Cotubanamá National Park

Cotubanamá National Park, formerly known as the National Park of the East (Parque Nacional del Este), covers the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic. Spanning over 400 square kilometers, it includes both land and protected marine areas. The park's most famous feature is Saona Island, world-renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons. The park is home to an incredible biodiversity, including over 100 bird species and rare mammals like the solenodon and jutía. Its vegetation ranges from dry subtropical forests to extensive mangrove systems along the coastline. Inside the park's numerous limestone caves, visitors can find ancient Taino rock art, reflecting the region's rich pre-Columbian heritage. The surrounding waters boast well-preserved coral reefs, making it a premier destination for diving and snorkeling where sea turtles and dolphins are often spotted. The park was renamed in 2014 to honor the Taino chief Cotubanamá. Due to its ecological and cultural significance, it remains a cornerstone of Dominican conservation efforts. Strict regulations are in place to manage tourism and minimize the environmental impact on this delicate habitat.

Nearby cities

Higüey

A bustling city in the east, known for the Basílica de Higüey.

Uvero Alto

Uvero Alto is a laid-back coastal village in northern Punta Cana, appreciated for its wilder beaches, luxury boutique hotels, and peacefu…

Saona Island

A tropical paradise and protected nature reserve, famous for its untouched beaches and shallow natural pools with abundant starfish.

Dominicus

Dominicus is a tranquil beach destination on the southeast coast, famous for its pristine white sands and the first Blue Flag beach in th…

Bávaro

Bávaro is the vibrant heart of the Punta Cana region, famous for its miles of white sandy beaches and luxurious all-inclusive resorts.

Punta Cana

Famous resort town on the eastern tip with endless white beaches.

Santa Cruz de El Seibo

One of the oldest cities in the country with a long tradition of bullfighting.

Miches

An emerging eco-tourism destination known for its pristine beaches, lush mountains, and Laguna Redonda.

Hato Mayor del Rey

Known for its cattle ranching and orange production.

History & landmarks

Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia

Important Catholic cathedral in Higüey featuring modern architecture.

Catalina Island

A beautiful uninhabited island, perfect for diving and snorkeling.

Cave of Wonders

A cave system featuring ancient rock art created by the Taino people.

Tetelo Vargas Stadium

A multi-use stadium in San Pedro de Macorís, primarily used for baseball.

San Pedro de Macorís Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the port of San Pedro de Macorís.

Nature

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Bávaro Lagoon

A protected wetland and lagoon behind the beaches of Punta Cana.

Redonda and Limón Lagoons

Two coastal lagoons in the northeast, protected as a scientific reserve.

More places

Catalinita Island

A small, uninhabited island between the mainland and Saona Island, known for its starfish.

Church of San Dionisio in Higüey

An old 16th-century church that was the original sanctuary of the Virgin of Altagracia.

Cattle Ranching in Higüey

The vast plains in the eastern Dominican Republic, especially around Higüey, are the center of cattle ranching for meat and dairy products.

Monkeyland Punta Cana

A sanctuary where visitors can interact with friendly squirrel monkeys in a natural setting.

Altos de Chavón

A replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village.

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Manatí Park Bávaro

A theme park that combines Taino culture with the flora and fauna of the Dominican Republic, including animal shows.

ChocoMuseo Punta Cana

A museum where visitors can learn all about the chocolate-making process and make their own chocolate bar.

Bávaro Adventure Park

An adventure park with a variety of activities including zip-lining, zorbing, horseback riding, and a dinosaur-themed area.