HOQ CAVE

Hoq Cave is one of the most significant archaeological and geological sites on Socotra. Located on the northeastern side of the island, it is a massive limestone cavern that stretches over 3 kilometers deep into the mountain. Reaching Hoq Cave is a physical challenge that adds to its "untouched" feel, the Hike requires a 1.5 to 2-hour uphill trek from the village of Terbak, The trail is mixture of stone paved route and steep and rocky, rising roughly 350 meters above sea level. As you climb, you get panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and once you reach the entrance, the temperature drops significantly, offering a cool, damp sanctuary from the sun.

Once inside, the cave opens into a series of massive chambers with spectacular limestone formations, the main gallery is vast at some points, your flashlight beam may not even reach the ceiling. the cave is filled with towering columns, delicate "soda straws" and shimmering flow-stones that look like frozen waterfalls, deep inside, there are calcite floors that sparkle like diamonds when hit by a torchlight.