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Abaco National Park Forest
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The Abaco National Park covers approximately 8,300 hectares (20,500 acres) in southern Great Abaco and was formally established in 1994. Managed by the Bahamas National Trust, the park is primarily dedicated to the preservation of the native Bahamian pine forest (Pinus caribaea var. bahamensis). This ecosystem is critical for the survival of the Abaco Parrot, an endemic subspecies that uniquely nests in natural limestone solution holes in the forest floor. Geographically, the park is characterized by rugged karst terrain that recharges a complex underground aquifer system. Beyond the parrots, the park supports a diverse range of birdlife, including the Bahama Swallow and the Bahama Mockingbird, making it a key site for ornithological studies. The dense pine forests serve as a vital carbon sink and provide a natural buffer against storm surges and high winds. Ecological management practices, such as controlled monitoring, are employed to maintain the health of this fragile habitat. The park stands as a leading example of terrestrial conservation in the Bahamas, attracting researchers and naturalists globally.
- Location: Bahamas
- Nearby: Crossing Rocks (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 27 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 42 | 39 | 47 | 63 | 120 | 152 | 134 | 147 | 178 | 114 | 61 | 42 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The preserve is normally accessed via the main highway on the island. From there, specific, mostly unpaved logging roads and rough trails lead deeper into the dense and expansive Caribbean pine forest.
Best season
The dry season, running from winter to early spring, is generally the most pleasant time for explorations. This allows visitors to easily avoid the extremely heavy rains and the oppressively high humidity of the summer months.
Terrain & paths
The landscape is characterized by extensive areas of dense pine forest growing on a very rough, highly uneven limestone base. Therefore, careful footing is always required when navigating the natural forest trails.
What to bring
Robust hiking shoes, long pants to protect against thorns and brush, a very strong insect repellent, and plenty of drinking water are highly recommended for any serious exploration of this dense forest.
Parking
Informal parking is generally quite possible near the main entrance signs of the park or along the wider, unpaved access roads that lead directly into the protected heart of the forested preserve area.
Safety
Visitors should be absolutely wary of the uneven limestone sinkholes that are often hidden by dense vegetation, and they must ensure they do not lose their bearings in the vast, somewhat monotonous pine forest.
Time needed
Bird watchers and dedicated nature enthusiasts typically spend two to four hours exploring the various trails, in the constant hope of catching a quick glimpse of the rare and beautiful native Bahama Parrot.
Geography
Facts
- The national park was officially established in 1994.
- The park encompasses a total area of 20,500 acres (8,300 hectares).
- It is the only place where Abaco Parrots nest in limestone cavities.
- The forest consists mainly of endemic Bahamian pine trees.
- The Bahamas National Trust is responsible for its management.
- It provides a critical habitat for several endemic bird species.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does this national park protect?
Over 20,000 hectares of pine forest and the habitat of the Bahama Parrot.
How do you get into the park?
Via unpaved roads from Marsh Harbour; a 4WD vehicle is advised.
Are there marked hiking trails?
There are few official trails; exploration is often done on old logging roads.
Is camping allowed in the park?
Camping is allowed only with a special permit from the Bahamas National Trust.
When is the best time to see the parrots?
Early morning or late afternoon during the nesting season (May to June).
Abaco National Park Forest: where is it located?
Abaco National Park Forest is located in Bahamas.
Abaco National Park Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Abaco National Park Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Abaco National Park covers approximately 8,300 hectares (20,500 acres) in southern Great Abaco and was formally established in 1994.
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Nearby cities
Treasure Cay
A resort community known for its crescent-shaped beach.
Sandy Point
A settlement at the southern tip of Great Abaco Island.
Crossing Rocks
A small fishing community on Great Abaco.
Little Harbour (Abaco)
A secluded artist colony and foundry on Great Abaco.
Cherokee Sound
A historic settlement on Great Abaco.
Cooper's Town
The northernmost settlement in the Abacos.
Mount Pleasant
A small rural community on mainland Abaco.
Cephas
A very small settlement near Mount Pleasant on Abaco.
Fox Town
A small settlement on Little Abaco Island.
Murphy Town
A settlement on Great Abaco, bordering Dundas Town.
Spring City
A residential settlement near Marsh Harbour, Abaco.
Dundas Town
One of the largest settlements in Abaco, adjacent to Marsh Harbour.
Crown Haven
The northernmost settlement on the island of Great Abaco.
History & landmarks
Baha Mar Resort
A massive hotel and casino complex dominating the Cable Beach skyline.
Ocean Atlas Statue
The largest underwater sculpture in the world, depicting a local Bahamian girl.
Hole-in-the-Wall Lighthouse
A remote lighthouse located at the southern tip of Great Abaco.
Compass Point Studios
A former famous recording studio in Nassau where many world stars recorded in the 1980s.
Nature
More places
Treasure Cay Marina
A tourism marina with provisioning and berthing facilities.
Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park
A 2,100-acre marine reserve in the Abacos known for its underwater caves and coral reefs.
🗺️
Abaco Barb Horse Preserve
A preserve dedicated to conserving the critically endangered Abaco Barb horse, a unique breed that once roamed wild on the island.
Great Abaco Pine Forests
Expansive stands of Caribbean Pine forming a crucial habitat for the endangered Bahama Parrot.
Loyalist Cemetery on Green Turtle Cay
A historic cemetery where many of the original Loyalist settlers of Green Turtle Cay are buried.
Fowl Cays National Park
A national park in the Abacos with thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Nassau Cargo Port
A key cargo hub for containers and trade goods in Nassau.
Clifton Pier Industrial Zone
An industrial area with storage, transfer, and small workshops.