Qalansiyah
Socotra's second town, a fishing village at the island's western end.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
Qalansiyah is the second town of Socotra, a few thousand people in low buildings along a bay at the island's western end, and it lives on fishing: boats are pulled up on the shore, the catch is dried on racks and the harbour is where the day is organised. Detwah lagoon lies just west of it and boats run from the town to Shuab beach further along the coast, which has no road.
What you actually see
- The fishing fleet - the boats worked from the shore and the drying racks behind.
- The bay - the water the town is built along.
- The Detwah access - the lagoon immediately west of the town.
- The Shuab boats - the departures for the roadless beach along the coast.
When to go
October to April is the cool season and the practical window. The summer monsoon from June stops boat traffic. Fishing runs through the cool months.
Honest expectations
Facilities are minimal and there is nothing set up for visitors. Photography of people needs asking. Access to Socotra requires arrangements made well in advance.
Nearby
Detwah is west, and Hadibu is east.
What to pack for Qalansiyah
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.