Socotra is one of the most isolated of the continental regions of the Earth (ie, not of volcanic origin). The archipelago was most likely separated from Africa by a fault rupture during the Middle Pliocene, the same rupture event leading to the opening of the Gulf of Aden to its northwest.

The archipelago consists of the main island Socotra (3625 km² or 1400 mi²) and three smaller islands known as "Brothers"; Consists of Abd Al Kuri, Samha, Darsa—and other non-human rock outcrops.

The main island has three geographical terrains: the narrow coastal plain, a limestone plateau inlaid with karst caves, and the Haghier Mountains. The mountains are 1,525 meters (5,000 feet) high.

The climate is generally tropical desert and steppe climate; It rains less, seasonally (winter) and more in the interior high parts. The monsoon season brings strong winds and high seas.

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