This tour to Baracoa will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery on the island of Cuba.
First of the seven towns founded by the Spaniard Velasquez after his return to Cuba from Hispaniola; Baracoa was the site of the first insurrection against the Spanish by the native Indian population. Briefly the first capital of the island and the first bishopric, Baracoa’s history is told in its forts, colonial streets, colourful art and the faces of its people. Facing the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, and cut off from the rest of Cuba, Baracoa’s history is one of pirates, and treasure, precious renewable resources, fabulous forests and chocolate!
The mountains surrounding this most eastern tip of Cuba create a tropical climate which is completely different from anywhere else in Cuba. Lush vegetation, towering trees, clear streams, and white coral beaches (2) make this a tropical paradise.
For the orchid and fern lover this is indeed paradise. Come orchid hunting with our expert and discover a seldom explored part of Cuba.
Your accommodation will be in one of the colonial homes in the centre of Baracoa, or in a tiny beach hideaway (please advise us immediately if you wish this option as space is very limited and is booked very far in advance – price to be advised).
Three Days – Two Nights
Day 1
Early morning departure from Santiago de Cuba. The drive takes us through the Sierras inland for a view of sugarcane fields, fruit orchards and small towns, then back out to the coastal strip. Desert cacti and lush lagoons alternate as we follow the rocky coast beside an azure sea. To reach Baracoa we drive over the mountains on the famous Farola highway constructed in the 1960’s to connect Baracoa with the outside world. We will take frequent stops to see the changing vegetation and to photograph the breathtaking views.
Picnic lunch on the beach.
Dinner in Baracoa.
Evening walk to explore the night life of the town.
Day 2
Early morning departure to climb the slopes of
El Yunque. This famous anvil shaped mountain dominates the views of Baracoa. Clothed in preserved forests it is famous for its unique plant and animal life. Your expert lecturer has hunted these forests for wild orchids for many years. A local guide will accompany you into the forest reserve as required by law.
Packed lunch to take with you.
Dinner in Baracoa.
Evening walk to explore the night life of the town.
Day 3
Morning tour of the town of Baracoa and its main
historical sites. Visit to Finca Duaba a farm turned eco-preserve. Finca Duaba is famous for its trees and birds. We will stay here for lunch.
After lunch we will bid farewell to this charming town and return to Santiago.
Four Days – Three Nights
Day 1
Early morning departure from Santiago de Cuba. The drive takes us through the Sierras inland for a view of sugarcane fields, fruit orchards and small towns, then back out to the coastal strip. Desert cacti and lush lagoons alternate as we follow the rocky coast beside an azure sea. To reach Baracoa we drive over the mountains on the famous Farola highway constructed in the 1960’s to connect Baracoa with the outside world. We will take frequent stops to see the changing vegetation and to photograph the breathtaking views.
Picnic lunch on the beach.
Dinner in Baracoa.
Evening walk to explore the night life of the town.
Day 2
Early morning departure to climb the slopes of
El Yunque. This famous anvil shaped mountain dominates the views of Baracoa. Clothed in preserved forests it is famous for its unique plant and animal life. . Your expert lecturer has hunted these forests for wild orchids for many years. A local guide will accompany you into the forest reserve as required by law.
Packed lunch to take with you.
Dinner in Baracoa.
Evening walk to explore the night life of the town.
Day 3
Early morning departure to the Rio Toa. This is the third largest river in Cuba, carrying more water than any other. The river passes through canyons keeping its own micro-climate and affording you breathtaking views and gentle swims in its clear waters.
Picnic lunch and dinner in Baracoa.
Evening walk to explore the night life of the town.
Day 4
Morning tour of the town of Baracoa and its main
historical sites. Visit to Finca Duaba a farm turned eco-preserve. Finca Duaba is famous for its trees and birds. We will stay here for lunch.
After lunch we will bid farewell to this charming town and return to Santiago.
