One of the most visited places in Cuba is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fantastic looking karst landscapes fascinate tourists who have never seen anything like it before. In the 90s, the country recognized this legendary valley, extremely suitable for recreation and educational tours, as a national treasure.
Vinales Valley: where is it located?
A small green paradise located in the west of the republic invariably attracts the attention of travelers from all over the world. An unusual attraction is located in the province of Pinar del Rio, near the small and quiet town of Vinales. It can easily be reached on your own by any transport or come with a guided tour.
The cost of the tour is approximately $ 50, but this is only a small price for getting to know the emerald lowland. Millions of years ago, the Vinales Valley, whose photo conveys the pacification reigning here, was much higher, but the process of subsidence that had begun did its job.
Limestone Giants
The national park is of constant interest among tourists, growing as if from the earth by sheer gigantic rocks of the most bizarre forms. Many limestone cones are over 160 million years old. The mysteries of the Vinales Valley are studied by scientists who are convinced that previously there were entire cave complexes that collapsed after centuries of weathering and erosion of limestone.
The Cubans call them "Mogote", and for the flat peaks from which a stunning view of the marvelous landscapes opens up, they are nicknamed "the backs of elephants." By the way, these giant rock formations really resemble frozen animals. Climbers come here in search of new experiences to conquer the ancient peaks.
Ancient caves
The beautiful Vinales Valley is famous for its caves, considered the largest in Latin America. Cueva del Indio is famous for its fast underground river, along which exciting boat trips are made, giving an unforgettable experience.
In the mazes of Santo Tomas, stretching over 40 kilometers, interesting excursions are held through the dark halls of the grottoes in which the Spanish conquerors once hid. Investigating hazardous areas will require special equipment and an experienced guide.
Cavers study a unique underground system and claim poorly explored "wild" territories, but this does not stop extreme people who dream of exploring a huge cave on their own. In this case, no one guarantees the safety of tourists.
Fresco on the rock
Near the most interesting place of the valley, guests of the country are always crowding, admiring the 120-meter-high rock, on which the Cuban artist depicted ancient people and animals in the primitive period. This work, visible from afar with bright colors, is called "Prehistoric Mural".
Unique plants and trees
Spread over 132 square kilometers, the Vinales Valley is of great interest to scientists for the unique flora collected in the botanical garden of Casa de Caridad. A special pride of a delightful place is an amazing palm tree, which is living evidence of the Jurassic period. And during the harvest, all travelers will be treated to unusually delicious fruits.
Tobacco growing
In the heart of the green paradise, lovely ethnic houses stand for a special atmosphere. The Cubans living here sacredly honor the ancient culture, and therefore the layout of wooden structures has not changed for two hundred years. They are also sensitive to their traditions, which even in the XXI century have remained unchanged since ancient times.
The local population, who arrived here from other territories, grows tobacco on plantations, which is considered their main source of income. Part of the tour will be monitoring the process of making cigars of excellent quality. Cubans claim that their tobacco is the best in the world, and often repeat the ridiculous saying that you can’t just grow it - you must marry it.
Manual method of making cigars
A tropical plant requires a lot of attention to itself, but special care pays off handsomely, and the Vinales Valley is known far beyond the borders of the country. The settlers built factories in which cigars, world-famous for the whole world, are made by hand. Here, everyone is given a unique opportunity to purchase them at low prices.
A population of no more than 25 thousand is still engaged in fishing and serves visitors. At the end of a fascinating journey, each guest will try national dishes and exotic fruits included in the price of the tour.
Tourists who have been here note that the peaceful valley of Vinales helps restore spiritual strength, giving peace and energizing. Tired of noisy megalopolises, people plunge into a healing atmosphere, forgetting about all the problems.