Nature of Dominican Republic - national parks and reserves for active recreation

This may seem surprising, but the Dominican Republic covers 27 climatic zones. That’s why its animate and inanimate nature is so diverse: there are tropics and mountains, sharks, monkeys and turtles, palm trees and bright flowers. National parks of the Dominican Republic will not leave indifferent those whose heart is drawn to nature. One of these parks is Los Haitises in Sabana de la Mar. The park with beautiful nature is full of caves, grottos, and waterfalls. It'd be nice to book an inexpensive excursion or a tour of the park - guides will take tourists to the most interesting places where they can see amazing limestone formations, beautiful plants, mangroves. You can go on a boat trip to feel Saona Island's white sand with your skin or book an ornithological excursion for birdwatchers.

Jaragua National Park located in Pedernales is a turtle paradise covered with sea grapes. It has waterfalls and caves with ancient drawings of indigenous people preserved on its walls. Here you can admire oaks and big cacti, watch flocks of flamingos and hundreds of other birds, as well as ride horses. National Park Del Este in Bayahibe is considered one of the best parks in the Dominican Republic. It is famous for a large number of exotic butterflies of different species. Guides tell in detail about the animals and plants of the park. Also, it's an excellent scuba diving site. Those sensitive to sunlight are advised to take a hat and sunglasses along - the sun is particularly intensive here.

La Caleta Underwater National Park near Santo Domingo is a truly unique place. It is sure to impress both eco-tourists and fans of everything unusual. Starting from the 80s, four boats have been sunk here for the purpose of creating artificial reefs and natural habitats for endangered marine species. This is a perfect place for diving: one can swim among corals, explore sunken ships, observe the diverse and amazing marine life. Visiting this park leaves a lasting impression and is not comparable to anything else. In the park, you'll discover the Museum of Ethnology and Archeology that keeps many objects associated with the Taino people. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

"Runners Adventures" company offers guests of Punta Cana, Bavaro, Uvero Alto, and Macau a unique opportunity to go on a five-hour tour of the "Monkeyland". This is an amazing garden with many beautiful trees with edible fruits and colorful flowers. Kids will be happy to meet small, friendly and fun Squirrel monkeys. They really love to communicate with people and eat fruits from their hands. Also, participants of the tour are invited to visit cocoa and coffee plantations.

Hoyo Azul tours in Punta Cana are recommended to all eco-tourists. Be sure to bring towels and swimsuits along so that you can swim in crystal-clear turquoise water of a cenote at the foot of the cliff. Children of six years and upwards can go with parents. A journey to the cenote begins with an ascent to the slope of El Farallon, during which a guide tells about the jungle plants. Above the mouth of the cave is a ladder, after which the tour continues in the interweaving of underground tunnels. After a break follows a tour of ecological paths where you can admire the ferns, orchids and other plants. Finally, you can spend half an hour swimming in the clean water of "Hoyo Azul" cenote.

Laguna El Dudu is located in Cabrera. This is a park offering caves, amazing scenery and, most importantly, a lagoon with clear water, a system of lakes where swimming, diving, and bungee jumping are allowed. A great place for a relaxed recreation. Entrance fee is about 150 peso.