Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino, also known as Sierra Maestra National Park or Turquino National Park, is one of Cuba’s most spectacular natural wonders. Located in the Sierra Maestra Mountains of southeast Cuba, the park is home to several mountain peaks towering over 1,000 meters, including the highest point in the country – Pico Turquino, which stands at 1,974 meters high.
In previous years, Turquino National Park’s land was used for its natural resources, with its raw materials, like mahogany, marble, and cedar, being taken advantage of. As a result, this park has been declared a Protected Rural Area.
With breathtaking views, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, this national park is a paradise for both nature lovers and thrill seekers. Keep reading to discover some of the best activities in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino.
Getting to Turquino National Park
There are two starting points for hiking Pico Turquino: one that begins in the village of Las Cuevas, and another that starts in Santo Domingo.
If you want to get to Las Cuevas, you can take a local bus from Santiago de Cuba to Chivirico. Then, you’ll transfer buses to continue to Las Cuevas.
You can also take a taxi from Santiago de Cuba to Las Cuevas, or from Chivirico, but this can be expensive if you are travelling alone.
Getting to Santo Domingo can be trickier, as no public bus service stops there. You can get a bus from Bayamo to Bartholomé Masó and then hope to hitch a ride from there to Santo Domingo. Otherwise, taking a taxi is likely the best option – you’ll definitely need to travel via car for the last 5 kilometres to Alto de Naranjo, as this is a very steep ascent.
Best sights in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino
Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino boasts stunning views of the Sierra Maestra Mountains, lush vegetation, and a wide variety of wildlife, creating a memorable experience.
In addition to spectacular views, green spaces, and ultra-high peaks, Turquino National Park is also home to La Comandancia de la Plata, which is the former headquarters of Fidel Castro’s rebel army. Visitors can hike an easy (but stunning) trail leading to the small museum detailing the living conditions of these men.
Hiking trails in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino
Hiking is a popular activity in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino. The park has numerous trails suitable for all levels, from easy paths for novice hikers to more challenging trails for experienced trekkers. One of the most popular hikes in this national park begins at Alto de Naranjo, a difficult 8-kilometre path that takes hikers to the summit of the highest peak in the country.
Bodies of water in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino
Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is also home to some of Cuba’s most beautiful bodies of water, where travellers can dip their toes in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Maria del Portillo is one of the best beaches in this park, with grey sand and blue water. This beach is home to an International Diving Center and horseback riding opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy several water activities, including fishing, rafting, scuba diving, boating, and marine safaris.
Swimming
The park’s lagoons and beach areas are great for swimming and snorkelling. The water is crystal clear, and you can explore the underwater world and observe diverse marine life.
Camping in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino
Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is an excellent place for camping. There are numerous campsites throughout the park, so you can choose your own spot and set up a tent. The park also has cabins available for rent if you don’t feel like bringing your own tent to the wilderness.
Flora, Fauna, and Wildlife in Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino
The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, with over 3,000 species of plants and over 500 animal species. The flora in the park includes various types of trees, shrubs, and herbs, while the fauna consists of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals such as the Cuban Hutia, Cuban rock iguana, and Cuban solenodon.
The park contains many endangered and threatened species, such as the Cuban parrot and Cuban boa. This national park provides a safe and natural environment for these species to thrive and survive, and visitors are encouraged to observe and appreciate them from a distance.
In addition to the more common animal species, the park is also home to many rare and endangered species, such as the Cuban solenodon and the Cuban trogon. The park also boasts many freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams, providing an important habitat for many fish species and amphibians.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching in this park is a one-of-a-kind experience. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, including the Cuban black hawk, Cuban trogon, Cuban parrot, and the Cuban tody. All of these birds can be seen in their natural habitat as they feed, nest, and fly around the park in search of food.
Birdwatchers will also have the opportunity to observe several endangered species. In addition to the spectacular bird species, you’ll enjoy the lush vegetation, the variety of wildlife, and the stunning views of the Sierra Maestra mountain range. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!
Climbing in Gran Parque Nacional
The main draw of this park is its highest point – Pico Turquino, also known as Turquino Peak.
Climbing Turquino Peak is a challenge for many Cubans and visitors, and there are two primary routes. The first climbing route goes north to south, and the other goes south to north. You can also choose whether or not to return to the same path on your way down to the top.
Another more seldom-used climbing route is Alto del Cojo. While this is similar to the north-south route, it is harder to find, with little lodging or accommodation available nearby.
Final Thoughts
Gran Parque Nacional Pico Turquino is a must-see attraction in Cuba. From spectacular sights to challenging hikes, this stunning park is sure to leave an impression on anyone who visits it.
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
