The Turks and Caicos Islands are an archipelago that is considered as one of the most beautiful places to spend your vacation. The archipelago consists forty islands, eight of which serve as the dwelling place for about 30,000 residents. More than a living place for its people, the Turks and Caicos Islands is home to thousands of marine species as well as a handful of bird species. As a nature lover, or even as a hardcore environmental advocate, you can spend your vacation here in a very nature-friendly way.
Reef-Friendly Snorkeling
Back then, the shallow shores of Providenciales were open to snorkelers. The massive activity had a negative impact on these shores, particularly the Bight and Smith’s Reefs. Countless local donors, with support from the government and numerous businesses, acted to control the damage brought by the activity. They installed trails that act as safe passages for the snorkelers and the corals, and provided educational information. As you snorkel around these reefs, you will find “reef wisdom” posted in the right places.
The Crossing Place: A Nature-Friendly Hike
The aim of this project, which is done through the effort of private citizens, is to protect the Middle Caicos. Basically, they protected a large area that spans from the eastern end of Middle Caicos to the lower end of the Bottle Creek. As you walk along the trail, you will behold the historic ruins, cavernous caves, and the locals busying themselves with the local craft. There are many other places to see such as the Blowing Hole, Mudjin Harbor, Conch Bar, Bambarra and Lorimers.
Hike to the Lucayan Sites and Other Places of Old
In the 1400s, archeological expeditions revealed facts and fossils that suggest the island served as the heart of ancient Indian tribes. M-6, the most famous site, can be reached by a two hour hike toward a region in the interior lake. Other old places that you can visit are the former plantations such as Haulover (Middle Caicos), Wade’s Green (North Caicos) and Cheshire Hall (Providenciales).
Bird Watching
Merely watching birds does not bring negative impact to the environment. So when you visit the island, you can bring your binoculars and your cameras. There are approximately 170 species of birds in the island conch that you won’t see every day. You cannot take the birds home but you can certainly take their pictures.
Enjoying Your Stay
By merely visiting Turk and Caicos Islands, you are actually helping its citizens preserve the natural environment. A certain percentage of tax is levied on hotel accommodations and other products and services that are related to eco-tourism. By simply visiting and appreciating the archipelago, you are indeed having an environment friendly vacation.
As a young nation, Turks and Caicos Islands have growing concepts such as ecological ethics, sustainable development and ecotourism. Everyone is encouraged to hike, bike, swim, and kayak to experience the unspoiled environment of the archipelago. With its white, powdery and sandy beaches, and turquoise water that expands to the horizon, Turks and Caicos Islands is truly a gift that is worth visiting and cherishing.