Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Jeanette Kawas National Park, located on the northern Caribbean coast of Honduras in Atlántida department, encompasses a diverse range of coastal ecosystems including tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, lagoons, and coral reefs. Established in 1994 and named after the environmental activist Jeanette Kawas who fought to protect the region's natural heritage, the park spans approximately 402 square kilometers (nearly 99,000 acres) of pristine wilderness. Its geography includes sandy beaches, estuaries, and a coastal strip that supports a wealth of flora and fauna. The park is especially renowned for being a habitat for endangered species such as the manatee, sea turtles (including nesting grounds for green and hawksbill turtles), and the West Indian spider monkey. Visitors are drawn to the park for its remote beaches, ecological significance, and opportunities to explore tropical wildlife. Activities include guided hikes through its dense forests, birdwatching — with over 200 recorded bird species, snorkeling along protected coral reefs, and fishing in designated zones. The park’s location along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef also offers significant marine biodiversity. Despite its ecological riches, the park faces pressures from illegal logging and coastal development. Protection efforts continue to focus on conserving its unique ecosystems and supporting sustainable tourism. The park remains a prime destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path jungle and marine experience in Central America with a strong conservation ethos.
