Los Tres Ojos – Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic - Atlas Obscura
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Los Tres Ojos

Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic

This trio of Dominican cave lakes comprise a colorful biosphere of natural life. 

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Los Tres Ojos raunov on Flickr (Creative Commons)
Los Tres Ojos raunov on Flickr (Creative Commons)
Los Tres Ojos eaulive on Flickr (Creative Commons)
Los Tres Ojos raunov on Flickr (Creative Commons)
Boat ride to Cuatro lago. Cost is 60 pesos roundtrip johncterryc (Atlas Obscura User)
Entrance stairs to Tres Ojos johncterryc (Atlas Obscura User)
Entrance into last part of the Ojos! FunnyyMoni (Atlas Obscura User)
The ladies lake (second one) Euridice Viola Salgari (Atlas Obscura User)
View from the top of the stairs Euridice Viola Salgari (Atlas Obscura User)
Fish inside of the Cenote johncterryc (Atlas Obscura User)
Looking into Cuatro lago johncterryc (Atlas Obscura User)
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Hidden in a natural limestone cave in the lush surrounds of the Dominican Republic the small group of subterranean lakes known collectively as Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes) are home to a good number of animal species and some truly stunning natural vistas.

Beginning life as prehistoric sinkholes the lakes were once underground caves that collapsed in on themselves and filled with water. The lakes are continually fed by an underground river that keeps the waters fresh and full. The constant flow into and out of the lakes brings a diversity of minerals, bacteria, and animal life into the site. This constant shifting causes the waters of the lakes to turn vibrant shades of greens and blues. In addition to the arresting colors the lakes are host to an abundance of turtles, bats, and fish. Surrounding each of the lakes is dense tropical foliage giving them the air of hidden jungle oases.

The Three Eyes also welcome a vibrant and diverse population of another species: the tourist. The site has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience a little bit of the natural magic that the Dominican Republic has to offer. 

Know Before You Go

The admission ticket costs 200 RD. If you want to see the fourth lake you need to pay an additional 60RD at the boatsman at the fourth lake.

lakes subterranean sites caves natural wonders ecosystems water nature
Nearby
Faro a Colon (Columbus Lighthouse)
0.70 miles
Fortaleza Ozama (Ozama Fortress)
1.63 miles
The Sundial of Santo Domingo
1.68 miles
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Near This Place
Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic

Faro a Colon (Columbus Lighthouse)

The final resting place of Christopher Columbus - or possibly someone else.
The fortress is often overgrown with lush vegetation.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Fortaleza Ozama (Ozama Fortress)

The oldest colonial fortress in the Americas was once the home and later prison of Christopher Columbus.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The Sundial of Santo Domingo

The first official clock in North America, it kept time for the Spanish government of Santo Domingo.
Alcázar de Colón today.
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Alcázar de Colón

After Christopher Columbus died, his son built a fancy house to rule from.
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