One of the oldest inhabited areas in the world takes visitors to the tale of a Thousand and One Nights. Socotra Island is the largest island of Sheba - kingdom that is mentioned in the Quran. It extends up to 120 km in length, 40 km in width, and is inhabited by 55,000 inhabitants. Socotra is a member of a group of four neighboring islands Abd al Kuri, Samhah and Darsah. On the island of Socotra is spoken the language unknown to the rest of the world, which is believed to be spoken during the reign of the Queen of Sheba. Socotra location.
Since it is apparently isolated from the rest of the world for a long period, Socotra remains one of the most fascinating places on earth. The island offers a unique sight on greatest diversity of flora and fauna in Arabia. Most of the animals and plants that live today on the island cannot be found anywhere else on earth. It is believed that some of the plants and animals are ancient, probably from the time before mammals appeared on Earth.
From the blue lagoon Qalansiya to the snow-white dunes at Ras Momi, from the alpine meadows of Haggier Mountains to the devastation of Nowgad, the Socotra is a land of surprising contrasts. Reaching a height of over 1,700 m, Haggier Mountains are overhanging the main town of island, Hadibo.
Socotra is home to more than 900 species of plants, of which 305 are endemic, and certainly there are many more species that have yet to be discovered. Recently has been unveiled the first specimen a small carnivorous plant that grows in moist trees in the higher parts of the mountain Haggier. One of the most famous botanical curiosities of the island is the Dragon tree.
It is recorded around 145 species of birds, of which 8 can only be found on this island. The most striking bird for visitors is ubiquitous Egyptian vulture, to locals known as Al Baladiya Socotra. Close to the coast can be seen some of the species of whales and dolphins. The crystal clarity of the Indian Ocean makes this place a diving dream.
With its uniqueness and the largest Arabian biological habitat, Socotra is declared a natural World Heritage by UNESCO, along with the other islands in the group.
Travelling to Yemen is considered a lifestyle experience long ago lost in the modern world. This is a dream destination with an unusual feature, a very rich mixture of archeological, cultural, traditional art, natural and historical sites and scenes from different periods. Tourists are enchanted by miles of virginal white beaches and clear turquoise sea. Position of the island offers perfection for fans of diving, of which the local population is becoming more dependent.
Socotra wants to remain a unique blend of adventurers, traders, Bedouins, fishermen and rare tourists. "We are very poor, although we have much to offer to eco-tourists," said fisherman Abdul. "But we do not want mass tourism. We know that it would ruin our life," added Abdul.
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