When it comes to biodiversity, there are very few countries that can measure up to Cuba. It is not just the Caribbean’s largest island but also one of the most safeguarded in terms of natural landscapes and wildlife.
The island has more than 200 protected areas, and out of these, 12 are national parks in Cuba. The Cuban government has enforced strict measures to protect these nature reserves, and as a result, they are completely unspoiled and certainly worth a visit during your holiday in Cuba. Here is our rundown of the most beautiful national parks in Cuba.
Zapata National Park
Two hours south of Havana, you’ll come across the vast wetland known as Zapata National Park. It is home to diverse wildlife and comprises vast wetlands, underwater canyons, stunning coral reefs, dense mangrove forests, and flat swampy grasslands. If you’re a fan of snorkelling, the Bay of Pigs is a mesmerising location full of beautiful birds. For fishing aficionados, the Laguna de las Salinas and Río Hatiguanico are top spots.
The main attraction of Zapata National Park are its birdwatching opportunities. In here, you’ll see a wide array of native and non-native species. Eighteen of the island’s 22 endemic species can be found in Zapata. The Bee Hummingbird, the world’s smallest bird, can also be found here along with other endemic species such as the Zapata rail, Zapata wren, Zapata sparrow, and the Cuban Trogon.
Viñales National Park
The stunningly rustic Viñales valley is a UNESCO heritage site, famous for its multi-ethnic culture, vernacular architecture, traditional agriculture, and unique landscape. Fans of the laid-back country life will love the tranquillity in Viñales valley against the backdrop of the magnificent Guaniguanico mountains. The valley is filled with farms and mogotes (karst outcrops) and is easily accessible from Havana as a much-loved destination for hikers.
For a romantic experience, you can go horseback riding throughout the valley’s historic tobacco plantations. Viñales is Cuba’s second most visited destination and a must-visit spot if you’re a fan of caving, climbing, or hiking.
Topes de Collantes National Park
This national park in Cuba is world-renowned for its natural beauty. It’s situated between Cienfuegos and Trinidad (central Cuba) and is an important ecosystem for many endemic birds of Cuba. The park features various hiking trails, most of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Here visitors can also explore grottos and caves.
Topes de Collantes National Park is famous for its flora and fauna. In here, you’ll run into more than 100 species of ferns and 40 orchid species. The Mariposa (butterfly lily), the national flower of Cuba, can also be found here. Topes de Collantes National Park is also a hotspot for birdwatching. Birds such as the Cuban Trogon, the Cuban Tody, and various Hummingbird species can be seen here.
Jardines de La Reina National Park
Known as the ‘Gardens of the Queen,’ Jardines de La Reina National Park is a must-visit if you’re a fan of scuba-diving. In fact, this park was one of Fidel Castro’s favourite places for diving and spearfishing. This park houses the healthiest coral reefs you’ll find anywhere in the Caribbean, making it ideal for non-motorised watersports.
Jardines de La Reina National Park is characterised by its incredible marine biodiversity. You can swim among various kinds of rare corals like the elkhorn and fish species such as barracudas, reef sharks, tarpons, and giant groupers. Jardines de La Reina National Park is a top destination for those seeking underwater adventures.
Pico Turquino National Park
Pico Turquino National Park is located within the Sierra Maestra Mountain range. Pico Turquino, Cuba’s tallest peak, is located within the park and offers hikers one of the most challenging treks on the island. The park is also home to more than 100 endemic species of plants, and you’ll see various kinds of ferns, bromeliads, and orchids. Visitors of the park can observe the Bee Hummingbird and many other bird species here. If you’re a history buff, you can also visit one of Fidel Castro’s headquarters, known as La Comandancia de la Plata.
Guanahacabibes National Park
Located in the far western part of Cuba, Guanahacabibes National Park is a stunning and remote place with minimal traces of human activity. Due to this, this national park is brimming with beautiful wildlife and nature. On land, you’ll see more than 100 species of birds, while the extensive shore is characterised by white sandy beaches, clear water, and mangrove forests.
The park is home to various marine life species, which have enjoyed strict protection for many years. Between May and October, you can see sea turtles on the shores. The pristine waters make this nature reserve an ideal location for snorkelling and diving.
Desembarco del Granma National Park
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, Desembarco del Granma National Park has interesting natural and historical characteristics. The Castro brothers, along with Che Guevara, landed on these shores and went on to overthrow the dictatorship of Batista. The park is also known for its pristine sea cliffs and uplifted marine terraces guarding stunning coral reefs.
The park’s landscape is surrounded by virgin woodlands and is home to ancient cacti, hundreds of years old. There are more than 100 species of birds, such as the rare blue-headed quail dove or the Cuban emerald. There are also more than 500 plant species, out of which 60% are endemic. That’s not all — more than 90% of the mammals found here are endemic to Cuba.
La Mensura-Piloto National Park
Declared a protected area in 2000, the La Mensura-Piloto National Park boasts an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. There are more than 700 species of plants, out of which 120 are endemic to the park. There are also more than 200 beautiful species of orchids and more than 100 species of mollusc, 90% out of which are endemic.
The park has a mountainous landscape filled with plants, flowers, and pine forests. Tourists also favour the many breathtaking waterfalls found in the park. The Guayabo Falls, known as Cuba’s highest waterfall, is situated here. There are four main hiking trails, and the view at the top offers a magnificent panorama of the nature reserve.
Sierra Cristal National Park
Established in 1930, Sierra Cristal National Park is the oldest national park in Cuba. This national park is located in Sierra Cristal, one of the highest mountain ranges in Cuba. Renowned for its pine forests, the National Park is filled with incredible flora and fauna. The rare Cuban solenodon can be observed here. Other endangered animals such as the cotorra, camao, gavilán colilargo, majá de Santa María, and the chipojo ceniciento also reside here. History is yet another attractive feature of the nature reserve. You can visit Mayarí Arriba-a village located in a coffee plantation site where Raúl Castro established his command headquarters.
Alexander Von Humboldt National Park
Alexander Von Humboldt National Park is known all over the world as a natural treasure and one of the most precious national parks in Cuba. In fact, various animals that were once thought to be extinct have been rediscovered here. The park boasts more than 1300 plant and 1200 animal species making it one of the most important biological refuges in the Caribbean. Some rare animals found in the Alexander Von Humboldt National Park include the Cuban Parakeet, Cuban solenodon, and the Monte Iberia Dwarf Eleuth, known as the world’s smallest frog. The smallest bird in the world-the Bee Hummingbird, also makes an appearance in the park.
Ranging from sea level to almost 4000 feet at El Toledo Peak, the topography of this national park is incredible. The park is a true biodiversity marvel filled with rivers, mountains, mangroves, lagoons, and forests and its richness in flora and fauna. Alexander Von Humboldt National Park is a must-visit for all lovers of nature and adventure.
Conclusion
Despite its small size, Cuba is one of the richest countries on the planet when it comes to biodiversity. From imposing topography to extremely rare flora and fauna, these national parks are home to the very best of Cuba’s wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to this island, make sure to visit a few national parks during your stay.
For more information on these and other Cuban wonders please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba specialists. 0207 071 3636 enquiries@lovecuba.com
