Baracoa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Baracoa with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural experiences, hiking routes to culinary delights, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Baracoa

Baracoa is a hidden gem on the eastern coast of Cuba. This picturesque town is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The town is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and exotic cuisine. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the must-see sights and experiences in Baracoa.

List of Places to Visit in Baracoa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Yunque: This mountain, known as “The Anvil,” was once worshipped by indigenous people. Today it’s a top outdoor attraction due to its scenic views and hiking trails.
  • Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: This 19th-century Catholic church boasts a unique mix of Cuban and Baroque architecture.
  • Fuerte Matachín: This fort, located on a hill overlooking the city, was built in the 1800s to protect against pirate attacks.

Natural Attractions of Baracoa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yumuri Valley: This stunning valley offers breathtaking views of the ocean, river, and surrounding mountains. You can hike or take a boat tour to explore the valley’s many natural wonders.
  • Playa Blanca: This serene white sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It’s also popular for water sports like kayaking and snorkeling.
  • Alejandro de Humboldt National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of Cuba’s most unique wildlife and plant species. It boasts lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baracoa

  • The Caja de Agua Trek: This challenging hike takes you through rugged terrain to a natural swimming hole and breathtaking views of the ocean.
  • The Anvil Hike: This hike to the top of El Yunque offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, rainforest, and ocean.
  • Bike Tour of the City: This leisurely bike tour takes you through the city’s historic streets and landmarks, allowing you to experience the local culture and architecture firsthand.

Best Things to Do in Baracoa: Activities and Tours

  • Chocolate Tour: Baracoa is known for its rich, flavorful chocolate. Take a tour of a local chocolate factory to learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some of the town’s famous treats.
  • Waterfall Tour: Visit some of Baracoa’s stunning waterfalls, like the magnificent Salto Fino, with a local guide. This tour offers both stunning views and a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.
  • Salsa Lesson: Experience the local culture by taking a salsa lesson with a local instructor. Learn the traditional Cuban dance moves and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant music scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baracoa

Day Activity
Day 1 Relax on Playa Blanca and enjoy water sports
Day 2 Explore the city’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions
Day 3 Hike to El Yunque and take in the stunning views
Day 4 Learn about chocolate-making on a chocolate tour
Day 5 Visit nearby waterfalls and take a refreshing swim
Day 6 Take a salsa lesson and experience the local music scene
Day 7 Drive to nearby towns, like Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo, for a day trip

Food and Drink Scene of Baracoa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bacán: A hearty stew made with beef, plantains, and taro root. This dish is a staple of Cuban cuisine and is sure to satisfy any foodie.
  • Seafood Platter: Baracoa’s location on the coast means that fresh seafood is abundant. Try a platter of grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari for a mouthwatering meal.
  • Tamales: These delicious steamed pockets of cornmeal are filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Coco-Loco: This refreshing cocktail is made with coconut water, rum, and lime. It’s the perfect drink for a hot day on the beach.
  • Tuba: This unique beverage is made from the sap of the coconut palm tree. It’s sweet and slightly alcoholic, making it a popular drink for celebrations and parties.

Where to Stay in Baracoa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • La Habanera: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the ocean. It’s a great option for couples or families looking for a quiet retreat.
  • Hostal Buenavista: This charming guesthouse is located in a traditional Baracoan house and offers personalized service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great option for solo travelers or backpackers.
  • Hotel Porto Santo: This luxurious hotel is located on Playa Blanca and boasts an outdoor pool, a bar, and a restaurant. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a bit of indulgence on their trip.

What to Buy in Baracoa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chocolate: Baracoa’s chocolate is world-renowned and makes for a delicious souvenir to bring back home.
  • Handmade Crafts: Baracoa is known for its talented craftsmen. You can find handmade wood carvings, jewelry, and ceramics throughout the town.
  • Coffee: Cuba’s coffee is highly rated and makes for a unique and tasty souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Baracoa

Baracoa is a melting pot of cultures and customs. The town has a strong Afro-Caribbean influence, which is reflected in the city’s music, dance, and cuisine. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Baracoa

The best time to visit Baracoa is from December to April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the town. It’s important to note that the hurricane season runs from July to November, so it’s best to avoid these months if possible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baracoa

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and hiking trails
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended
  • Take photographs of locals without their permission
  • Drink tap water

Safety and Health

Safety in Baracoa

Baracoa is a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Baracoa

Medical facilities in Baracoa are limited. It’s best to bring any necessary medications with you and to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, as dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent in the area.

Getting to Baracoa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baracoa is located in a remote area of Cuba, making transportation options somewhat limited.

Airports Near Baracoa

The nearest airport to Baracoa is the Antonio Maceo Airport in Santiago de Cuba. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Baracoa.

Bus Stations Near Baracoa

Baracoa is serviced by Viazul, the national bus service in Cuba. Buses run from Santiago de Cuba, Havana, and other major cities in Cuba. Note that bus schedules can be irregular and it’s best to book in advance.

Other Options

Renting a car is also an option, although the roads to Baracoa can be winding and narrow. It’s important to drive cautiously and follow local traffic laws.

How to Get Around in Baracoa

The best way to explore Baracoa is on foot. The town is small and easy to navigate, and walking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere. For longer trips or tours, taxis and buses are available.

Where to Go Next from Baracoa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Santiago de Cuba: This vibrant city is just a few hours away and boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, as well as stunning colonial architecture.
  • Trinidad: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its colorful buildings and lively music scene. It’s a must-see destination for any traveler to Cuba.
  • The Sierra Maestra Mountains: This mountain range offers incredible hiking opportunities and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers looking to explore Cuba’s natural wonders.

Conclusion

Baracoa offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exotic cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this hidden gem of Eastern Cuba.

El Yunque rises above Baracoa El Yunque rises above Baracoa Baracoa's Malecon is much more low-key than the famous one in Havana Baracoa's Malecon is much more low-key than the famous one in Havana A statuette at Asiento Taino A statuette at Asiento Taino The inside of a cacao pod prior to undergoing the many steps necessary to become chocolate. A common sight in Baracoa The inside of a cacao pod prior to undergoing the many steps necessary to become chocolate. A common sight in Baracoa At Hotel el Castillo, you can pretend to be a ''conquistador'' At Hotel el Castillo, you can pretend to be a ''conquistador''