Eastern Cuba

Known as the ‘Oriente’, the East of Cuba is a fabulously diverse region from the spectacular mountain range of the Sierra Maestra to the unspoilt natural beaches and charming towns.

The main city here is Santiago de Cuba, steeped in history and offering some beautiful examples of colonial architecture. Its population is mainly of French and African descent, giving the city a different feel to that of Havana. The hotter climate brings a slower pace of life in a city famous for its dance and music which can be experienced in the city’s annual carnival in July.

This part of Cuba is also home to Cuba’s oldest town, Baracoa. Baracoa is blissfully remote and remained happily isolated for many years due to its position on the eastern tip of the country. The town has only been linked to the rest of Cuba since a mountain road was built, after the Revolution. Baracoa was also where Columbus first landed and some of the people are direct descendants of the native Taino tribe and the only ones that remain in the country. Thanks to its isolation, the ecosystem in this part of Cuba has remained largely intact, comprising virgin forest, pristine beaches and verdant national parks.

The Sierra Maestra mountain range is the most important natural habitat in this region. It runs along the entire south coast of the region and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many species which are endemic to the area. Many reptiles and tropical birds can be found in the mix of undergrowth and cloud forest. The density of the forest here allowed Fidel Castro and his supporters to hide out here between 1956 and 1959, providing cover against the army.

For beaches in this area, head to the beautiful, laidback resort of Guardalavaca. Undulating hills provide a delightful backdrop to large lagoons bordering stunning natural beaches.