Purple Island Traditional Cache
Hidden : 2/6/2013
Difficulty:
3 out of 5
Terrain:
3 out of 5

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

Welcome to

PURPLE ISLAND CACHE

History has it that the island came to be known as ‘Purple Island’ as a rich purple-red dye was produced here from a particular species of sea snail. The dye was used only for the robes of kings and the elite few whom they chose to honour. The island has witnessed intermittent human settlements for the past four millennia. During excavations, a French archeological mission had uncovered evidence of a thriving dye production centre at the island that existed during circa 1,400-1,200 BC. The island is of immense importance for Qatar as it throws light on its ancient history and rich heritage.

The small island supports uncommon and interesting vegetation and the mangrove forests therein are home to fish, crabs, shellfish and a variety of birds. The area is popular with bird watchers. You may be rewarded with sightings of cormorant, waders and even some raptors

Read more at Jazirat Bin Ghanam

Unless you don't mind getting wet, the island is only accessible at low tide. Be sure to check the tides as one high tide is generally a lot higher than the other. Spring tide can be up to 1,5m above low tide. The preferred access route is from the south via the causeway that starts at Parking 1. Sections of the causeway have been removed to prevent vehicle access. Alternatively, the island can be accessed by walking across the tidal mudflats from Parking 2 to the east of the island. Watch out for strong currents when crossing the gaps in the causeway, especially during the midpoint between the tides (2 hours after high / low tide to 2 hours before low / high tide respectively). The area is easily accessible by sedan car as long as you stay on the well defined sabkha roads. Sticky mud abounds very close to the track, so beware or you may become very stuck!

Take some time to explore the island and look for some evidence of historical significance and / or archeological exploration. Do not remove anything you may find though, as this is frowned upon by the authorities. Remember to bring water and a hat. As the Aussies say: slip, slop, slap and wrap.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

ba gur fyvccrel fybcr

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)


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