Jaragua National Park, Marine-terrestrial protected area in Pedernales Province, Dominican Republic.
Jaragua National Park is a protected area in the southwestern corner that combines coastal waters, beaches, and inland forests within a single landscape. The terrain includes flat coastal zones with mangroves, dry forests, and scattered caves containing archaeological remnants.
The park was established in 1983 to protect the landscape and its resources. Rock art within caves shows that pre-Hispanic peoples lived and worked in this region for centuries before European arrival.
Local communities continue salt extraction at Las Salinas using methods passed down through generations, and visitors can observe this daily work firsthand. The practice shapes how people relate to the landscape and remains an important part of local identity.
The best time to visit is during the dry season when roads are more passable. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle or arrange boat access, and bring water and sun protection since shade is limited.
The park hosts the largest flamingo population in the Caribbean, visible in impressive numbers along the water during certain times of year. Protected beaches also serve as nesting grounds where sea turtles return to lay eggs.
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