Lake Enriquillo

Booking Overview Highlights Itinerary Map Faqs

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Overview

Taíno legends tell that Chief Enriquillo was the first native leader to rebel against the Spanish when they arrived on the island that is now the Dominican Republic. Enriquillo became a hero to many Taíno people, and the largest lake in the Caribbean was named in his honor —a body of water where you can enjoy wildlife and nature. The first inhabitants considered it a sacred place and used it for rituals.

Lake Enriquillo has countless attractions, which is why many tourists want to come and discover them. From the spectacular scenery the area offers to the experience of tasting local products, this tour is a great excursion for those who want more than just sun and sand.

If you love nature tours and want to see the only lake in this part of the world below sea level, the Lake Enriquillo Tour is exactly what you're looking for.

Why can't you miss this tour?

In this lake and its surroundings, you can spot reptiles in their natural habitat , such as iguanas and crocodiles. Yes, you can observe crocodiles walking, swimming, and exploring some areas of this paradise, although it’s best to do so from a distance for obvious reasons.

Another reason to visit Lake Enriquillo is to see the flamingos that inhabit Boca Cachón or to visit Isla Cabritos , located in the center of the lake and accessible by boat.

There are also other attractions on this excursion, such as experiencing typical Dominican life, discovering natural springs, and enjoying the spectacular Caribbean climate. Furthermore, the area surrounding Lake Enriquillo boasts a rich history and culture. The town of Neyba , located on the way to the lake, is famous for its grapes and wine production , with a history dating back to the colonial era. And this is just one more example.

Itinerary for the excursion to Lake Enriquillo

The itinerary for the Lake Enriquillo Tour is as follows:

8:00 am – Pick-up at your hotel in Barahona . The tour begins with the bus pick-up, where our driver and a guide will meet and welcome you.
9:00 am – After a journey of approximately two hours to the lake, we will stop at a viewpoint where you can take photos of the landscape. From this location, you will be able to observe a spectacular view of Lake Enriquillo, surrounded by nature and mountains.
10:00 am – Crocodile and Bird Watching . Next, we’ll board a boat for a ride on the lake. During the trip, we’ll have the opportunity to see American crocodiles that live in the lake up close, as well as a wide variety of birds . You’ll also discover the stunning scenery of this area, which is the lowest point in the Caribbean relative to sea level.
12:30 pm – Neyba Town and Surroundings . After the spectacular encounter with the wildlife of Lake Enriquillo, we will continue to the town of Neyba and its famous grapes. There we will learn more about the local culture, visit some artisan shops, and taste the delicious grapes grown in the region.
1:30 pm – Las Marías. This is where the locals spend their free time, and it’s the last stop on the tour. We’ll enjoy a fantastic view of the landscape and these will be the last opportunities to take souvenir photos to take home after the experience.
3:30 pm – Return to our hotel located in Barahona. The driver will take us back to the starting point, while we talk about everything we saw on the excursion to Lake Enriquillo.

Frequently asked questions

What is included with the booking of this activity?

The tour to Lake Enriquillo includes:

Pick-up at a Punta Cana hotel or airport .
One night stay in a tropical hotel in Barahona.
Round trip transportation from the hotel, with driver and a local guide.
Drinks to keep you hydrated during your visit (non-alcoholic).
Boat trip on the lake .
There is an opportunity to sample the local cuisine at a traditional restaurant (not included in the booking). To do so, you will need to inform the guide beforehand.

Recommendations for going on this excursion

To make the most of your trip to Lake Enriquillo, pay attention to these recommendations:

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing appropriate for the local climate. Comfortable walking shoes that protect your feet are also recommended.
Don't forget to protect your skin from the sun by using high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
Make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, as the warm weather can cause you to dehydrate easily.
Use mosquito repellent , especially when you are in humid areas or areas with a lot of vegetation.
To enjoy bird watching, it may be a good idea to bring binoculars that allow you to see the different species that inhabit the area more closely.

Can you cancel this tour for free?

Yes . You can cancel the tour for free as long as you do so 48 hours in advance . After that time, we will not accept any cancellations, as our team will have everything prepared to guarantee you an excellent experience on your booked date.