[1] In 1999, it was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its uplifted marine terraces and pristine sea cliffs.

[1] In addition, the park protects many other karst features including waterfalls, cliffs, sinkholes, and caves.

The park is located in a warm, semi-arid climate, receiving between 300 and 1200 mm of rain a year and averaging 26°C.

[2] Over 90% of the amphibian and reptile species found in the park are endemic to Cuba, including the endangered Cuban night lizard.

[1] Resident bird species include the Cuban amazon parrot and blue-headed quail-dove, and mammal species living in the park include the West Indian manatee and the Cuban flower bat, which is adapted to hot caves.