Baracoa

On Cuba’s Caribbean side, Cienfuegos perches on the shores of Jagua Bay like a pearl sitting on an oyster shell. First settled by the French, who dubbed Cienfuegos “The Southern Pearl”, the city is the capital of Cienfuegos province.

In the early 19th century, wealthy Frenchman D’Clouet of Louisiana promoted this area to the French, who began to populate the region from Bordeaux among other places. Today, this “Franco-Cuban” province produces sugar, citrus fruits, cattle and coffee while developing its industrial side as well.

Alexander Von Humboldt National Park

Straddling the provinces of Guantánamo and Holguín, this is the best preserved mountainous ecosystem in the Caribbean. The park is a treasure trove of indigenous Antillean and Cuban flora and fauna.

The Toa’s Challenges

Cuba’s widest river springs up on Guantánamo’s mountains and jungle and ends near Baracoa. The river can be navigated in cayucos (punts) or rafts.

The Parra Cross

Found near Baracoa, this ancient cross is reputed to be the only material evidence of Columbus’ presence here in 1492.

Managua Beach

Protected by a coral reef, this white-sand beach is a few miles from Baracoa.

Cactus Garden

Some 2,000 cacti grow in this huge garden in the semi-arid southern region along the Guantánamo-Baracoa highway.

La Farola

Highway winds deep into the mountains near Cajobabo, the beach where National Hero José Martí disembarked in 1895. The road has 11 bridges suspended over the abyss.

Yateras Stone Zoo

Images of humans and wild animals are carved in the rocks here by a local artist.

Malone Lookout Point

This lookout offers an expansive view of the Guantanamo Naval Base at the mouth of Guantánamo Bay.