You see eruptions and feel danger. But you also enjoy nature. This is all about the Center Hills National Park and Nature Reserve on Montserrat Island. It is located in a safe place on the island. But the proximity to the erupting volcano makes a walk along the hills more extreme than in other nature reserves.
The nature of Montserrat is fantastic. Mysterious dense forests, chirping of birds, steep mountains covered with volcanic ash – it is unforgettable. And the most interesting thing is that you feel alone in this forest. Just you and a guide.
The island supports only by tourists. One of its main sights is the Center Hills Nature Reserve. It is so big that it creates an unusual feeling of solitude, even if there are a lot of tourists.
There are a lot of birds. Twelve species, including the rare and endangered ones, inhabit the island's national park. For example, the beautiful Montserrat Oriole. You follow a guide and try not to make loud noises. Here you are, next to the breeding grounds. You can watch how these lovely creatures clean bright feathers, chirp, make nests.
But the flora and fauna of Montserrat are in danger because of constant eruptions and acid rains. Local scientists are trying to protect it. For example, on some hills, they replant forests, because people used to live there and do agriculture.
It is a memorable visit. First of all, you feel it with all your body. You need to pass through ravines, climb mountains, get caught in tropical rain. The higher you climb, the higher a chance of rain is. But having stood all of it, you may enjoy rare animal species and see pristine nature.
So, on this trip, you can watch the volcano, enjoy volcanic sand on the Caribbean coast, and come into the caves. By the way, there are living rare species of bats.
You cannot come close to the volcano, but you may look at it from afar or by satellites in a special observation center. It is located next to National Park.
All the time, scientists monitor the volcano activity, analyze emissions, calculate how dangerous they are for the island. They have the best place to look at the volcano. The terrace offers a wonderful view of it.
The center also functions as a museum. Here you can watch a documentary about the last eruption and its terrible consequences. Scientists also examine the changes in Plymouth. The soil collapses, and buildings go underground.
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