Table of Contents
What to Expect
The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is a nature reserve in eastern Cuba. Named after the German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Biologically, it is a truly unique area, about 70 to 80% of the species in the park are endemic. This means that they only can be found here in the world. The diversity is among the greatest in the world, with an estimated 1800-2000 species, and some have actually been seen only once over decades.
From the visitor center, you head straight into the park's depths, which means uphill. The climb is not extreme, but the subtropical climate makes it more challenging than expected. Just breathe in and enjoy the beautiful nature.
The tour guide will show and explain the many beautiful and fascinating plants and animals. Which is quite challenging because some animals are very tiny. The Ranita de Iberia is one of the smallest frogs in the world or the tiny Polymitas, unique in its colorfulness.
With a bit of luck, you can not only hear but also see Cuba's national bird, the Tocororo. After the first third of the tour, you will be faced with an important choice. Because you will go through riverbeds from now on, there are seven in total. You can choose: either you go barefoot or with shoes.
- Tip: With shoes on, you'll have more grip
To cool down, you can jump into a beautiful natural pool during your lunch break and let the small waterfall massage your back. Have a break with water splashing and birds chirping – pure paradise. Afterward, the hike continues past fields planted with all kinds of vegetables. Often, farmers come along with water buffaloes and carts; for a small tip, you can be driven to the bus.
At the end of the tour, you will stop at Playa Maguana. Enjoy the wonderful view and swim in the perfectly tempered water. You can also buy coconuts for drinking, without or with a bit of alcohol. The best ending for a fantastic tour.
- Discover: Our ultimate 3-week Cuba itinerary
Rating
The tour is so much fun and unique in Cuba. The different animals and plants are absolutely special and fascinating. The bath in the natural pool is wonderfully refreshing, and the beach Playa Maguana is the perfect ending. An excursion where you get in harmony with nature and animals.
Nature trips are usually a little less enjoyable when it rains. However, since you are visiting a rainforest, expect rain. The tour can be booked spontaneously in the low season (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov). In the high season, book online in advance, especially if you are on a tight schedule. Physically, the tour is not strenuous; only the first climb requires several stops to breathe through. The excursion is a hike over hills and dale, without asphalt paths or railings, so not suitable for a stroller or wheelchair.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Video
Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
Duration:
The whole tour takes 7 hours (drive, hike and stop at the beach). You can book the tour online in advance or directly in Baracoa at one of the tour providers and travel agencies. The tours are often fully booked in the high season (Dec-Mar, Jul-Aug) for several days. We recommend booking online in advance.
Cost:
Onsite, around 40 US-Dollar in the low season (Apr-Jun, Sept-Nov). It is often more expensive in high season, and you have to expect fully booked days.
Self-Organized
Duration:
The driving time from Baracoa is about 1.5 hours each way. The hike through the park takes 3 - 4 hours, depending on how fast you are. You will need to book a tour guide onsite at the visitor center, as you will not be able to visit the national park without one. During the high season, all guides may be fully booked.
Cost:
It is difficult to narrow down the price here as you will need transportation and everyone quotes a different price. Add to that the tour guide and maybe a stop at the beach. Expect to pay at least 55 US-Dollar per person.
- Tip: Check out good hotels and Casa Particulares in Baracoa
How to Get There
Organized Tour
The meeting point is in Baracoa near the tour provider, or you will be picked up directly at your accommodation. Sit back and enjoy the ride. The road is bumpy, and the drive is exhausting, especially after such a long day.
Self-Organized
There is no public transportation to the park, so you need a rental car or book a driver. Part of the route is unpaved and through the jungle. You also have to drive through a river with a lot of water depending on the weather. The rental cars in Cuba are definitely not designed for this, so plan enough time for your arrival.
What to Pack
- Sturdy shoes Women/Men
- Water Shoes
- Food and drink
- Rain jacket
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito Repellent
- Sun hat / cap
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Money for tipping and souvenirs
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