Cidade Turismo
the Dominican Republic

Before you go

Your trip to La Descubierta.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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La Descubierta – Independencia Destination Barahona and Pedernales

How to get there

  • Aeropuerto Internacional María Montez (BRX) Barahona · 85 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

It is about 100 km from Barahona, roughly two hours by car via the road that circles the lake to the south or north. From Santo Domingo it is about five and a half hours.

How many days

One day for the lake and Las Barías, leaving early from Barahona; or an overnight stay to arrive at the park early.

When to go

From December to March the heat is less extreme. The lake is very hot year-round; visit in the early morning. After heavy rains, the lake level and the roads may change.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes: public transport is sparse and attractions are spread out around the lake.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in La Descubierta
  1. Morning
    Lago Enriquillo

    Arrive early at the park, watch the iguanas on the shore and the crocodiles and flamingos by boat, if the tour is operating.

  2. Afternoon
    Las Caritas

    Climb up to the small cave of Las Caritas, with Taíno faces carved in the rock and a view of the lake.

  3. Late afternoon
    Las Barías

    In the afternoon, cool off at the bathing area of Las Barías, with cold freshwater from the springs, in the shade.

  4. Evening
    Return

    Return to Barahona in the late afternoon, driving around the lake.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What to do in La Descubierta?

Visit Parque Nacional Lago Enriquillo, the cave of Las Caritas and the bathing area of Las Barías.

Can you see crocodiles in Lago Enriquillo?

Yes, the lake has a population of American crocodiles; the park boats, when operating, take visitors to observation points.

Is it very hot in La Descubierta?

Yes, it is one of the hottest areas in the country, below sea level. Visit early in the morning.

Is La Descubierta far from Barahona?

About 100 km, roughly two hours by car.

Back to La Descubierta