Two New Eco Tours on SABA
Aug 21, 2018
SABA – AUGUST 20, 2018 – Saba, the stunning Dutch Caribbean island known as “The Unspoiled Queen,” has a rich tradition of protecting its lush biodiversity. Two new conservation projects on land and under the sea aim to celebrate the island”s unique beauty, while keeping it intact for future generations. Tourists now have the opportunity to participate first-hand in the island”s environmental initiatives, a way to give back while taking in the vibrant island life.
HELP PROTECT THE REEF
In the Caribbean, overtourism and global warming threaten delicate underwater eco-systems. On Saba, a three-year project called RESCQ (Restoration Of Ecosystem Services and Coral Reef Quality) aims to make an impact on coral reef health in The Saba Bank Nature Park, which is the largest protected marine preserve in the Caribbean. The project raises new coral colonies in nurseries which are then used to repopulate denuded reefs.
Visitors to the island can partake in the project by joining one of the regular coral nursery maintenance dives conducted by local SCUBA outfitter Sea Saba. Divers learn about the rejuvenation process and assist with measuring and cleaning. For those looking for more intense participation, multiple dives can be organized to assist researchers in data logging, fragment preparation, growth analysis and transplanting back to the reef. It is not only a great way to give back to Mother Nature, but also provides a terrific opportunity to see the abundant underwater world surrounding the island, such as green turtles, spotted eagle rays and southern stingrays. Visit Sea Saba to book a dive.
HIKE THROUGH HISTORY
The newest hiking trail on Saba is also one of the oldest.The Elfin Trail, reopened in Spring 2018, follows the historic paths once used by earlier generations who farmed the mountain”s slopes. As the island”s most diverse trail, it takes in three ecosystems – woodlands, rainforest, and cloud forest.
While farmers depended on the rich volcanic soil and abundant rain for sustenance, today”s trekkers will see dense vegetation including a stunning variety of ferns, orchids, as well as bright fuchsia, and pink and white begonias. Wild raspberries growing along the trail offer hikers a treat and small banana plantations are reminders of the hard work undertaken by Saban farmers long ago. Rated as strenuous with a duration of 60 minutes, The Elfin Trail begins at Hell”s Gate and leads to the top of majestic Mt. Scenery, the highest point in the Dutch Kingdom at 2,877 ft. Click for more on Saba”s trails.
Supporting both the reef and hiking travel effort is The Saba Conservation Foundation, a non-governmental organization started more than 30 years ago with the sole mission of preserving and managing the island”s abundant natural and cultural heritage.
About Saba– Often referred to as “The Unspoiled Queen,” Saba is the smallest of the Dutch Caribbean islands, but its unique offerings belie its size. One of the most distinctive and beautiful places on earth, this five square mile tropical forest soars 5,000 feet from the sea floor of which 3,000 feet are visible. With a population of just over 1,800, Saba is comprised of four main villages – The Bottom (Saba”s capital), Windwardside, St. John”s, and Zion”s Hill (a.k.a. “Hell”s Gate”). From the wide expanse of sea, jewel-like foliage and flowers that climb the mountainsides and the charming Saban cottages and buildings, Saba is a welcoming and friendly paradise for people who desire peace, tranquility and beauty. In addition, Saba is world renowned for scuba diving and hiking trails, as well as deep sea fishing and snorkeling.Saba can be reached by air and sea from the neighboring island of St. Maarten. www.sabatourism.com
