Things To Do
in Baracoa
Baracoa is a charming coastal town located in the eastern part of Cuba, surrounded by lush tropical forests and beautiful mountains. It is known for its unique culture and history, being one of the oldest Spanish settlements in Cuba. The town is famous for its delicious cuisine, particularly for its use of local ingredients such as coconut and seafood.
Visitors to Baracoa can enjoy relaxing on its pristine beaches, exploring historical sites, and hiking in the nearby national parks.
- "¿Qué bolá?" - What's up?
- "Asere" - Friend
- "¡Dímelo!" - Tell me!
- "Una vuelta" - A tour or a spin
- "No hay problema" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Playa Maguana, where the golden sands and clear waters invite you to relax. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Caribbean Sea before the sun gets too hot.
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh fish and Cuban flavors. Spend the afternoon walking along the shore or exploring nearby nature trails.
Watch the sunset on the beach, capturing the stunning views with your camera. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a beachfront café, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Embark on a hiking trip to El Yunque, Cuba's unique flat-topped mountain. The morning is perfect for taking in the breathtaking views and observing the rich biodiversity.
After descending, visit the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before heading back to town.
Return to Baracoa and explore local eateries for dinner. Try traditional dishes like chicken with coconut and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush landscapes and beautiful beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and history, being one of the oldest towns in Cuba
- Delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood and tropical fruits
- Less touristy than other Cuban destinations, offering a more authentic experience
- Access to unique outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains and exploring national parks
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger Cuban cities
- Transportation can be challenging, with fewer options available
- Some areas may be affected by poverty and lack of resources
- Health and safety standards may not be on par with more developed regions
- Frequent power outages and internet connectivity issues may occur
Best Activities in Baracoa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike to the top of El Yunque mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the fascinating underground world of Cueva del Agua and marvel at its unique rock formations and underground river.
Relax on the pristine shores of Playa Maguana and soak up the sun while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Discover the rich biodiversity of the national park through guided tours and nature walks, offering a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
Take a boat trip along the Toa River for a serene and scenic journey through lush landscapes and tropical vegetation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Baracoa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Baracoa
Visit one of these nice places.
A flat-topped mountain offering stunning panoramic views of Baracoa and the surrounding landscape.
A lookout point located on a hilltop, providing breathtaking views of Baracoa and the bay.
A cave with a natural pool and a vantage point offering scenic views of the Baracoa coastline.
Food in Baracoa
Baracoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich and flavorful stew made with coconut milk, various seafood such as fish, shrimp, and crab, and an array of tropical vegetables and spices. Best enjoyed at El Ranchon, where it is a specialty.
Must-Try!
Savory tamales made with mashed green bananas or plantains, stuffed with a seasoned pork or chicken filling, and steamed in banana leaves. Look for them at Las Delicias de Ana.
Crispy coconut wafers often filled with sweet or savory combinations, such as coconut cream, guava, or cheese. Can be found at street stalls and local bakeries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Baracoa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, tropical fruits, and local snacks and sweets, providing an excellent opportunity to taste and purchase authentic Baracoan flavors.
The Malecon promenade is lined with street food stalls offering a range of delights, from grilled seafood skewers to coconut ice cream and fried plantains. Don't miss the chance to sample the local specialties while taking in the sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Baracoa, it is important to show respect towards elders by using formal language and greeting them politely.
Baracoans are known for their warm and friendly nature, so it's important to reciprocate this hospitality by being polite and appreciative when interacting with locals.
Baracoa has a rich musical tradition, and participating in local music and dance events can be a great way to show respect for the culture and connect with the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Baracoa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Baracoa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Baracoa, Cuba is generally expected in the service industry, such as in restaurants, bars, and for tour guides. It is customary to tip around 10% of the bill. Some restaurants may include a service charge, in which case tipping is not necessary.
In Baracoa, Cuba, cash is the primary form of payment. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller businesses. It's advisable for tourists to carry enough cash for their expenses as ATMs may not always be readily available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Baracoa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Baracoa, with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. This is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring the rainforest, and visiting the beaches.
During the rainy season, Baracoa experiences higher humidity and frequent rain showers. However, this time of year also brings lush green landscapes, vibrant flora, and an opportunity to witness impressive waterfalls due to the increased rainfall.
Baracoa at Night
Hiking in Baracoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent flat-topped mountain offering stunning views of Baracoa and the surrounding areas. The hike to the peak is challenging but rewarding, with lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.
A scenic road with various hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints. The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
A coastal hike that connects lush tropical landscapes with beautiful beaches, offering a balance of seaside relaxation and adventure.
A lesser-known trail that winds through dense rainforests with opportunities to see local wildlife and reach hidden waterfalls.
A trail leading to a stunning waterfall, surrounded by rich botanical diversity. It provides a peaceful environment for hikers to explore.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Baracoa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Baracoa by plane.
Located in Varadero, approximately 170 km from Baracoa, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the main gateways to Cuba.
Situated in Santiago de Cuba, around 160 km from Baracoa, this airport offers numerous international connections and is a key airport for the eastern region of Cuba.
Located in Holguín, approximately 280 km from Baracoa, this airport provides international and domestic services and is essential for travel to the northeastern parts of Cuba.
Found in Havana, about 800 km from Baracoa, this is the largest and busiest airport in Cuba, handling a majority of international flights to and from the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group, consisting of people of mixed ancestry, including Spanish, African, and Indigenous heritage.
A significant subgroup within the Cuban population, representing descendants of African slaves brought to the island.
This group includes descendants of the original inhabitants of the region, though their population is small compared to other groups.
Small community of people with direct Spanish ancestry or recent immigrants from Spain.
The Soul of Baracoa
Discover the essence of Baracoa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Baracoa and throughout Cuba, with a rich history and strong local teams participating in various leagues.
Soccer has been gaining popularity in Baracoa, with a growing number of local teams and youth leagues.
Basketball is a popular sport among the youth in Baracoa, with many playing both casually and competitively.
Cuba is known for its boxing prowess, and Baracoa has produced notable boxers who compete at national and international levels.
Cycling is popular both as a recreational activity and as a means of transportation in Baracoa.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baracoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional Baracoan dishes feature seafood and meat, several eateries in town, such as Restaurante El Caribe, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly versions of local specialties, ensuring that non-meat eaters can also partake in the local culinary experience.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at various restaurants and cafés, including gluten-free versions of traditional dishes or alternative gluten-free menu items, particularly at establishments catering to international visitors.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Baracoa with these cultural adventures.