An atmospheric jumble of waves, waterfalls and wide smiles, Baracoa is bewitching. By far Cuba’s most remote region, it’s wild, beautiful and wrapped in mystery. Trek through untamed rainforest, swim in sparkling jungle pools and amble along cobbled streets while local changui music drifts from the doorways; this is a glimpse into the real Cuba. Painted wooden houses line the streets and back gardens run right into the rainforest or straight down to the sea.
Day 1 - Arrival in Baracoa
The drive to Baracoa alone is eye-opening, taking you through the foothills of the Sierra Maestra and past the giant, forbidding compound of Guantanamo Bay. After this, the landscape becomes increasingly lush and tropical until you reach Baracoa. You’ll stay in a converted Spanish fortress perched on the hills over the Caribbean with a great swimming pool and air-conditioning.
Days 2-3 - Juncal Recontra hike
Today, you’ll get ready to ramble through the rainforest. Following the overgrown trails that twist through Juncal Recontra. Your guide will give you the scoop on the tropical flora and fauna you come across and, depending on the season, he’ll let you taste exotic fruit. If you’re lucky you might even spot the tocororo, the national bird of Cuba! Once you’ve worn your legs out you’ll stop for lunch at a local finca.
Afterwards, your time is your own. Take a boat ride along the wild Tao River, hike to the Yumuri Canyon or take a stroll along the Malécon and sample a local cucurucho from a food stall – a dreamy mixture of coconut, honey, mango and banana wrapped in a palm frond. When you run out of steam, kick off your flip-flops and lie back on some of the most untamed beaches you’re ever likely to see.
The next day, you’ll journey onwards to your next adventure.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Cuba’s Wild Coast - Casa accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our Casa version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-sized trip select our Casa option below.