Over the centuries, underground rivers and retreating ice masses carved the landscape of what is present day the Dominican Republic. The resulting limestone cave system called Los Tres Ojos (the three eyes) near Santo Domingo is comprised of three underground lakes accessible for a small fee. Visitors also have the option of exploring deeper by crossing on a barge towards Los Zaramagullones open air lake, which is a marvel in and of itself. The lake is also visible from outside, looking down from the top of the large cavity.
While the light is dim to nonexistent inside the caves, there are still many plants (and I suspect animals) that call this place home. There are a variety of species clinging to every available lit surface, especially near the entrances.
On the other side, the cave opens up to a realm of wild vegetation and jungly vines that encompass a circular space in which lies a verdant lake, gleaming like an emerald.
I marveled at the lifeforms that lived so close to the cave. These fishes were docile and did not seem to be concerned about the nearby humans as they slowly meandered near the mouth of the cave. I had to fight against my caveman urge to grab one.
In the past, the cave system was used by the Taíno people for religious rituals and fertility ceremonies. I felt a bit of a vibe in there, for lack of a better term. Kind of like being in a cathedral in the presence of something grand and beyond description. But it could just be my overactive imagination.
Thank you for visiting.
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Images by 
▶️ 3Speak
