The heart of the Sabana de la Mar region is undoubtedly Los Haitises National Park, a true natural jewel of the Dominican Republic. This vast protected area, covering more than 1,600 square kilometers, impresses with its diverse ecosystems and abundance of flora and fauna. The park is famous for its distinctive karst formations, dense mangrove forests and picturesque coves that create unforgettable scenery.

Los Haitises is a paradise for bird lovers - more than 200 species can be found here, including many endemic to the island. Numerous species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians also hide among the lush vegetation. The park is also home to many endangered species, making it a key area for preserving the biodiversity of the Caribbean.

One of the park's biggest attractions are its numerous caves, many of which hide fascinating traces of the presence of the indigenous inhabitants of these lands - the Taino people. On the walls of some caves you can admire prehistoric petroglyphs and paintings, a priceless testimony to pre-Columbian culture.

A visit to the park is best started with a visit to the information center, where you can learn more about the history and ecology of this unique place. Next, take one of the many boat tours that allow you to admire the majestic rock formations emerging from the waters of the bay and explore the hidden lagoons. For more active tourists, there are hiking trails leading through dense forests and offering incredible views of the area.

Los Haitises National Park is not only a tourist attraction, but more importantly a priceless ecosystem whose protection is crucial to preserving the Dominican Republic's natural heritage. A visit to this magical place is an unforgettable lesson in nature and a chance to commune with wildlife in its most primordial form.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Sabana de la Mar region are the numerous caves that hide not only natural beauty, but also traces of ancient civilizations. Three of the most famous and worth a visit are Cueva de La Linea, Gabriel's Cave and Cueva de la Lechuza Ceniza.

Cueva de La Linea is a true gem among the region's caves. Located in the heart of Los Haitises National Park, it offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and archaeology enthusiasts alike. The cave is famous for the numerous petroglyphs left by the Taino people, which can be admired on its walls. Visiting the cave requires a short hike through a lush tropical forest, which adds an extra charm to the whole experience. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be slippery.

Gabriel's Cave, also known as Cueva de San Gabriel, is another site that impresses with its natural beauty and historical significance. This spacious karst cave offers impressive rock formations and stalactites. Moreover, ancient educational drawings of the Taino tribe can be found on its walls, making it not only a natural attraction, but also a valuable source of knowledge about the region's pre-Columbian culture.

Cueva de la Lechuza Ceniza, or Ash Owl Cave, is another gem hidden in the thickets of Los Haitises. This vast cave impresses with its high ceiling and spacious chambers. Inside it you can admire not only impressive rock formations, but also ancient Taino petroglyphs. The cave is accessible only by boat, which adds an extra element of adventure to the trip.

Each of these caves offers a unique experience and allows you to delve into the fascinating history of the region. However, it is worth keeping a few important aspects in mind when visiting them:

1. Safety: The ground in the caves can be slippery, so it is advisable to wear appropriate, non-slip footwear.
2. Environmental protection: Follow the rules of nature conservation and do not touch rock formations or ancient paintings.
3. Guide: Cave tours are best organized with an experienced guide, who will not only ensure safety, but also provide fascinating information about the history and geology of these places. 4 Season: The best time to visit caves is the dry season, from December to April, when water levels are lower and access is easier.

Exploring the caves of Sabana de la Mar is not only an adventure, but also a journey back in time, allowing you to better understand the rich history and culture of this fascinating region of the Dominican Republic.

Sabana de la Mar, with its unique location and natural wealth, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for ecotourism enthusiasts. The region, with Los Haitises National Park as its main attraction, offers many opportunities to commune with nature in a responsible and sustainable manner. One place that fits perfectly into this trend is Paraíso Caño Hondo, a unique eco-hotel located on the edge of the national park.

Paraíso Caño Hondo is not just a place to stay, but a true oasis of peace and relaxation in the heart of nature. The hotel was designed with minimal environmental impact in mind, using local materials and traditional construction techniques. Guests can enjoy unique natural pools fed by crystal clear water from mountain streams, an excellent alternative to standard hotel pools.

The ecohotel offers a range of activities that allow guests to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding nature. From here you can go hiking on the surrounding trails, observe birds in their natural habitat or take part in kayaking expeditions in the mangrove lagoons. The hotel also organizes boat trips to Los Haitises National Park, an excellent opportunity to explore this unique ecosystem.

It's worth noting that Paraíso Caño Hondo not only cares about the environment, but is also involved in the local community. The hotel employs local guides and workers, thus supporting the local economy. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Dominican dishes prepared with local, fresh ingredients, adding to the cultural experience.

Ecotourism in Sabana de la Mar is not only a way to spend a vacation, but also a form of education and raising environmental awareness. Tourists have the opportunity to learn about unique ecosystems, understand their importance and learn how they can be protected. It's also a chance to support the local community and contribute to the sustainable development of the region.

When going to Sabana de la Mar, it is worth remembering a few principles of responsible tourism:

1. minimize your impact on the environment - don't leave trash, save water and energy.
2. Respect local culture and traditions - be open to new experiences and respect local customs.
3. Support the local economy - buy souvenirs from local artisans, use local guides.
4. educate yourself - learn more about the region you are visiting, its history and the challenges it faces.

Sabana de la Mar, with its natural and cultural wealth, is an excellent example of how tourism can go hand in hand with environmental protection and the development of local communities. Visiting the region is a chance not only to enjoy an unforgettable vacation, but also to actively contribute to the preservation of this unique place for future generations.