Cayo Santa María: A jewel in the Caribbean

By Daily Pérez Guillén

Forty-eight kilometers of a zigzagging line through the sea connect the mainland in the north-central region of Cuba with Cayo Las Brujas, Ensenachos and Cayo Santa María. In these stretches of land, where nature is lavish in beauty and biodiversity, Cuba treasures one of its most attractive tourist destinations.

Experts and travelers have compared this spot to the Maldives or Bora Bora, but in the Caribbean, the area collectively known as Cayo Santa María stands out for its pristine and protected nature and the relaxing experience found by those seeking rest, luxury and natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy extensive beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply breathing fresh air.

Among them, Playa Las Gaviotas stands out for its pristine charm and for being located within a nature reserve.

Meanwhile, the mangroves and forests are home to endemic species, making it a perfect place for biodiversity lovers. In this wildlife refuge, which covers an area of ​​more than 77,000 hectares and is home to some 248 plant species, guides recommend hiking along ecological trails to explore the flora and lagoons and observe native birds. Cayo Santa María has been recognized by UNESCO for its lush vegetation and biodiversity. Pink flamingos, pelicans and other tropical species stand out in the marine landscape.

The development driven by the Gaviota Tourism Group, which encompasses a network of 20 accommodations and more than 12,000 rooms, brought international chains such as Meliá, Iberostar, Royalton Hotels & Resorts, Roc, Valentin and Archipelago to this area. These all-inclusive hotels offer a variety of services, international cuisine and nightly entertainment. The exclusive hotels have been designed to offer maximum comfort and elegance, perfectly integrated into the natural surroundings.

Human activity has also created plazas, markets, a marina, an airport and all the necessary infrastructure to sustain this sun and beach resort.

Among the water activities, vacationers can choose from snorkeling and diving among coral reefs and the seabed. Catamaran trips are an experience travelers should enjoy. Aboard boats called Crucero del Sol (Sun Cruises), accompanied by charismatic entertainers, you can explore the waters surrounding these paradisiacal keys.

A must-see is the dolphinarium where, in addition to the show, you can swim with these animals in a safe environment.

Access to the keys in central Cuba takes little time, as the Abel Santamaría International Airport in the city of Santa Clara is less than two hours away, and other destinations such as Trinidad, Cienfuegos and Remedios connect to this tourist gem through an efficient transportation network.