The Socotra Island in Yemen has long been a land of mystery. Described as ‘The Galapagos of the Middle East’ & ‘The Jewel of Arabia,’ the unspoiled alien-like landscape of the island has intrigued travelers & scientists for decades.
Discover more about the enchanting Socotra Island…
Socotra island Image credit @hobopeeba on IG
According to UNESCO, Socotra Island is a site of “universal importance because of its biodiversity with rich & distinct flora & fauna.” Its name means the island of Bliss in the ancient Sanskrit language.
Image credit Riya Teotia
The UN body estimates that 37 percent of Socotra’s 825 plant species, 90 percent of its reptile species and 95 percent of its land snail species do not exist anywhere else in the world.
Image credit hobopeeba
Socotra Island has been described as "the most alien-looking place on Earth." In 2008 Socotra was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Image credit Daniel Kordan
Socotri culture is just as endemic & endangered as Socotra’s famed species of fauna & flora. Located off the coast of Yemen in the Indian Ocean, this mysterious island lies between the Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Sea.
Image credit @yemenjourney
Socotra Island’s dragon’s blood trees, incense and a variety of other species of fauna and flora can be found nowhere else on the planet.
Image credit hobopeeba
Dragon's Blood Tree is known to Socotrans by its Arabic name, Damm Al-Akhwayn – Blood of Two Brothers. Endemic to the remote Haghir Mountains of Socotra, it is named after the crimson sap that farmers tap to sell in markets, as both a medicinal balm and as lipstick.
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The tree got its name from its red fluid that has some form of resemblance to dragon’s blood. The sap oozes naturally from fractures and sores in the bark. The dragon blood tree is also known for its features of being an evergreen endemic species.
