Ecotourismin The Bahamas

Andros is home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world, the Andros Barrier Reef, measuring over 124 miles long. In an effort to conserve the 8,500 acres of healthiest parts of the reef, these two national parks were created. In turn, a variety of marine life species are protected as well, and there are dive and snorkel spots throughout the parks for people who wish to get a closer look at these flourishing underwater environments.

Andros, the largest of the Bahamian islands, is home to the highest concentration of blue holes in the world. In an effort to protect these natural wonders, this 40,000 acre national park was formed, creating a safe haven for 22 blue holes and the surrounding pine forests. The park includes nature trails, a gazebo for relaxing, and the famous Captain Bill’s Blue Hole, a popular blue hole to dive into for those feeling adventurous enough.

Conception Island, revered as one of the most beautiful Bahamian islands, has been uninhabited by humans for over 100 years. This park is a protected area, home to pink sand beaches, sandstone cliffs, mangroves and an abundance of marine and land wildlife.

The Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park is The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean’s first marine reserve. This stretch of over 112,000 acres protects magnificence of coral reefs, mangroves, seagrasses, and tons of wildlife including birds, fish, turtles and iguanas. While you’re here, stroll along pristine beaches, traverse several hiking trails, and observe one of the world’s most stunning ecosystems.

This park devotes itself to protecting several species of seabirds and San Salvador’s rock iguanas, one of the rarest lizards on Earth. The park also protects extensive seagrass beds and reef systems that are important for fisheries.

Harrold & Wilson Ponds National Park is 250 acres of protected wetland habitats for birdlife in New Providence. These habitats are extremely important to birdlife, since the concentration and variety of birds such as herons, egrets, ibises, and more, is so high in this area.

Great Iguana, the southernmost island in The Bahamas, is home to this 287 square mile park, the site of the largest breeding colony of West Indian Flamingos in the world. After spending forty years on the endangered species list, there are now approximately 70,000 flamingos living on the island. But it isn’t just flamingos you’ll find when visiting. The park is also home to the native Bahama parrot, the endemic Inagua Woodstar Hummingbird, and many other unique bird species.

The largest uninhabited island in the Wider Caribbean, these remote saltwaters contribute to the supply of fisheries, eggs, larvae, and sub-adults that are swept into the other parts of the Bahamian marine territory. The 62,800 acre park is a protected area and nesting location for the critically endangered sea turtle, as well as protection of the marine ecosystem for fishery replenishment purposes.

Crooked Island’s plantation history dates back to the 19th century. By then, the island was home to more than 40 plantations and 1200 slaves. This 4.4 acre national park protects the remains of some of these historic plantations.

Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park, the second land and sea park created at the time of its emergence, is an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling due to the extraordinary reef systems. Among these reefs are a variety of tropical marine life, with more than 170 species, including the endangered sea turtle, documented within the park.

As San Salvador’s only tidal creek, Pigeon Creek is an important conservation area. The park’s creek houses mangroves, seagrasses, hard bottom corals and sponges and is home to the island’s main population of sea urchins. It’s the only nursery area for the Nassau Grouper, as well as a nursery for spiny lobster and reef fish.

Rand Nature Centre in Freeport is now home of the administrative office of the Bahamas National Trust. The centre is home to a wide range of flora, and a well-known birding spot.

Southern Great Lake National Park, located in the centre of San Salvador, protects an extensive mangrove ecosystem and the endangered San Salvador rock iguana.

Union Creek, a known sea turtle research centre, is located in the northwest corner of the Inagua National Park. This reserve is a natural habitat for Green and Hawksbill turtles, along with mangroves and lush seagrass beds. This reserve plays a large role in protecting the endangered sea turtle population.

West Coast Marine Park is famously recognized as the place where Christopher Columbus first made landfall in The Bahamas. Home to breathtaking coral wall formations and pristine beaches, divers and visitors find this park an alluring attraction.