Baracoa - Discovering Cuba

Travelling to Baracoa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Baracoa, a pretty good destination in Cuba (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Baracoa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Baracoa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cuba, here's everything to know about Baracoa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Baracoa

Baracoa is a small city located in the eastern region of Cuba, specifically in the province of Guantanamo. It is considered the oldest city in Cuba and was founded by the Spaniards in 1511. Baracoa's location is unique, surrounded by mountains and the Caribbean Sea. The city is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Some of the popular attractions in Baracoa include the Yunque de Baracoa mountain, the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion, and the Malecon or boardwalk along the sea.

What to visit in Baracoa

Sure, here are some famous tourist attractions in Baracoa, Cuba along with a brief description: 1. Yunque de Baracoa: It is the tallest mountain in the Baracoa region and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain or take a guided tour.
2. El Castillo: This is an historic fortress built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend the city from pirates and other invaders. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore the old dungeons, turrets, and artillery batteries.
3. Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción: This is a beautiful cathedral in the heart of Baracoa that was built in the early 19th century. It features a mix of architectural styles and houses an interesting collection of religious artifacts.
4. Playa Maguana: It is a picturesque beach located a short distance from Baracoa. With its clear blue waters and white sand beaches, it is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
5. Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt: Located about 45 minutes outside the city, this park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take guided hikes through the park to see rare species of plants and animals.
6. La Farola: This is a scenic mountain road that connects Baracoa to Guantanamo. It is famous for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the coast and nearby mountains.
7. Casa de la Trova: This is a popular music venue in Baracoa that showcases traditional Cuban music. Visitors can enjoy live performances by local musicians while sipping on drinks or dancing.
8. Museo Arqueológico Cueva El Paraíso: This a museum located inside a cave where you can learn about the history and culture of the Taíno people, who lived in the area before the arrival of the Spanish. The cave itself is also a wonder to explore. Overall, Baracoa features a unique range of activities and landscapes, thanks to its tropical climate, mountains, and sea.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cuba, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Baracoa.

When to go on holiday to Baracoa

The best time to visit Baracoa in Cuba is usually from November to April. During this time, you can expect good weather with lower rainfall, making it easier to explore and enjoy the beautiful beaches and natural attractions in and around Baracoa. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, so tourist hotspots may be crowded and prices may be higher. If you prefer fewer crowds, you can consider visiting during the shoulder season, which is from May to June or September to October. Just keep in mind that there may be more rainfall during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Baracoa

Baracoa is a city located on the eastern coast of Cuba, in the province of Guantanamo. Here are some options to help you get there: 1. By air: The nearest airport to Baracoa is the Gustavo Rizo Airport in the nearby city of Guantanamo. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Baracoa, which is about a three-hour drive away.
2. By road: If you prefer to travel by road, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car from Havana or Santiago de Cuba. The journey from Santiago takes about 5 hours, and the drive from Havana takes about 12 hours.
3. By sea: You can also take a ferry from the nearby city of Moa, which is about an hour's drive from Baracoa. However, this service is not very frequent, and you should check the schedule in advance.
Overall, it's important to plan ahead and book your transportation in advance, as options may be limited and demand can be high in peak season.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Baracoa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Baracoa

Sure, here are some typical foods of Baracoa in Cuba: 1. Bacán: A seafood soup that includes fish, clams, squid, and other seafood varieties simmered in a broth with coconut milk, cassava, and plantains.
2. Chilate: A sweet drink made with cocoa and spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and anise, among others.
3. Sopa de Garbanzo: A chickpea soup that is often served with chunks of pork.
4. Cazonambe: A fish dish made with smoked cod, cassava, and coconut milk.
5. Cucurucho: A dessert that consists of grated coconut mixed with sugar and wrapped in a cone-shaped wrapper made of palm leaves.
6. Pollo en Jibacoa: Chicken that is roasted with a mix of spices and other ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
7. Tamales: Masa (corn dough) filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and steamed in banana leaves.
8. Tostones: Slices of plantain that are fried and then mashed, then fried again. They can be served as a side dish or as an appetizer. 9. Chicharrones de Pescado: Fried pieces of fish that become very crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. 10. Pescado a la Baracoense: A fish dish (usually tuna) that is marinated in spices, fried, and served with a sauce made of onions, tomatoes, chilies, and herbs.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cuba here.

Is Baracoa an expensive destination for tourists?

Baracoa, compared to other tourist destinations in Cuba, is considered to be less expensive. However, prices can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation, activities, and food.
In general, budget hotels and guesthouses in Baracoa can cost between $20 and $60 per night. Restaurants in the city center offer reasonably priced meals starting at $5. Excursions, tours, and activities, such as hiking trips to the mountains or visiting cocoa plantations, can be arranged by local tour operators, and prices are usually reasonable.
Overall, while Baracoa may not be considered a cheap destination, visitors can enjoy a memorable holiday without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Baracoa

Baracoa is a small town located in the southeastern coast of Cuba. The best areas to find accommodation in Baracoa are the Historic Center, which is close to the main attractions like the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion, the Fuerte Matachin and the Casa del Chocolate; and La Playa, which is close to the beach area and also has a good selection of restaurants and bars. You can also consider staying in areas like El Yunque, which is the highest mountain in the area and offers stunning views, or near the Parque Natural Majayara, which is a beautiful natural park with waterfalls, rivers and trails.
You can check hotel prices at Baracoa here:
Booking.com

Is Baracoa a safe destination for tourists?

Baracoa is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists to visit. The reported crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take common sense precautions to ensure your safety. Keep your valuables secure, be aware of your surroundings, and try to avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. It is always a good idea to research your destination and talk to locals or your hotel staff for recommendations and advice.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cuba here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Baracoa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Baracoa the most?

Baracoa is a great place for travelers who love history, nature, and culture. It offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, historic landmarks, and unique Caribbean cuisine. Couples will enjoy the romantic ambiance of the city and its beautiful landscapes. Young people looking for fun can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and water sports. Families will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about the local culture through museums and cultural tours. Overall, Baracoa is a great destination for all types of travelers who want to experience the natural beauty and culture of Cuba.

How to get around Baracoa

In Baracoa, the most common transportation options are taxis, bicycles, and motorcycles. You can also walk around the town as it is small enough to explore on foot. Public buses are limited, but private taxis and car rentals are available if you want to explore further outside the town.

What to see around Baracoa

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Baracoa, Cuba: 1. Yumuri Canyon - located just west of Baracoa, it offers stunning views of the canyon and the Yumuri River.
2. Cueva del Agua - a beautiful cave with natural pools and cascades located about 20 minutes by car from Baracoa center.
3. Maguana Beach - a beautiful white sand beach located about 16 km east of Baracoa.
4. El Yunque - a distinctive mountain shaped like a tabletop, located within Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt.
5. Boca de Yumuri - a picturesque fishing village located at the mouth of the Yumuri River, where the river meets the Caribbean Sea.
6. Playa Blanca - a secluded and beautiful beach located about 30-35 minutes drive from Baracoa, in the direction of Guantanamo city.
7. Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt - a beautiful protected park, which is home to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. It is located a bit far away from central Baracoa, but it is worth visiting if you have enough time.
I hope this helps you in planning your trip!
For every travel information about Cuba you can click here.

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