Cienfuegos: Cuba’s Pearl of the South

Photos: Cienfuegos Travel

Located in south-central Cuba, Cienfuegos is a destination already famous for captivating those seeking a unique experience on the island. Known as the Pearl of the South or the City of the Sea, this province covers 4,180.02 km² and is home to 407,244 inhabitants, of whom 177,113 reside in its capital city.

The Canadian airline WestJet announced that on December 10, it will resume direct flights from Toronto to this part of Cuba, whose historic center has been recognized as a World Heritage Site since 2005.

If you are among those who have considered visiting this region, know that it is well worth the trip. Cienfuegos is the only city in Cuba founded by French colonists under the Spanish crown. Its name honors Don José Cienfuegos Jovellanos, who was the island’s captain general in 1829 when the town was founded. The elegance of its neoclassical architecture and its perfectly planned urban layout make it a gem that shouldn’t be missed.

In addition to its architectural richness, the city also offers countless natural attractions that you can explore independently or through tours organized by agencies.

Guanaroca Lagoon

Just a 20-minute drive from the city, you’ll find Guanaroca-Gavilán Lagoon, an ideal haven for birdwatching, with colonies of pink flamingos, Cuban todys and Cuban trogons. The best time to enjoy this experience is around 8:30 a.m., before the sun gets too hot.

The lagoon is formed by the Arimao River before it flows into Cienfuegos Bay and is surrounded by mangroves. Several trails lead to an observation platform.

Botanical Garden

The Cienfuegos Botanical Garden is the oldest in Cuba. Located near the town of Pepito Tey, the site is home to more than 2,000 plant species and is an important center for scientific research. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, a solarium, a greenhouse and diverse culinary offers. Within its 97 hectares lies a wonderful nursery of tropical and subtropical plants with over 2,000 cataloged species. The bamboo plantations, with more than 23 different species, are well worth a visit, as are the more than 200 varieties of cacti and the palm groves, with over 280 varieties of palm trees, ranging from the native royal palm to the unusual cork-palm hybrid.

El Nicho Natural Park

The Guamuhaya Massif, known for its breathtaking landscapes, is home to El Nicho Natural Park, located approximately an hour and a half from Cienfuegos. Famous for its steep peaks, deep valleys, lush vegetation and waterfalls, excursions can be booked through travel agencies and typically include transportation, a guide, entrance fees and lunch.

To reach the waterfall, visitors must hike a beautiful nature trail of just over a kilometer known as the Kingdom of Waters, where you can discover the area’s abundant flora and fauna, such as Cuban trogons and palm trees. To rest following the hike, you can take a refreshing dip in the numerous natural pools you’ll find, such as the Lovers’ Pool. There are also numerous caves waiting to be explored.

After an intense day immersed in nature, you can recharge at the ranch-style restaurant, offering delicious local dishes.

Beaches and Cienfuegos Bay

Nearby beaches, such as Guajimico, Playa Inglés and Yaguanabo, are perfect for enjoying the sun and sea. Cienfuegos Bay offers spectacular views, and you can explore it on tours organized by Marina Marlin, where you can also participate in various water sports.

Santa Isabel de Las Lajas

This is the birthplace of Benny Moré and the site of the biennial Benny Moré International Music Festival.

Bartolomé Maximiliano Moré Gutiérrez, popularly known as Benny Moré, was born on August 24, 1919, in Santa Isabel de las Lajas and died on February 19, 1963, in Havana. This celebrated Cuban singer and composer was known for his versatile vocal range and exceptional talent for musical composition, which earned him a privileged place in Cuban culture. His recordings have stood the test of time, becoming classics, and his life has acquired legendary status, and the nickname The Barbarian of Rhythm.

Playa Rancho Luna

Rancho Luna is a small, picturesque beach located about 18 kilometers south of Cienfuegos, very close to Jagua Bay.

The area has two hotel complexes, but unlike other resort destinations in Cuba, here you can also stay in a private home.

The beach is protected by a coral reef, and the coastline offers an ideal setting for diving, with more than 30 dive sites located just a 20-minute boat ride away.

To get to Rancho Luna, you can take one of the daily buses that depart from Cienfuegos, the Jagua ferry, or a taxi from Cienfuegos.