Mountain Trekking Eastern Cuba
The mountains and river valleys at the eastern tip of Cuba offer a trekking experience of outstanding natural beauty and fascinating historical significance. Along the battle fields of the Yara River and through the homelands of Castro's Rebel Army, this six day trek takes in Cuba's highest peak, the Pico Turquino, enchanting rural communities, spectacular panoramas with lush tropical forest. You will be trekking for several hours each day, mainly moderate with some more difficult stretches, and staying in rural communities or camping by night - a truly initimate experience rural Cuban life.
All trips can be tailor-made.
For a quotation or for more information
Call 0845 277 3305 or
Email cubadept@regent-holidays.co.uk
Day 1: Your Journey begins at Santiago de Cuba
You will arrive at Holguin Airport and pick up your transfer to Santiago de Cuba. Here you will check into the Casa Granda Hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Trekking by the Yara River
Transfer to Santo Domingo and enjoy your first day's walking along the banks of the Yara River. It was here that Castro's Guerrillas fought Batista's army during the summer of 1958. The walking today is gentle and you will have the opportunity to bathe in the river if you wish. In the Santo Domingo rural community you will be able to visit the Turquino Natural Park Interpretation Centre. You will dine and stay at the Santo Domingo Hotel.
Day 3: The Alto del Naranjo to Comandancia de la Plata
A short 4x4 drive to the Alto del Naranjo esplanade where today's walk begins. An easy three to four hour trek will bring you to the Comendancia de la Plata, passing through the beautiful mountain scenery of La Sierra Maestra. En route, you will see Casa de Medina, home to Castro's collaborators who helped him etsablish his headquarters at La Plata. Further on you will come to Castro's house, the red Army headquarters and hospital, the radio Rebelde and the Museum. Tonight you will stay in the tiny mountain community of La Platica in their eco-lodge boarding house.
Day 4: From La Platica to Aguada del Joaquin
A six hour hike will bring you 700 metres higher into the mountains as you trek from La Platica to Palma Mocha, where you stop for a picnic lunch, and on to Aguada de Joaquin. Lush tropical forests shade your path and keen naturalists can watch for indigenous birds and butterflies as they climb higher. Mules will bring your luggage to the campsite, where you will spend the night in a rustic eco-lodge shelter.
Day 5: Climbing Pico del Joaquin and Pico Real del Turquino
From Aguada del Joaquin, the challenge of Cuba's highest peaks lies ahead of you. An early start will bring you to the top of Pico del Joaquin at 1,360 metres above sea level. A short rest and then you will climb higher still: Alto de Regino at 1,680 metres. The trail continues for a final push to the summit of Pico real del Turquino, at 1,974 metres, Cuba's highest peak and home to the imposing statue of national hero Jose Marti. As you would expect, the views from up here are simply breathtaking in all directions. A picnic lunch will be provided at Pico Cuba on the way down and the six-hour trek will end at la Majagua, where you will camp for the night.
Day 6: Pico Cuba to Las Cuevas
Today you will descend the south side of the Sierra Maestra to the village of Las Cuevas. This long smooth descent down some 1,800 metres should take about six hours and you'll be entranched by spectacular sea views along the way. At the las Cuevas Flora and Fauna Centre you'll enjoy a farewell cocktail and be re-united with your luggage, before leaving for the airport and the journey home.
PLEASE NOTE SOMETIMES DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES THE TOUR MAY CHANGE - WE WILL INFORM YOU AT THE EARLIEST OPPORTUNITY.