Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

The Alejandro de Humboldt National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the mountains of eastern Cuba, spanning parts of the Guantánamo and Holguín provinces. Named after the German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, who explored the area at the turn of the 19th century, the park is recognised as one of the most biologically diverse island tropical ecosystems in the world.

The park was initially protected by the Cuban government in the 1960s as three separate wildlife refuges, which were combined to form the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park in 1996. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 due to its exceptional biodiversity and the presence of many endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The park covers approximately 700 square kilometres of mountainous terrain, including Cuba's highest coastal mountains.

The landscape is remarkably varied, ranging from coastal mangroves to cloud forests at higher elevations. The park's geology, based on serpentine and other unusual rock types, has created unique soil conditions that have driven the evolution of specialised plant species. Over 1,000 flowering plants grow here, along with 145 species of ferns and 20 species of orchids.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Antonio Maceo International Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba, approximately 80 km to the southwest. From Santiago, travel by road to the park (2–3 hours depending on which entrance you use).

By Train

There is no rail service to the park. The nearest stations are in Guantánamo or Holguín.

By Car / Road

The park is located approximately 30 km northeast of Guantánamo city. From Guantánamo, take the road toward Baracoa and follow signs to park entrances. From Baracoa, numerous agencies provide organized hikes into the park. From Santiago de Cuba, the drive is about 80 km (2–3 hours). The road from Guantánamo to the park is paved but winding.

Organized tours from Baracoa are the most common way to visit the park. Agencies in Baracoa offer day hikes and multi-day treks with guides, meals, and accommodation arrangements.

Within the park, movement is on foot along marked trails. A local guide is required for most trails and is essential for safety and navigation. The park has several trail systems of varying difficulty. Horses may be available for some routes through local arrangements.

• Cloud forests — The high-altitude forests are draped in mosses, ferns, and epiphytes, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

• Endemic flora — Over 1,000 flowering plant species, many found nowhere else, including unique palm species and orchids.

• Cuban solenodon — The park is one of the last refuges of this ancient, endangered insectivore, a living fossil.

• Parrots, hummingbirds, and hutia — The park harbours endemic bird species and the hutia, a native rodent.

• Waterfalls and rivers — Crystal-clear streams and waterfalls cascade through the mountain valleys.

• Serpentine landscapes — Unusual geological formations with distinctive vegetation adapted to the mineral-rich soils.

• Guided hiking — The park's trails range from short walks to multi-day treks. Local guides from Baracoa or Guantánamo lead groups through the most scenic routes.

• Birdwatching — The park is a premier birdwatching destination with numerous endemic species.

• Botanical observation — The extraordinary plant diversity makes every hike a botanical discovery.

• Photography — The misty forests, waterfalls, and unique flora offer exceptional photographic opportunities.

There are no restaurants within the park. Bring food and water for day hikes. Multi-day treks typically include meals arranged through tour operators in Baracoa. The nearest dining options are in Baracoa or Guantánamo.

Bring plenty of water — there are no facilities within the park. Water from streams should be treated or filtered. The nearest bars and restaurants are in Baracoa (approximately 30 km from the main entrance).

• Budget: Camping is possible in designated areas with park permission. Basic casas particulares are available in villages near the park entrance at CUC 10–20 per night.
• Mid-range: Tour operators in Baracoa arrange accommodation in simple lodges or homestays near the park as part of multi-day packages.
• Upscale / heritage: No accommodation exists within the park. Stay in Baracoa (30 km) for the best range of options.

There are no shops within the park. Bring all necessary supplies (water, snacks, sun protection, rain gear). Local guides from Baracoa can arrange provisions. Small shops in nearby villages sell basic goods.

• Baracoa (30 km, 45 min by car) — Cuba's first colonial city, the main gateway to the park, with excellent food and beaches.
• Guantánamo (30 km, 45 min by car) — The provincial capital with cultural attractions.
• Holguín (varies) — A major city to the northwest, accessible through the park's northern areas.
• Maisí (100 km, 2.5 hr by car) — Cuba's easternmost point with a historic lighthouse.