Travel
Punta Cana’s wildlife
The “Laguna Bavaro” wildlife refuge, in Punta Cana, offers tourists the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful natural landscape by kayaking through 17-square kilometers of the lagoon.
Another excellent option is the walk the nearby trails near the shoreline.
Some 223 species of native plants, including four types of mangrove trees, 86 species of birds (eight endemic), five species of amphibians, 11 species of reptiles and several species of freshwater fish, have been catalogued from this region alone. This beautiful body of fresh water is situated near the coastal area, in the very heart of the Punta Cana region, and just a few short minutes from most major hotels. This protected area is managed by the Tourism Cluster of “La Altagracia,” the country’s easternmost province. It has also received the “Ford Motor Company Conservation and Environment Award.”
The city of Higüey’s most popular fish
One of the main attractions at the lagoon is the “Cypronodon,” a particular fish that is found only in this particular region. The word “Higüey” comes from the Tainos, the native inhabitants of the island. Before the arrival of the Spaniards, in 1492, the region was known by this name. The city of Higüey is the capital of “La Altagracia” province, where the resort town of Punta Cana is situated.
