Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NORTH OF PEDERNALES
TOP OF CHAPTER
Lago Enriquillo & Isla Cabritos
Parque Nacional Lago Enriquillo & Isla Cabritos
( 809-880-0871; admission Dominican/foreigner
RD$30/50; 8am-6pm)
comprises an enormous saltwater lake 40m below sea level with the
12km-long desert island Isla Cabritos in the center. Lago Enriquillo is the remains of an an-
cient channel that once united the Bahía de Neiba to the southeast (near Barahona) with
Port-au-Prince to the west. The accumulation of sediments deposited by the Río Yaque del
Sur at the river's mouth on the Bahía de Neyba, combined with an upward thrust of a con-
tinental plate, gradually isolated the lake. Today it is basically a 200-sq-km inland sea with
no outlet.
The highlights are the lake's creatures, including an estimated 200 American crocodiles,
some of which can be seen at the edge of the lake. From December to April you'll also see
flamingos and egrets.
The island, which varies in elevation from 40m to 4m below sea level, is a virtual desert,
supporting a variety of cacti and other desert flora. In summer, temperatures of 50°C have
been recorded - go early. It is home to Ricord iguanas and rhinoceros iguanas, some more
than 20 years old and considerably bigger than most house cats. The island also has lots of
scorpions, so wear covered shoes if possible.
There is a tourist office here, with information on the history and geology of the island.
From March to June you'll see a blooming of cactus flowers, and June sees a small swarm
of butterflies.
The park entrance is about 3km east of La Descubierta. The local
guide association
(
809-880-0871)
offers boat tours of the park for RD$3500 for up to 10 people - expect a sore,
wet bum (and salt stains). Be sure to call ahead - if a tour group has the boat reserved, you
might be out of luck. Additionally, these guys don't seem to hang around - you must call
them in advance. The boat will take you to the mouth of the Río de la Descubierta - where
the most crocodiles and flamingos are visible - and Isla Cabritos. The tour usually lasts two
hours and the last boat departs at noon. Bring a hat and plenty of water.
