Los Tres Ojos
Explore ancient limestone caves with three stunning blue lakes, a hidden fourth lagoon, and rich history in Santo Domingo.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Los Tres Ojos
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient limestone caves with three stunning blue lakes, a hidden fourth lagoon, and rich history in Santo Domingo.
"Absolutely beautiful to see in person, the entrance fee for tourists is DOP $200 which translates to €2,70 or USD $3,20."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Steep, potentially slippery steps! Sneakers or hiking shoes are essential. No flip-flops!
💰 Bring Cash (Pesos)
Essential for the ferry ride and small purchases. Credit cards may not be accepted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Blue Lakes
Main cave system
Marvel at three stunning, crystal-clear blue-green freshwater lakes within ancient limestone caves.
The Fourth Lagoon
Accessible by raft
Take a short, manually-pulled ferry ride to discover a hidden fourth lagoon, a unique experience.
Underground Caverns
Throughout the park
Explore ancient caves with dramatic rock formations and lush vegetation trapped within the natural structure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Steps!
Cash is King & Humidity is Real
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Steep, potentially slippery steps! Sneakers or hiking shoes are essential. No flip-flops!
💰 Bring Cash (Pesos)
Essential for the ferry ride and small purchases. Credit cards may not be accepted.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It's hot and humid. Bring water and wear light, breathable clothing.
🚶♀️ Not for Mobility Issues
Many stairs and uneven paths. Consider this if you have knee or balance problems.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Steep, potentially slippery steps! Sneakers or hiking shoes are essential. No flip-flops!
💰 Bring Cash (Pesos)
Essential for the ferry ride and small purchases. Credit cards may not be accepted.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It's hot and humid. Bring water and wear light, breathable clothing.
🚶♀️ Not for Mobility Issues
Many stairs and uneven paths. Consider this if you have knee or balance problems.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The natural light and formations are stunning. A good phone camera is sufficient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Los Tres Ojos for its breathtaking natural beauty and unique geological formations, calling it a must-see in Santo Domingo. The crystal-clear blue lakes within ancient caves are a major highlight, with the optional ferry ride to a fourth lagoon adding an adventurous touch. However, potential visitors should be aware of the significant number of steep stairs and the intense humidity, making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
"Absolutely beautiful to see in person, the entrance fee for tourists is DOP $200 which translates to €2,70 or USD $3,20.
I'll advice to wear decent shoes, do not wear slides or flipflops because the steps are quite steep and can be a little slippery due to the humidity.
It's not an easy trial for people who are old or have trouble walking, please take that into consideration.
Talking about the humidity, if you aren't used to higher temperatures you will struggle a little. I'm from The Netherlands so down in the cave it was really hot for me, I was sweating a lot after 5 minutes.
But it was worth it nonetheless, the water is beautifully clear and the views are breathtaking. If you like history lessons you can decide to pay a guide to give you a tour for USD $30 but it's also perfectly fine to wander around by yourself (which is what I did).
You can view the 3 lakes (los tres ojos) by just walking around. There is also a manually pulled ferry operated by 2 locals, the fare is DOP $50 (USD $1) per person and you can only pay by cash. I gave them DOP $200 because they are there in the hot and humid area all day pulling the ferry across by hand. Please tip them too :)
You can also walk around upstairs and see the 4th lake from above, there is also a cafeteria upstairs but I didn't go there.
At the exit there is a cute shop with handcrafted memorabilia.
It's definitely a must visit if you are in Santo Domingo"
Jarno
"Great place to visit as a local or tourist. Here are some facts about the place as of right now.
Parking lot: free
Entrance:$200 pesos for tourists $100 pesos for locals. You can only pay with credit card.
The boat to the fourth lake costs $50/adult and $25 pesos per child. Cash only. It is a short ride but fun. But if you want to save money, You can also see the fourth lake from the top.
When you come back up out of the stairs, there is a paved walking trail that is very calm and pretty. That's where you can find the 4th lake.
Overall, it is a very pretty place. Not sunny, but still warm on hot days."
Debbie Rigby
"This is so easy to get to from the city and it's inexpensive, making it a perfect activity for an afternoon.
There are four caves with bodies of water and there are well paved paths throughout, though be careful because it's a little dim in some places and uneven which can cause stumbling.
The air is cooler down there but very humid and not much of a breeze, so it feels close and damp. There's a spot with bathrooms and drinks if you need them and a decent sized parking lot.
We saw fish and turtles in the water and iguanas in the trees.
We really enjoyed it and will take family there when they visit."
Michelle Mitton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Los Tres Ojos is conveniently located in Santo Domingo Este, often just a short taxi or moto-taxi ride (around 10-15 minutes) from the Colonial City. Many visitors find it easy to access from the capital.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the park. Some reviews mention it's a guarded parking lot, which can offer peace of mind.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in social media, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available and recommended for ease of access from various parts of Santo Domingo.
Los Tres Ojos is located in Santo Domingo Este, which is about a 2-hour drive from popular tourist areas like Punta Cana and Bayahibe. It's feasible as a day trip, but requires an early start.
Absolutely! Los Tres Ojos is an excellent afternoon activity or a half-day trip from Santo Domingo due to its proximity and relatively short visit duration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for tourists is typically around 200 Dominican Pesos (DOP), which is approximately $3-4 USD. Locals usually pay a lower fee.
While some reviews mention credit card payment for the entrance fee, it's highly recommended to have Dominican Pesos (DOP) in cash, especially for smaller expenses like the ferry.
Los Tres Ojos is generally open from around 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It's always a good idea to double-check current hours before your visit.
Advance booking is generally not required for Los Tres Ojos. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival at the park entrance.
Yes, locals typically pay a reduced entrance fee compared to tourists. There might also be different rates for children, though specific details should be confirmed on-site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, breathable clothing due to the heat and humidity. Most importantly, wear sturdy, non-slip shoes like sneakers or hiking boots, as there are many steep and potentially slippery stairs.
No, Los Tres Ojos is not recommended for the elderly, young children (under 6), or individuals with mobility issues due to numerous steep stairs and uneven terrain.
Swimming is not permitted in the lakes at Los Tres Ojos. The park is for viewing and experiencing the natural beauty.
A visit to Los Tres Ojos usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring and taking photos.
Yes, you can hire a guide for an additional fee (around $30 USD) if you're interested in a more in-depth historical and geological explanation. However, many visitors find it easy to explore independently.
You might spot turtles in the lakes and iguanas in the surrounding trees and vegetation.
🎫 🛶 The Ferry Ride
To reach the fourth lake, Los Zaramagullones, you'll take a short, manually-pulled ferry raft across one of the main lakes. This is a unique and memorable part of the experience.
The ferry ride costs approximately 50 Dominican Pesos (DOP) per person, or $1 USD. It's cash only. Tipping the operators is highly encouraged.
No, the ferry ride is optional. You can also view the fourth lake from above via a paved walking trail after exiting the main cave system.
While specific weight limits aren't stated, the ferry is operated manually by locals. It's designed for small groups, and the operators manage the capacity.
Yes, tipping the ferry operators is highly recommended and appreciated, as they work hard to pull the raft all day in the humid conditions. A small extra amount ($2-4 USD) is a kind gesture.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Everywhere! The vibrant blue lakes, dramatic rock formations, and lush greenery offer countless photo opportunities. The ferry ride to the fourth lake also provides unique shots.
The lighting can be dim in some areas, so a phone with a good low-light mode or a camera with adjustable settings will be helpful. Be mindful of the humidity affecting your equipment.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in national parks to preserve the natural environment and for visitor safety. It's best to rely on your handheld camera.
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment. Avoid using flash in a way that might disturb wildlife.
A smartphone with a good camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Los Tres Ojos. If you have a mirrorless or DSLR, bring it, but ensure it's protected from humidity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you bring older kids, ensure they wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated. The visual spectacle of the blue lakes and the unique cave formations can spark curiosity and wonder. Consider hiring a guide if your children are particularly interested in history and geology, as they can make the experience more engaging for them.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, bring your own water and snacks, as prices at the on-site cafeteria might be higher. While guides are available, exploring independently is free and still provides a rich experience. Remember to carry small Dominican Pesos in cash for the ferry and any small souvenirs to avoid potential card transaction issues.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Be prepared for varying light conditions; some areas are dimly lit, while others have natural light filtering in. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a camera with manual settings will be beneficial. Protect your gear from the high humidity. The ferry ride to the fourth lake also provides a distinct photographic angle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Los Tres Ojos
Historically, these caves held deep spiritual significance for the indigenous Taíno people, who used them for religious ceremonies and rituals. This ancient connection adds a layer of cultural depth to the natural beauty. The park was officially established as a national park to protect this unique ecosystem and its historical importance, making it a vital site for both natural and cultural heritage in the Dominican Republic.
Beyond the main three lakes, a fourth lagoon, Los Zaramagullones, can be accessed via a unique hand-pulled ferry. This adds an adventurous element to the visit, allowing exploration of a less accessible part of the cave system. The surrounding lush vegetation, trapped within the cave's structure, creates a striking contrast with the clear blue waters and ancient rock formations.
Navigating the Terrain and Humidity
Visitors should be prepared for the intense heat and humidity. The air inside the caves is cooler than the outside temperature but remains very humid, with little breeze. This can make the experience feel close and damp, especially for those not accustomed to such conditions. Staying hydrated by bringing water and wearing light, breathable clothing is highly recommended to manage the climate effectively.
Due to the challenging terrain, Los Tres Ojos is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, the elderly, or very young children. The uneven paths and steep inclines require a certain level of physical fitness and balance. Planning your visit during cooler parts of the day, like the morning or late afternoon, can also help mitigate the effects of the heat.
The Ferry Experience to the Fourth Lake
The ferry ride is an experience in itself, offering a different perspective of the underground waterways. It's a testament to the ingenuity of the local guides who operate it daily. While the ride is brief, it's a highlight for many visitors, adding an element of adventure and interaction to the natural exploration.
It's important to note that the ferry operates on a cash-only basis, with a small fee per person. Visitors are strongly encouraged to tip the operators, as they perform this physically demanding task all day in challenging conditions. This small gesture of appreciation goes a long way in supporting the local community and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit