By ccodez
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03/11/2022

Isla Saona and the tropical islands of the Dominican Republic

All the Dominican islands literally invite you to explore and actively relax.

Isla Saona: the most visited island in the country

Eastern National Park (Del Este) covers an area of 420 km2 on the southeastern tip of the country. This place is exceptional not only for its rich species diversity, but also from an archaeological point of view. The coastal parts of the park are lined with beautiful corals, where divers will come to visit.

The main attraction of Del Este Park is Saona Island. According to statistics, two and a half thousand tourists visit here every day, which is almost 900,000 per year. This makes it the most visited tourist destination in the Dominican Republic.

Excursion boats leave for the Saona every morning from the village of Bayahibe. The island, with an area of 110 km2, is approximately thirty minutes away from the mainland by motorboat and two and a half hours by catamaran or pirate ship. Along the way, they stop in a clear lagoon where colorful starfish can be seen.

PANORAMA: Saona Island, Dominican Republic Click to open a large panorama. PHOTO: Dominican Republic

The island and its surroundings are home to many endemics, a total of 572 plant species grow here, of which 53 are endemic, and 60 bird species nest here permanently. Dolphins can be seen frolicking in the open sea.

Upon arrival on the island, visitors are greeted with an unforgettable view of a long lonely beach with fine white sand over which coconut palms lean. On the island it is possible to relax, sunbathe, dance to the rhythms of bachata and merengue while enjoying nature in its unspoiled beauty. You will also taste fresh grilled fish and seafood according to the traditional Dominican recipe, and of course there will be delicious cocktails and soft drinks.

There is a ban on the construction of hotels on the island. The only inhabited place is the village of Mano Juan, where there are approximately five hundred inhabitants, most of whom live by fishing and selling souvenirs. Only 22 companies hold concessions to sell trips to Saona Island, which must comply with strict rules.

Catalina: the real pearl of the Caribbean

Near Saona lies the small tropical island of Catalina (9 km2), where conditions are ideal for snorkeling and diving. A Center for the Protection and Reproduction of Turtles, Lobsters and Other Marine Animals was opened on the island. Some tourists arrive here on chartered boats, others use the services of travel agencies in La Romana or the fishing village of Cumayasa.Cayo Arena: a sand dune surrounded by corals

Sand Island (Cayo Arena) also known as Paradise Island (Cayo Paraíso) is located on the north coast west of the city of Puerto Plata. Here, you can rent diving goggles and fins and set out to see the colorful fish that frolic in the surrounding coral reef.

Cayo Levantado: the beach from the ad

Cayo Levantado is a small island in Samaná Bay in the northeast of the country, which can be reached by boat or catamaran. You can relax, sunbathe, fish or dive in this pleasant and peaceful place. The local beach also featured in an advertising campaign for the well-known rum.

Los Haitises: Caves and Mogotes

Los Haitises National Park on the Samaná Peninsula consists of several islands covered in primeval forest. Caves with wall paintings of the original Taínos Indians are hidden in dense mangroves. A trip to the park is an unforgettable experience, some caves can only be reached by boat.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. It occupies approximately two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which is located southeast of Florida. This destination is the second largest Spanish-speaking country in the Caribbean after Cuba, and has a very diverse landscape. Here we can find endless virgin beaches, tropical forests and mountainous areas.

Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the country. The Dominican Republic has five main tourist areas, which are Boca Chica - Juan Dolio, Punta Cana - Bávaro, La Romana - Bayahibe, Samana - Las Terrenas and Puerto Plata - Cabarete - Sosua.