Ecotourism in Bahamas

There are 25 National Parks in the Bahamas, all of which are managed by the Bahamas National Trust. Included in those areas is the Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest living coral reef in the world, and the 287-square-mi Inagua National Park, home to world's largest flock (about 50,000) of brilliant pink West Indian flamingos. Environmental consciousness has been heightened in the Bahamas, and 10 new national parks were created in 2002 (doubling the size of the system). More than 700,000 acres have been safeguarded, and officials hope to add more. Efforts to protect sea turtles and replenish populations of conch and lobster (crawfish) are among the conservation projects that have been undertaken in recent years.

Tour operators have begun focusing on kayaking, hiking, birding, and mountain biking—as well as on the islands' traditional sports of fishing, diving, and boating—and local guides have become more in tune with their environment. The Bahamas offers a full array of adventures in places untainted by civilization; designated wildlife preserves lie right outside Freeport. In the Out Islands, especially Abaco, Andros, and Great Inagua, you'll find rare and endangered animals, pristine "bush," and vital reefs. Near Providenciales (Turks and Caicos), the Little Water Cay Nature Trail takes you into the habitat of the rare West Indian rock iguana. You can do your part to keep the Bahamas beautiful—don't purchase products made from endangered species, use care when diving to avoid damage to reefs, don't leave any of your belongings or trash behind (or, in outdoor parlance, pack out what you pack in), and properly dispose of anything you can't remove. Also, be sure your ecotour really is, in fact, eco-friendly, and not just a regular tour wrapped up in a pretty marketing campaign.

Ecotourism Resources

The Bahamas National Trust (Box N-4105, Nassau. 242/393-1317. www.thebahamasnationaltrust.org).