Dominican Republic 365
Dominican Republic 365
A hidden mangrove wilderness teeming with birdlife
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.