El yunque national forest map: El Yunque National Forest map by US Forest Service R8 – Avenza Maps – Conoce las especies de Puerto Rico

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March 12, 2023
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El yunque national forest map: El Yunque National Forest map by US Forest Service R8 – Avenza Maps

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13 Tips for Hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque

Angelito Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in El Yunque National Forest. Consider these 13 tips before you go!

Climbing on the rocks of Rio Mameyes

Angelito Trail is one of the most popular trails in El Yunque National Forest towards Puerto Rico’s east end. Only 45 minutes away from San Juan, the trail is well-trafficked with tourists and locals alike as it’s open year-round, relatively easy, and leads to an incredible natural pool, Las Damas, along the Rio Mameyes.

This trail doesn’t require a permit for entry, unlike other areas within El Yunque National Forest. In fact, that’s the exact reason we came here – because we missed out on getting a permit for the La Mina Recreation Area of El Yunque National Forest (this may change post-pandemic).

But it honestly felt like it didn’t matter by the day’s end. Hiking the Angelito Trail, swimming in the Las Damas Pool, and climbing the rocks of the Rio Mameyes were more than enough to keep our entire family happy!

In this article, you’ll learn 13 valuable tips for hiking the Angelito Trail including safety tips, things to pack, and what to expect when you get there. Enjoy!

WATCH: Hiking the Angelito Trail

Quick Answers: Hiking the Angelito Trail

Difficulty

Easy

Length

1.1 km (.7 miles) round trip

Elevation Gain

40 m (130 feet) primarily returning from the river

Type

Out and Back

Location

El Yunque National Forest on the East End of Puerto Rico

Guided Tour

Departing from San Juan

Adventure Map

El Yunque National Forest

Tips for Hiking the Angelito Trail

1.

Visit El Portal Visitor Center

Mountains of El Yunque

The El Portal Visitor Center is the gateway into El Yunque National Forest and a must-do when visiting. With interactive exhibits, exciting history displays, a gift shop, information desks, and a cafe, you’ll have all your needs taken care of before venturing into El Yunque.

🇵🇷 Planning a Visit to Old San Juan? If you’re not, you should change that! Old San Juan was breathtaking, and even if you have only one day, there’s plenty to do within our complete itinerary to one day in Old San Juan!

2. Arrive in El Yunque National Forest Early

Arrive early to get a spot!

El Yunque National Forest is consistently listed as the top thing to do in Puerto Rico for a reason. So naturally, with the claim to fame, El Yunque can get busy quickly (particularly on the weekends and holidays).

So as with anything, arrive as early as possible. You’ll have better access to the best parking spaces and spots along the river.

🗺️ Must-Bring: El Yunque Adventure Map

3. Bring a Change of Clothes

A dry change of clothes or a bathing suit is a must.

The Angelito Trail culminates its descent at a natural swimming hole called Las Damas Pool. Unless you like hiking in wet clothes, I suggest bringing a swimsuit or an extra change of clothes for the hike back.

🎒 Dry Bag Backpack: It’s not a bad idea to keep your dry clothes in a dry bag backpack. I use mine every time I hike in the Caribbean as rain showers occur sporadically.

4. Pack Wet and Dry Shoes

Your feet are going to get wet!

If you’re not comfortable hiking in sandals or flip-flops, I recommend packing a pair of dry and wet shoes. Much of the fun about the Angelito Trail is wading through the water of the Rio Mameyes at the trail’s trough.

👞 Our Recommendation: Our favorite shoe to wear for hiking in the Caribbean are our trusty Chacos. They specialize in sportier sandals that are capable of hiking rugged trails AND wading through waters necessitating only one pair of shoes!

5. Swim in Las Damas Pool

Las Damas Pool is a refreshing oasis

Why else would you be hiking the Angelito Trail? The entire point is to reach its end and plunge into the serene, natural swimming pool!

6. Bring the Whole Family

Laura’s parents enjoying the waters of Las Damas Pool!

One of the best parts of the Angelito Trail is it’s suitable for the entire family! It’s easy enough to bring small kids, elderly family members, and any others who might shy away from difficult hiking trails.

7. Pack Some Food

Pack a lunch to enjoy the scenery for as long as possible

Pull up to the swimming hole and stay awhile. Maybe for lunch? Packing a picnic for your hike along Angelito Trail is never a bad idea!

8. Book a Guided Tour

A guided tour provides insight into the natural environment of El Yunque

If you’re staying in San Juan, you might want to consider booking a guided tour of Angelito Trail. The tour is led by a naturalist who will provide transportation to and from El Yunque, a guided experience through the tropical rainforest with insight into the flora and fauna, and even a trip to nearby Luquillo Beach.

🌴 Other Guided Tours in El Yunque: Tours depart San Juan and other areas daily to all different parts of El Yunque National Forest including waterfalls!

9. Climb the Rocks

Hopping along the rocks is a fun way to spend the time

Part of the fun during your day along the Angelito Trail is climbing from rock to rock along the Rio Mameyes. Just watch your step and make sure you don’t slip and fall!

10. Learn the History of El Yunque

The scenery of El Yunque

El Yunque has fascinating tales of Indigenous cultures, Spanish occupation, European development, and Puerto Rican natives leading to today’s federal protection as a National Forest under the US Department of Agriculture.

Much of this history is on display at the El Portal Visitor Center with interactive exhibits and signage. However, if you’re deeply interested I recommend a few books below:

History of Puerto Rico: a Panorama of Its People
Slave Revolts in Puerto Rico
A Kid’s Guide to Puerto Rico
Eating Puerto Rico: A History of Food, Culture, and Identity

11. Be Your Own Ecologist

Plants in El Yunque

El Yunque National Forest is a tropical rainforest filled with all sorts of interesting animals, birds, insects, plants, and other wildlife. It’s the perfect place to become your own ecologist. Again, here are a few books you might consider bringing during your trip:

Birds of Puerto Rico & the Virgin Islands
Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands Wildlife Viewing Guide

12. Give Yourself a Few Hours

Even though hiking the Angelito Trail will take you only 15 – 20 minutes, be sure to give yourself a few hours to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Trust me, when you arrive at Rio Mameyes, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible soaking up the beautiful scenery around you.

13. Begin Your Planning for the Rest of El Yunque

Waterfall in El Yunque

Angelito Trail is but one small piece of the entire El Yunque National Forest. You have PLENTY more to see and your adventures within the tropical rainforest are just beginning!

FAQs: Hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest

Do you need a reservation for Angelito Trail?

You do not need a reservation for the Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest. However, I recommend arriving as early as possible as the parking and swimming pool does get crowded.

How long is the Angelito Trail in El Yunque?

The Angelito Trail in El Yunque National Forest is a short trail at only 1.1 km or .7 miles. It’s one of the best and easiest trails in the area making it suitable for the entire family.

Where is the rope swing in El Yunque?

After hiking the Angelito Trail in El Yunque, you’ll find a rope swing at Las Damas Pool along the Rio Mameyes.

Travel Planning Resources for Puerto Rico

Book Your Flight: Book cheap flights on Skyscanner, one of the best tools to find good deals.

Rent a Car: Discover Cars compares prices all over the globe – finding you the best deal on a car rental.

Catch a Bus: Whenever searching for bus tickets, we love using BusBud to find the cheapest fares.

Book a Place to Stay: Booking.com is a great resource to compare hotels and guesthouses. Or book a local apartment rental on VRBO!

Budget Accommodation: Hostelworld is the best site to find quality hostels.

Protect Your Trip: Protect yourself from theft or gear damage! World Nomads covers all things scuba diving while traveling.

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amazing places of nature, with photos, name and description-the nature of the world

Content

Amazon River and the rain forests of the Amazon
CHEDJU
Halong Bay 9000,000,000 iguas
Underground river Puerto Prince
9000 Sorov
Table Mountain
Great Barrier Reef
Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon)
Rio de Janeiro
Mount Everest
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
Waterfall Victoria
Vulcan Parikutin
Bu-Tina
Dead Sea
Jaith Caves
Kilimanjaro
Mazurian mazuri
Cliffs of Moher
El Yunque
Galapagos
Matterhorn
Milford Sound
Azerbaijan mud volcanoes
Uluru
Vesuvius
Yuishan
Yellouston
Sugar
Solonchak Uyuni
Pando
Giants
Zhangjiazze

Love of mankind for travel every year is becoming stronger. The famous Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, for modern tourists, are no longer interesting. Thus, the habit of creating new lists of the “Seven Wonders of the World” arose.

It is obvious that by creating a new list of wonders, there will be an occasion for heated discussions, because it is impossible to cover all the beautiful corners of our planet in only 7 places. It was reasonable to divide into a mass of different categories. There are the Seven Wonders of the Industrial World, which includes the Brooklyn Bridge and the sewers in London; There are the “Seven Wonders of the Solar System”, consisting of the rings of Saturn and Olympus on Mars, but also of course the “Seven Wonders of Nature”.

As with any other list, there is no final agreement on which natural phenomena are classified as miracles, but all this means that for you, as a traveler, there is a reason to check all the places below. So let’s count how many of these natural wonders you have visited or would like to see, and share your impressions in the comments!

Amazon River and the Amazon Rainforest

The Amazon River is the longest in the world, and the largest in terms of volume of water. The forests of the Amazon stretch for 9countries, and are the largest and most biodiverse forests in the world.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a volcanic island and province in South Korea, located south of the Korean Peninsula.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is located in northern Vietnam and is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery and floating fishing village.

Iguazu Falls

The famous Iguazu Falls are located on both sides of the Iguazu River on the border between Argentina and Brazil. Iguazu is one of the largest waterfall systems in the world.

Puerto Princesa Underground River

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is located on the Philippine island of Palawan and leads to a cave, so you can take a boat tour of the amazing underground.

Komodo Island

Komodo Island is part of the Indonesian archipelago and is famous for being home to the Komodo dragon.

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a unique creation of nature and a famous landmark that dominates Cape Town in South Africa.

Great Barrier Reef

Australia is famous for its giant barrier reef, which is unfortunately under threat from climate change, depleted fish stocks, and tourism.

Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon)

The famous, massive canyon carved out by the Colorado River runs through Arizona and is one of the few natural wonders that can be permanently listed as one of the 7 Wonders of the World.

Rio de Janeiro

Brazil’s most famous city fills an expanse of natural beauty between its surrounding mountains and the ocean, making it one of the most beautiful cities on earth. And above all this, rises the statue of Christ the Savior – one of the man-made wonders of the world.

Mount Everest

If you have seen Everest (in the Himalayas on the border of Nepal and Tibet), then you have been on it, and there is no need to conquer its summit.

Aurora Borealis (Aurora Borealis)

Aurora borealis in the north, aurora borealis in the south, caused by the collision of the solar wind with the Earth’s magnetospheres. It can be seen at certain latitudes, depending on the visibility and severity of geomagnetic storms.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls – on the Zambezi River between Zimbabwe and Zambia – the largest waterfall by volume and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.

Paricutin Volcano

The volcano is on this list only because of its strange history. In 1943, there was a corn field, and then, within a year, a volcano 336 meters high grew in its place. The villages around it were buried in lava, and only the bell tower was left sticking out of the rock.

Bu Tina

Bu Tina, off the coast of Abu Dhabi, is a coral archipelago that is completely closed to visitors. Thus, the likelihood that you have been here or will ever visit is reduced to zero.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea, located on the border between Israel and Jordan, is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. The water is so salty that even those who cannot swim can swim.

Jeita Caves

Jeita is a series of caves in Lebanon that have been inhabited since prehistoric times and are now a major cultural symbol of the nation.

Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and is an extinct stratovolcano with the potential to be active.

Masurian Lake District

This well connected system of lakes (more than 2000) in Poland is a popular holiday destination for many Europeans.

Sundarbans

The Sundarbans – mostly located in Bangladesh, though there are parts in India – is the world’s largest mangrove forest system, and the largest Bengal tiger reserves.

Maldives

The prestige of the Maldives can not be described, they are known throughout the world. The Maldives has a number of coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, and if climate change raises sea levels even slightly, they will go under water, as the highest point of the country is only 238 cm above sea level.

Angel

The highest continuous waterfall in the world (979 meters high) is located in the jungles of Venezuela.

Bay of Fundy

Canada’s Bay of Fundy is famous for its highest tides, with a maximum water level of up to 21 meters.

Black Forest, (Schwarzwald)

The German Black Forest is on this list solely for its uniqueness and natural beauty.

Cliffs of Moher

The West Irish Cliffs of Moher are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

El Yunque

El Yunque is the only rainforest in the US National Forest System and can be found just a short drive east of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are perhaps best known for their biodiversity, which supported Charles Darwin’s pioneering theory of evolution through natural selection.

Matterhorn

The Matterhorn, located between Italy and Switzerland, is considered one of the most challenging and most beautiful mountains in the world.

Milford Sound

This fjord in New Zealand’s South Island was named by Rudyard Kipling the “eighth wonder of the world”.

Mud volcanoes of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has the largest number of mud volcanoes in the world.

Uluru

Uluru in Australia is probably the continent’s most recognizable natural icon. You are no doubt familiar with its appearance, so enjoy the shot above.

Vesuvius

As impressive as its brutal history, the volcano that destroyed and buried Pompeii under the lava in 79 AD.

Yushan

Yushan is Taiwan’s highest mountain surrounded by a magnificent national park.

Yellowstone

Yellowstone Caldera and National Park are presented as some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.

Sahara

The Sahara is the hottest desert in the world. It spans 11 countries and crosses an entire continent.

Uyuni Salt Flat

The Bolivian Uyuni Salt Flat is the largest in the world and is a favorite spot for photographers. It’s easy to see why.

Pando

Pando is a colony of trees in Utah, but is actually a single organism. It weighs 6600 tons, and it is also possibly the oldest living organism on the planet.

Giant’s Causeway

Giant’s Causeway is a group of basalt columns in Northern Ireland believed to be about 50 million years old.

Zhangjiajie

The stunning sandstone pillars are of artistic and historical interest. The territory of Zhangjiajie is more like the area of the planet Pandora from the movie Avatar.

Remember! All lists of “wonders of nature” are subjective and everyone has the right to choose for himself what is a miracle for him and what is an everyday occurrence.

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Baracoa is the first city founded in Cuba by the conquistador Diego Velasquez. City and resort of baracoa in cuba Baracoa on the map of cuba

Baracoa
– a resort in the Cuban province of Guantanamo with a population of about 42 thousand people, which is the center of the municipality of the same name. The resort of Baracoa is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, it has its own airport, which can receive small and medium-sized aircraft. There is a highway built in 1960, which has 11 bridges hanging over the abyss. The highest point of this highway is in Altos de Cotilla at over 600 meters above sea level.

Baracoa was founded in 1511 by the Spanish conquistador Velazquez and is the oldest city in Cuba. According to one of the stories, it is known that Columbus first landed on the shores of Cuba near Baracoa. This version is supported by the wooden cross Cruz de la Parra of the end of the 15th century, which is now located in the city’s cathedral, whose age was recently confirmed by an examination.

Tourism has been booming in Baracoa in recent years, benefiting from nearby national parks such as the UNESCO-listed Alexander Humboldt National Park.

Even before 1960, Baracoa was almost cut off from the rest of the island by the Sierra del Purial mountain range, which served as a natural defense against enemies, but became a serious obstacle to tourism. Built in 1960, the 120 km La Farola motorway from Guantánamo helped tourists discover this quiet colonial town with a special atmosphere.

Baracoa Resort is located on the shores of Honey Bay. The main occupation of the local population is the cultivation and processing of cocoa, bananas, coconuts. Baracoa – is the largest center for the production of cocoa, it is here that special Cuban chocolate is made, and cocoa is added to many dishes. Tourists should definitely try fish baked in cocoa or stuffed with bananas, lobsters in butter, fried chicken with spices and many sweets, as well as many other masterpieces of local cuisine.

Tourists are attracted by the nature of Baracoa, which, compared to other Cuban resorts, is almost virgin. The beaches of the Baracoa resort are a bit crowded, there is still a special spirit of adventure, discovery and travel. It is here that you can enjoy the beaches with white, cream, gray sand. For example, the Maguana beach of the highest quality, whose tourism development project has become comprehensive. There are other beaches in the Baracoa resort: Saratoha, Duaba and Cahuaho, which have their own charm due to their natural surroundings.

The resort of Baracoa is located among the virgin tropical forests, which still have rare plant and animal species. Baracoa itself is very beautiful and charming, in which, even after a long vacation, you will not get bored at all. The city has its own long Malecon promenade, where a statue of Columbus is carved from a giant stump. Tourists and locals love to walk along the promenade. The statue of Columbus also adorns the center of the city park, which bears his name. The embankment offers stunning views of the ocean, it is good to walk here at any time of the day or night, especially in the evening after all the excursions and entertainment.

The city has many other attractions. For example, the three fortresses of Baracoa, which have survived to this day, are important cultural monuments. In one of them – Fuerte Matachin, there is a city museum. The second – La Punta, is famous for its architecture and open-air restaurant, which has a great menu and reasonable prices. In the third fort, El Castillo, there are regular excursions.

In the depths of the island there is a natural reserve of Cuchillas de Toa, which is under the protection of UNESCO. The reserve is considered one of the few places on earth where an amazing corner of tropical nature has been preserved in its original form. A tour of the reserve is possible only with a guide who will show you all the most beautiful places in the reserve.

Of interest are the Duaba estates, where you can see about 60 species of fruit trees, ornamental plants and timber, as well as Paso de los Alemanes, where the mountains form a divided wedge over a narrow path that leads to Boma Bay. In Alto de Boqueron, it is recommended to visit the Stone Zoo, and a little further in Guantanamo there is an observation deck of Malones – all of them are worthy of the attention of visitors.

Fertile forests, azure seas, melodic dialects and delicious desserts await you in a quaint oriental city Baracoa in Cuba
.

Before I tell about my adventures, I would like to mention a quote from the diary of Christopher Columbus himself. The fact is that he was the first to find not only America. Sailing between the Bahamas and Cuba during his first voyage to America, he made a stop in the Baracoa area. So let me present an entry from his diary in 1492.

Addressing his royal patrons in , he wrote: “ This land, Most Serene Highness, is so enchantingly beautiful that it surpasses all others I have seen in charm and beauty … I was so amazed at the sight of such beauty that I could not find words to describe it. For describing the other patches of land I found, I already used all my vocabulary, and could not even put my mind to the fact that you can meet something more beautiful in the world …
“.

As you can see, Columbus was the first Western tourist to be seduced by Baracoa. And now, about 500 years later, I have fallen under its spell.

This coastal corner of Cuba is washed by 29 rivers. The hills here are overgrown with royal palms, chocolate trees and coffee bushes, while the abundance of wildlife breaks all world records here: the smallest birds in the world, bats and frogs prefer Cuban registration.

The city itself is so small that it is difficult to even call it a settlement. Baracoa was founded 20 years after the visit of Columbus, and since then it has absorbed so many fables and legends that it is difficult for me to even single out something separately.

While most of the tourist trips to Cuba focus on the white sandy northern beaches and islands, or are reduced to visiting Havana and Trinidad, Baracoa can be called the “exquisite Cuban dish” because only the most real travelers who are hungry for adventure go here and eternal memories (in general, like me).

Within a few days I had to climb mountains, swim in cool rivers, swim on the purest virgin beaches, explore Indian remains and visit a gorge overgrown with chocolate trees and coconut palms. Tempting? Then listen further.

We arrived in Baracoa along the mountain road, which was built here only in 1965 and is still one of the most successful architectural projects of the time of Fidel Castro.

Until that time, it could only be reached by boat, so in fact this place was isolated from the whole world for 500 years.

After a 120 km drive, the road finally leveled off at the entrance to the city itself. Attacked by pirates and destroyed by fire in 1652, today Baracoa is a patchwork of 18th and 20th century houses with portals and columns, as well as French architectural delights.

The city is also connected by several fortresses – sights of Baracoa
, surrounding and protecting it from violent pirates who operated here during the opening of the sea route from the Old World.

The entire infrastructure here revolves around a beaten embankment, three wedge-shaped parks and a vast Independence Park. I immediately planned my entire stay in Cuba into several day trips, during which I had to explore the city and its surrounding beauties to the best of my ability.

Holy smokes

Before Columbus discovered the New World, aboriginal Indians known as the Taíno lived in eastern Cuba. The official history says that this red-skinned people has died out by now from disease, genocide and slavery, although their traditions and parts of the DNA in the descendants have survived to this day.

Taíno traditions and cultural values are still visible here: you will still find people making the Indian Kasabe bread, while in the village of Boca de Miel you can see thatched huts called “atarazana” that are still in use today canoe storage. And, of course, no one has canceled the Indian traditions of smoking here.

Yes, it was the Taíno Indians who were the forefathers of Cuban tobacco smoking. A one-eyed wooden tobacco idol from eastern Cuba is one of the main attractions in the National Museum of Havana, while it was previously used to invoke spirits in ceremonies known as cohoba.

If you wish, you can see the remains of two old leaders of the Taino Indian tribe. Inside the Archaeological Museum of Baracoa lie the alleged remains of two “national” Indian heroes – one leader who rebelled against the Spaniards and was killed on the battlefield.

And the second rebellious ruler Atuey, who escaped from prison on the neighboring island of Hispaniola to warn his Cuban countrymen about the advancing Spanish army, for which he was later burned at the stake.

Moonlight fishing

I have already heard a lot about the delights of fishing in Cuba. And since I myself was an avid fisherman, I can not miss the opportunity to improve my skills in the far West. Moreover, the main Cuban fish delicacy, Teti, was found here.

Yes, I’m not kidding, aunts are indeed a real delicacy in Baracoa and catching them is quite an old tradition with ancient roots and even its own superstitions.

The fact is that closer to dawn, the aunts head closer to the shore to spawn, and it looks like a huge silver underwater snake.

I was taken on a fishing tour in Baracoa by 73-year-old Benito Garrido, an aunt fishing professional who spent most of his life under a waning moon. While we were sitting on the sand and getting ready to go fishing, Benito told me about some of the customs that must be taken into account before fishing.

First of all, you can’t come here with bad intentions, as aunt’s fish feel bad thoughts. In addition, you can’t go fishing with menstruating women – aunts also feel and avoid them (some incredibly sensitive fish).

By the way, we fished in the area of Rio Duaba – it was there that the locals placed their nets, since it was on this stretch of the river that spawning took place. In a few hours, already when the sun rose, we caught an incredible amount of eels and, of course, aunts.

True, no one is interested in eels here, so they are immediately released outside, while almost transparent aunts sort through buckets, pans, nets and bags and rush home for breakfast.

Poor Garrido had to dive even under water to get his nets – the catch was so good. And yes, I enjoyed the breakfast as well. My companion cooked the fish with garlic and tomatoes, and we celebrated the successful catch with a bottle of good rum.

Hiking in the mountains

The next morning I went to explore the mountains of Baracoa, or rather their fruitful forests, which are a source of huge profit for the city.

We started our climb from the location of the gray boulders of Rio Duaba and headed towards El Yunca, a 575-meter flat-topped mountain. From the stories of other tourists, I knew that an incredible view awaited me there, not only of the city and the surrounding area, but also of other islands (of course, in case of good visibility).

Our path was strewn with small white flowers that reminded me of tropical snowflakes. On the way, my guide Andres cut a cocoa pod from a tree trunk (more than three-quarters of the cocoa beans in the country are collected in Baracoa) – so that most of the way we crunched bitter seeds.

I couldn’t even imagine that someday I would walk along a path strewn with fallen avocados and tangerines. You understand, for our man it all looks like a curiosity, taking into account the fact that all these fruits are available only on store shelves.

While Andres walked over them, as if through chestnut trees. The only thing I didn’t like was that the slope of the climb is too steep already closer to the top, as well as the abundance of creeping reptiles and terrible centipedes that dominate this region.

Finally, having reached the top, I got what I came here for. From a bird’s eye view, the whole of Baracoa was visible.

Unfortunately, I did not see the neighboring islands, but I was impressed by how the local rivers cut through forests rich in palm trees, subsequently flowing into the turquoise sea. A pristine paradise on earth – there is nothing more to say here.

But if the view from Mount El Yunca gave us only good impressions and peace, then further north from Baracoa, another cradle of the so-called biodiversity awaited us. The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is located along the slope of Mount Sagua Baracoa directly to the sea.

The park is a World Heritage Site and is dangerous to visit due to its long list of endemic tick species. In addition, there were fissure teeth, manatees, as well as dozens of the most terrible snakes, worms and insects.

True, I did not see anything from the above presented live, but still this park impressed me so much with its flora that I was happy to examine every single square centimeter of the forest.

Our tour ran through a mountain path surrounded by Cuban pines, hundreds of species of ferns, orchids and even pineapples. Because of the incredibly high humidity, our guide suggested we drink water from wild plants.

Other tourists said it tasted like cactus water, but who knows. I did not like. In general, the water there is not very tasty, although it is allowed to drink it straight from the tap.

Beaches and bananas

After several days of hiking and actively exploring the surrounding area of Baracoa, I finally deserve a good rest.

In my understanding, this is a complete vacation in Baracoa
came down to relaxing on the beach, but even then I couldn’t relax. I was attracted by the thought of visiting some residential area visible on the horizon.

This “point” turned out to be the idyllic fishing village of Boca de Miel. The whole life of the village revolves around an old wooden bridge, from where fishermen drop their nets to catch fish.

Also, I didn’t fail to take a dip in the cold river, as they say here that anyone who takes a dip in it will definitely return to Baracoa. I hope so it will be.

Behind the village, fields of banana trees stretch out to the horizon along an old railroad line built to ship fruit to the United States. The fact is that it was bananas that were the main source of profit for Baracoa.

Every day tons of fruits were exported from here. However, a fungal plague in the 50s of the last century killed most of the fields, so that the entire railway infrastructure is now idle.

Toward evening I was invited to Mata Bay, a small bay that is both a city landmark and a place of entertainment. At that moment, there was a celebration of Cuban music, and I was very warmly received there (although no one was even waiting for me there).

In general, you can talk about Cuban hospitality for hours, but I will briefly say that I have never met friendlier people even in South America.

It was there that I tasted, perhaps, the most extraordinary dish I have ever eaten – crab baked in coconut milk stuffed with banana puree. And, of course, I was treated to homemade Cuban rum.

The next morning I barely got up, because the rum was so strong that it was driving me down, while my Cuban friends woke up with a clear head. You see, they are immune. Before leaving for Havana airport, where planes from Cuba were waiting for me, in Baracoa
I was also invited to visit Bar Rafael and Carmen Jimenez Fuentes.

The owner of this establishment, who at that time was already 90 years old, had been collecting coconuts of various shapes all his life, with which he equipped the interior of the bar. A unique spectacle and delicious hangover coconut cocktails.

Given that Baracoa was isolated for 500 years, I did not expect to find such hospitality here. Wherever I appeared, they immediately began to take me for a member of the family. Here you can ideally meet old age, but again, I repeat, but rest here is not suitable for everyone.

Baracoa – the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, that is, the oldest city in the country. And also an ideal place for ecotourism, because the UNESCO organization declared this area a biosphere reserve. If oneness with nature is your theme, feel free to go to magnificent Baracoa to contemplate and enjoy.

There is a version that Christopher Columbus first set foot on Cuban soil in this area. In his logbook, Columbus wrote that he “never saw a more beautiful place.” He was so impressed by the deep local rivers and blooming, verdant banks, that for some time he could not continue his journey. Spectacular mountains, marvelous tropical vegetation, the deep blue of the Caribbean Sea, palm-fringed beaches and quiet cozy bays… Nothing seems to have changed here at all. Let’s check?

What to see in Baracoa

Cobbled streets, one-story buildings of bright colors with tiled roofs add to the city’s unique charm. Everything here is like in the good old American films. Local residents, especially the elderly, watch with curiosity at random passers-by, sitting on their wide verandas in rocking chairs or on wooden chairs, while not letting go of a cigar from their hands. In the evenings, the whole city flocks to the busy embankment or to the main square of the city – the cozy Central Park.

Notre Dame de la Asuncion Cathedral

Cathedral

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In this cathedral, you can see the 15th-century wooden cross, de la Parra, which is believed to have been erected by Christopher Columbus at his landing site. Later, at the beginning of the 16th century, the Spanish conquistador Diego Velasquez founded the city of Baracoa on this site. For four years it remained the capital of Cuba until Velázquez moved his residence to Santiago.
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What seemed like a plus in the past is a minus in the future. Baracoa became geographically isolated from the rest of Cuba because of the mountain range, which served as a natural defense against attacks. Only in the middle of the 20th century was the La Farola viaduct built, linking Baracoa with the rest of Cuba by land. The 19th-century Notre Dame de la Asuncion Cathedral is quite dilapidated, but still looks majestic. It is worth coming here to see where and how the history of Cuba began.

Address:
Ciro Frias, Baracoa

Malecon

Avenida

Malecon

Baracoa has a wonderful long Malecon promenade, stretching from the bus station in the north of the town to the Municipal Museum (Museo Municipal Fuerte Matachín) and the park dedicated to Christopher Columbus in the south. This is such a mini-copy of the Havana embankment, where tourists and locals love to walk at any time of the day, enjoying the smell of the sea and magical landscapes. Stay here until late in the evening and you can see how the colors of the sea change with the onset of night.

In the center of Christopher Columbus Park you will find a very unusual monument to the discoverer. It’s carved from a giant stump! Extremely unusual, but very beautiful. It’s worth seeing. Christopher’s gaze is stern and turned somewhere deep into the island.

Address:
Avenida Malecon, Baracoa

Hotel
La Rusa

Hotel La Rusa

On the Malecon, approximately in its very center, there is a historic hotel from the beginning of the 20th century, built by a Russian immigrant. In the fifties, she supported the revolutionaries and often hosted Fidel Castro and Ernesto Che Guevara in her hotel. In the lobby of this almost Russian hotel, you can see interesting old photographs.

Address:
Avenida Malecon, Baracoa

Nature lovers

El Yunque

El

Yunque

Tourists are just beginning to discover Baracoa. This picturesque place is almost untouched by time. On the one hand, the city is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and secluded beaches, and on the other – virgin rainforests, mountains and rivers. On the horizon you can see its main attraction – the table mountain of El Yunque, considered sacred by the Taino Indians, who lived here long before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. Its height is 575 meters. The rarest plants (including two types of carnivorous flowers) and trees grow here. It is worth climbing here only with a guide. The view from here is simply fantastic. Take your time and get up!

Cucillas de Toa Natural Reserve

Cuchillas de Toa

If you go from the city inland, you can go to the Natural Reserve of Cuchillas de Toa, which is under the protection of UNESCO. This is one of the last intact rainforests in the world. There are many species of plants and animals that are endangered. On the territory of the reserve is the National Park Alejandro de Humboldt (Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt) with a stunning 17-meter waterfall Saltadero.

Surrounded by dense and lush greenery of wet forests or fertile mountain plantations, it is pleasant to take a break from the bustle of the city and be in unity with nature for a while. Walking around the reserve is also better with a guide who will show you the most interesting places and tell you a lot of interesting things about the local flora and fauna.

Beaches

When you want to sunbathe on the beach and swim, you will have a choice – the snow-white beach of Maguana (Playa Maguana), next to which there is a restaurant and a bar, or Nubihon (Playa Nibujón), empty, calm and secluded, which is preferred by locals residents. Maguana beach is 21-22 kilometers from Baracoa, but it is considered the most beautiful beach in the province. On all local beaches there is a very beautiful polymite picta snail, it is not found anywhere else in the world.

Approximately 500 meters from the shore, a two-kilometer coral reef begins. Snorkeling here is luxurious.

Things to do in Baracoa

After walking around the city, it is definitely worth going to nature. There are more than enough opportunities for fantastic adventures here. You can climb mountains, walk through cocoa plantations, banana or coconut groves, go kayaking or canoeing on the Toa River. This can be a truly unforgettable experience.

What to try in Baracoa

Baracoa is also a city of delicious chocolate, cocoa grows here in huge quantities, and production provides for the whole of Cuba and beyond. While here, be sure to try white chocolate and the original local delicacy – cucurucho. It is made with honey, coconut and seasonal fruits (mango, banana, pineapple, guava, orange) and then folded into palm leaf cones. In general, you should definitely go to a restaurant with provincial cuisine. The strangest (in a good sense of the word) dishes in Baracoa: fish stuffed with bananas or baked in cocoa; chicken fried with beans and bananas, and lobsters in butter. Mmm, lick your fingers!

Baracoa has its own airport, but it receives flights from cities within the country. Nearby are the airports of neighboring cities, from which flights are made to Baracoa.

Orestes Acosta Airport (4 km from Moa) is 44 km from Baracoa, Punta De Maisi Airport is 38 km from Baracoa, and Los Canos Airport (near Guantanamo) is 75 km. You can fly to one of these airports and then head to Baracoa by bus or taxi. The above airports can be reached from major cities in Cuba.

Alternatively, you can fly to Havana airport (HAV), Varadero (VRA), Holguin (HOG), and then by local plane or Viazul bus. From Havana or Varadero about 12 hours on the road, from Holguin – just over 3 hours on the road. We are talking about traveling by bus or car.

If you have arrived in Santiago but want to proceed to Baracoa, you can come to the city in a rented car or taxi. The distance from Santiago to the city is just over 200 km, you can easily overcome it in 3. 5 hours. By plane from Santiago, fly 2 hours.

Excursion tours in Baracoa

In Maguanu (22 km from the city). The pristine beach and coral reef are a snorkeller’s dream. Duration: 6 hours.

In Yumuri (35 km from the city). Botanists will be delighted with the rare beauty of vegetation created by nature. And swimming in the pools of the Yumuri River will cool the body from the heat. Duration: 6 hours.

Boat trip on the Rio Toa. On catamarans, kayaks, jet skis, following the river surrounded by exotic vegetation is the best outdoor activity.

Toa Ranch. Acquaintance with the process of growing and harvesting cocoa, coffee, coconuts. Duration: 6 hours.

In Marawi (15 km from the city). Visiting a bird farm, sunbathing on the beach, swimming, climbing a coconut tree. Duration: 4 hours.

Pages of past and present Baracoa

Baracoa was discovered in 1492 by Columbus, who landed with his expedition near the coast, where the Taino Indians lived. The settlement of Baracoa was founded in 1511 by the conquistador Velazquez. Between 1511 and 1522, Baracoa was the capital of Cuba.

Later, the championship was given to Santiago, in Barakua “looked up” piracy. It was decided to protect the city and its inhabitants from attacks by pirates. The Spanish begin to build fortresses. Only from 1739 to 1742 four of them were built. Several buildings have survived to this day.

Fort Matachin is famous for its events. It was a bastion in defense against pirates, was at one time a prison, a refuge. The temporary orphanage was nicknamed the “Castle of the Damned”.

Baracoa is a city in the province of Guantanamo, the first of the seven cities founded by the conquistador Diego Velasquez. Baracoa has perfectly preserved its original appearance and is surrounded by amazing nature, this was the reason that the city laid the foundation for international tourism in the province.

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