Guantánamo is a province located at the top of the southeastern region of the Island. The panoramic view is outstanding, since the region is surrounded by mountains, rivers and a coastline. It was in this zone that Diego Velázquez founded and settled in the first Cuban village: Baracoa.
The village of Santa Catalina de Guantánamo was founded in 1796; however, the aboriginal population was totally against the Spanish conquerors. Still, the Spaniards settled, enjoyed the profits of the rich soil and took advantage of the geographical position, close to three flowing rivers. The village became a wealthy region thanks to a group of French emigrants coming from Haiti that started farming cacao, tropical fruits and coffee. A few centuries later, the mountains of the area became an important source of incomes for the local population and the whole country.
Guantánamo also played and essential role in the history of the Cuban independence wars and, nowadays, the province is mostly known for the establishment of a US Naval Base in an area of 117 square kilometers.
Accommodation
The region offers a wide variety of accommodation options. The visitor can choose to stay in a city hotel, or in a lodge in the mountains or by the seashore.
On the other hand, the householders offer their “casa particular” alternative to fully experience the warmth and authenticity of the Cuban families.
What to do in Guantánamo?
Guantánamo is a province surrounded by architecture, nature, music, history, beach side and a warm touch of its local population.
You should start your quest by discovering the magnificence of the capital city and stopping by at Baracoa. In both cases, you will be delighted with the good taste of its buildings and the opulence of the colonial styles.
Moreover, Guantánamo is the perfect stop for nature lovers since the region is surrounded by high mountains, coffee and cacao plantations. Additionally, you can interact with nature at some natural parks. Among the most interesting venues, one can find the National Park Alejandro de Humbolt; the Archeological Site Cueva del Paraíso; and the Stone Sculptures Zoo, an open-air facility with animals carved in stones.
It is also possible to enjoy a day at the beach in Playa Blanca or Playa Maguana. In both cases, you will be delighted by the tranquility and solitude of the place and the beauty of the environment.
A not-to miss venue is Punta de Maisí, the area that marks the top of the eastern side of the country. The place is a touristic venue, known as La Concha lighthouse, where it is said that, in sunny days, you will observe the coasts of Haiti. Undoubtedly, this represents a good option to be amazed by the views at the Maisí Terraces, located 460 meters above sea level.
Access
The city offers the National Airport Mariana Grajales, that only handles domestic flights. Moreover, visitors can make a stop during a trip to other eastern cities, and access the place by land.
