Laguna de Las Marites Natural Monument, Protected lagoon in Nueva Esparta, Venezuela.
Laguna de Las Marites is an extensive brackish lagoon along the coast of Margarita Island, surrounded by red and black mangroves spread across thousands of hectares. The shallow waters and thick vegetation create a distinctive ecosystem where land and water blend together.
The area received protected status in 1974 when the government recognized the need to safeguard its natural resources and control development. This designation marked an important shift toward conservation in the region.
Local communities from nearby villages depend on fishing in these waters as part of their daily work and heritage. The lagoon remains central to how people here connect with their environment and sustain their livelihoods.
Special permits are required for fishing or boating activities, which you can obtain from the local park authority before your visit. Planning ahead helps you avoid restrictions and make the most of your time there.
The lagoon serves as a breeding ground for rare bird species including brown pelicans and scarlet ibises that gather here in significant numbers. Bird watchers recognize it as one of the most important areas for these species across a wider region.
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