Table of Contents
What to Expect
If you book an organized tour, the tour starts chocolaty because the first stop is at a cute cacao plantation. Baracoa is famous for its chocolate and cacao. You'll learn all about cultivation and processing, and at the end of your visit you can try unsweetened drinking chocolate. It tastes bitter without any sweetness, but sugar and honey are at hand – no worries. By the way, you can buy all kinds of cocoa products here; it doesn't get any fresher than this.
The next stop is the delightful bay of Bahia de Mata. The many small fishing boats and the old church, Iglesia Bautista de Bahia de Mata, offer lovely photo opportunities.
When the bus passes through the “Túnel de los Alemanes” look out to sea, it is worth it. Just behind the tunnel, you could also call it a densely overgrown rock arch, you'll have time to take a close look at this beautiful natural wonder.
When you arrive at the Rio Yumuri Gorge, you will get into the boats. You will row leisurely across the river and learn all about the region's exciting history. The view from the boat is phenomenal as the Gorge is lined with huge dramatic cliffs covered by dense forest.
Then the boat docks, and it's time for a well-deserved lunch break. The river is wonderfully clear and refreshing – perfect for a bit of cool down. Water shoes would be helpful, but you can do without. The Gorge is a very popular meeting place. Relax, swim, and have a barbecue. Cubans love this, so don't be surprised if whole pigs and huge cakes are carried past you.
The tour's last stop is at Playa Manglito, a beautiful beach with azure waters. There is a small bar where they dance and play dominoes, and you are welcome to join in, or you can get a massage on the beach while listening to the sound of the sea – can a tour end any better?
- Discover: Our complete 3-week Cuba itinerary
Rating
A fantastic tour to discover Baracoa's surroundings and learn a lot about the famous cacao and chocolate. The Rio Yumuri Canyon is a feast for the eyes, and the refreshment in the river is lovely. Finally, a swim in the sea, a perfect all-around excursion.
We can not recommend the tour if it rains because everything happens outside, and the Rio Yumuri Canyon visits are less fun. In the low season (Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov), the tour can be booked spontaneously, but it is better to book online in advance in the high season. The tour is physically not strenuous, but it is not barrier-free.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Video
Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
Duration:
The trip takes about 6 hours (driving, plantation, photo stops, gorge and river, and beach). You can book the tour in advance online or directly in Baracoa with a tour provider. In the high season (Dec-Mar, Jul-Aug), tours are often fully booked for several days, so we recommend booking online in advance for your desired day.
Cost:
On-site, around 30 US-Dollar in low season (Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov). It is often more expensive in high season, and you have to expect fully booked days.
Self-Organized
Duration:
The direct drive from Baracoa to Rio Yumuri Canyon is at least 45 minutes. Plus, the longer stop at a cacao plantation. There are many around Baracoa, but not all of them offer a guided tour and tasting. So plan that you might need to ask more than one. Be sure to visit Bahia de Mata and the "Túnel de los Alemanes" as both are truly beautiful and fascinating. At the Rio Yumuri Gorge, several boats are anchored, the captains are happy to show you everything on tour.
Cost:
It is difficult to narrow down the price because you need transportation and everyone quotes a different price. In addition, plan costs for the tour at the plantation and the boat. Expect to pay at least 90 US-Dollar, including transportation. If you have a rental car, it will be cheaper.
- Tip: Check out good hotels in the Baracoa area here and the largest selection of Casa Particulares in Baracoa
How to Get There
Organized Tour
The tour starts centrally in Baracoa and ends there as well. The bus driver will take you from highlight to highlight. Wonderfully relaxed, and you get to know nice fellow passengers on tour.
Self-Organized
There is no public transportation to these points. So you require a rental car or a driver. Check the stops on the map and plan enough time. Since the road conditions are not excellent, especially in the south of Cuba, the trips often take longer than expected.
What to Pack
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear
- Towels
- Sun hat/cap
- Water and Snacks
- Water Shoes
- Camera
- Mosquito Repellent
- Money
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