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NortheastNational Park

Parque Nacional Manglares del Bajo Yuna

A hidden mangrove wilderness teeming with birdlife

DifficultyEasy
Area110 km²
Duration3-4 hours (boat tour)
GuideRequired
Type
National Park
Entry fee
RD$100 (approximately US$2)
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
3-4 hours (boat tour)
Guide
Required
Area
110 km²
Best time
November through April for migratory birds; early morning for best birdwatching
Hours
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Elevation
0-5m
FacilitiesBoat LaunchBasic Ranger Station
Key speciesRoseate spoonbillBrown pelicanGreat blue heronWest Indian whistling-duckBlue crab
Key featuresExtensive mangrove forestsBird nesting coloniesEstuarine ecosystemBoat channelsFish nursery habitat
The park

Parque Nacional Manglares del Bajo Yuna

Vast coastal mangrove wetlands at the mouth of the Yuna River, protecting critical nursery habitat for fish, crustaceans, and migratory birds.

Parque Nacional Manglares del Bajo Yuna protects one of the most extensive and ecologically important mangrove systems in the Caribbean. Located at the mouth of the Yuna River where it empties into Samana Bay, this 110 square kilometer park encompasses dense forests of red, white, and black mangroves, tidal flats, and estuarine channels that serve as critical nursery habitat for commercially important fish and crustacean species.

The park is a haven for birdlife, with large nesting colonies of herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, and pelicans. During migration season, thousands of shorebirds and warblers pass through the wetlands. The mangrove ecosystem also plays a vital role in protecting the coast from storm surge and erosion. Visits are typically by boat through the mangrove channels, offering a peaceful, immersive nature experience. The park is relatively unknown to international tourists, making it a hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Before you go

Park information

Entry feeRD$100 (approximately US$2)
Opening hours7:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
DifficultyEasy
Guide requiredYes
Recommended duration3-4 hours (boat tour)
Best time to visitNovember through April for migratory birds; early morning for best birdwatching
Elevation0-5m
Area110 km²
Nearest townSanchez