Parque Nacional Los Haitises is a unique and ecologically rich national park located in the northeastern region of the Dominican Republic, near the Samaná Bay. The park spans a coastal area of approximately 1,600 square kilometres and is characterized by its striking karst landscape, with dramatic limestone hills, caves, and sinkholes. Mangrove forests dominate the park’s coastline, creating vital habitats for a wide range of wildlife, while the interior features dense tropical rainforest. Its combination of coastal and inland ecosystems makes Los Haitises an important refuge for biodiversity, as well as a visually stunning destination for ecotourism.

The park is home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic and threatened species. It serves as a critical nesting ground for numerous bird species, such as the endangered Ridgway’s hawk and various types of herons and pelicans. The mangroves and waterways also support manatees, iguanas, and a variety of fish and amphibians, making the area an important ecological resource. Visitors can explore the park through guided boat tours, which navigate its mangrove channels and lead to hidden caves adorned with ancient Taino petroglyphs, offering insight into the cultural as well as natural heritage of the region.

In addition to its ecological significance, Parque Nacional Los Haitises is valued for its geological and cultural features. The limestone caves contain evidence of early human habitation, with rock art and carvings from the indigenous Taino people providing a window into the island’s pre-Columbian history. The park also plays a key role in environmental education and conservation, as efforts are made to protect its sensitive ecosystems from deforestation and development. Its combination of biodiversity, geological formations, and historical artifacts makes Los Haitises a remarkable destination that highlights both the natural and cultural richness of the Dominican Republic.