National Park of the East

Whether you are a marine biologist, researcher or simply an explorer, this is an experience definitely worth living.

This National Park is located 4 kilometers away from Bayahibe, becoming the leading resource for eco-tourism in the East region of the Dominican Republic. The natural environment of 42,000 hectares has been declared a protected area since 1975 and is home to a surprising number of both terrestrial and marine biodiversity, where animal and plant life develop freely in the wild.
Geographically-speaking is a trapezoidal-shaped peninsula of about 25 km at its widest point, also home of Saona Island, Catalinita Cay and Padre Nuestro trail. Its springs are located in the extreme south-east corner of the country, comprising part of the towns of Boca de Yuma and Bayahibe. 
Separated from the mainland by the Catuano Strait, with an area of 808 km ², of which 420 are terrestrial and 388 belong to the sea.

Should you visit this nature reserve, Parque Nacional del Este, be sure to watch the spectacle of birds nesting in the mangroves of Bahia de Las Calderas, locally known as Colonia de las Fragatas; and more than 112 species of birds, mammals and plants that you won't find anywhere else. 
If you want to experience the tranquility and spirituality of the ancient Taino civilization that dwells in the caves with samples of its authentic art, we recommend you to visit this National Park during your vacations.
Only in the Cave of Bienve will you be amazed by 20 to 30 groups of petroglyphs and pictographs; at Berna Cave you'll find nearly 400 Taino petroglyphs, and the island's oldest paintings.
While at Panchito Cave experience a close encounter with a Taino deity. You can also explore Cueva del Puente cave and José María Cave. Make sure your guide shows you around these caves. the only remains of a mysterious past.
In addition to the unique appeal of the beaches, virgin islands of Saona and Catalina, around the adjacent bodies of water encompassing this National Park, magnificient coral reef formations which house large schools of fish, at a depth ranging from 1 to 60 meters. These reefs stand out for their brawniness, becoming one of the most noteworthy underwater natural formations in the Caribbean.