Are you a nature lover? Do you fancy a vacation with a difference? Why not head off to the Atlantic islands of Turks & Caicos, where you’ll discover a world of nature that’s totally different.
Turks & Caicos are forty islands and cays set in the Atlantic Ocean, but with a distinctive Caribbean twist. About five hundred miles from Miami, on the way to the Bahamas et al, these relatively unknown jewels in the ocean are well worth a visit. If you want a taste of the Caribbean which is quiet, understated and peaceful, Turks & Caicos is the perfect island chain for you.
To ensure a relaxed and luxurious backdrop to your nature excursions, treat yourself to the perfect accommodations at Coral Gardens Direct. Based at stunning Grace Bay Beach, the residences at Coral Gardens Direct allow you to live right on the beach, close to nature. With a wide choice of options ranging from single rooms to studios and penthouse apartments, there is bound to be something special to suit all tastes and budgets. When it comes to typical paradise islands, the endless beaches and turquoise waters of Turks & Caicos deliver the perfect package for those who love the outdoor life.
Of the forty islands, only eight are inhabited, this makes for plenty of quiet places where the natural wildlife is able to thrive. So whatever type of wildlife you’re interested in, whether it’s above the sea or below, you’re guaranteed to spot something unusual here…
Amazing Underwater Kingdom
One of the biggest attractions to Turks & Caicos is the high quality scuba diving experience on offer. Not only are the waters clean, clear and warm, they are home to a vast catalogue of weird and wonderful watery creatures. Whatever level you dive at, there are many operators in the islands who can take you out for the day and support you as you dive. Locals who know the best places to see the most exciting sights are keen to show you the beauty of their much loved waters. There is something for everyone when it comes to exploring the seas, experienced scuba divers can go out on chartered vessels to discover the exciting island waters, equally it’s easy to simply grab a snorkel and take it all in just swimming out from the beach.
Whale of a Time
If you like your wildlife on the large side, book your holiday to coincide with the annual migration of the North Atlantic Humpback whale. These gentle giants of the ocean can be viewed making their journey between January and April each year. Watch them from the perfect vantage point on Grand Turk and Salt Cay, or if you want to get up closer to see them, take a whale watching trip on a chartered vessel.
Dream Dolphin
Jo Jo the dolphin is something of a superstar in Turks & Caicos. He has been splashing around in local waters since the 1980s, displaying friendly behaviour towards human beings. So special is he that he even has his own warden to protect him. The Government have proclaimed him ‘A National Treasure’ and he stands as a potent symbol in the promotion of conservation and environmental protection, something the Turks & Caicos inhabitants believe in passionately.
Bird Boost
Are you a bird watcher? If so, Turks & Caicos has plenty to offer. The inland areas of mangrove, salt pans and marshlands attract a variety of migratory species as they serve as excellent feeding grounds. Ospreys, pelicans, terns, egrets, great blue heron, flamingo and boobies can all be spotted in the islands. Bring along your binoculars to make sure you get the best view of around 170 different species – you may even get lucky and spot the rare local resident, West Indian Whistling Duck.
If your love of the natural world extends to an interest in rock formations, don’t leave until you’ve ventured into the limestone caves in Middle Caicos. The biggest cave system in the Caribbean, here you’ll witness impressive stalagmites and stalactites to make you gasp in awe.
For a vacation that delivers in terms of natural beauty, the islands of Turks & Caicos take some beating. Whether it’s the rich marine life, the fantastic birds or the stunning landscapes, any nature lover is guaranteed 100 per cent satisfaction.