Caving About 1km west of central Cabarete, and a 1km walk from the main road, are the caves that form part of the Natural Monument Cabarete and Goleta Lagoons (also known as El Choco National Park),which offer an alternative to all the sun and surf of Cabarete.

You walk through lush tropical jungle, and then up man-made steps. Then through to a big passage and suddenly you are told to walk down, down under. It’s so cool, but then weird. All of a sudden you are in a natural jacuzzi, a crystal clear pond in the middle of the earth.

The caves are the result of geological formations known as Caribbean karsts that are found in relatively flat landscapes and are made up of

sinkholes, sinkhole ponds, disappearing streams, crystal clear springs and underground caverns often filled with water.

There are several caves in the area, some a one- hour hike and others a three-hour hike away. Horse ranches take visitors on tours into the park to observe the numerous edible tropical fruit plants and the vast variety of birds.

This area is a large protected extension of around 77.5 square kilometers (48 sq. miles), of lagoons, pasture and low mountains, amidst rainforest and several caves.