Comparable to Avatar! Socotra Island in Yemen

Text / Compiled and reported by the Editorial Department of MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network

 

Located in the Indian Ocean, Socotra has been isolated from the African continent for 18 million years. Owing to prolonged geographic isolation, as well as harsh climate and dry environment, it is home to 825 extremely rare species. About 37% of its plants, 90% of its reptiles, and 95% of its snail species cannot be found anywhere else on Earth, creating an otherworldly environment. In 2011, it was selected by a renowned international travel magazine as the world’s best hidden paradise island.

Socotra Island is 350 kilometers away from the Arabian Peninsula, situated at the junction of the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is an archipelago consisting of four main islands and two rocky islets, and belongs to Yemen. Sometimes called the “Island of Bliss,” Socotra lives up to its name—here, people are far from the hustle and bustle of the world, with no internet access, and many areas even lack electricity, living a very primitive and simple life.