7 National Parks In Cuba You Should Visit At Least Once In Your Lifetime

The Cuban government has enforced strict restrictions on access to national parks, and so there are many completely unspoilt areas of the country for visitors to enjoy. Here are the best national parks for you to explore in Cuba.

Baracoa, Cuba – Rio Miel, part of Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt

This high-altitude national park is said to be one of the most humid areas on the island, and it is home to some amazing biodiversity. With unique geographical features and endemic species, it’s no wonder the area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is found in the southeast of the country, near Santiago de Cuba.

Head to the north coast of the island to visit this national park, which is home to 79 caves and more than 200 species of birds. It’s arranged over 10 small islands, and the coastal environment includes mangrove swamps. This one is a favourite with birdwatchers.

Pico Turquino, the highest mountain in Cuba

Sierra Maestra National Park

Home to Pico Turquino, the highest peak in Cuba, this park is covered in pine forests. There are interesting birds and animals, but also historic sites, such as the revolutionary base at La Plata where Fidel Castro and his rebel army hid out in the 1950s.

Desembarco del Granma National Park

This park is named in honour of the landing of the revolutionaries led by the Castro brothers, who eventually went on to overthrow the previous government. Today, the area sees far less action, apart from tourists who come to see the many endemic plant and animal species that live on the marine terraces and cliffs. It’s usually very quiet.

Parque Nacional El Bagá

This former airfield on Cayo Coco is one of the most beautiful spots in Cuba. Make the journey to the north coast for the chance to see the butterfly garden, crocodile enclosure and massive mangrove forests.

Blue land crab at Maria La Gorda in the Guanahacabibes UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Cuba

Guanahacabibes Peninsula National Park

On the westernmost tip of Cuba lies this national park, home to the renowned diving centre at María la Gorda. Dive under the waves and then relax on the white-sand beaches, or explore the woodlands and mangrove forests.

Punta Francés National Park

Take a boat to Isla de la Juventud off the south coast of Cuba to reach Punta Francés. It’s known for its secluded beaches as well as great diving and snorkelling. Sea turtles and manatees call the area home, as do crocodiles.

Check out the traditions that only Cubans can understand.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.