Socotra

Socotra Island (sovereignty of Yemen) is located in Indian Ocean, 250 kilometers off the African shore. “Eipheba Sakhotora” in ancient Arabic means “Island of joy”. It is one of the most picturesque and unique corner of the world. And it played very important role in the course of Arabian history. The Island itself is 120 km in length and 40 km in width, populated by 40.000 inhabitants. Culturally, Socotra Island is bound to African, rather than Arabic traditions. Coasts of Island are inhabited by fishermen of African origin, riversides – by Arabian nomads, and in the mountains one can still meet ancestors of ancient Socotra tribe. Socotra Island remains aside of the main tourism routs. And that is why it kept authentic appeal and remain unspoiled, since the very first explorer did step on its shore some 2000 years ago. Nowadays, the Island attracts mostly those, who seek to explore its unique flora and fauna. More than 200 species of plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world, but only in a Socotra Island. The Island landscape is very miscellaneous, astonishing with high contrasts. Socotra littoral water world is unique with its abundance. Divers can observe species subsistent in archipelagos of Oceania, Red Sea and Southern Indian Ocean. Even scuba isn’t necessary - morays, skates or giant groupers can be seen with bear eyes. To make it short, The Socotra Island is like an asylum in the routine of our civilized world.