Bodies of Water of the Caribbean

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of southeastern Haiti lies a hidden oasis of unparalleled beauty and ecological significance: Étang Saumâtre, also known as Lake Azuéi. As the largest lake in Haiti and the second largest in Hispaniola after Lake Enriquillo in the Dominican Republic, this salty water body embodies the essence of Haiti's natural landscape, offering a sanctuary of tranquility and biodiversity in the heart of the Caribbean.

The Gulf of Venezuela and the Guajira Peninsula, located at the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and South America, are of strategic importance due to their ecological diversity and role in regional trade and natural resource extraction. The Gulf serves as a vital shipping route for petroleum, while the Guajira Peninsula is home to the Indigenous Wayuu people and diverse ecosystems. However, territorial disputes between Colombia and Venezuela add geopolitical complexity to the region.

The Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve is Grenada's oldest and largest protected area. It's a testament to the island's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The reserve covers a significant portion of central Grenada, providing a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and plant species. The park's varied elevations and terrain create a mosaic of ecological subsystems. The rainforest around Grand Etang Lake, the focal point of the reserve, is particularly rich in biodiversity.

Nestled within the azure embrace of the Caribbean Sea lies a trio of ecological wonders, each contributing to the rich tapestry of biodiversity and conservation efforts in Bonaire. Lac Bay, Klein Bonaire, and the Bonaire National Marine Park are testaments to the island's commitment to preserving its natural heritage while providing invaluable ecosystem services and recreational opportunities.

Nestled in the southwestern region of the Dominican Republic lies a natural marvel – the Lago Enriquillo and Isla Cabritos National Park. This stunning protected area encompasses the largest lake in the Dominican Republic, Hispaniola, and the entire Caribbean Region, along with the captivating Isla Cabritos (Goat Island) at its center. This remarkable destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and a fascinating cultural heritage.

Nestled within the captivating Gulf of Honduras, a wide inlet of the Caribbean Sea, lies a tropical paradise – the Bay Islands. Among these islands, Roatán stands out as a jewel, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich natural heritage. This region, indenting the coasts of Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, boasting a unique ecosystem with a diverse array of coastal marine waters, including estuaries, barrier beaches, lagoons, salt marshes, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, keys, and barrier reefs.

Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve are located on the island of Saint Croix. The protected area preserves upland watersheds, mangrove forests and marine environments. It also contains the only known site where a Columbus expedition set foot on what is now U.S. territory.

The Cauto River, Cuba's longest and most significant river, winds through the island's eastern region, sustaining ecosystems, agriculture, and communities. As a vital freshwater source, the river plays an essential role in shaping the landscapes and livelihoods of the provinces it traverses. With its diverse ecosystems, economic importance, and cultural significance, the Cauto River is a natural treasure that embodies the interplay between nature and human activity in Cuba.

The Yuna River is a vital artery coursing through the Dominican Republic, playing an indispensable role in the country’s ecology, economy, and culture. Spanning the provinces of Monseñor Nouel, La Vega, and Samaná, this river serves as a lifeline for agricultural activities, a source of hydroelectric power, and a haven for diverse ecosystems. The Yuna River’s significance extends beyond its physical boundaries, touching the lives of countless communities and shaping the natural and human landscapes of the Dominican Republic.