The Exuma Cays, a stunning chain of over 365 islands and cays, form a unique and picturesque part of The Bahamas, a nation of islands scattered across the Atlantic Ocean. Located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, the Exuma Cays are famed for their pristine white-sand beaches, strikingly turquoise waters, and an array of marine life that thrives in their crystal-clear surroundings.
A trip to The Exumas must include a visit to Iguana Island to get a glimpse of the last remaining populations of the endangered and indigenous Northern Bahamian Rock Iguana . Less than 5,000 of these reptiles remain in the wild. A subspecies called the Exuma Island Iguana is also critically endangered, with only about a thousand of the creatures living on one or two protected cays. These iguanas are typically about two feet in length but can grow up to three feet long. Unlike the huge invasive green iguanas seen in Florida, the Exuma species are dark gray to black, with white or orange-tinged scales on the head and snout depending upon which cay the iguana is from.
Feral pigs, goats and dogs have reduced their numbers, eating their eggs or young. Now they are fully protected under the Wild Animals Protection Act. They like nothing better than to bask in the sun or graze on vegetation. They live in large social colonies with little aggression towards each other.
Visiting the iguanas, which are herbivores and love a snack of grapes or lettuce, is a chance to see creatures who resemble miniature dinosaurs up close. Although they look ferocious, they seldom bite. If they run towards a visitor to their island, they’re probably just looking for a treat. However, it’s wise to remember that they are wild animals, so a cautious approach is advised. None of the islands where they live are easily reached, except by any of the excellent local boat tours. Your expert boat captain will know where to find the best spots to see and feed these intriguing creatures. Visiting the iguanas is often paired with other activities popular in The Exuma Cays, including snorkelling, diving with sharks, hiking, and swimming with The Bahamas’ famously aquatic pigs. International flights, as well as connections from Nassau, arrive regularly at George Town Airport, Great Exuma.
