By Kateryna Ivchenko   
 

In 2022, the Minister of Tourism of Cuba, Juan Carlos Garcia Granda, visited Canada with a new campaign called “Unica”. Designed to promote the destination as a cultural and natural hotspot, Cuba doesn’t stop surprising visitors with unique experiences and unmatched hospitality.

For many years now, Cuba has been known for its beaches and sun tours, but we think it’s time to switch this perspective and explore the natural wonders of the island.

Here are three excursions to consider for your upcoming journey to Cuba!

Finca Turistica "La María"

Located in the city of Morón, travellers are encouraged to visit the “La Maria” farm. Established in 1943, Finca La Maria is an agricultural tourism farm that focuses on cultivating various crops, including coffee, corn, rice, sweet potatoes, peanuts, plantains, sugar cane, and vegetables. 

The farm also features fruit and timber groves, as well as a variety of corral animals and unique species like jutia. 

Finca La Maria showcases a collection of agricultural equipment from the early 20th century, including a 1956 John Deere tractor manufactured in North America. 

Visitors can explore the farm through designated paths and indulge in natural juices such as piña colada, sugar cane water, and artisanal coffee.

"La María" serves as an excellent illustration of a fully sustainable farm, utilizing organic practices and recycling materials.

Crocodile Breeding Farm

This conservation and breeding facility, situated approximately 13 km east of Moron town and a 45-minute drive from Cayo Coco, is a popular tourist destination in the area. 

It is owned by the National Society for the Protection and Conservation of Flora and Fauna and focuses on the captive breeding and development of the American Crocodile. With over 1,000 crocodiles on their 65-hectare property, the facility plays a crucial role in conservation efforts.

On the farm, the crocodiles breed in special incubators to ensure an even male-to-female population, and when the crocodiles reach their third generation, they will be released into the wilderness.

To ensure a balanced population of crocodiles, they need to have a certain temperature, and because of global warming, it cannot be done in the wilderness. 

Laguna La Redonda

Laguna La Redonda is a lake situated approximately 8 km north of Morón town and around 48 km from Cayo Coco. 

Surrounded by mangroves, this lake boasts the highest concentration of trout and bass in Cuba. 

Laguna de la Redonda is renowned for its diverse wildlife and plant species, as well as the conservation initiatives in place to protect this ecosystem.

A small tourism center named “Complejo Turistico La Redonda” managed by the Cuban Group Palmares, offers the following activities:

• Speed boat rides
• Fishing excursions
• Restaurant El Pescador with the scenic lagoon views and more!

The Laguna de la Redonda is a popular tour offered by resorts in the cayos of the Jardines del Rey archipelago. 

These are just a few examples of how you can explore Cuba as an eco-destination. More excursions await you on the island, so make sure to ask your hotel for the options they provide.