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Aesthetic Verse of aromatic and medicinal trees

As Trémaux tree excavates its path amid the rocks, the people of Socotra are excavating their path to live simply and patiently, and as Dragoon’s Blood tree giving them medicine, shadows and Beauty, they give it preservation and attention…

These lines derived from several authentic sources are talking about the most important long-lived tree on the island, the “Dragon’s Blood”, which stenographs the most important aromatic trees located in the area of Dixam Plateau , Fermhin and mountainous series of island. It is truly a blessed tree and a sign of beauty by which the island of Socotra in Yemen is characterized among the world’s trees. These trees are growing heavily in the rocky ground of the island at an altitude of 2000-5000 feet above the sea level, and according to old folk beliefs, the tree disturbs the jinn and expels ghosts and evil spirits from human and animal bodies.

Its name is related to the myth that passed between generations in Yemen, which tells the story of the first drop of blood and the first bleeding between the two brothers Cain and Abel, and according to the legend, Cain and Abel were the first who lived in the island of Socotra, and when the first historical murder – mentioned in the Holy Qur’an – in the history took place and blood was shed germinated the Dragon’s Blood tree, which is the tree of blood of the two brothers ” Cain and Abel “, while historical sources say that it is dated back to the beginning of the first millennium BC.

Socotra was one of the most important centers for the production of aromatic frankincense and incense which was two holy substances among the religions of the ancient world as they were used in ancient worship rituals. As occurred in ancient Yemeni inscriptions, the land which produces aromatic substances is blessed, and such aromatic trees are important to the Himyaris, Pharaohs and Assyrians. Also this tree of the Two Brothers Blood was known as “snake’s blood”, “Dragon’s blood”, “red veins”, “goat’s blood”, “Shi’yan” and “Ay’da”. According to the book “Lisan Al-Arab”, the definition of “Ay’da” is the red dye, and it was told it is the Logwood, Two Brothers Blood or Saffron, and the historian “Al-Asmaee” mentioned it with the name “Andam” which is Dragon’s Blood.

Historical sources said that the first appearance of this tree on earth was more than 50 million years ago, and it is likely was in the Mediterranean basin, and spreads today in a few islands in the world of which the most important is the archipelago of Socotra Islands in Yemen, which became a nature reserve because it contains a lot of rare species of Fauna and Flora, among which Dragon’s Blood is the most important tree that dramatically tolerant of drought, and this is due to its ability to retain water for many years. What distinguishes this tree is its outward appearance and medical value, where citizens takes out the red sticky therapeutic from its bark, inside or outside of the tree by means like a knife or sharp stone, and put it in a special pot, then a professional takes it for cooking in a wide clay pot placed on a high aperture fire, and stirs it with a stick until it turns into a shape of plate like the plate of incense, then it will be cut after cooling into small cloves of which copious amounts are exported through Hadramout and Aden  , but they get finished soon from the shops of spice dealers due to the large demand on them, so that large amounts of them are exported to Gulf States.

There are other stories say that after the resin become solid in summer months, it will be scraped with a sharp object from congregate cavities which have been cut in the trunk of the tree, and the best grades of it is the resin which gathers on the branches, also there is a glue-resin which extracted from the bark of light plant with a height of about 8 meters long and its leaves are feathery arranged, while the neck is vertical with long black spines, and its flowers are small-sized and fruits are small too but covered with shiny brunette scales. The fruit contains one oval-shaped seed of a brown color, and the usable part is the resin extracted from the plant’s peel and fruits scales, and it is dark red color with no distinctive smell or special taste. The active ingredient in it is called “Draco”, and its percentage in the plant is about 55%, and it has been used in ancient times to treat wounds, sores and strengthen of digestive system, and it was mentioned by the most important ancient Arab physician “Ibn Sina” in his book “ the low in Medicine”, also said “Ibn al-Bitar” in his book “the whole vocabulary of medicines and food” that the blood of the two brothers is the Dragon’s blood and also the blood of the snake, too. It is used today therapeutically where extracted from it drugs for stomach cracks and stopping internal bleeding anywhere in the body, as well as interferences in tooth pastes production as an astringent and antiseptic of the gums. Also it is interference in the production of varnish, marble dye, ointments industry, printing ink and others. It is also used, in Socotra, to adorn clay pots and walls of houses from the outside.

Ancient physician “Ibn Al-Bitar” said (Dragon’s Blood is a known red substance that prevents bleeding, closes wounds and soft sores and strengthens the stomach), also “Dwoood Al-Antaki” said that Dragon’s Blood is cool and dry and prevents bleeding, diarrhea, liver heat and dysentery. While modern medical studies indicate that Dragon’s Blood strengthens the stomach and useful for the treatment of its cracks, and using boiled Dragon’s Blood three times a day is good to treat gum sores, it is also cures wounds or sores if crushed and placed on them, and it stops the bleeding of any organ of the body … but some Dragon’s Blood trees are exposed to necrosis operations from inside, which threatens some of these trees to be collapsed, and this is what environmental experts and interested people of Socotra environment have warned of.

You can reach us out via +971563889374 or email : info@socotrapioneertours.com for more inquiries regarding , private or group tours on  our beloved Island.

Socotra Pioneer Tours

Travelling to Socotra may be thrilling and beneficial for everybody. In this incredible Island, you can Savour amazing experiences whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or alongside friends. For first-time visitors to Socotra , planning a trip can be daunting. Our comprehensive guide to planning your inaugural visit to Socotra offers invaluable tips and strategies to ensure a flawless and memorable experience.

Consider these things while planning a trip to Socotra Island:

Visas may be required for travel to Oman depending on your native country. Make sure your visa is valid for the entire stay so you can exit without problems. In order to get a visa , you only need to send a scanned colour copy of your passport, valid for at least six months, so that the tour operator you booked with will process the visa with the Immigration Passports and Nationality Authority. Visa processing takes 3-5 working days and once it’s processed, your agency will send you a scanned coloured copy of your visa (by email or WhatsApp)., which you will use to board your flight to Socotra. Your original visa document  a wait for you at the immigration desk.

As for stamping your passport, As we know that some people do not prefer to get their passports stamped . This can be happened in case you do not want get it stamped however, your agency should make a letter of application to the immigration authority one week prior your arrival , hence the immigration office will take into consideration and the stamp will stamped external on original visa .

How to get there?

The current best option is United Arab Emirates carrier Air Arabia with direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Socotra every Tuesday and some Fridays.

When to go

Socotra is best visited between October and April when it’s colder and nicer. May is very and temperatures can reach 39°C . June- September is monsoon and strong windy season ,making outdoor activities uncomfortable. During peak season (December–January), it’s advisable to book flights and tours  well in advance to mitigate against price increases and secure your desired options.

What to Wear

The residents of Socotra have become accustomed to seeing tourists and are more easy-going about dress and modesty compared to other Middle Eastern regions, however, being respectfully dressed is always appreciated by the locals. While visiting more remote and smaller villages with less exposure to tourists it is recommended that women cover their knees and past their shoulders with loose-fitting clothes. Headscarves are not required.

Stay how long?

To really experience Socotra, we recommend 7-10 days. You’ll have time to see all the most wonderful  destination on Socotra .If you have extra time, Socotra  boasts numerous hidden beauties awaiting exploration, beckoning travellers to delve deeper into its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. You’ll experience Socotrai culture and natural beauty more the longer you stay.

Eat what?

Socotrai and Yemeni food combines Arabic, East African, and Indian culinary traditions.. Some must-try dishes:

·        Shiwaya:  Underground-cooked marinated beef from Yemeni cuisine.

·        Machboos: Chicken or lamb-based hot rice meal.

• Tea is a popular drink, served either with mint or milk and coffee is often flavored with spices
• Socotran-grown fruits and vegetables, home-cooked Middle Eastern dishes, freshly laid eggs, homemade pasta, and rice.

Travel tips for Socotra Island

Consider these additional tips to elevate your travel experience:

• Respect local customs: Socotra is a conservative Island with deeply rooted traditions. Exercise cultural sensitivity by dressing modestly, particularly when visiting local villages , to honor local customs and traditions during your visit.
• Stay hydrated: Socotra’s climate can be hot and dry, especially in the summer months. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities.
• Carry cash: While credit cards are almost none , it’s always advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases.
• Plan for Ramadan: If you’re visiting during the holy month of Ramadan, be aware that many restaurants and shops may have altered operating hours. Respectful behavior during fasting hours is appreciated.
• Pack sunscreen and protective gear: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential items to protect yourself from the strong sunlight, particularly if you’re spending time outdoors.
  
• Drones : If you are using drone while visiting Socotra, be alert  not using it in the village or city of Hadibo  as people are very sensitive capturing them with drones especially families . Drones fees are &100 per person and a letter of permission should  be obtained from the immigration authority office and Tourism one week or two weeks prior your arrival via the agency arranged with .
  
• Stay connected: Internet may be accessed in a few places in Socotra with an Etisalat SIM card (easily purchased in the Abu Dhabi airport), but the connection is very slow. In some campsites like Dihamri marine procted area or Roush Star link satellites is available and in the capital city of Hadibo Your local guides are also able to provide hotspots if needed but we suggest that you use this time to get disconnect and truly connect with the unique beauty and majesty of Socotra
  
• Device Charging:  Our remote Island has minimal access to electricity and, for the most part, visitors and locals rely on car cigarette-lighters to charge electronics. So, although you will be able to use the charger in tour’s 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser, we suggest you bring an external power bank with you to ensure you can recharge your devices with ease.

By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to navigate and enjoy all that Socotra  has to offer during your travels. Planning your inaugural trip to Socotra  may pose challenges, but these helpful suggestions coupled with the expertise of Tour Operators in Socotra will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Be sure to pack your camera to capture the abundance of picturesque moments awaiting you.

You can reach us out via +971563889374 or email : info@socotrapioneertours.com for more inquiries regarding , private or group tours on  our beloved Island or any advice needed .

Socotra Island enjoys a great interest by the government to take advantage of its natural characteristics, economic features and tourism attraction elements, which come within the same advantage framework as a museum of natural history that gets advantage of the global attention and efforts to preserve this island as a natural jewel, in addition to the concern it enjoys by UNESCO and international environment preservation organizations, and this concern constitutes in two sections of which the first is devoted in the development programs to preserve the island’s nature, and nominating Socotra as nature reserve that enjoys a regional and global concern to serve humanity, while the second is devoted in biodiversity protection project in the island and its archipelago.

If we have a look at the elements of attraction, we find that they are constituted in five parts; the first is Flora, Of Socotra’s 825 plant species 307 (37%) are endemic including Aloe perryi.  .The second is the endemic and migrant birds, which constitute one of natural features of the island, where 105 species of birds are registered, 30 of them breed on this island that contains a high percentage of endemic birds.

The third tourism attraction element is the caves and grottos that spread in several locations of the island of Socotra and its affiliated islands. These caves were formed by natural erosion and in some of them water worked to dissolve the limestone and formed hanging pillars from the ceilings of the caves, in addition to the normal limestone pillars rising from the caves bottoms to top, and most of those caves are inhabited.  Among those caves, the most important is “de Jub” grotto in Nujad plain, which is the largest in size, where car can carry visitors to the cavity of the grotto moving in and out with no trouble, and this grotto is located in a distance of 57 km far from Hedibo center. There is also the cave of Huq in Hala area at the east of Socotra Island with diameter of about 15 meters and a height of 8 meters, while its length is estimated about 500 to 1000 meters.

There are also the amazing beaches that extended on a distance of 300 miles and mostly shaded by palm trees, while their waters contain rare turtles such as large green turtles, in addition to the famous corals and pearls. Also there are waterfalls that spread in different locations of the island, of which the most important is “Danjhen” falls in Hedibo on a distance of 6 km away from the center, as well as the falls of Disbroh in Qa’arah ,and Ayhaft  and most of these waterfalls originate from the mountains throughout the year.

Socotra Island is a paradise for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. Famous for its incredible biodiversity and rugged landscapes, the island offers a wealth of experiences, from diving to birdwatching. Whether you’re seeking an exciting escape or a peaceful retreat, Socotra tours offer something for every traveler. Here’s a guide to the top activities you shouldn’t miss during your next Socotra trip.

Discover Socotra’s Underwater Treasures: Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

One of the best ways to explore Socotra’s natural beauty is underwater. Scuba diving in the island’s marine protected areas, such There are five main diving locations in Socotra: Dihamri Marine Protected Area with more than 80 kinds of corals and 150 fish species, Roush Marine Protected Area with a reef drop off about 1 km from the coast, Adho with deep dives, and the eastern tip of the island called Ras Irsil and western Shouab coast both with shipwrecks.

For those who prefer snorkeling, the crystal-clear waters of Omaq Beach at Nujad Plain and the serene Detwah Lagoon in Qalansiyah offer an unforgettable experience. These sites are highlights of any Socotra eco tour, allowing you to explore the untouched beauty of the island’s marine life.

 Hiking, Trekking, and Cave Exploration

For those who love adventure on land, Socotra’s dramatic landscapes provide excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. The Hajhir Mountains and Dixam Plateau, with its famous Shebahon viewpoint, are ideal locations to take in the breathtaking views of the island. Additionally, the ancient Hoog Cave, Dequb, and Halah Caves offer exciting exploration opportunities for visitors interested in Socotra’s geological wonders.

 Camel Tours: A Unique Socotra Experience

One of the most memorable ways to experience Socotra is by embarking on a camel tour. These tours provide an authentic way to explore the island’s northern and southern coasts, particularly near Hadibo. Riding a camel at sunset offers a peaceful and scenic way to discover Socotra’s natural beauty, and it’s an experience that makes Socotra trips truly unique.

 Birdwatching: Socotra’s Avian Treasures

Bird lovers will be thrilled by Socotra eco tours, which allow you to observe some of the rarest birds in the world. The island is a prime location for spotting species like the cormorants, flamingos, and various sea birds. Key birdwatching spots include the west coast, the heights of Dixam Plateau, and Qaryiah Lagoon. For those who enjoy nature in its purest form, Socotra tours focused on birdwatching are a must.

 Turtle Watching on Socotra’s Northern Coast

If you’re visiting between May and August, be sure to take part in Socotra eco tours that include turtle watching. The northern coast of Ghubbah is a prime nesting site for Loggerhead Turtles, and observing them in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience.

 Socotra Fishing and Dolphin Watching

For those who enjoy Socotra fishing, the coastline between Qalansiyah and Shu’ab Beach is ideal for casting a line and reeling in a fresh catch. This area is not only great for fishing but is also home to dolphins that often swim near the shore, making it a popular destination for tourists. If you want a truly unique experience, combine Socotra fishing with dolphin watching for a day you won’t forget.

 Windsurfing and Paragliding in Socotra

If water and air sports are your passion, Socotra offers the perfect settings. Amak Beach is ideal for windsurfing thanks to its strong winds and open coastline. For those seeking the thrill of soaring above the island, paragliding from Shebahon Viewpoint in Dixam Plateau provides unparalleled views of Socotra’s rugged landscapes.

 Camping: Sleep Under the Stars on Socotra

To fully immerse yourself in Socotra’s natural beauty, consider spending a night at one of the island’s picturesque camping spots. The white sands of Deleesha Beach, the lush Homhil Area, and the serene Detwah Lagoon offer some of the best sites for camping. Sleeping under the stars in such remote, unspoiled locations is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

 Socotra Tours: A Journey of Discovery

Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, outdoor adventures, or simply want to relax in nature, Socotra tours offer a wide range of activities to suit every traveler. You can embark on Socotra eco tours that allow you to explore its stunning biodiversity, or enjoy more relaxed options like fishing, camel riding, or birdwatching.

For a seamless and enjoyable experience, book your tour with Socotra Pioneer Tours, the leading provider of Socotra trips. Whether you prefer a private tour or a group adventure, we   can tailor the experience to your interests. Contact us   via phone at +971563889374 or email info@socotrapioneertours.com to start planning your trip.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s last untouched natural paradises, where adventure and tranquility await!