Founded in 1506, Monte Cristi served as a trading post until the 19th century. Today, its 25,000 inhabitants make their living fishing, farming, and harvesting salt. A trip to Monte Cristi National Park usually includes a boat ride through the mangroves to spot some of the 160 bird species. The Monte Cristi province boasts 15,000 acres (6,070 hectares) of mangrove forests. One of the driest areas of the Dominican Republic, it receives little rain.
Several offshore islands called the Seven Brothers Cays (Los Cayos Siete Hermanos) are visible from Monte Cristi National Park, and a stop at the nearby island of Cayo Paraiso is usually included on day trips to the park. This uninhabited island is considered some of the best snorkeling in the Dominican Republic. Its shallow lagoon and coral reef give visitors the opportunity to see brightly colored fish and coral formations.