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National Marine Park of Zakynthos: A Turtle's Haven

Discover Zakynthos' National Marine Park: A sanctuary for Loggerhead turtles, diverse wildlife, and pristine Mediterranean ecosystems.

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The National Marine Park of Zakynthos, established in 1999, protects the island's southern coast, including vital nesting beaches for the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle. It's a haven for diverse flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to witness conservation in action and explore stunning Mediterranean ecosystems.

A brief summary to National Marine Park of Zakynthos

Local tips

  • Visit the exhibition center in Dafni to learn about the Loggerhead sea turtles and the park's conservation efforts.
  • Take a boat tour to explore the nesting beaches and Keri Caves, but choose operators that follow responsible tourism practices.
  • Respect the regulations on nesting beaches: avoid using umbrellas, stay within designated areas, and keep a safe distance from turtles.
  • Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world and observe the diverse marine life.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Zakynthos Town, take the KTEL bus towards Laganas. Several buses run daily, especially during the summer. From Laganas, you can access the park's beaches. A single bus fare from Zakynthos Town to Laganas is approximately €1.60. Check the KTEL Zakynthos website for the most up-to-date schedules.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Zakynthos Town and can take you to various access points of the National Marine Park. A taxi ride from Zakynthos Town to Laganas, a common entry point to the park, typically costs between €15-€20. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving from Zakynthos Town, follow the signs towards Laganas. The drive is straightforward and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Parking is available near the beaches, but it can get crowded during peak season. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €5 for the day. Be aware that some roads leading to specific beaches within the park may be narrow and unpaved.

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Discover more about National Marine Park of Zakynthos

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos (NMPZ), Greece's first marine protected area, safeguards a 135-square-kilometer expanse encompassing the Bay of Laganas and the Strofades islands. Established in 1999, its primary mission is to protect the Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) and its nesting grounds, which are among the most important in the Mediterranean. The park's boundaries stretch along the southern coast of Zakynthos, from Marathia's Cape to Gerakas beach, incorporating key nesting beaches like Kalamaki, Laganas, and Sekania. These beaches provide critical habitat for the turtles, which return annually to lay their eggs. The park also protects the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), various bird species, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, coastal dunes, and pine forests. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, offering the chance to observe marine life in the turquoise waters. Boat tours provide access to nesting beaches and the Keri Caves, while adhering to strict regulations to minimize disturbance to the turtles. The park's exhibition center in Dafni offers informative displays about the Loggerhead turtle and the park's conservation efforts. The NMPZ implements various programs to achieve its objectives, including habitat protection, scientific monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and sustainable tourism initiatives. By balancing conservation with human activities, the park strives to ensure the long-term protection of Zakynthos' natural heritage.

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