Cuba is not called the “Jewel of the Caribbean” for nothing. This piece of land, blending influences from several cultures, has something unique in its landscapes. In Cuba, you can find everything from historical cities to lush brightly colored forests. For nature lovers or beauty seekers, Cuba is a feast for the eyes! Here’s a selection of the top 8 most beautiful places to see in Cuba. It might make planning your tour to Cuba a bit easier!
1. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park
The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site, and one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. This unique piece of paradise will reveal to hikers a lush, abundant forest, exotic birds in every color and incredible waterfalls!
2. The Malecon
The Malecon is the promenade along the waterfront of Havana, a road stretching for seven kilometers that you can explore on foot or from the comfort of a classic American car from the fifties. The Malecon is the one place not to miss in Havana. You can go there any time of day or night and find something incredible to see against the beautiful waterfront backdrop. Whether it’s the musicians or the dancers the Malecon is always awake!
3. La Isla de la Juventud
If you really want to explore something off the beaten track, la Isla de la Juventud is the perfect place for you. The only way to get there is a three-hour boat ride. But the reward is well worth the effort as la Isla de la Juventud is still an untouched piece of land, with unique forests and wildlife!
4. Baracoa
Baracoa is the oldest city in Cuba, but it stayed under the tourist radar so far. The fact that it’s hidden all the way into the eastern point of the country might have something to do with that. Still, it would be a shame to miss the beauty of Baracoa, of the waterfalls and natural pools to bath in, of the small private black-sand beaches, of the views on the lush forests surrounding the city, of the sight on the famous Yunque mountain in the distance …
5. Valle de Vinales
The Valle de Vinales is a UNESCO site and possibly one of the most interesting landscapes in the world. This large valley is situated in the middle of the Sierra de Los Organos mountains. In the middle of this very flat piece of land, funny looking round mounds called “mogotes” sprinkle the earth. Whether you’re seeing this in the light of the full Caribbean sunshine or filled with morning mist, the Valle de Vinales is always something to see!
6. Trinidad
For a city, Trinidad is as beautiful as it gets. The town center is a car free zone so this is your opportunity to walk the quaint cobbled streets and take in colorful houses and colonial architecture.
7. Cienfuegos
This is a smaller city located in the center of the main island and vibrant with history and architecture. In fact, Cienfuegos is often lovingly called the “Paris of Cuba” thanks to the French influence on the style of the city. The harbor side of town is particularly beautiful, and the whole town makes for a perfect stop on your travels.
8. Peninsula de Zapata
The Peninsula de Zapata is something special for nature and animal lovers. The area is a wetland, unique to the Caribbean. The Peninsula de Zapata, is the perfect place for spotting exotic birds, including rare parrots, as well as crocodiles! Don’t worry, it’s safe to go with a guide if you want to venture into this piece of preserved nature!
It wasn’t easy to choose only eight among the many beautiful places to see in Cuba. What’s for sure is that the time to go to Cuba is now. Make the most of this amazing country while its still untarnished and truly beautiful.
