Baracoa, Cuba
Baracoa, Cuba's oldest city, is a hidden gem located on the eastern coast of the island surrounded by lush tropical forests. It's known for its unique cuisine, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty.
Trip to Baracoa, Cuba
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Upon arrival in Baracoa, check in to your hotel or Airbnb. After freshening up, head out for a city tour. You will start your tour at Cathedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion and then proceed to visit the Museo Arqueológico Cueva del Paraíso, a cave museum featuring pre-Columbian artefacts. After that, you will visit El Yunque, a popular hiking destination and the symbol of Baracoa. This flat-topped mountain offers spectacular views of the town and surrounding coastline. End your tour at Parque Independencia, the town’s lively central square, where you can enjoy the local nightlife.
Day 2: Beach Day and Water Adventure
Today, you will head to Playa Maguana, one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Cuba. You can spend the morning swimming and soaking up the sun, then enjoy some tasty local seafood at one of the many food stalls on the beach. In the afternoon, head to Rio Toa, the largest river in Cuba, for some water adventure activities, such as kayaking, fishing or swimming.
Day 3: El Yunque Hike
This day will be dedicated to hiking El Yunque Mountain. You will start early to avoid the afternoon heat. The hike is graded as moderate and will take approximately four hours to complete. Along the way, you will see stunning views of Baracoa Bay and the surrounding forest, as well as some exotic flora and fauna. Once you reach the top, you can rest and take some stunning photos, before hiking back down.
Day 4: Chocolate Tour
Today you will head out on a unique experience, the chocolate tour. Baracoa is known as the chocolate capital of Cuba, producing some of the best chocolate in the world. You will visit a cocoa farm and learn about the chocolate production process. You will also visit a small chocolate factory and taste some of the delicious chocolate, made on site, as well as purchase some to take home as souvenirs.
Day 5: Miel Waterfall and Santa Maria Beach
Start the day by heading out to Miel Waterfall, where you can hike in the mountain and enjoy a dip in the waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful scenery. After the waterfall, you will head to Santa Maria Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Santa Maria is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling.
Day 6: Cruz de la Parra and Ciudad Primada
Today, you will visit Cruz de la Parra, one of the oldest and most historic sites in Baracoa. This is the cross that Christopher Columbus erected when he landed on the island in 1492. From there, you will head to Ciudad Primada, Cuba’s first capital, to explore the town’s charming colonial architecture and history.
Day 7: Departure
Today is the last day of your trip to Baracoa. You can spend the morning relaxing, or do a bit of last-minute shopping for souvenirs in the local markets before heading to the airport.
