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Holguín, Cuba

Get to know the extraordinary province of Holguín, one of the best-kept secrets in eastern Cuba

Holguín, Cuba
© Sol de Cuba

Holguín is a region full of culture, tradition and natural beauty. The province emphasized its astonishing beaches, bays and scuba diving areas. These resources make this place the idyllic destination for active tourism in Cuba.

Holguín
© Cuba Travel

The Holguín province has always been a very important area historically. It was one of the first territories found by Columbus, who described it as the most beautiful lands I have ever seen. In this idyllic environment the first governor of Cuba Diego Velázquez awarded the soldier García Holguín those territories. An event that led to the foundation of the city in 1545. Also, during the independence wars key moments of some very important figures, such as Calixto García took place on these lands.

Some of the things the Holguín province is rich in are the stunning natural parks, a true paradise for ecotourism and nature tourism lovers. Whilst travelling through the province you can admire its extremely large variety of landscapes, from the idyllic cays and beaches on the coast all the way to leafy vegetation of the mountain range swinging by the old colonial beauty of the urbanic centres. 

At the moment the international tourism’s figures aren’t very high, as the majority of international tourists don’t tend to go beyond Jardines del Rey cays, although Holguín is important when it comes to national tourism in the whole of Cuba. This is thanks to its amazing beaches of crystal-clear waters and white sand sheltered by exotic coral reefs which make this the ideal destination for diving and other aquatic activities.

Index:

• What are the most important places to see in Holguín province?
• What are the best plans to make in Holguín?
• When should one visit Holguín?
• What are the best excursions to do in Holguín?
• Where can one stay in Holguín province?
• How to get to Holguín?

What are the most important places to see in Holguín?

Banes, Holguín
© Jack K.....ski

The natural richness, the historic patrimony and the tradition of the municipalities that Holguín comprises have made this one of the most interesting touristic provinces in the whole of Cuba keeping in mind the significance of Banes which is considered as the archaeological capital of Cuba or the marvellous colonial city of Gibara.

Parque Calixto García
© Sol de Cuba

In the province capital, known as Holguín as well, you can admire the superb infrastructures that unveil the history of the province. These can be found around big and lovely plazas. Some of the most significant historic places are the Catedral de San Isidoro (San Isidoro Cathedral) on whose roof remains of Mudejar style are preserved, the Parque Calixto García (Calixto García Park) which is the meeting point among the people of Holguín and the Iglesia de San José (San José Church): one of the most important religious temples in Cuba. 

Cayo Saetía
© NSPaul

For sun and beach lovers Holguín offers 41 heavenly beaches in total, among which we have the Guardalavaca Beach of white sand and crystal-clear waters that is equipped with an amazing coral reef; the Esmeralda Beach, known for the lovely green tones of its waters and for being the ideal place for scuba diving thanks to its astonishing coral reefs; the Pesquero Beach, that has cliffs of leafy vegetation; the small Blanca Beach and the Corinthia Beach which is a lovely 8-kilometre beach of white sand and turquoise waters with a coral barrier. 

Chorro de Maíta
© Cuba Travel

Also, we have to mention the beaches of Cayo Saetia (Saetia Cay), a divine cay located in the entrance of the Nipe Bay on the northern coast. This amazing natural spot of more than 40 km2 covered with leafy forests and grasslands offer you the perfect paradise for jeep safaris, horse rides or you can simply go to the small but paradisiacal beaches and bathe privately in the sea. Besides, it has rich exotic fauna, wild boars, deer, zebras, camels, ostriches, antelopes, etc. that live in freedom and offer you an unforgettable experience for everybody.

The natural parks form part of Holguín's treasure as well. One of them is the Parque Natural Bahía de Naranjo (Naranjo Bay Natural Park), a recreational ecological park for nature tourism where ecotourism lovers can enjoy the various routes it has. Also, the park is equipped with interesting places, such as the Delfinario de Cayo Naranjo (Naranjo Bay Delphinarium), an awesome aquarium in the middle of the sea where different shows and bathes with dolphins take place.  

For the ones who want to learn more about the history of Holguín, the Loma de La Cruz (La Cruz Hill) monument makes up a very symbolic place for Cuban people. It consists of an archaeological, historic and colonial 260-metre-tall monument that was named after a wooden cross on the hill. It narrates the history of the province since the very beginning and from the heights of the construction you can admire the matchless panoramic views of the region.

Another archaeological point of interest is Chorro de Maíta, an aboriginal cemetery of ceramicists that shows us the different types of burial options that you can find in the entire area of Caribbean.

What are the best plans to make in Holguin?

Beaches of Guardalavaca
© Cuba Travel

The natural beauty of Holguín has encouraged many outdoor activities that allow you to meet and enjoy simultaneously the astonishing area that you can find within the province.

Salto del Guayabo
© Sol de Cuba

There is no doubt that the main spots of this beautiful region are its beaches and natural park in a way that it is indispensable to spend a couple of days admiring the sheer beauty of Cayo Saetía (Saetía Cay), the Cristal mountain range or the Parque Natural Bahía del Naranjo (Naranjo Bay Natural Park), among other things. Just as the idyllic beaches of Guardalavaca, Banes or the Nipe Bay of fine sand and turquoise waters will make you feel totally relaxed in this unforgettable paradise.

To top off your stay in the province, go and enjoy the diving activities in the abundant and lovely coral reefs of the Pesquero Beach or the Esmeralda Beach. Also, you could have a go in a catamaran and be amazed by the mind-boggling views the Nipe Bay offers you.

Another entertaining way to get to know the region is through hiking, as the province is equipped with various routes, such as the Boca de Samá or the Salto del Guayabo which allow you the access to completely new spots that you have never seen before. For hiking lovers there is the eye-catching route that culminates in the Caverna de los Panaderos (Bakers’ Cavern) in Gibara, a cave from the Mesozoic era that preserves important rock formations.

Bicycle touring has turned into one of the most famous options among tourists, as it allows you to go through the towns of the region comfortably whilst having a walk along its streets or coasts.

When should one visit Holguín?

The climate of Holguín is more than pleasant throughout the year. The average yearly temperature is around 25°C (77°F), February being the driest and May the wettest month. It is advisable to travel to the province in January, February, March, April, November and December, as the temperatures during these months aren’t very high nor does it rain very much.

To enjoy the beaches you can travel to Holguín regardless of the month of the year, as the temperatures never go under 21°C (70°F). This fact reveals to us the true privilege that is a swim in these Caribbean waters which will make you feel like you are in a real heated pool in the middle of nature.

You will always have fun in Holguín thanks to the infinite variety of cultural items it has. It would be a good time to visit the province during the Fiesta de la Cultura Iberoamericana (Latin American Culture Festival), from the 24th to the 30th of October where different folklore events and artistic celebrations take place.

Another festival you cannot miss is the Romerías of May, from the 2nd to the 8th of May, where the artistic youth of Cuba meets and celebrate the astonishing tradition that joins them together. During these days concerts, shows and celebrations invade the Holguín province and fill it with life.

If you love stage art you should visit Holguín during the Festival Internacional de Cine Gibara (International Gibara Film Festival) that will top off your trip to Cuba. It takes place once a year in April and it consists of avant-garde as well as alternative style film discussions carried out by distinguished artists.

Obviously, if you fancy visiting music festivals it is good to know that Aquafest, a festival of electronic music takes place in the second half of July which mixes Cuban and Caribbean rhythms. Also, the Holjazz Festival occurs in Holguín between the 2nd and the 5th of February, a prestigious festival among the fans of this genre.

What are the best excursions to do in Holguin?

Parque Nacional la Mensura
© Sol de Cuba

This big natural spot offers many possibilities through awesome excursions thanks to its particular orography. You have diverse activities at your disposal, as you can go hiking, have a go in a catamaran or just simply admire the unconquerable landscapes when you come into contact with the simple lifestyle of the locals.

Playa Esmeralda
© Sol de Cuba

An unmissable excursion is the El Gran Safari (The Grand Safari) consisting of going through the Pinares de Mayarí (Pine Forests of Mayarí) in a Jeep, which is located in the Parque Nacional La Mensura (La Mensura National Park). 680 m above the sea level with very rich flora of endemic species, the trajectory includes a visit to the batey Birán (sugar workers’ village), a school, a cemetery and a post office, among other things. During the route there is also spare time to admire the landscape peacefully and comfortably and to enjoy the thick mountain vegetation. Among the numerous stops, the visit to the splendid Salto de Guayabo (Guayabo Waterfall) will provide you with astonishing views towards the natural waterfall with a big fall. The excursion ends at a route that culminates in an amazing natural pond where you can cool yourself down surrounded by unbeatable nature.

If you really want to enjoy the Holguín fauna, don’t be afraid of taking the Bird Observation route. Going through the ecological route of Las Tinajitas located in the Silla de Gibara, you can observe native and migratory birds from a distance of 500 metres. You might see the national bird of Cuba, the Cuban trogon; the gorgeous and unusual Cuban tody or the West Indian woodpecker.

Have a peaceful go in a luxurious catamaran on the Atlantic coast and enjoy the Island Paradise excursion. Starting from the Pesquero Beach, Esmeralda Beach or Guardalavaca Beach (own choice), the trajectory includes an open bar with entertainment on board whilst you admire the mind-boggling Nipe Bay. On board you have time to go snorkeling in the coral barrier of Saetía Cay, as well as time to admire the splendour of pristine beaches and the particular nature of the place.

Have fun doing aquatic activities organised by the Ocean Paradise excursion whilst sailing a catamaran in the gorgeous coral barriers of La Cubera and Las Caleticas. Along the way you have time to enjoy snorkeling with a specialised guide; all this with lunch at Saetía Cay plus free drinks included.

Don’t miss the fabulous experience the Boat Adventure offers you, where you have the opportunity to sail your own boat with your partner. The journey takes an hour and it includes a drive on the Samá Bay. Also, the Villa de los Cangrejos excursion provides you with an opportunity to sail on the seaboard for two hours till you get to the Villa Blanca de Gibara. The service includes an open bar, a traditional lunch and a specialised guide: all this on a catamaran vessel.

If you are an enthusiastic fisherman, bottom fishing from a motorboat is your kind of activity. The starting point is the nautical spot of the Las Brisas hotel towards the chosen fishing area. You have never been closer to catching outrageous species, such as grunts, guatíberos, yellowtail snappers and groupers.

Have a good time whilst sailing on a motorboat towards the Naranjo Bay or walking along the seaside promenade for 30 minutes. If it takes less than that, the agency offers you a cruise by the river of the city.

Venture yourself out for a swim with dolphins by choosing the Langostada excursion, which includes a show with sea lions and dolphins, a seafood dinner and a live music accompaniment, all this during a cruise on a catamaran, that offers you a thoughtful view of the astonishing sunset. The journey starts from Naranjo Bay and then returns to the same place.

Where can one stay in Holguín province?

Holguín has a wide range of hotels suitable for all your preferences and needs. There is no doubt that the best way of getting to know the atmosphere and the daily life of the locals is through a stay in a casa particular (private house), as it gives you the opportunity to learn more about the culture and the tradition of warm Cuban families. A very enriching experience in all aspects.

Nevertheless, if you prefer hostels and hotels, the province has many holiday resorts.

In Gibara, the cool Hostal Buena Vista provides you with incredible views towards the Atlantic Ocean at a reasonable price. Also, the Hostal Los Hermanos whose typical colonial style will leave you completely amazed; as well as the Hostal Villa Caney, better known for its yummy food. If you search for quality service, the luxurious Hotel Playa Pesquero will fulfill your dreams. Second, its great location near the beach combines the natural environment with the Cuban culture perfectly. Loosen up a little in this heavenly place and take full advantage of the services at your disposal: the elegant restaurants with traditional Cuban food, the spa resort or the eyeing of the exotic vegetation whilst enjoying your mojito or piña colada available from the nine bars of the hotel complex. 

A bit further away from these hotels we have the lovely Villa Don Lino. A place 8.5 km to the north of Rafael Freyre near Gibara make up the ideal place for couples. The bungalows allow you the access to a small white sand beach and a pool as well. The Campismo Silla de Gibara on the slope of a famous saddle-shaped hill is located on the outskirts of Gibara. Something highly mentionable are the eye-catching views as well as the cave accessible on foot only 1.5 km away.

If you look for a total disconnection in nature, the Villa Pinares de Mayarí will turn your atemporal trip into a true rural fairyland. It is located in Birán in one of the main pine forests of Cuba and every single establishment -like sports fields, gym and restaurants- are decorated with Alpine style. Also, a small natural lake ideal for cooling yourself down at any given moment is not far away. 

How to get to Holguín?

The best way to get to the city of Holguín is by plane to the Frank País García International Airport 13 km to the south of the city. This very airport has offices of many car rental companies not only at the Arribot hall, but at the parking area. Some of these companies are: Cubacar, Havanautos or Via Rent-a-Car Transgaviota. The airport offers you public transport as well and a taxi rank in front of the terminal building.

Another good option would be to take a flight to the Santiago de Cuba International Airport and hire a private ride to Holguín city, which is 132 km away using the Autopista Nacional A1.

Additionally, there is always the option to hire an organised tour around Cuba that includes stops around the eastern part of the island. The Circuito Todo Cuba includes visits to the city of Holguín and Guardalavaca together with other touristic locations, such as Bayamo, Havana or Trinidad. With a total duration of 11 days, the trip includes private transport and accommodation in different hotel complexes.

Interactive map:

Holguín