Nature Watching in North Caicos
One of the many islands in the Turks and Caicos archipelago is North Caicos. Located to the south of the Bahamas but north of the Dominican Republic, North Caicos offers a fantastic destination for vacation goers looking for tropical climate and beauty. However, there is much more to North Caicos than laying on the beach and soaking up rays. If you make a trip to North Caicos, make sure you venture away from the beaches and resorts into the real soul of the island. There, you can enjoy bird watching and exposure to the local culture.
One of the most amazing experiences you can have on North Caicos is bird watching. The southern most end of the island is made up of a series of swamps and tidal flats. The environment sets up as one of the best in the world for West Indian Flamingos. In fact, the largest sanctuary for the bird is located in that area of the island. In it, there are no planes allowed overhead and no boats in the water. This keeps the flock undisturbed and natural. With little more than a guide and a set of binoculars, you can see a flock of thousands of pink flamingos from a number of bluffs and cliffs in the area. Additionally, you can expect a chance to see the Whistling Duck, a rare bird of the region.
You will also want to hit Horestable Beach and Pelican Point. These are both secluded locations that offer additional chances for bird watching. The environments provide you with the opportunity to see many of the indigenous birds from the island. You may also encounter some of the caves once used by the Lucayans.
Another attraction you wont want to miss is the Wades Green Plantation. Located just outside of Kew, it was once one of the most successful plantations of the era. Upon your visit, you will find that many of the buildings are still very well preserved. If you want a great spot for a photograph or a way to see the entire ruins at once, pay a visit to the lookout tower. Built in recent years, the tower will provide you with a panoramic view of the plantation ruins that goes on for miles in every direction. It is one of North Caicos’ most breathtaking views, which for this island is saying a lot.
No matter your reason for arriving in North Caicos, the island has a lot to offer you. Though it is tempting to take advantage of the beaches and newly developed resorts in the area, there is much more to the island than that. You can also enjoy bird watching and taking in the wildlife of this tropical paradise. Additionally, you can experience some of the cultural history of this island through the Wades Green Plantation. There, you experience not only the beauty of the island today, but also the significance of the buildings in the Loyalist era of the island. So take a chance and get out into the island.
