordinary and unique biodiversity, which has earned it the nickname "the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean." The island is part of the Republic of Yemen, but is currently under the de facto control of the Southern Transitional Council.

Socotra's isolation, after it broke away from the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana some 80 million years ago, has led to the evolution of an extraordinary group of endemic species. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its rich and distinctive flora and fauna; up to a third of its plant life and 90% of its reptile species are found nowhere else on Earth.

Socotra, the fabulous Yemeni island that few people know about

The most iconic species include:

Dragon's Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari): Known for its distinctive umbrella shape and red resin, this tree is a defining feature of the island's landscape, particularly on the Homhil and Diksam plateaus. Desert Rose Tree (Adenium obesum subspecies socotranum): This plant has a bulbous, "elephant's foot"-shaped trunk and pink flowers.

Frankincense and Myrrh: The island has historically been a source of these.

Socotra, the fabulous Yemeni island that few people know about

Geography and Culture

The archipelago consists of the main island of Socotra, the three smaller islands of Abd al Kuri, Samhah, and Darsa, and two rocky islets. The main island features narrow coastal plains, limestone plateaus, and a central granite mountain range, the Hajhir Mountains. The population of approximately 60,000 is Sunni Muslim and speaks Socotri, an ancient Semitic language. The capital and largest city is Hadibu.

Socotra, the fabulous Yemeni island that few people know about

Travel and Safety

Due to the ongoing conflict in mainland Yemen, many national travel advisories recommend avoiding all travel to Yemen, including Socotra. However, the island's air route has reopened, with direct weekly non-stop flights from Abu Dhabi, arranged through certified Socotra travel agencies. These agencies assist with flight reservations and visa processing. Tourists typically set up camps at designated eco-friendly sites throughout the island's diverse landscapes to experience its untouched nature and clean, uncomplicated beaches. /CNA