Tours | Mountain Adventure | Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba

Mountain Adventure / Aventura en la Montaña

Mountain Adventure Sierra Escambray

Prices (2024, in USD): Adult 85 / Child 65
(Click HERE to learn more about Cuban currencies)

Schedule (may vary):
Departure time (1st hotel): ~ 7:00 am
Return time: 08:00 pm

Inclusions: Tour guides, transportation in air-conditioned bus, lunch.

Program:
This eco-tour will take you to the beautiful and lush rainforest of the Sierra Escambray; the perfect opportunity to get up close with nature.

Departure by bus around 7am heading south through the beautiful Cuban countryside to reach Guanayara, which is part of the protected nature reserve of Topes de Collantes. An off-road truck will then take you to the beginning of the “Centinelas del Rio Melodioso” hiking trails. The walk begins at the impressive “El Rocio” waterfall. Here the group splits into two: Jungle 1 (dry) and Jungle 2 (wet).

“Raiders of the Jungle 1” will continue on the trail to explore further the forest with the ecologist guide, and the more adventurous “Raiders of the Jungle 2” will follow another guide and walk into the shallow river and follow the trail through the drops and rapids. The two groups cross a few times to finally get back together at the beautiful “El Venado” turquoise lagoon in the middle of the jungle for a well-deserved rest and refreshing swim. Then a short hike will take you to “La Gallega” restaurant. After a typical Cuban lunch, the truck will take you to the bus for the ride back to the hotels (arrival around 8 pm).

Suggestions on what to wear and bring: Comfortable wear, walking shoes (appropriate for hiking), water shoes (if you choose the river walk), swimwear and towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, bottled water, camera, cash in small denominations for souvenirs, drinks and tips.

Notes:
This tour involves moderately intense activities, not recommended for people in wheelchair or with physical disabilities.
The farthest site visited during this tour, Topes de Collantes, is about 180 km (112 mi) from the Cayos of Villa Clara.