About Socotra
About Sokotra
The unique archipelago of SOCOTRA, an administrative part of the Republic of YEMEN , is an island situated between the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean .
In 2008, Socotra was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Socotra is also called the "Galapagos of the Indian Ocean". The geologists consider Socotra " the most isolated piece of land" in the history of the Earth.
The Socotra archipelago, located near the Gulf of Aden, is 250 km long and includes four islands and two rocky islets that look like an extension of the Horn of Africa. On the protocontinent of Gondwana, it was closest to Madagascar, India, Macronesia and the east coast of the African mainland.
This site is of unique importance for its biodiversity with a rich and different flora and fauna: 37% of Socotra's 825 plant species, 90% of reptile species and 95% of land snail species are found nowhere else in the world.
Its location and uniqueness makes Socotra a perfect destination for tourists seeking unusual experiences. Moreover, its pleasant climate enables everyone to enjoy various activities.
Whether you are a enthusiastic traveler, adventurer, botanist, an ardent biologist, a fisherman or a diver, you can explore the rich biodiversity not to be found anywhere else in the world.
What’s more, you will find no tourists or tourist facilities on Socotra’s endless and pristine shores.
The rich biodiversity gives the landscape its uniqueness so that everyone, especially the Europeans, will find it hard not to be enchanted by its beauty.
The island is also an attractive place for trekking and due to its pleasant climate almost anyone can set out on the long walks while the experienced sportsmen can try more demanding treks.
Those of you who are attracted to sea life will be fascinated by the diverse species that live in the local waters. You can watch or even swim with the dolphins and observe turtles, sharks, stingrays and many other colourful fish living on the coral reef.
In brief, Socotra offers something special for everyone and convinces you that the virgin land still exists!
