Discover the best tours and experiences
Parque Nacional Cotubanamá, formerly known as Parque Nacional del Este, is a protected area in La Altagracia with caves, mangroves, wildlife, and access to Saona Island.
Parque Nacional Cotubanamá, also historically known as the Parque Nacional del Este, is one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic protected areas. Covering more than 790 km² of land and marine ecosystems, the park is located in La Altagracia Province and is home to some of the country’s most spectacular natural and cultural attractions, including Isla Saona, the Palmilla Natural Pool, and numerous caves with Taíno rock art.
The park was renamed Cotubanamá in honor of the Taíno chief who resisted Spanish colonization in the early 16th century. Today, it remains a living symbol of Dominican history, biodiversity, and conservation.
Cotubanamá offers a paradise for eco-tourism, combining tropical forests, mangroves, limestone cliffs, coral reefs, and pristine beaches. It is a hotspot for birdwatching and marine life, with manatees, sea turtles, and countless tropical fish thriving in its waters.
On land, visitors can explore caves such as Cueva del Puente and Cueva de Chicho, which preserve ancient Taíno pictographs. These archaeological treasures add cultural depth to the park’s natural richness.
The most popular excursions within the park include day trips to Isla Saona and swimming at Palmilla, but visitors seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences can also enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring hidden jungle trails.
Accessibility: Parque Nacional Cotubanamá can be accessed through Bayahibe and Dominicus, the main departure points for tours. By road, it is about 50 minutes (70 km) from Punta Cana, 2 hours (150 km) from Santo Domingo, and around 8 hours and 15 minutes (305 km) from Puerto Plata.
Whether exploring its caves, enjoying its marine biodiversity, or relaxing on the beaches of Saona, Parque Nacional Cotubanamá (Parque Nacional del Este) is one of the Dominican Republic’s must-visit destinations for eco-tourism and cultural heritage.
Hand-picked tours loved by travelers
Escape to paradise with our Isla Saona full-day tour from Santo Domingo. Small-group transfers, starfish natural pool, open bar & beach buffet included.
Escape to paradise with our Isla Saona tour from Punta Cana, featuring hotel pickup, a stop at the famous starfish natural pool, open bar, and a beachside Dominican buffet, all in one unforgettable full-day Caribbean experience.
Mamajuana Original
Supports locals
UniqueEscape to paradise with our Isla Saona 4 Beaches Tour from Punta Cana, featuring hotel pickup, stops at Palmilla natural pool, Playa El Canto, Mano Juan with its turtle sanctuary, and Playa El Toro, plus a beachside Dominican buffet and open bar, all in one unforgettable extended island experience.
Explore the best areas and neighborhoods
Discover other amazing places in Dominican Republic
This destination is part of
Other areas in La Altagracia
