Las Caritas
Taíno carvings above the cliff.
Eric Carrasco-Nuñez — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jos1950 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jos1950 — CC BY-SA 4.0
Lake Enriquillo is a hypersaline lake in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, the largest lake in the country, in Hispaniola and in the whole Caribbean. It lies about 46 m below sea level, the lowest point of any island country, ringed by dry mountain ranges that give a harsh and singular scene. It covers about 380 square kilometres, has no outlet to the sea and is fed by ten small river systems. Its salinity varies from 33 parts per thousand, like seawater, to over 100. Its area doubled between 2004 and 2009, and the causes are still debated. It historically held three islands, the best known being Cabritos. Grey-blue water stretches to the horizon, behind low green plants and trees drowned by the flood. On the north side is Las Caritas, where a timber walkway climbs a rock face to Taíno carvings and a wide view of the lake. Iguanas and water birds live in the area, and guides mention American crocodiles, though sightings are not guaranteed. It lies in a province bordering Haiti, 72 km in a straight line from Bahía de las Águilas and 176 km from Santo Domingo. UK travel advice urges care here about roadblocks and road robberies, so travel by day and carry ID. The heat is intense, so bring plenty of water and a hat. Do not swim in the lake, keep away from the animals and do not touch the carvings.
Taíno carvings above the cliff.
To the horizon.
Climbing the rock.
Bahoruco and Independencia provinces, southwest Dominican Republic
It is best not to, as the water is very salty, and guides mention crocodiles.
Yes, so travel by day and carry ID.