Visiting Saona Responsibly: Wildlife, Beaches & Island Life

Treat protection as part of the experience

The Ministry of Tourism identifies Saona as a protected part of Cotubanamá National Park and an important turtle-nesting location. Enjoying the scenery comes with a reason to take care around beaches, wildlife, and the marine environment.

Our visitor recommendations are simple: do not collect animals or natural souvenirs, keep your own waste contained, and follow current instructions from your guide and park personnel. Ask about the day’s rules before swimming or going ashore.

Look closely, handle nothing

Observe marine animals where they are. Do not lift starfish for photographs or pressure a guide to arrange wildlife handling. Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and leave nesting areas undisturbed.

These are LoveSaona’s visitor-care recommendations, not a quoted list of legal requirements. For current access restrictions and operating rules, your guide or park authority should provide the applicable instructions.

Respect island life

Ask permission before photographing people or entering areas used by residents. Buy thoughtfully when visiting local businesses and avoid treating someone’s home as a photo set. The goal is a memorable day that remains considerate of the destination.

• Take your rubbish back with you.
• Observe wildlife without touching or feeding it.
• Follow marked access and guide instructions.
• Ask before photographing people.
• Choose an operator willing to explain its visitor-care practices.