This place is the dream of tourists from all over the planet. It is interesting because it is incredibly difficult to get here, and there is also such flora and fauna that you will not find anywhere else.
Island of Happiness
This is how the name of the island is translated from the local language. Those who have been here once claim that the place is unreal and fantastic. In general, the island is part of the archipelago of the same name, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Somalia.
By the local canyon.
Legend has it that a majestic beast like a dragon once lived here. The predator attacked elephants. Once the largest and oldest of them sat down on a monster and crushed it. The blood of the animal was absorbed into the soil of the island, so unprecedented plants that the world did not know before grew.
Giant Dracaena
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Dracaena growing in natural conditions is rarely found. On Socotra, they reach incredible sizes, over 10 meters in length.
Another name for dracaena - dragon tree.
Interestingly, there are no annual rings on the trunks. Scientists were able to calculate that many trees are more than 6 thousand years old. According to legends, real dragon blood flows in them, endowed with magical and, of course, healing properties. And in fact, the locals actively use the crimson resin of the tree in cosmetics and medicine.
Bottle tree
Another amazing species native to Socotra. The bottle tree looks very unusual, and it is also poisonous. Its roots and greens are not eaten even by local very voracious goats.
An incredible bottle tree.
The root system of the tree surprises scientists - it can grow literally on bare rocks, where moisture, and any nutrient medium, is a real luxury.
Locals speak an ancient language
The island is literally dotted with caves, some of which are 10 km long. Moreover, archaeologists are constantly finding new passages. The nature here has been preserved almost in its original form, because the island is not chosen by tourists due to the fact that it is very difficult to get here. International planes do not land here, it is dangerous to sail - Somali pirates rule in local waters.
Another stunning view of evening Socotra.
Local aborigines are self-sufficient and cheerful people. They speak the ancient Semitic pre-written language of Socotra, which is very interesting for scientists. They practically do not know civilization and comfort, while developing a deep respect for the ocean and the lands on which they live. Local residents are friendly to rare tourists, who have not been at all lately. This is because the island is part of Yemen, which has long been in a state of civil war.
More than 800 plant species grow here. Scientists are sure that these are echoes of the nature that disappeared on the mainland millions of years ago.
