For ecotourism, no other destination in the Caribbean can boast such a rich and flourishing natural environment as Cuba. The island is home to some of the best coral reefs, an abundance of flora and fauna, a thriving rainforest, and more than 250 protected areas covering more than 22% of the land. Preservation is taken seriously in Cuba and highly guarded natural parks protect more than 350 species of birds and endangered species. Six UNESCO biospheres across the island offer a plethora of activities for ecotourists, including hiking, caving, horseback riding, biking, diving, bird watching and, for the more adventurous, zip lining, jeep safari and rock climbing .
The 6 Biospheres in Cuba provide exceptional opportunities for nature lovers to discover unique flora and fauna, including a host of endangered plant and animal species such as the Cuban land snail, Cuban crocodile, and woodpecker. of extinct ivory bill.
The ecosystem in eastern Cuba has an incredible variety of terrains, from the best-preserved mountainous ecosystem in the Caribbean in Alejandro de Humboldt National Park to one of the last virgin rainforests in the world in the Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve. Staying in Santiago de Cuba is your closest tourist area and tours such as hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, zip lining and photographic tourism on one of the 100 nature trails are available at the hotels or through a local guide. The Bocanao Biosphere Reserve is a massive 85,000 hectare reserve that is home to nearly 1,000 species of wildlife, from butterflies to reptiles and even the endangered hot cave bat. Hiking, caving, caving and rock climbing offer incredible landscapes and opportunities to discover impressive flora and fauna.
In the north and using the tourist area of Varadero as a base or Cienfuegos in the south, tourists can explore the Zapata biosphere reserve and the largest wetlands in the Caribbean. On land, this reserve is an ideal place for bird watching, hiking, caving, and photography. Expect to find more than 350 species of birds, including parrots and the bee hummingbird, as well as numerous reptiles and crocodiles. The water is where this reserve really comes to life with flooded caverns and an incredible shoreline perfect for diving and snorkelling trips that are full of exotic fish, manatees, rays, turtles, and coral reefs. Numerous dive centers are available for hire and excursions for the most affordable and safe diving in the Caribbean.
The Pinar del Río region is a privileged place for cavers and cavers. Enjoy a boat ride along an illuminated underground river through a massive cavern at Cueva del Indio or explore the 46 km cave system at Great St. Thomas Cavern. Spanning over eight levels, this cave system is a complex maze with bats, underground pools, ancient murals, and impressive stalactite formations. Guided tours are available to ensure you get the most out of your caving experience.
These are just a few of the many incredible regions of Cuba’s ecosystem. Everything from massive groups of flamingos to schools of exotic fish and everything in between, both on land and in water, is readily available and abundant. The stunning nature and scenery of Cuba’s Parks and Reserves are sure to keep binoculars and cameras on.