The Socotra archipelago, located between Somalia and Yemen at the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, is one of the world's most isolated continental remnants — a bit of Africa adrift at sea. Some have dubbed this Unesco World Heritage site the "Galapagos of the Indian Ocean" due to its high amount of unique vegetation. More than a third of Socotra's 825 plant species and 90% of its reptile species are unique to the island, and gazing up at the surreal, umbrella-like dragon's blood trees and down at thousands of bright blue and red freshwater crabs scurrying in the twilight can make you feel like you're on another planet.

There are sandy beaches, but Socotra's mountains, deep valleys, and limestone caverns are typical. Desert plains with enormous dunes may also be found, and its hot, dry climate makes for a complex environment. The islands are home to a diverse range of natural flora and fauna.

Over a third of Socotra's 825 plant species are unique to the island. The uncommon dragon's blood tree, which resembles an umbrella, is one of them. The island is also home to a massive succulent tree. Cucumber trees and pomegranates thrive there that aren't found anywhere else.

The majority of the reptiles and land snails found there are unique to the islands. Socotra is also home to several avian and marine species. There are no native amphibians, though. In addition, there is only one native mammal: the bat. In 2008, UNESCO designated Socotra as a World Heritage Site due to its diversity of life and natural beauty.

Is there anyone in Socotra? The islands are home to around 40,000 Bedouin people. They make a living through herding goats, fishing, and pearl diving. They also grow dates and other crops.

In November 2015, the island was ravaged by two severe cyclones that hit it only days apart. With Yemen engaged in civil conflict, the island relied on assistance from other nations, particularly the United Arab Emirates, which later established a military camp to support the separatist Southern Transitional Council (STC) in southern Yemen.

Socotra's past is shrouded in mystery. Because the islands are part of Yemen, Arabic is the official language. However, most of the inhabitants speak an unwritten Socotri language, which dates back to before the Islamic era. Archaeologists discovered the remnants of a city on Socotra. It is thought to be from the second century C.E. Socotra is the location of the Garden of Eden portrayed in religious writings.