Things To Do
in Báguanos
Báguanos is a rural municipality in Holguín Province, Cuba, set among rolling cane fields and rivers. The town has a warm, tight-knit community and an agriculture-driven way of life that invites visitors to slow down and observe everyday Cuban life. It serves as a gateway to nearby natural landscapes and authentic village experiences away from the resort circuit.
Access is via roads from Holguín city, with simple, welcoming hospedaje options offering genuine Cuban hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Báguanos, admiring the colorful colonial architecture that tells the story of the town's rich history. Visit the local markets where you can interact with friendly vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you sip on a cup of strong Cuban coffee at a local café.
After lunch at a traditional paladar, head to the Museo de la Ciudad to delve deeper into the town's past through fascinating exhibits. Spend some time wandering through the Parque Central, enjoying the shade of palm trees and watching locals play chess or enjoy lively conversations. As you explore, keep an eye out for street performers showcasing traditional Cuban music and dance.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant featuring local seafood dishes and a warm, inviting ambiance. Following your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Malecón, where you can soak in the stunning coastal views and listen to the gentle waves. Cap off the evening with a live music performance at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the rhythms of Cuban culture.
Kick off your day by heading to Playa Báguanos, where soft sands and turquoise waters await. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the ocean, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding as you glide over the gentle waves. The beach's serene atmosphere is perfect for soaking up the sun while sipping on a coconut drink.
After a morning of relaxation, indulge in a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Spend the afternoon engaging in thrilling water sports such as kite surfing or jet skiing, guided by local instructors who know the area well. Alternatively, unwind under a beach umbrella with a good book, enjoying the sound of the surf.
As the sun begins to set, gather with fellow beachgoers for a bonfire on the shore, sharing stories and laughter. Enjoy a casual beach barbecue prepared by locals, where you can savor freshly grilled fish and traditional sides. Conclude your evening with stargazing as the sky darkens, and the stars twinkle above the tranquil sea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch or dinner at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️Accommodation (budget hotel or guesthouse, per night) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, uncrowded Cuban experiences
- Rich rural landscapes and friendly locals
- Affordable day-to-day costs and simple hospitality
- Accessible base for countryside exploration and nearby Holguín
- Limited English in rural areas and fewer tourist amenities
- Rural infrastructure may be less polished than cities
- Internet access can be slow or intermittent
- Nightlife is modest compared to larger cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Báguanos
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively central square with the parish church and classic Cuban storefronts, ideal for street portraiture and architecture.
Golden-hour landscapes of sugar cane fields and rural roads—great for wide, open-field photography.
Historic facades and porch scenes along the main streets provide authentic Cuban street photography moments.
Waterways and farm plots offer peaceful, reflective shots with soft skies at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Báguanos
Báguanos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with black beans, a Cuban staple found in homes and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Shredded beef stewed in tomato sauce, typically served with rice and plantains.
Roast pork, often prepared for family meals and at local casas particulares.
Rice with chicken, a common, satisfying dish in local eateries.
Cassava with garlicky citrus sauce, a popular side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Municipal market offering fresh produce, tropical fruits, herbs, and everyday snacks.
Casual stalls offering empanadas, tostones, fresh fruit juice, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a handshake; address elders as señor/señora or with polite formality. Small talk about family and health is common and appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural communities; hats should be removed indoors and in places of worship.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially children; respect private property and rural customs.
Safety
Tipping in Báguanos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in casas particulares and local eateries. 5-10% is typical if service is satisfactory; round up taxi fares and leave small tips to guides or hosts.
Local currency is Cuban peso (CUP). Cash is widely used in rural areas; many small establishments may not accept cards. Carry small denominations and be prepared for cash-only transactions; some casas may accept mobile payments or USD at official exchange rates, but this varies.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with daily afternoon showers. Bring light clothing, sun protection, and a rain cover for gear. Expect lush greenery but higher humidity.
Warmer days with cooler evenings; generally drier than summer. Pleasant for outdoor exploration, but nights can be chilly in some rural areas.
Báguanos at Night
Hiking in Báguanos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop through cane fields, small farms, and riverbanks; best done with a local guide for interaction with residents and safety.
Rugged terrain in the foothills of Sierra Cristal offering panoramic views and wildlife viewing; suitable for hikers with some experience.
Airports
How to reach Báguanos by plane.
Holguín-based international airport; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Báguanos depending on traffic and route. Good for international arrivals and departures; taxi or rental car connections available.
Regional airport serving domestic flights and limited international routes; longer transfer to Báguanos but available depending on your itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Agriculture-based households forming the backbone of the town and surrounding countryside.
Many residents travel to Holguín for education or work opportunities while returning to Báguanos during breaks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most beloved sport in Cuba; local kids and adults play in parks and schoolyards as a staple of community life.
Common in schools and informal matches in plazas and open fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Báguanos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Báguanos, vegetarian options are available primarily as bean-, rice-, and plantain-based dishes. Communicate clearly with hosts or staff to avoid pork, lard, and animal stocks; many casas can prepare meat-free versions using beans, yuca, and vegetables.