The heart of the Sabana de la Mar region is undoubtedly Los Haitises National Park, a true gem among Dominican protected areas. Spanning more than 1,600 square kilometers, this unique ecosystem impresses with its biodiversity and spectacular landscapes. The park is famous for its distinctive limestone rock formations called mogotes, which emerge from the waters of Samaná Bay, creating a fairy-tale setting.

Los Haitises National Park is a paradise for bird lovers - more than 120 species can be seen here, including endemic species such as the Dominican amazon and the palm cuckoo. Boat trips among the mangroves are an excellent opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. It is worth noting that the park is also home to many species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, making it a true treasure trove of biodiversity.

One of the park's biggest attractions is its many caves, which hide fascinating traces of the Taino Indian culture. Cueva de la Linea is one of the most impressive caves in the park, where ancient petroglyphs and cave paintings can be admired. Entrance to the cave is not expensive, and children have free admission, making it an ideal attraction for families. The interior of the cave impresses with its vastness and mysterious atmosphere, and the guides provide fascinating stories about the history and culture of the region.

For those who want active recreation, the park offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. Hiking through lush rainforests allows close encounters with exotic flora and fauna. Be sure to bring comfortable footwear that does not slip, as some paths can be slippery, especially after rain.

Boat tours of the park are another memorable attraction. Floating among the mangroves, you can admire unusual rock formations and observe bird life up close. Many companies offer such tours, but it is worth choosing those that care about the environment and adhere to the principles of sustainable tourism. Whale Sabana de la Mar is one of the recommended tour agencies, which has received high ratings from visitors (4.9/5) for its professionalism and concern for nature.

Sabana de la Mar is not only about lush forests and caves - the region also boasts beautiful beaches that provide the perfect place for relaxation and water adventures. One such gem is Punta Arena Beach, located within Los Haitises National Park. This pristine beach impresses with its natural beauty and tranquility, offering visitors a truly paradisiacal experience.

Punta Arena Beach is a place where you can fully enjoy the untouched nature. The crystal clear water invites swimming and snorkeling, during which you can admire the richness of the underwater world. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, which creates ideal conditions for observing birds and other representatives of local fauna. However, it is worth remembering that as part of a national park, this beach requires visitors to take special care of the environment - take away all trash and avoid any negative impact on the ecosystem.

For those who want a more active vacation, the Sabana de la Mar region offers a number of water activities. Kayaking among the mangroves is an excellent way to explore the coast and have close encounters with nature. Many local companies organize kayak tours where you can learn the secrets of the mangrove ecosystem and admire unique bird species.

Those who enjoy more excitement can take advantage of offers to scuba dive or snorkel in nearby coral reefs. The waters around Sabana de la Mar hide a wealth of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles and a variety of coral species. Look out for Caño Hondo Hotel's offerings - Tour & Excursion, which organizes excursions that combine the comfort of a hotel stay with exciting adventures in the national park and surrounding beaches.

For families with children, the natural pools at the Caño Hondo complex are ideal for relaxation and fun. These picturesque cascades and ponds formed by the Jivales River offer a safe and pleasant place to swim, surrounded by lush vegetation. This is a great alternative to traditional beaches, especially for younger children.

Also worth mentioning is the opportunity for whale watching, which seasonally appears in the waters of Samaná Bay. Although the main center of sightings is Samaná itself, some tours organized from Sabana de la Mar also offer this opportunity. The sighting season usually falls between January and March, when humpback whales come to the area to breed and give birth to their young.

Sabana de la Mar stands out not only for its natural beauty, but also for its growing commitment to ecotourism and sustainability. The region is becoming a model example of how tourism can be developed while respecting the environment and local communities.

One example of this philosophy is the Caño Hondo Hotel - Tour & Excursion, which combines comfortable accommodations with environmental education and a responsible approach to tourism. The hotel not only offers comfortable rooms, but also organizes educational tours of the national park, during which guests can learn about the local flora and fauna and conservation. The property is also famous for its natural pools, which are fed by clean water from mountain streams, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hotel pools.

Many local tour companies, such as Whale Sabana de la Mar, place a strong emphasis on environmental education for visitors. During tours, guides not only showcase the beauty of the region, but also teach the importance of maintaining ecological balance and protecting unique ecosystems. These companies are often involved in local conservation projects, thus supporting the sustainable development of the region.

Los Haitises National Park plays a key role in promoting ecotourism. Park authorities work with local communities to develop educational programs and create jobs related to eco-friendly tourism. As a result, the region's residents have a direct interest in conservation, which contributes to the long-term preservation of this unique ecosystem.

It is worth noting the growing number of initiatives to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment. Many hotels and restaurants in the region are introducing recycling programs, reducing the use of plastic and promoting local, organic food. Tourists are encouraged to use reusable water bottles, use biodegradable sunscreen and adhere to the 'leave only footprints, take only memories' policy.

For visitors to Sabana de la Mar, this means the opportunity not only to admire the beauty of nature, but also to actively participate in its conservation. By choosing ecotourism accommodation and tour options, tourists contribute to preserving this unique ecosystem for future generations.

All in all, Sabana de la Mar is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also a place where tourism and environmental protection go hand in hand. Whether you hike in Los Haitises National Park, relax on the pristine Punta Arena beach, or take advantage of the ecotourism offerings of local hotels and guides, you can be sure that your visit will contribute to the sustainable development of this unique region of the Dominican Republic.