The Four Lagoons of Los Tres Ojos and What Makes Each One Different
First Lagoon: Aguas Azufradas
Right after descending the carved stone steps, Aguas Azufradas opens at 4 meters depth. The water carries dissolved sulfur, giving it a milky yellow tone and a faint mineral smell. Despite the look, the water is harmless and was historically considered medicinal by the Tainos.
Second Lagoon: Aguas Claras
A short walk leads to Aguas Claras, named for its transparency. At 6 meters deep, you can see directly to the bottom and watch tiny endemic fish dart between the limestone shelves. This is the lagoon most photographed by visitors thanks to the open natural skylight that lights up the turquoise water.
Third Lagoon: Lago de las Damas
Lago de las Damas is the deepest at around 8 meters and stays the coldest year round at about 21 degrees Celsius. The legend says Taino women bathed here during fertility rituals, hence the name. Today swimming is not allowed, but the platform around the lagoon offers the best wide-angle photo of the open ceiling.
Fourth Lagoon: Los Zaramagullones
Reached only by a short ride on the manual wooden raft (25 DOP), Los Zaramagullones lies in an open jungle clearing rather than inside the cave. The lagoon is named after the diving birds that nest in the surrounding cliffs. This is the same raft used in the Tarzan films of the 1950s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there four lagoons if it is called Los Tres Ojos?
The original name refers to the three open caves visible from above. The fourth lagoon, in an open jungle clearing, was discovered later.
Can I swim in the lagoons?
No, swimming is forbidden inside the National Park to protect the ecosystem and the safety of visitors.
Which lagoon is the most photogenic?
Aguas Claras and the fourth lagoon, Los Zaramagullones, win the most photos thanks to their open natural light and turquoise color.