Parque Nacional Natural Old Providence Mcbean Lagoon - Other Activity Providencia and Santa Catalina - Colombia

Parque Nacional Natural Old Providence McBean Lagoon, in the extreme northeast of Providence Island, is the only national park in the archipelago. It protects McBean Lagoon, Three Brothers Cays and Crab Cay, as well as reefs and 37 hectares (92 acres) of well-preserved mangroves. Land features include McBean Lagoon and Iron Wood Hill (150 meters / 500 ft), a steep rise with a full 360-degree view of the isle and the seven-color ocean rippling over the exposed reef. In the marine portion is the barrier reef that protects Providence Island's shore and is the second largest in the Caribbean.

McBean Lagoon is nesting ground for a variety of resident and migratory birds. Crab Cay's fauna includes black crab, and pennie, screeching and blue lizards. The reef, composed of hard and soft corals, are home to parrot, comber, trumpetfish, grunt and other reef fish.

In the McBean Lagoon sector is the Seven Colours hiking trail through the mangrove. Another hike is up through the dry tropical forest of Iron Wood Hill. Scuba diving and snokeling is good at Crab Cay and Hippie's Place. You can also kayak along the coast and out to Crab Cay.

Location:


Providencia and Santa Catalina, Colombia

Other Activity Types:
Wildlife refuge, Natural park, National park (flora)

Getting There
Crab Cay and Three Brothers Cays can only be reached by boat. To get to the mangrove area, take the road that runs along Maracaibo Hill.

Travel Tips: If hiking in the hills, use insect repellent as there are ticks.

Price Description: Adults $2, children $1. Diving permit $3.50 per day, fishing permit $2.50 per day.

Relative price: Budget

Travel Skills: None

You Need to Bring: Bring swim suit and snorkeling gear; sunblock (or suntan lotion), hat and a light shirt to cover up from the sun when you've had enough. Also, water and snacks.

Currencies accepted
Colombian Peso

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By Lorraine Caputo

Upon re-declaring her independence at age 29, Lorraine Caputo packed her trusty Rocinante (so her knapsack's called) and began...

Updated: 05 Aug 2011