Lago Enriquillo

Lago Enriquillo is a beautiful, hot and magical spot in the southwest of the Dominican Republic. It is the largest and most watery lake in the Caribbean and one of the best lakes to visit in the Dominican Republic. Lake water can reach hypersaline levels up to 66% higher than seawater. It was formerly known as Lake Xaragua (Jaragua) after the name of the Taino domain in which it was located. The lake was formed 10 million years ago when the north island, which is the area towards the Sierra the Neiba and the south island, including the Sierra del Bahoruco, le Massif de la Selle, and the Tiburon peninsula in present-day Haiti - combined with shifting Earth's movements form the island of Hispaniola. Although arid and inhospitable, the area is rich in wildlife. Among the animals: are American flamingos, 61 other birds, three species of fish, and alligators. The Ricord iguana and rhinoceros are endemic species. The iguanas are most welcome to all residents of the area.

Covering an area of more than 350 square kilometers, Lago Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean, and also the only body of water in the region that lies more than 43 meters below sea level. Named after Enriquillo, the first Taino chief who successfully rebelled against the Spanish colonists, the lake and surrounding lands are ideal for wildlife viewing and nature exploration. Boat trips along the lake's surface and up Isla Cabritos - sitting in the middle of this unique body of water - reveal a large population of American alligators that you can see up close, as well as the flamingos at Boca de Cachón, and many other species of birds. Iguanas guard the entrance to the lake, and the surrounding land consists of tropical and dry forests, springs–La Azufrada–and arable land.

• Location: Hoya de Enriquillo, Dominican Republic