BARACOA
Esta ciudad, en la provincia de Guantánamo, es el asentamiento español más antiguo en la isla de Cuba. Fue el primero de siete pueblos fundados por el conquistador español Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar a principios de la década de 1510. Se cree que el pueblo está ubicado en el lugar exacto donde Cristóbal Colón desembarcó en Cuba en su primer viaje. Su nombre proviene de la lengua indígena Arawac y significa “la presencia del mar”.
Se encuentra en la Bahía de Miel y está rodeada por una amplia cadena montañosa, lo que hace que la ciudad esté bastante aislada, excepto por el camino construido en la década de 1960 que conecta estas áreas remotas con el resto de la provincia.
LUGARES Y COSAS
QUE HACER
When visiting Baracoa, there are several activities and attractions that you can enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in this charming city:
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Explore the Historic Center: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Baracoa's historic center. Admire the colorful colonial buildings, visit the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this quaint town.
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Visit El Yunque: Embark on a hike to El Yunque, a distinct tabletop mountain that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Explore the lush vegetation, encounter exotic flora and fauna, and appreciate the natural beauty of this iconic landmark.
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Relax on Baracoa's Beaches: Spend a day at one of Baracoa's beautiful beaches, such as Playa Maguana or Playa Nibujón. Enjoy the soft sand, swim in the turquoise waters, and bask in the tranquility of these idyllic coastal spots.
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Taste the "Chocolate Baracoano": Indulge in the unique flavors of Baracoa's famous chocolate. Visit local chocolate factories and shops to sample the "chocolate baracoano," made from locally grown cacao. Learn about the chocolate-making process and savor this delightful treat.
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Explore Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt: Venture into the nearby Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided tour or hike through the diverse ecosystems, marvel at the stunning waterfalls, and discover the rich biodiversity of this pristine natural reserve.
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Visit the Finca Duaba Ecotourism Project: Experience rural life in Baracoa by visiting the Finca Duaba Ecotourism Project. Learn about sustainable agriculture, participate in hands-on activities like harvesting and cooking, and enjoy a traditional meal made from fresh, organic ingredients.
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Discover El Yunque Waterfall: Take a trip to the El Yunque waterfall, nestled in the lush forests near Baracoa. Swim in the refreshing pools, take in the scenic surroundings, and relish the natural beauty of this enchanting waterfall.
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Explore Boca de Yumurí: Embark on a boat tour to Boca de Yumurí, a stunning river mouth located near Baracoa. Admire the dramatic cliffs, enjoy the calm river waters, and soak in the breathtaking views of this picturesque spot.
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Visit the Museo Arqueológico Cueva del Paraíso: Explore the Museo Arqueológico Cueva del Paraíso, an archaeological museum located in a cave. Learn about the indigenous Taíno culture, view ancient artifacts, and gain insights into the pre-Columbian history of the region.
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Enjoy Local Cuisine: Delight in the flavors of Baracoa's cuisine by trying local specialties. Sample the famous coconut-based dishes, such as the traditional "cocada" dessert or the savory "bacán" fish stew. Don't forget to savor a cup of rich Baracoa coffee, known for its distinct flavor.
These activities provide a glimpse into the diverse range of experiences available in Baracoa. Whether you're interested in nature, history, culinary delights, or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches, Baracoa offers a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique Cuban experience.