An extraordinary island in Africa, located between two nations, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and striking landscapes. However, British tourists are currently unable to visit due to travel restrictions.

Socotra Island is a unique and isolated archipelago in the Arabian Sea, officially part of Yemen. 

Renowned for its otherworldly landscapes and high biodiversity, the island has sometimes been called the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean.” 

The island is home to a large number of endemic species, meaning species that exist nowhere else on Earth. 

Approximately one-third of its plant life is unique to the island, making it a critical area for conservation. 

Notable examples include the Dragon’s Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari), known for its umbrella-like canopy and red resin, and the bottle tree (Adenium obesum), with its swollen trunk and pink flowers.

However, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) strongly advises against all travel to Yemen, including Socotra, due to the unstable security situation on the mainland and the limited availability of consular support in the region. 

This advisory does not legally prevent travel, but it may complicate travel logistics and impact travel insurance, as many insurers will not cover trips taken against official government advice.

The UK government’s advice reads: “Support for British people is severely limited in Yemen. British Embassy services in Sana’a are suspended, and all diplomatic and consular staff have been withdrawn. The UK government cannot help British nationals leaving Yemen. There are no evacuation procedures in place.”

Socotra has distinct species of birds, reptiles and insects, some of which are found only on the island. However, it lacks large mammals, and many of its animals have evolved to fill ecological niches that would otherwise be occupied by larger creatures.

The island’s landscapes range from rugged mountains and limestone plateaus to white sandy beaches and coastal plains. Hajhir Mountains dominate the interior, providing a dramatic backdrop to the coastline and housing rare vegetation.

Socotra’s beaches are pristine and often empty, featuring stunning white sand and turquoise waters.

The surrounding coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including fish, dolphins, and sea turtles, making it a fantastic place for snorkeling and diving​