Tres Ojos National Park

Tres Ojos National Park, or “Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos,” is a stunning natural attraction located in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The park is named after its three crystal-clear, freshwater lakes (or “eyes”) that are hidden inside a series of limestone caves. These underground lakes are formed in collapsed caverns and are surrounded by impressive stalactites and stalagmites, giving the whole place a mystical, otherworldly vibe.

The lakes vary in color due to the depth, light reflection, and the minerals in the water, ranging from deep blue to vibrant green. You can explore the caves by walking along well-kept pathways, and there’s even a small boat ride that takes you to a fourth, hidden lake. (although the park owes its name to the three main lakes or eyes, there is a four in total). It’s a super short ride (like, it takes a minute), but it’s so worth it. This fourth lake is surrounded by lush greenery, and because it’s less exposed, it feels even more secluded and peaceful.

The park’s unique limestone caves and underground lakes were formed naturally over time due to seismic activity, which caused parts of the ceiling of the caves to collapse, revealing the stunning freshwater pools below. These geological formations have been shaped by the slow erosion of the limestone by rainwater, giving us the caves and crystal-clear lakes that make the park so remarkable today.

Long before it became a national park, the area where Tres Ojos is located was used by the indigenous Taíno people, the original inhabitants of the island before the arrival of European colonizers. The Taínos likely used the caves for various purposes, including ceremonies and rituals, as caves were often considered sacred places. The fresh water from the lakes may have also served as a valuable resource for the Taíno people. While there is limited archaeological evidence in the park itself, the Taínos were known to live in nearby areas, and it’s believed they would have had a significant connection to the caves.

Tres Ojos is also a great spot for families or anyone who enjoys a low-key adventure. The park is small enough that you can explore it in a couple of hours. It’s not physically demanding, so it’s a good fit for all ages, and the whole place is well-maintained. There’s plenty of information along the way about the history and geology of the area.

One thing I loved about Tres Ojos is how close it is to Santo Domingo. You’re only about a 15-minute drive from the city center, so it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle without having to venture too far. If you’re spending time in the city, this is a nice, quick getaway to reconnect with nature.