Parc Écologique des Yeux Indigènes

The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve (Reserva Ojos Indígenas) protects a pocket of subtropical dry forest near Punta Cana, threaded with trails that link a series of crystal-clear freshwater lagoons fed by underground springs. The Taíno called these still, glass-clear pools 'eyes', and several are open for a cool, refreshing swim surrounded by forest. It's a serene, shaded contrast to the beaches — an easy nature walk that's a regular part of Punta Cana eco-excursions. Our photographers capture the mirror-like lagoons, the swims and the green forest trails, with the water at its clearest and the walking most comfortable in the cooler, drier months from December through April.