Holguin Province is the third largest province in Cuba by population and offers a microcosm of the entire country and a number of unique experiences. For example, Bag Bays, or “Bariya,” which are bays with deep and narrow entrances that open into large areas, can only be found in Holguin Province. For visitors, the province offers opportunities for relaxation, education and adventure combined with excellent cuisine and interactions with the Cuban people. Below is a list of some of the top tourist experiences in Holguin Province.
Eco-parks.
Cuba has developed a number of eco-parks as part of its environmental strategy. These parks offer nature experiences that will capture the imagination through hiking, sailing in mangroves, dining on local foods, and spotting unique local birds.
Romerías de Mayo.
This yearly festival – The Pilgrimages of May – occurs on May 3 in Holguin City and features a parade of dancers and singers in colorful costumes, along with floats and flags, and a hike up 458 steps to the top of the Hill of the Cross where visitors can enjoy spectacular sunset views of the city below. The origins of the festival stem from a desire to bless the town and protect it from natural and human disasters by placing a cross at the top of the hill. It has evolved into a celebration full of fun and laughter.
Cayo Bariya.
This is the location where it is believed that Christopher Columbus actually landed. The belief is bolstered by excerpts from Columbus’s own diaries, which describe the coast, beaches and native villages in ways that match the actual topography of the area. Cuba celebrates its indigenous heritage in this area, which features re-enactments of the Taino myth of Yayael, whose death caused water and fish to spill from a gourd and cover the land known as Cuba; the Encounter of Two Cultures” monument, where Spanish ruins are next to red-earth-colored statues representing the values of the Taino people, who lived in the area for 10,000 years before Columbus arrived; and an outdoor archeological exhibit and re-enactment of Columbus meeting the Taino.
A birders’ paradise.
For the 18 million people who travel to watch and photograph birds every year, Holguin Province offers excellent opportunities to see Northern Mockingbirds, Common Grackles, Turkey Vultures and Red-Legged Thrushes in the trees. The area also features 26 endemic species that can be seen in the area.
Cayo Saetia.
This day trip to the town of Antilla can be scheduled by many of the resorts in Holguin and features a one-hour catamaran ride to the beach for excellent swimming and snorkeling. This national park offers horseback riding and jeep safaris that give visitors a chance to see ostriches, buffalo, deer, antelope, horses and zebras. A great adventure for families.
