Socotra: the most extraterrestrial destination on Earth

Planet Earth or alien?

Have you ever dreamed of visiting another planet? It's now possible and you do not need to board a shuttle to leave Earth. The Indian Ocean is home to an archipelago often compared to an alien planet. Instead of finding aliens, you will see animals and plants unique in the world. Travel with moi on the island of Socotra!

Heaven on earth

The archipelago of Socotra, located in the Indian Ocean, consists of four islands.

The archipelago of Socotra

It is about 380 kilometers from the coast of Yemen.

Birth

Scientists believe that the island broke away from the continent 35 million years ago.

Dimensions

The main island of Socotra is 132 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide.

Territory

Many people consider Socotra to be the most strange place on Earth.

Demography

The population is approximately 40,000.

Language

The language spoken on the island is socotri, but it is possible to speak Arabic in some locals.

Climate

The climate of the archipelago is considered to be a tropical desert: hot and dry.

Meaning

In Sanskrit, Socotra means "island of happiness".

Feature

This language is so special that it lacks words to describe certain species of plants or animals.

Mythology

In Greek mythology, the throne of Ouranos was hidden among the mountains of Socotra.

Mythology

The Greeks thought it housed witches and enchanters.

Magic place

It is hard not to be overwhelmed by so much natural beauty.

Wildlife

Socotra is also full of unique bird species found only on the island.

Landscape

The topography of the island is mainly composed of caves and mountains.

Landscape

And also beautiful white sand beaches ...

Landscape

The sand dunes complete this paradise coastline.

Typical tree

The dragon tree is an exotic shrub, native to the region.

Typical tree

It is so named because of its red sap.

Typical tree

The sap is used to dye the ceramic and in remedies.

Typical tree

The branches are shaped like mushrooms and some say they look like flying UFOs.

Typical tree

Another native tree of the island is the desert rose.

Typical tree

Its intriguing shape resembles an elephant's leg.

Unusual place

According to the scientists, at least a third of the plant species found on the island of Socotra do not exist anywhere else.

Unusual place

The island of Socotra is exceptional and full of unique features in the world.

Unusual place

It is considered alien because of its wide range of fauna and flora.

Ecological sanctuary

Protected areas cover about 75% of the island.

Class

Socotra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best season

If you want to visit the island, the best time is between January and March, when the weather is milder.

(Source)