Even though Guama holidays are not as famous as Varadero or Havana in the north, they offer a genuine feel of this Central American country with all its biodiversity, stunning beaches, and multicultural traditions. Its shores are splashed by the Caribbean Sea, and the location is perfect for exploring the south-most Cuban area and the nearby city of Santiago de Cuba on a holiday to Cuba.
What to expect at Guama, Santiago de Cuba
Guama is situated in the southwest of Santiago de Cuba province, occupying most of the Caribbean Sea coast. It is the largest municipality in the country, with a population of 36,000. The area got its name after the Taino cacique, the tribal chief of the historic indigenous Taino people who rebelled against the Spanish in the first half of the 16th century.
Santiago de Cuba holidays are well-known for nature exploring given that the province has 17% of its land within the National System of Natural Protected Areas, making Guama a great destination for lush landscapes and beautiful views.
Guama is also an excellent stop for your multi-centre holiday in Cuba, thanks to its proximity to Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, and Baracoa.
How to get to Guama in Cuba
Since Guama is located along the coast and its capital Chivirico is only about 60 km from Santiago de Cuba, the area is easy to reach by car. The longer route of about 90 km will take you via San Luis, the city that lies on the slopes of Sierra Maestra, only 20 km north of Santiago de Cuba. This is where the famous singer Ibrahim Ferrer was born.
The shorter drive goes along the coast, and it will take you to Guama in less than 1 h 30 min.
The Weather in Guama
Guama in Santiago de Cuba province shares the same weather conditions as the rest of the southeast part of the island. The climate is warm all year round, with sunny days and an average temperature of 21 to 32 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which lasts from late November to early May. Nevertheless, visitors are flocking to Guama for the Santiago de Cuba Festival that takes place in July.
Things to do in Guama, Cuba
The Guama municipality is great for tourists because it offers various water things to do, beautiful beaches, and lavish vegetation nearby modern hotels. There is also the Batlles Trench which is among the deepest in the world (7,243 m).
Guama Chivirico holidays will take you to a small settlement with a population of about 6,600. One of the things to do here is to visit the Sugar Cane Museum and go on numerous hikes in the surrounding nature.
Tour Pico Turquino and Sierra Maestra National Park
Pico Turnquino is the highest peak in Cuba, situated in the heart of the Gran Parque Nacional Sierra Maestra. This national park was a stronghold of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara’s rebel army during the Cuban Revolution in 1959, so ask your tour guide for interesting historical facts. There are also a couple of routes for hikers that include a few significant points related to rebels.
Sierra Maestra is a National Park abundant with endemic species, including the smallest toad in the world, wild orchids, and millions of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching in Cuba.
Corral de Rio
Corral de Rio is located near the highway Carretera Granma, next to Rio de Mula. The locality is close to wild beaches and long, powdery stretches of sand. Even though Santiago de Cuba Province is the second most populated province in the country, this part of Cuba looks quite wild and deserted, which makes it a perfect Cuba getaway.
Beaches in Guama, Cuba
Guama holidays are not complete without a visit to its beaches. The Caribbean Sea makes the coast quite beautiful and attracts foreigners and locals alike. You can have a lot of fun water adventures like scuba diving, snorkelling, and parasailing at local resorts. Most Guama hotels offer great views of the horizon from their balconies and swimming pools.
The most popular beaches in Guama are Playa Aserrandero, Playa El Frances, Playa Dos Rios, Playa Coco, etc. The average sea temperature is 28 degrees Celsius, while the water gets the coldest in January at 26 degrees.
Chivirico Holiday trip
Guama Chivirico holidays include visits to various points of interest in the region. For instance, half an hour’s drive from the town area, there is the popular Sugar Cane Museum to be seen. Tourists can learn much about sugar cane and rum but also see the steam engines on site.
Given Guama’s proximity to Santiago de Cuba, it’s easy to visit some of the city’s landmarks. The Moro Fortress, to name one, dates back to 1633. Designed by an Italian architect, this fort is built on a cliff providing a stunning view of the bay below.
Descending from Pico Turquino, this hiking trail goes to ‘Cuevas del Turquino’ or the Turquino Caves. They are located in the south of Sierra Maestra, facing the Caribbean Sea. The route is abundant with beautiful nature views.
The trek can be done any time of the year, but the dry season is the best due to the moderate temperatures and humidity. Make sure to enjoy a delicious Creole lunch at the end of the route.
Santiago de Cuba Holiday things to do
The nearby city of Santiago de Cuba is the capital of the eponymous province in the southeast of Cuba. It was founded by the Spanish in 1515 and is best known for its Afro-Cuban cultural influences. Santiago de Cuba holidays include visiting landmarks such as Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Casa del Caribe, or Revolution Plaza, and attending the famous festival with drum-beating parades and colourful costumes in July.
Final Thoughts
So, if you are in the mood for some history, lots of nature, and an abundance of sea and unspoilt beaches, Guama Cuba holidays might just be your cup of tea. Visitors can discern real life in the south of Cuba, far from busy touristy places and landmarks. The crisp, clean waters and fresh air are a bonus.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays, or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com
