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Located on the southern tip of Pedernales. this is one of the Dominican Republic’s most significant natural reserves. Part of the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the DR, the Jaragua National Park’s 1,295 square kilometers (500 square miles) encompass diverse ecosystems–from sea to land, lagoon to isles, Taino caves, the stunning Bahía de Las Águilas virgin coastline, and the secluded offshore isles of Beata and Alto Velo. The wildlife and fauna are a match in diversity. Fauna spotted at Jaragua National Park range from manatees, and turtles that nest on its beaches–hawksbill, leatherback, loggerhead, and green sea. At least 400 species of flora have been identified, including tropical forests, cacti, mangroves, and wetlands where over 130 species of birds thrive, 10 of which are endemic. You’ll see large flocks of American flamingos, white crowned pigeons, as well as white ibis, osprey, back-crowned night herons, roseate spoonbills, and blue herons, among others. Iguanas also call the park home, from the endangered rhinoceros iguana to Ricord’s, the Hispaniolan solenodon, and the Hispaniolan hutia.