Three Eyes National Park

Three Eyes Overview

Three Eyes National Park (locally known as Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos) is a unique natural and cultural site located in Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. Although smaller in size, covering approximately 3 square miles (7.7 square kilometers), this park is a fascinating limestone cave system that holds three stunning freshwater lagoons, or “eyes,” nestled in underground caverns. These lagoons are the park’s namesake and are connected by narrow, rocky pathways that visitors can explore by foot. A fourth lagoon, hidden from initial view, can be accessed by crossing a short boat ride within the cave system.

The park’s landscape is dominated by limestone formations, sinkholes, and caves that date back thousands of years. The caves were formed through geological processes as underground rivers carved their way through the stone, creating the stunning caverns that exist today. Visitors can walk along well-maintained paths, marveling at the crystal-clear waters of the lagoons and the stalactite and stalagmite formations that adorn the caves. The lagoons are illuminated by sunlight that filters through the caves’ openings, creating a magical effect that highlights the natural beauty of the space.

Vegetation in the park is a mixture of tropical plants that thrive in the humid, sheltered environment of the caves. Ferns, mosses, and vines drape the rock walls, adding to the lush, otherworldly ambiance.

Although the park is located in an urban setting, it supports a variety of small wildlife, particularly birds and bats that inhabit the caves. The lagoons are also home to small fish and other aquatic creatures. Three Eyes National Park offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s geological and ecological wonders.

Park Map

Three Eyes National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Popular Species

Three Eyes National Park is home to a diverse array of small wildlife species, particularly those suited to the park’s unique cave and lagoon ecosystem.

Hispaniolan tree frog (Osteopilus dominicensis) – This small, endemic amphibian thrives in the park’s humid environment, often found near water sources like the park’s lagoons and underground streams.

Green anole (Anolis chlorocyanus) – A vibrant green lizard commonly seen basking on rocks or trees around the park, blending well with its lush tropical surroundings.

Cave shrimp (Troglocubanus gibarensis) – This small, translucent shrimp species is found in the subterranean waters of the park, adapted to life in the darkness of the caves.

Common coqui (Eleutherodactylus coqui) – A small frog native to the Caribbean, recognizable by its distinct “co-qui” call, frequently heard in the park’s damp and shaded areas.

Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) – A freshwater fish species inhabiting the park’s lagoons, it thrives in the clean, still waters, providing a glimpse of aquatic life.

Hispaniolan slider (Trachemys decorata) – A freshwater turtle species that lives in the park’s lagoons, often seen basking on rocks near the water’s edge.

Mossy gecko (Sphaerodactylus samanensis) – A small, nocturnal gecko species that blends well with the park’s mossy rocks and cave walls, making it a master of camouflage.

Water strider (Gerridae family) – Found gliding along the surface of the park’s lagoons, these insects have adapted to live on water by distributing their weight over large, thin legs.

Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) – A small, colorful fish species found in the park’s freshwater environments, known for its vibrant colors and ability to adapt to various water conditions.

Tree snails (Pleurodontidae family) – These snails are often found on trees or rocks within the park, playing an essential role in the local ecosystem as decomposers.

Bird Species

Three Eyes National Park also attracts a variety of bird species, with many being native to the tropical ecosystems surrounding the lagoons and caves.

Hispaniolan woodpecker (Melanerpes striatus) – This endemic bird is known for its striking red head and black-and-white striped back, often seen drilling into tree trunks for insects.

Palmchat (Dulus dominicus) – The national bird of the Dominican Republic, this sociable species builds large communal nests in palm trees and is often found chattering among the park’s vegetation.

Gray kingbird (Tyrannus dominicensis) – A medium-sized bird with a gray head and white underside, often seen perched on branches, keeping an eye out for insects to snatch mid-flight.

Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola) – A small, active bird with a curved bill, often found foraging for nectar in the park’s flowering plants, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Antillean mango (Anthracothorax dominicus) – This hummingbird species hovers around the park’s flowers, feeding on nectar with its long, slender bill and displaying its iridescent plumage in the sunlight.

Green heron (Butorides virescens) – A small, stocky bird found along the edges of the park’s lagoons, where it patiently hunts for fish and other small aquatic prey.

Zenaida dove (Zenaida aurita) – Common in the park’s open areas, this medium-sized dove is easily identified by its soft cooing call and distinctive white-bordered wings.

Northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) – Known for its ability to mimic a variety of bird calls, this species can be found perched on trees or shrubs throughout the park.

Yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia) – This brightly colored bird, often seen flitting through the park’s trees and bushes, is known for its cheerful song and striking yellow feathers.

Hispaniolan parrot (Amazona ventralis) – A medium-sized, green parrot that is native to the island, frequently spotted flying over the park or resting in its trees.

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Engaging Three Eyes National Park

Exploring Lagoons

The main attraction of Three Eyes National Park is its stunning underground lagoons, which visitors can explore on foot along well-maintained paths and staircases.

The three main lagoons, or “eyes,” are nestled in limestone caves and illuminated by natural light that filters through the cave openings.

Each lagoon has its own unique characteristics, from crystal-clear waters to vibrant reflections of the surrounding rock formations.

Visitors can take small boat rides across one of the lagoons to reach a hidden fourth lagoon. The tranquil, otherworldly beauty of these lagoons offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the park’s natural wonders.

Nature Walks

Beyond the caves, Three Eyes National Park offers scenic nature trails that wind through its tropical landscape. These trails provide opportunities for visitors to enjoy the lush vegetation, including native trees, shrubs, and flowering plants that thrive in the park’s humid environment.

Along the trails, visitors can observe wildlife such as lizards, frogs, and a variety of bird species that make their home in the park. The peaceful setting makes for an enjoyable stroll, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Nature walks in the park offer a quiet escape into nature within an urban setting.

Sources

Dominican Abroad, Visiting the Three Eyes National Park, https://www.dominicanabroad.com/three-eyes-national-park-santo-domingo/, retrieved August 2024.
Explore Share, Explore the Caves and Lagoons, https://www.explore-share.com/trip/explore-the-caves-and-lagoons-in-the-3-eyes-national-park-near-santo-domingo-half-day/, retrieved August 2024.
Go Dominican Republic, Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos, https://www.godominicanrepublic.com/listing/parque-nacional-los-tres-ojos/3685/, retrieved August 2024.
This Rare Earth, Guide to Three Eyes National Park, https://thisrareearth.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-three-eyes-national-park-caves-in-santo-domingo/, retrieved August 2024.
Wikipedia, Los Tres Ojos National Park, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Tres_Ojos_National_Park, retrieved August 2024.

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