Baracoa - El Yunque

Just outside of Baracoa is the flat top mountain of El Yunque. This landmark limestone mountain reaches 589m / 1,932ft at its highest point. The hillside has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is home to rare plants, including carnivorous varieties, as well as endangered bird species.

Visitors can hike to the summit of El Yunque but must be done with a guide, or as part of a tour. This is easily done as a day trip from Baracoa. The hike is not particularly difficult but can be hot and is best done early in the day.

Local legend has it that Columbus made reference to El Yunque in 1492 but it is now believed he was actually referring to a different but similar shaped mountain near Gibara. Nonetheless, El Yunque can be seen far out to see and has been used for centuries as a point of reference.