Pinar del Río

One of the most outstanding geographical accidents in Cuba´s westernmost province -Pinar del Río- is the Valley of Viñales. The valley occupies an area of 132 square Kilometers and it is encircled by mountains. Its landscape is interspersed with dramatic rocky outcrops. Traditional techniques are still in use for agricultural production, particularly of tobacco. The quality of this dazzling cultural landscape is enhanced by the vernacular architecture of its farms and villages, where a rich multi-ethnic society survives, illustrating the cultural development of the islands of the Caribbean and of Cuba. The mountains are prolific in caves, a fact that confers a marked significance from an speleological interest, or just adds curiosity to the adventure minded. The Indian Cave stands out among them, as it is crossed by the San Vicente river. To the west you will find Santo Tomas’s cavern system with more than 45 km of galleries and Palmarito´s, with over 60Km.: two of the most extensive of America. Wild flora is an important element in the Valley of Viñales; there is abundance of endemic species of Cuba such as, the Ceibón (Bombax emarginatum), Palmita de Sierra (Gaussia princeps), Roble Caimán (Ekmanhianthes actinophilla) and the Palma Corcho (Microcycas calocoma). The local fauna also shows a marked endemism and offers an exciting attraction to bird-watchers. Among the well known hummingbirds and nightingales, you will discover tocororos (Priotelus temnurus), cartacubas (Todus multicolor) and el tomeguín del pinar (Tiarias canora). Ideal for all travellers interested in enjoying Cuban nature.