Dragon's Blood Canyon

The Dragon's Blood Tree is perhaps the most iconic of Socotra's many endemic species, an extraordinary tree that can live for 600 years. The tree is easily recognizable, with branches that fork outward and give it a mushroom-like appearance. It grows in the mountainous areas on the island, and produces a bright red sap, hence its name. Here a Dragon's Blood Tree stands overlooking Diksam Plateau and Wadi Derhur as the sun peeks out after a storm. The air felt fresh and cool, and the colors seemed to soak in the rain, making them richer and more lush. Walking along these cliffs, I admired the soft greens and deep reds across the canyon, and the dappled light making its way across the distant hills.