Los Tres Ojos National Park

The basics

A nearby underground river feeds water to the brilliantly colored ponds known as Los Tres Ojos, which are accessible on foot or by boat. Travelers can explore the blue, green, and yellow waters that are rich with indigenous wildlife and that were once a source of survival for the first inhabitants of Hispaniola. Take a guided tour of the park to learn more about its history and natural features. These tours are often paired with a visit to the Columbus Lighthouse (Faro a Colon). Many sightseeing tours or day trips from Punta Cana also include a stop at the national park, along with other notable attractions like Calle de las Damas, Alzacar de Colon, and the Zona Colonial.

Things to know before you go

• Wear sturdy shoes with good tread; some areas of the cave can get slippery when wet.
• Temperatures inside the caves tend to be hot and humid so dress in light, loose-fitting clothes.
• Bring some insect repellant as mosquitos can be a problem.
• Use a wide-angle lens for the best photos of these magnificent caves.
• Facilities at the caves include a restaurant and a gift shop.

How to get there

Los Tres Ojos is located in Mirador del Este Park, just 10 minutes by car from the Zona Colonial. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or rideshare but you can also take public bus C18 to the park entrance.

When to get there

The park is open daily throughout the year. November to March tends to offer the best weather for exploring the outdoors. Plan to visit first thing in the morning to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.

Natural Attractions Near Santo Domingo

Most visitors come to the Dominican capital for its rich history, but the city also makes an excellent base for exploring some of the island’s natural wonders. Scuba divers can explore an artificial reef at La Caleta Submarine Park. Inland from the city you’ll find one of the island’s most spectacular waterfalls, Salto Alto de Bayaguana. Day trippers from Santo Domingo can go whale watching off the Samaná coast, explore the mangroves of Los Haitises National Park, or swing from the top of Montaña Redonda.

Ways to explore

A nearby underground river feeds water to the brilliantly colored ponds known as Los Tres Ojos, which are accessible on foot or by boat. The blue, green, and yellow waters are rich with indigenous wildlife, and the best way to explore is on a tour of the park to learn more about its history and natural features. These tours are often paired with a visit to the Columbus Lighthouse, a 20th-century monument dedicated to the explorer. Many sightseeing tours or day trips from Punta Cana also include a stop at the national park, along with Santo Domingo’s UNESCO–listed historic center.

Accessibility

Los Tres Ojos is not accessible to travelers with limited mobility due to its uneven terrain and steep wooden stairs.

Age limits

Kids aged 6 and under might struggle navigating the park.

What to pack

Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be a problem in the tropical national park.

What to wear

Temperatures inside the caves tend to be hot and humid, so dress in light, loose-fitting clothes. Wear sturdy shoes with good tread, as some areas of the cave can get slippery when wet.

Not allowed

Swimming in the lakes, straying from the paths

Amenities

Parking, snack stalls, restrooms

Address 

Los Tres Ojos is situated in Mirador del Este Park, just 10 minutes by car from the Zona Colonial. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or rideshare.

Driving

From central Santo Domingo, take Avenida Las Américas toward Santo Domingo Este and continue straight, looking out for signs for Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos. The park entrance is on the right-hand side of Avenida Las Américas.

Public transportation

While you can take local buses known as guaguas from Santo Domingo to Los Tres Ojos National Park, they tend to leave only when full and don’t follow a set schedule.

Best times to visit

Plan to visit first thing in the morning to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.

Best days to visit

For fewer crowds, visit Los Tres Ojos National Park during the week—weekends tend to draw domestic visitors, as well as international tourists.

Best months to visit

The months of November to March typically boast the best weather for exploring outdoors.

Special events

Every February, the Dominican Republic erupts into color and celebration for the annual Dominican Carnival.