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.
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.
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.
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.