Baracoa - the heart of Cuba
Abundant rainforests in the northern part of Cuba "Far East", surrounded by majestic mountains, where coffee and cocoa grow. The southern strip of the Guantanamo province on the Caribbean coast is a semi-arid desert. And on the farthest edge is an American military base in the Gulf.
In the valleys of Guantanamo, sugarcane grows in the plains, and in the green mountains, coffee and cocoa plantations predominate.
The Dry South is home to the largest salt mining in Cuba. The village of Baracoa, the first settlement founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1511, is teeming with natural and historical curiosities.
The unique music lends a refreshing tone to the area, and the soft changu that does not use electrical appliances is a favorite dance rhythm in villages such as Virginia and Yateras. Tumba Francesa is a dance of Creole inspiration. These dances have taken root here and in Santiago de Cuba.
Places to visit
Alexander von Humboldt National Park
The transboundary provinces of Holguin and Guantanamo are the best-preserved mountain ecosystem in the Caribbean. The park is a treasure trove of indigenous Antilles and Cuban flora and fauna.
The toa's challenges
Cuba's widest river originates in the Guantanamo Mountains, flows through the jungle and ends near Baracoa. You can navigate the river in Kayaks or rafts.
The parra cross
Near Baracoa, this ancient cross is said to be the only material evidence of Columbus's presence here in 1492.
Maguana beach
Fenced by coral reefs, white sand beach is a few miles from Baracoa. A great place, one of those where you want to stay forever.
Cactus garden
About 2,000 cacti grow in this huge garden in the semi-arid southern region along the Guantanamo-Baracoa highway.
La farola
Highway where national hero Jose Marti landed in 1895. The road has 11 bridges that hang over the abyss.
Yateras Stone Zoo
Images of people and wildlife carved into the rocks here by a local artist.
Malone lookout point
This is an observation deck that offers a wonderful view of the Guantanamo Naval Base.