The map below shows the areas that we explored on this day.
After spending a wonderful time with Salem and his family, we had a good breakfast, after which Mahdi took us to the west coast of the island to explore some of the most amazing beaches. We drove along the north coastline for ± 2 hours. We stopped to see some old Russian tanks that were left behind on this island when the Soviets left Socotra in the 1970s. After we arrived in Qualansiyah, the second-largest city on the island, Jerodé and I climbed a small hill to look at the large lagoon and the fantastic colours of the sea.
The Detwah beach is located between the Detwah Lagoon and the sea. We drove to a campsite, and while Mahdi prepared our food and tents, we went for a short hike along the water. The rest of the day was set aside for rest. We spent the evening at the fire and slept under the stars.
The following morning, we got up early as we had to be on the water shortly after sunrise to enjoy a long ride to the Shoab Beach without big waves. Water was warm and crystal-clear. We were told that, if we're lucky, we may encounter some dolphins along the way. We did! It was spectacular. Jerodé and I went for a swim in the deep waters. One can see deep into the water, and the sand at the bottom is so white that the water has a unique colour that makes you feel good and happy.
We were at Sharm Beach for a few hours, and after a short lunch, we had to start heading back while the waves were still not too big. The ride back was bumpy and exciting, just like a roller coaster. After we arrived back at the fishing harbour in the village, we started heading back to Hadiboh. We stopped over along the way to visit a salt mine, which a local woman typically operates. We did not see them working, as the operations of this place are directly related to the sea tides schedule. First, when the tides are high, they collect seawater from a small lake that is connected underground to the sea. During high tides, the water level in the lake rises, filling several rock formations with salty water. Once the tides go down, water starts evaporating, and salt crystals can be collected.
We arrived at Hadiboh after sunset. Mahdi invited us to his home for dinner that his wife had prepared. We had the chance to meet his family, which included four kids, and enjoy his hospitality.
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