The most beautiful national parks in paradise
Does the sight of bare trees send a shiver up your spine? It’s not the windchill, it’s the cold hard Canadian truth that winter has arrived – but don’t think that means you need to stick around for it! Head to the tropics where it’s lush alllll the time and enjoy nature in all its bounty at some of the best national parks. From exotic species to unbeatable views, this pretty little number (err blog) will set you on the right path for adventures only paradise can provide.
Isla Contoy National Park in Mexico
Off the northern coast of Cancun lies Isla Contoy, an eco-explorer’s paradise (eat your heart out Attenborough). Declared a national park in 1998, only 200 visitors are allowed to visit the desert island each day to preserve the area’s natural beauty – it’s like the world’s most exclusive beach club, velvet ropes not included. The island’s a nesting ground for numerous species of sea turtles that lay their eggs on the pristine shores every year, in addition to over 150 species of tropical birds like the double-crested cormorant and brown pelican. You can explore the island with NexusTours.com, Sunwing Vacations’ trusted partner in destination, where you’ll have the chance to spot the area’s diverse wildlife and enjoy a delicious lunch on the serene white-sand beach…make sure to ask the locals about the catch of the day
Where to stay: You can visit Isla Contoy on an excursion when you stay at Planet Hollywood Cancun An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort. Spend sunny days on the shore or upgrade to Planet Hollywood Adult Scene Cancun An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort Adults Only, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort for guests aged 18+. Want to get all up in nature? Book a stay at Mystique Holbox by Royalton A Tribute Portfolio Resort, a boutique resort located on the picturesque car-free island of Isla Holbox (just 30 kilometres south of Isla Contoy).
Blue and John Crown Mountains National Park in Jamaica
The Blue and John Crow Mountains aren’t just a national park – they’re also the first UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island! The park stretches across 100,000 acres on Jamaica’s northeast coast and is famous for its rich biodiversity (basically Mother Nature’s Greatest Hits). Embark on a hike through the rainforest and keep an eye out for exotic flora and fauna as you go – the park is home to 800 species of plants and one of the largest migratory bird populations in the Caribbean. At the end of your hike, refuel with some of the island’s famous Blue Mountain Coffee because nothing says “I conquered a mountain” like drinking a fresh cup from the peak you just climbed
Where to stay: After a day spent exploring the mountains, head back to your luxurious suite at Hideaway at Royalton Negril An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort Adults Only. This exclusive adults only oasis offers All-In Luxury® amenities and world-class service to make your stay in paradise picture-perfect. Upgrade to Diamond Club™ to enjoy lavish butler service, preferred room locations, a private pool, exclusive Bali beds and more..
@hjmatthews_
Los Tres Ojos National Park in the Dominican Republic
Located just outside the historic city of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic is Los Tres Ojos National Park – nature’s spa. The park (which translates to “The Three Eyes” in English) is made up of a series of mystical underground caverns and the caves’ three turquoise lagoons – the “eyes” of the cave. Learn all about the park’s fascinating history, including how the caves were used by the ancient Taino peoples for religious rituals, and admire petroglyphs on the cavern walls. Think Instagram but prehistoric.
Where to stay: Enjoy ultimate fun in the sun at the top-rated luxury resort Royalton Punta Cana An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort and Casino after your excursion to Los Tres Ojos. Soak up the sun on the shores of world-famous Bavaro Beach and test out the slides at one of the Caribbean’s largest resort water parks next door. Planning an adults only escape? Consider Royalton CHIC Punta Cana An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort and Casino Adults Only for a true social vacation.
Viñales National Park in Cuba
Cuba is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, but it’s also home to lush landscapes and magnificent mountains that’ll put your at-home stair climber to shame. El Cubano Park is located near Trinidad and is famous for waterfalls and natural pools so stunning, no filters are necessary. You can visit this breathtaking landmark and explore Trinidad, the Topes de Collantes mountain Range and many more attractions on an overnight excursion. Cap off your adventure with a walk through the life of Che Guevara before returning to Varadero where the beach will always be waiting.
Where to stay: Soak in the local culture when you stay at the adults only Royalton Hicacos Resort and Spa in Varadero. Grab a mojito made with Cuban rum as you listen to piano music at the Jazz bar before taking in a nightly show. Want to combine your beach getaway with a city stay? With the 2 Centre Combination ($), you can spend three nights at Memories Miramar Habana and four nights at Royalton Hicacos.
@eckotraveler
Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Costa Rica
Check visiting a volcano off your bucket list in Costa Rica! In Rincón de la Vieja National Park, you can explore the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s few remaining active volcanoes. Embark on a hike through the 34,000-acre national park that’s home to exotic flora and fauna, where you can admire magnificent views of the volcano’s peak and breathtaking hidden waterfalls. Keep an eye out for sloths, pumas and toucans as you hike through the jungle! The thermal activity from the active volcano has created numerous hot springs that you can enjoy a relaxing soak in after your hike – because what better way to relax after a volcano hike than a dip in nature’s Jacuzzi?
Where to stay: Planet Hollywood Costa Rica An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort provides an ideal home base from which to explore Costa Rica’s lush landscapes. The entertainment-themed resort overlooks the Gulf of Papagayo with sweeping views from around the property. You can explore more of the area with PH Experiences, the resort’s curated selection of excursions that include everything from ziplining above the jungle to visiting Nicaragua for the day.