Whale watching in the Dominican Republic

From January through March, Samana Bay is nearly taken over by humpback whales. For centuries, thousands of these majestic mammals migrate to the warm protected waters of the Bay of Samana on the DR’s east coast. The Tours from Samana Bay are available during this time and most offer a 99 percent sighting rate. Under the strictest guidelines, these playful whales can be admired at fairly close range, without intimidating mothers and their calves or risking your safety.

Protection = eco-tourism
In the DR, eco‐tourism opportunities abound and connect visitors with the environment in sustainable ways, granting access to the unimaginable beauty of the land. The Whale Sanctuary in Samana provides safety for 3,000 to 5,000 breeding humpback whales each winter. In addition to coastal protections, the DR’s plentiful national parks located inland boast such sites as the highest and lowest geographical points in the entire Caribbean. Minister of Tourism, Francisco Javier Garcia said, “By setting aside 20 percent of our land for preservation, the DR has taken a very systematic approach to ensure our natural beauty remains unspoiled. This dedication has led to the development of 83 protected areas including 19 national parks, 32 natural monuments, six reserves and two marine sanctuaries.”

See also: www.godominicanrepublic.com