The Best Birdwatching Spots in Cuba

Over in western Cuba, the pine forests and semi-tropical forests of the Sierra del Rosario are another top spot for birdwatching. Around 100 different species live here, including the Cuban solitaire, Gundlach’s hawk and Fernandina’s flicker. Las Terrazas eco-park is a great starting point, and it’s within easy reach of Havana on the road towards Pinar del Rio.

Most famous for its beaches and luxury hotels, Cayo Coco is also a paradise for birdwatching. It’s surrounded by mangroves, sand dunes and seagrass, which are home to more than 200 species of bird. Stay in Cayo Coco and take a day trip to uninhabited Cayo Paredón Grande for even more adventure.

The limestone karst area of the Sierra de Najasa is home to the peak of El Chorrillo, in the Camaguey province. Head to Ranch La Belen and explore the birding trails to see the sharp-shinned hawk and the Cuban parrot among other gems.

Head to eastern Cuba to visit this mountain range, with pine forest, coastal bays, and rainforest. There are 12 endemic species just waiting to be spotted, and the area is also home to the rarest bird in Cuba, the ivory-billed woodpecker.

This beautiful valley is one of the most popular tourist spots in Cuba, but it’s also a great spot for birdwatching. Check into Hotel Los Jazmines, with its amazing pool overlooking the valley, and explore the trails that snake around the area.

This swamp, salt flats and scrubland is found near the River Hatiguanico in the south of the country. Cuba is home to 21 endemic bird species, and 18 of them are found here. Take a guided tour to explore the birding trails, and keep an eye out for the crocodiles that also live here.

On the far eastern end of the island lies the city of Baracoa, which used to be the capital of Cuba. Today it’s a small town, but the mountains outside are home to many endemic species.