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Baracoa

Attractions and Places To See in Baracoa - Top 14

Best attractions and places to see in Baracoa include a diverse range of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. Located on Cuba's eastern coast, Baracoa is known for its unique blend of mountainous terrain, tropical rainforests, and coastal features. The region offers opportunities to explore significant landmarks and natural monuments.

Best attractions and places to see in Baracoa

  • The most popular attractions is La Farola Pass, a mountain pass that meanders through the tropical rainforest of…

Last updated: July 4, 2026

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

Highlight • Religious Site

The original cross "Cruz de la Parra", which Christopher Columbus built after his landing on the site of the current port, can be visited here.

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La Farola Pass

Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass

The pass road meanders through the tropical rainforest of the Sierra de Purial.
The two-lane road was one of the first major projects after the revolution. It connects Baracoa for …

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The monument is reminiscent of the legend of El Pilú. The self-proclaimed missionary, when his speeches became offensive, was banned from the city by the Council in 1897. Before he …

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El Yunque (Baracoa)

Highlight • Summit

Viewpoint on the Yunque with wonderful views to the coast.
When it rains you can forget a climb - the tour becomes a slide.

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Hatuey Monument

Highlight • Monument

Hatuey, chief of the Taíno, was the first New World resident to resist white colonial rule and was burnt to death by the Spanish conquerors. He is therefore also referred to as the "first hero of the Cuban nation".

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Leaving Moa, we pass by a mineral processing plant whose pollution spreads throughout the environment, rivers, forest, atmosphere. The image is quite dramatic. Then, the road deteriorates, the asphalt crumbles, …

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In the huts, the visitor gets a brief overview of the protected area and can book guided tours through the park. On the grounds of the visitor center is also a bust of Alexander von Humboldt.

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Rio Toa Ferry Crossing

Highlight • Bridge

The bridge over the Rio Toa was destroyed by Hurricane Matthew. A ferry service has been set up (as of Dec. 2016)

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Abandoned Barra Stadium

Highlight • Structure

It has the best times behind and looks, right on the beach, a bit dark and surreal.

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Playa Maguana

Highlight • Beach

Before you reach the industrial city of Moa, you should still take an extended stay at this beautiful spot.

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Popular around Baracoa

Hiking in Baracoa

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AidanLort
May 8, 2025, Vicente Rodríguez El Pelú Monument

Greetings! I recently stumbled across something really cool: https://chicken-road-spiel.de/ , a site entirely dedicated to the crazy Chicken Road. The mix of arcade action and crash mechanics is truly exciting! You control a hen through dangerous obstacles to the golden egg, and you can decide at any time whether you want to collect the winnings or keep playing. There are four difficulty levels that provide plenty of thrills, especially in hardcore mode. What's especially cool is that you can play the demo for free before using real money. It also runs easily on your mobile in the browser – no download necessary.

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Leaving Moa, we pass by a mineral processing plant whose pollution spreads throughout the environment, rivers, forest, atmosphere. The image is quite dramatic. Then, the road deteriorates, the asphalt crumbles, and when finally there is only earth left, the track is very pleasant to ride. The coastal landscapes up to Baracoa are the most beautiful on the island. We pass by the Humbolt National Park. There are villages with eateries and, sometimes, people who sell their products on the side of the road: coconut cones with palm sugar, almond cakes with coconut sugar. On this section, I even found chocolate, whose factory is in Baracoa.

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The cathedral of Baracoa is over 500 years old! It was last extensively renovated in 2012. It contains the original wooden cross that Christopher Columbus had made for Baracoa when he arrived here! It is very impressive to marvel at this original!

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The bridge is repaired.

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Trebor
January 2, 2023, El Yunque (Baracoa)

View of the Bay of Bracoa, where Columbus landed for the second time because he suspected an island in El Yunque. Here he had erected a 12m high wooden cross. The remains of a cross can be seen in the Church of Baracoa. German speaking tours can be organized with Norge at baracoa.at. norge@baracoa.at

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MBlume
December 28, 2018, La Farola Pass

Absolute highlight for cyclists visiting Cuba's east😊

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In the huts, the visitor gets a brief overview of the protected area and can book guided tours through the park. On the grounds of the visitor center is also a bust of Alexander von Humboldt. In 2001, the biologically unique area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With an estimated 1,800-2,000 species, biodiversity is one of the largest in the world, far greater than that of the Galápagos Islands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in Baracoa?

Baracoa, Cuba's 'First City,' is rich in history. You can visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, which houses the original Cruz de la Parra, believed to have been erected by Christopher Columbus. Explore the city's defensive past at the Spanish fortresses like Castillo de Seboruco (now a hotel with panoramic views), Fuerte Matachín (now the Municipal Museum), and Fuerte de la Punta (now a restaurant). Don't miss the Hatuey Monument, honoring the indigenous leader.

What natural attractions should I visit in Baracoa?

Baracoa boasts stunning natural beauty. Hike to the iconic flat-topped El Yunque (Baracoa) for spectacular views of the city and coastline. Discover the incredible biodiversity of the Coastal Landscapes of Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also drive through the scenic La Farola Pass, a mountain road winding through tropical rainforest, or take a boat ride through the picturesque Yumurí Canyon.

Are there opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities near Baracoa's attractions?

Yes, Baracoa offers excellent hiking opportunities. The ascent to El Yunque (Baracoa) is a popular challenging trail with rewarding views. For a broader range of outdoor activities, you can explore routes within the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt. For more detailed hiking options, check out the Hiking in Baracoa guide, which includes trails like the El Yunque – Duaba River loop and the Lagoon of Río Miel – Playa Blanca loop.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Baracoa?

For breathtaking vistas, drive or cycle along the La Farola Pass, which offers stunning views as it traverses the Sierra de Purial. The summit of El Yunque (Baracoa) provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the city and coastline. Additionally, the former Castillo de Seboruco, now Hotel El Castillo, offers excellent views of the entire bay.

What cultural experiences does Baracoa offer?

Baracoa is a vibrant cultural hub. You can visit the Casa de la Cultura for events promoting local artistic traditions, or explore the Fondo de Bienes Culturales in Parque Independencia to admire and purchase regional art. Learn about Cuba's cacao production at the Casa de Cacao in the city center or take a tour of a local cacao farm like Finca Duaba. For live music, the Casa de la Trova is a great spot to enjoy local Salsa.

Are there family-friendly attractions in Baracoa?

Many attractions in Baracoa are suitable for families. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Hatuey Monument are easily accessible historical sites. The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park Visitor Center offers an educational overview of the park's unique ecosystem. For relaxation, Playa Maguana is a beautiful beach perfect for families.

Where can I learn about Baracoa's indigenous history?

To delve into Baracoa's indigenous past, visit the Museo Arqueológico La Cueva del Paraíso, a unique museum set within caves showcasing the lives and culture of the Taíno people before Spanish colonization. The Hatuey Monument in Parque Independencia also commemorates the Taíno chief who resisted colonial rule.

What is special about the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt?

The Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for being one of the most biologically diverse tropical island sites globally. It features a vast number of endemic species across its terrestrial and marine areas, including mangrove forests, rainforests, and offshore reefs. The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park Visitor Center provides an overview and guided tour options.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Baracoa?

Yes, some attractions in Baracoa offer wheelchair accessibility. The Vicente Rodríguez El Pelú Monument and the Hatuey Monument are noted as wheelchair-accessible. While many natural sites involve varied terrain, central town areas and some historical monuments are generally more accessible.

Are there any beaches for relaxation or swimming near Baracoa?

Baracoa is surrounded by beautiful beaches. Playa Maguana is a popular choice for relaxation and snorkeling. Playa Blanca is another beautiful option. For a more local experience, Playa Boca de Miel, a dark sand and stony beach, is frequented by residents. You can also find refreshing natural pools and waterfalls, such as those along the River Duaba, perfect for a swim after a hike.

What is the best time to visit Baracoa for outdoor activities?

Baracoa has a tropical rainforest climate. Generally, the drier months from November to April are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring, as the weather is more stable and less humid. However, even during the wetter season, short, intense showers are common, and the lush greenery is at its peak. Always be prepared for rain when venturing into the rainforest, especially for hikes like El Yunque (Baracoa).

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