Notice: Temporary Closure of Main Road to Refuge Headquarters
We would like to inform you that the main road to the refuge headquarters will be temporarily closed. However, we warmly invite you to visit the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge Salt Flats Unit. Here, you can enjoy scenic walking and biking trails, take in spectacular views of the salt flats from our observation tower, and have an enriching experience at the Salt Flats Interpretive Center, conveniently located right across the street from the tower.
The observation tower is open from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. We also encourage you to explore our mission, learn about the diverse ecosystems and species, and delve into the history of the refuge at the Salt Flats Interpretive Center, which is open Tuesday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
We look forward to welcoming you and hope you enjoy your visit!
Visit Us
Discover the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge!
Visiting the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy scenic nature walks where you can appreciate and learn about the area鈥檚 remarkable flora and fauna, including endemic species, invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species , endangered birds and plants, resident birds, and migratory birds. Our trails are equipped with informative panels, allowing you to learn about these fascinating species whether you choose to join a guided tour or explore at your own pace.
At the Cabo Rojo NWR Salt Flats Unit, you can experience three distinct hiking trails showcasing vibrant ecosystems such as mangrove forests (featuring all four mangrove species present in Puerto Rico), subtropical dry forests, and striking pink hypersaline lagoons. Make sure to stop by our Interpretive Center, where our knowledgeable staff provides one-on-one insights into the history of the salt flats and salt mining industry in Puerto Rico. Learn about its significance to the Cabo Rojo community, the biological importance of the area for birds, local ecosystems, fun facts, and answers to all your questions.
Both units of the refuge allow visitors to connect with nature and the cultural history of the region. Our goal is to ensure that every visitor leaves with a sense of connection, belonging, and responsibility to protect these beautiful habitats and the diverse organisms that inhabit them.
We're excited to announce that the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge is currently undergoing renovations as we build a new Visitor Center for everyone's enjoyment!
In the meantime, the Cabo Rojo NWR Salt Flats Unit Observation Tower is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and the Interpretive Center, located right across the street, welcomes visitors on Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. We invite you to come visit and explore the beauty of our refuge during these hours. We can't wait to welcome you!
Visit our and feel free to send us a message for more information. We鈥檙e here to help and look forward to your visit!
Location and Contact Information
About Us
Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge is one of nine refuges that encompass the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuge Complex and where the headquarters are located. It was established for its indispensable value in 鈥渃arrying out the national migratory bird management program鈥�. The different ecosystems present provide habitat for migratory and resident birds as well as more than 78 threatened or endangered species!
What We Do
Our main objective is restoring and enhancing native wildlife and plants. We aim to protect our threatened and endangered species, and the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats (one of the most important shorebird habitats in the Caribbean). To achieve this, we don鈥檛 only carry out extensive research and projects but also fulfill our role as educators. We visit schools, program interpretive tours, host community events, and inform all visitors and residents about the importance of conservation. We are strong believers in the importance of educating. After all, knowledge is power, and an educated community is one that can carry out our mission for generations to come.
Our Species
Cabo Rojo NWR is a critical habitat for the endemic and endangered Yellow-shouldered Blackbird (Agelaius xanthomus) and Aristida chaseae grass species. There are other bird species present in this location like the Puerto Rican Tody, Adelaide鈥檚 Warbler, Caribbean Elaenia, Venezuelan Troupial, and more.
At the Cabo Rojo NWR Salt Flats Unit, you will find an array of seabirds and shorebirds. During nesting season, the Least Tern, Snowy Plover, and Wilson鈥檚 Plover utilize this area. The Cabo Rojo Salt Flats is the only locality island-wide where Snowy Plover nests have been recorded.
At least 245 plant species and 145 bird species have been identified on the refuge.
Get Involved
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance animals, plants, and their habitats. This goal cannot be achieved without the help of others. If you are interested in becoming a key part of the conservation of our natural resources, you are in the right place! By getting involved you will have the opportunity to master new skills, bond with the community, make new friends, and most importantly, safeguard these species and their homes so they can have a future where they not only survive but also thrive.
Check our "Get Involved" section for information about volunteering, internships, research opportunities, photography permits, commercial permits, and more.