Staying overnight on Saona Island was an experience that deepened my connection with this magical Caribbean corner. Although I had visited the island several times before, this time I experienced it from a more intimate perspective, where the sounds, colors, and small stories became the protagonists.
Part of the Cotubanamá National Park, Saona Island is more than just a paradise destination: it's a sanctuary of biodiversity and life. From dawn to dusk, the natural spectacle never stops. The countless palm trees, with their innate elegance, seem to greet visitors while paying their daily tribute to the sun. The birds flutter and watch from above, like guardians of the landscape, while the fish, sea stars, rays, and perhaps even a shy shark, complete the underwater scene with their lively dance.
The mosquitoes, always present, are also part of this coexistence with nature, reminding us that we are in a living ecosystem. Even the dogs that greet you with curious eyes, despite their scruffy appearance, add a unique touch to the experience, as if they were the unofficial guides of the island.
An Inspiring Model of Conservation
As a protected area, Saona Island is an example of how nature and humans can coexist in harmony. Thanks to the initiatives of the Ministry of Environment, solar energy and wells provide basic resources, and electric transportation minimizes the environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability is tangible, from the control of tourist visits to the active presence of authorities to protect the balance of the place.
However, the island still has challenges. The accommodations, though full of character, need a little more care, and the litter found in some corners reminds us that our responsibility as visitors goes beyond enjoyment: we must protect and respect.
The People of Saona: The Heart of the Island
The Saona experience wouldn't be the same without its people. From the fishermen who bring treasures from the sea to the guide who enthusiastically shares stories about the island, all are part of the human ecosystem that complements the natural beauty. The cook who creatively transforms local ingredients into a feast; the police officer who watches over and also suggests the best way to enjoy the island; and the children who play carefree in a place where childhood still holds true meaning.
Even the man who waits every day at the pier, ready to offer a flyer for his restaurant, or the boat boy who takes you to explore hidden beaches, are part of the human fabric that makes visiting Saona such an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Reflection: A Treasure We Must Protect
Saona Island is ours. Its crystal-clear waters, its palm trees, its birds, and even its small challenges, like mosquitoes and dogs, remind us that we are in a unique, fragile, and living ecosystem. Every detail invites us to be responsible: to pick up our waste, to support its people, and to respect the rules that protect it.
Saona is not just a tourist destination; it is a testament to what we can achieve when we take care of what we love. In every wave, every palm tree, and every curious glance from its inhabitants—human and non-human—we find an invitation to preserve this paradise for future generations.