Discover some of the region’s stunning natural wonders, parks and reserves
Black sand beaches
Montserrat
The sudden eruption of the Soufrière Hills volcano in 1995 left two-thirds of the island uninhabitable, and an exclusion zone is still carefully managed by state authorities. But over the past quarter century, the Caribbean’s Emerald Isle has become a favorite among visitors for the warmth and hospitality of its people, incredible dive sites, and charming, pristine beaches. Eight of its nine beaches have special volcanic sand. The grains range in color from shiny black to shades of gray and white spots. The black sand of the coastline, the azure waters and the rich green vegetation form a wonderful study in contrast.
Christopher National Park
Curaçao
Curaçao boasts a beautiful desert landscape and many visitors are familiar with its beautiful beaches, salt flats, flamingos and aloe museum. But few know the diverse experiences that await in its 1,860-acre national park. It’s home to Mount Christoffel (the island’s highest point at 1,200 feet), eight adventure-filled hiking trails, and the Savonet Museum—where you can learn about local history and colonial-era plantation life. Friendly tour guides can talk you into a jeep safari or beach camping – truly fantastic ways to experience the island’s natural wonders.
Blue hole
Bahamas
Andros, the largest island of the Bahamian archipelago, has the largest concentration of blue holes in the world – over 175 inland and at least 50 offshore. It is also home to the Blue Holes National Park, a 40,000-hectare reserve established in 2002 to protect 22 inland blue holes and the area’s unique biodiversity. There are also blue holes on Great Abaco Island, New Providence and on Long Island – home of Dean’s Blue Hole (pictured). At 663 feet, it is the second deepest recorded on the planet.
Champagne reef
Dominica
As you might have guessed from the name, there are bubbles – and the gum can look golden! Located in the Soufrière-Scotts Head Marine Reserve in southwestern Dominica, the rock bubbles come from volcanic thermal springs at the sea floor of this volcanic crater. Divers come from all over the world to enjoy one of the most pristine, vibrant and diverse underwater environments in the Caribbean. Unique rock formations along the deeper parts of the reef are another attraction, such as the 17th-century Spanish wreck, and the countless marine species – delicate sponges, water lilies and chunks of fish – that create a kaleidoscope of colour.
Kaieteur Falls
Guyana
It is one of the highest waterfalls in the world. Here, the Potaro River plunges 741 feet over a sand plateau—at a flow rate of about 23,400 cubic meters per second—with an endless roar and cloud of spray. The falls are part of the nearly 272 square kilometer Kaieteur National Park, located in part of the Amazon rainforest. They are a must-see for adventure travelers and accessible by air on a day trip or river walk.
