Socotra

Socotra, a small archipelago in the Indian Ocean, lies  220 miles from mainland Yemen. Being isolated, and with its fierce heat and drought, the island has a unique and spectacular endemic flora, and a third of its plant life is also found nowhere else on the planet. About 307 out of 825 plant species on Socotra cannot be found nowhere else on Earth.

One of the most striking of Socotra’s plants is the dragon’s blood tree, a strange-looking, umbrella-shaped tree, with red sap that was thought to be the dragon’s blood of the ancients. It has been sought after as a medicine and a dye, and today, it is mainly being used as paint and varnish.

Other endemic plants in Socotra include the giant succulent tree Dorstenia gigas, Moraceae, the cucumber tree, and the rare Socotran pomegranate.

As with many isolated island systems, bats are the only mammals native to Socotra. In contrast, the coral reefs of Socotra are diverse, with many endemic species and the some of rarest birds that exist nowhere else in the world), and picturesque sandy beaches. 

 If you like eco-tourism, there is no better place on earth than Socotra. The Island is new to tourism, so if you are looking for a luxurious vacation this is not the right destination. However, Socotra is a perfect destination for the adventurous and nature loving travelers. Socotra takes pride in their eco-tourism and values their spectacular plant and wildlife that may sometimes be only found on this island. Although the lodging and facilities may not be the same as more modern and developed locations, Socotra is a beautiful and magnificent destination choice. Great care is shown to both guests and the environment.

The most popular lodging is actually camping on the beaches. There are several campsites that allow tourists to barbeque on the beach with beautiful mountain views in the background. Tourists can choose to purchase camping tour packages which include a driver or guide that will show tourists around the beaches as well as provide meals during their stay. It is a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty and wildlife of the island.

Climate is an important consideration. And this depends on your interest. Nature enthusiasts should go from early October to late April. The monsoon occurs in July till mid-August (during July in the south east and south west of the island, wind surfing activity can be arranged). Generally, wildlife and natural viewing is best from the end of January through May. 

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

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Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100 
rawhidetravel.com