Explore the bird-filled mangroves, rolling hills of lush vegetation and caves ofLos Haitises National Park. Take a boat tour or bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes and hike through the parkland.
The national park’s name comes from its original inhabitants, the Taino Indians. In their language “Haitises” translates to highlands, a reference to the coastline’s steep geological formations. The area was designated a national park in 1976, which protected it from private investment.
You’ll find little road access into this protected parkland. Join up with a boat tour to take you from Samana or Punta Cana, through Sabana de la Mar and toward its coastal areas. These guided speedboats will take you past islets such as Bird Island, which is a favourite of native pelicans. Then you’ll delve deep into the mangroves, where the roots form intertwined webs at low tide and birds flock into the overhead branches.
Land at the open San Lorenzo bay, from where you can photograph the rugged forest landscape. Look to the water to spot turtles, crustaceans and dolphins.
Venture deeper into the park to explore caves such as the Cueva de la Arena. Caves in the reserve were used as shelter by the Taino Indians and, later, by hiding pirates. Look for drawings by Indians that decorate some of the walls.
From the Los Haitises National Park, go to nearby Hato Mayor. The province has more picturesque scenery, including farmland, forests and mountains. On the way you’ll pass a number of small communities and get some incredible views of the Dominican countryside.
Choose a well-known tour company for your day-trip to Los Haitises National Park. Most operators charge reasonable fees. Pack insect repellant and be sure to check the weather before your visit, as the water can get rough on rainy days. There’s a small entry fee to visit the caves.
