The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve, Ojos Indígenas in Spanish, is the most peaceful nature escape in Punta Cana and a lovely contrast to the beach. The reserve covers about 1,500 acres of lowland subtropical forest donated by the Puntacana Group to create a protected area for education, science and recreation, and it is managed by the Fundación Puntacana. Marked trails wind through the forest to a series of freshwater springs, the ojos de agua, which are really small cenotes fed by underground rivers, with water so clear that you can see straight to the bottom. According to the foundation, four of them are open for swimming, including Inriri and Cacibajagua, and they make a refreshing change from salt water. Along the way you may see native birds, iguanas and the reserve’s conservation projects, and the guides tell the story of the Taíno who lived here and gave the springs their names. You can explore on your own with a map or join the foundation’s guided Los Ojos Eco Journey, which covers the landscape, the history and time to swim. It is quiet, shady and family friendly, and it takes only a few hours.
How to visit: the reserve is next to the Puntacana Resort, close to Punta Cana International Airport, and tickets have traditionally been sold at the resort’s front desk as well as through the foundation’s booking link. Opening is during daytime hours, with last entry in the mid afternoon, so plan a morning visit. Entry carries a moderate fee for visitors from outside the resort, and guided tours with hotel transport are also sold by excursion companies.
What to expect: the trails are flat and shaded, and the springs have wooden platforms and steps for getting in and out. Swimming is allowed only in the designated springs, and visitors are asked to stay on the trails, not feed animals and not fly drones.
Making the most of it: bring a swimsuit, water shoes, insect repellent and drinking water, and go early, when the forest is cooler and the springs are at their clearest and quietest.
What to expect
The experience
Self-guided or guided walks on forest trails to freshwater springs, with swimming in the designated pools.
Best time
Early morning, when the forest is cool and the springs are quiet and clear.
How long
Two to three hours, longer if you linger in the water.
Tips
Bring a swimsuit, water shoes and insect repellent, and arrive well before the mid-afternoon last entry.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers and anyone who wants a quiet, shady break from the beach.
- Families
- Flat trails and calm freshwater pools make it a relaxed outing with children.
- Couples
- A peaceful morning swim in a forest spring is a lovely change from the resort.
- Pair with
- Hoyo Azul in nearby Cap Cana for another freshwater swim.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Can you swim at Indigenous Eyes?+
Yes, swimming is allowed in the designated freshwater springs, four of them according to the foundation. Stay out of the springs that are not marked for swimming.
Where is the Indigenous Eyes reserve?+
It lies next to the Puntacana Resort, close to Punta Cana International Airport. Most visitors arrive by taxi or on a tour with transport.
Who runs Ojos Indígenas?+
The reserve is managed by the Fundación Puntacana on land donated by the Puntacana Group. It protects about 1,500 acres of forest for education, science and recreation.
Do I need a guide at Indigenous Eyes?+
No, you can walk the marked trails on your own. The foundation also offers a guided Los Ojos Eco Journey with history and swim time.
What should I bring to Indigenous Eyes?+
Bring a swimsuit, a towel, water shoes, insect repellent and drinking water. Drones and feeding animals are not allowed.