One can imagine the emotion of the sailors and the conquistadores in front of the beauty of such a site occupied at the time by the Taínos Indians. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains, the city (82,000 inhabitants) remained isolated from the rest of the country for a long time. Until the 1960's, only the airplane and the boat connected the town.The hinterland has not changed much since Christopher Columbus marveled at the rivers (the Honey, the Duaba, the Toa), the bays, the beaches and the high square mountain that looks like an island, the Anvil, El Yunque, as it is called here. Expect a grandiose tropical nature, dominated by green chlorophyll and spectacular reliefs similar to some Southeast Asian regions. Founded in 1512 by Diego Velázquez, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa was declared, for a while, the capital of the country, before Santiago de Cuba and finally Havana took the prize. It is worth mentioning the crossbreeding between the natives and the colonists: here, more than elsewhere, the faces are coppery and the eyes are more elongated. From a military point of view, three forts, El Matachín, La Punta and El Castillo, built in the 18th century by the Spaniards, testify to the strategic and maritime importance of the town.In 1964, the construction of the La Farola road, finally connecting Baracoa to Cajobabo, will allow to open up the region somewhat. Today, it allows the visitor to discover a fascinating area.

What to visit Baracoa?

Weather at the moment

Loading...
Organize your trip with our partners Baracoa
Transportation
Accommodation & stays
Services / On site

Baracoa travel inspiration

Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners

Pictures and images Baracoa

Détente sur une barque avant de reprendre l'eau. Author's Image
Vue de Baracoa. Irène ALASTRUEY - Author's Image
Send a reply