Easy hikes and walks in Área Protegida Topes De Collantes

The El Nicho waterfall is one of Cuba's most famous natural wonders, located within the Topes de Collantes Nature Park. This ecological paradise is situated in the Sierra del Escambray mountain range, in the province of Cienfuegos. It is renowned for its swimmable natural pools, lush tropical vegetation, and spectacular waterfalls formed by the Hanabanilla river.

La Cascata El Nicho is one of Cuba's most famous natural wonders, located within the Topes de Collantes Natural Park. This ecological paradise lies in the Sierra del Escambray mountain range in the province of Cienfuegos. It is famous for its natural swimming pools, lush tropical vegetation, and spectacular waterfalls formed by the Hanabanilla river.

The Plaza Mayor is the historical and cultural heart of Trinidad, Cuba. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic colonial-style square is surrounded by pastel-colored palaces, raised gardens, cobblestone streets, and houses some of the country's most important museums.

Plaza Mayor is not only one of the most beautiful squares in Cuba, it is also the vibrant heart of the city. A detour to Plaza Mayor is like a journey back in time to a bygone era. Here, Trinidad's most beautiful colonial villas are lined up side by side. At its heart lies a small park with benches and wrought-iron lanterns from the 19th century. All of the museums are spread around the central square. Mighty royal palms grow amidst the green space surrounded by a white garden fence. Behind the green oasis rises the Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad. The church was built in 1892 in the neoclassical style. Among the most impressive buildings on Plaza Mayor is the Casa Cantero mansion, which was acquired in 1830 by a plantation owner of German descent named Kanter. According to legend, he illegally acquired vast sugarcane plantations by killing an old slave trader and marrying his widow. Source: https://kuba.de/

The Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco, a striking landmark in Trinidad with its handsome yellow and green bell tower, has a rich history. Built by the Franciscans in 1813, this former convent was converted into a parish church in the mid-19th century and later a prison before much of the building was demolished in the 1920s. Only some of the outbuildings and the bell tower remain. Today, this picturesque building houses the Museo Nacional de Lucha Contra Bandidos (National Museum of the Fight Against the Bandits). Lovers of Cuba's revolutionary history should take some time to explore the fascinating exhibits here. Photographs, documents, and equipment related to the counterrevolutionary forces, or "bandidos," of 1959 and the subsequent troubles and struggles are on display. After browsing the museum, tourists can lighten the mood atop the bell tower, which offers beautiful views of the city. Source: https://hostalcasaarianatrinidadcuba.com/

The way back from the El Nicho waterfalls goes down via natural stairs.

From the highest point of the El Nicho Falls you have an indescribable view over the nature reserve.

The Poceta de Cristal natural pool is another natural pool, fed by a tributary of the Hanabanilla River, that's perfect for a swim. Be sure to bring your swimsuit.