Protected Areas in the Caribbean

Pic Macaya National Park is located on the Tiburon Peninsula in southern Haiti, within the westernmost region of the island of Hispaniola. Known for its rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna, rugged mountains, deep valleys, and steep slopes characterize its landscape.

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is the most significant and best-conserved remnant of forested mountain ecosystems in the Caribbean region. This World Heritage site is considered Cuba's most important protected area because of its extraordinary biodiversity values.

The Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia, and Santa Catalina is located in the western sector of the Caribbean Sea and belongs to the Republic of Colombia. The entire collection of 10 or so small coral atolls and a marine area was declared the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the sun-kissed island of Aruba, Arikok National Park showcases the island's diverse flora and fauna against a backdrop of captivating geological wonders. This natural haven encompasses nearly 20% of Aruba's total land area and is dedicated to preserving its rich biodiversity, geology, and historical heritage.

The Baconao Park and Biosphere Reserve is located in the southeastern region of Cuba, between Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo. This vast reserve is a crucial sanctuary for biodiversity, home to many ecosystems and unique species. The reserve spans three distinct biogeographic zones, each contributing to its diverse range of flora and fauna. Additionally, the park holds great cultural significance, giving visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history and heritage.

Nestled atop the hills of St. Kitts, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park serves as a vivid reminder of the complex history of the Caribbean. This exquisitely preserved fortress, blending European colonial architecture and the legacy of the African slave trade, stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. From its strategic engineering on a volcanic hill to its pivotal role in colonial conflicts, Brimstone Hill narrates the intricate story of St. Kitts.

Ciénaga de Zapata (Zapata Swamp) is located within the Zapata Peninsula on the southern coast of Cuba. Both a National Park and Biosphere Reserve, it is one of the largest and most important wetlands in the Caribbean region with a marine borderline.

The Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve is located in the northeastern region of Cuba. It protects tropical wet forests and coastal/marine ecosystems within the mountain region of Sagua-Garacoa and much of the Toa River watershed. It is considered one of Cuba's principal centers of biodiversity and endemism.

Desembarco del Granma National Park, meaning "Landing of the Granma", is situated on the southwestern tip of southeast Cuba. The little-disturbed landscape and seascape offer a wide spectrum of karst phenomena, such as giant sinkholes, cliffs, canyons and caves.

Two conservation areas on Cuba's northern coast, Caguanes National Park and Buenavista Biosphere Reserve, are prime examples of environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. They form a harmonious blend of natural wonders and historical legacies, weaving Cuba's ecological richness and cultural heritage together. As guardians of diverse ecosystems and custodians of ancient traditions, they emerge as beacons of conservation in the Caribbean.