María la Gorda

María la Gorda is situated on the remote Guanahacabibes Peninsula, the westernmost tip of Cuba, and is world-renowned as a premier diving destination. The isolated nature of this location ensures an incredibly peaceful atmosphere, attracting travelers whose primary goal is to explore the unspoiled underwater environments. The area is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological importance. Above water, visitors are treated to remarkable views of the Caribbean Sea, framed by lush coastal vegetation and pristine beaches. Beneath the surface lies the true treasure. The crystal-clear waters offer visibility of up to 30 meters, revealing a wide-open marine landscape filled with black coral reefs, steep drop-offs, and colorful sponges. Divers often encounter sea turtles and tropical fish. Dining is concentrated at the local diving resort, offering meals featuring fresh local fish, rice, and tropical fruits. Reaching María la Gorda requires a drive of about four hours from Havana, taking you through the beautiful Guanahacabibes National Park. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is sunny and ocean conditions are optimal for deep diving.

Nearby cities

Havana

The capital of Cuba, known for its colonial architecture and vintage cars.

Santiago de Cuba

The second largest city in Cuba with rich Afro-Caribbean culture.

Camaguey

City known for the labyrinthine streets of its historic center.

Holguin

Known as the 'City of Parks', surrounded by hills and mountains.

Cienfuegos

Known as the 'Pearl of the South', featuring French colonial architecture.

Trinidad

A well-preserved colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage site.

Viñales

A small town in the west known for its tobacco plantations.

Varadero

Popular resort town on the Hicacos Peninsula with beautiful sandy beaches.

Varahicacos Ecological Reserve

Varahicacos is an ecological reserve situated at the tip of the Varadero peninsula, protecting a remnant of the region's original coastal…

Playa Ancón

Playa Ancón is widely considered the best beach on Cuba's southern coast, offering pristine white sands just a short distance from Trinidad.

History & landmarks

El Cobre

El Cobre is a small mountain town known for its historic copper mines and the revered minor basilica housing Cuba's patron saint.

Isle of Youth

The second largest Cuban island, known for its pine forests and beaches.

Plaza de la Revolución

A huge public square in Havana known for political rallies.

Havana Club Rum Museum

A museum in Havana showcasing the history of Cuban rum.

Zapata Swamp

A large wetland area on the Zapata Peninsula, home to crocodiles.

Playa Paraíso

Beautiful beach on Cayo Largo del Sur with white sand.

Topes de Collantes

A nature reserve park in the Escambray Mountains with waterfalls and trails.

Baconao Park

A large biosphere reserve featuring a prehistoric valley and museums.

Nature

Leche Lagoon

The largest natural lake in Cuba, known for its milky appearance.

Cauto River

The longest river in Cuba, flowing through the eastern provinces.

More places

Viñales Valley

A lush valley featuring unique limestone karst formations called mogotes.

Gulf of Batabanó

A shallow gulf on the southwestern coast of Cuba, known for sponge fishing and lobster catching.

Hemingway House

The former residence of the famous American writer Ernest Hemingway.

Strait of Florida

The strait that separates Cuba from Florida and connects the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.

Escambray Mountains

A major mountain range in central Cuba with diverse plant life.

Che Guevara Mausoleum

Resting place of revolutionary leader Che Guevara in Santa Clara.

Cayo Coco

An idyllic island known for its all-inclusive resorts.

Gulf of Guacanayabo

The largest bay on the southern coast of Cuba, where the country's longest river, the Cauto River, flows.