Playa Larga
Playa Larga is located in the south of Matanzas province, 142 km from Havana. This peninsula has a shoe-like shape, hence its name (zapata in Spanish). The Cienaga de Zapata National Park is the most important natural reserve in Cuba. It features the Treasure Lagoon, crocodile farming, the Cueva de los peces, Playa Larga, and Punta Perdiz. It is a natural refuge for a highly diverse fauna: manatees, alligators, flamingos, turtles, and hutias (coypu). There are also 200 bird species including ibises, hummingbirds, and parrots.
In the past, the enormous swamp served as a refuge for the Taíno Indians, and later for buccaneers and charcoal burners. The forests of the Cienaga were abundant with precious woods of rare species: ebony, mahogany, mastic, which unfortunately were overexploited.
Sample itinerary for Playa Larga
We stayed for 4 nights and 3 and a half days.
- On the first half-day, we visited the village of Playa Larga on foot.
- On the second, we went snorkeling and diving at Punta Perdiz, as well as at Cueva de los Peces (sea diving). Ask your casa particular to reserve the collective truck for you the day before.
- On the third day, we hired a taxi to take us to Caleta Buena. The site opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm. Arriving early will allow you to choose your sunbed spot. It’s our favorite swimming spot in Cienaga de Zapata. The water is turquoise, which is far from the case at other swimming spots in Playa Larga.
- On the fourth day, we rented bicycles for the day from the “Tu Familia Cubana” casa particular. We rode to the crocodile farm, which is 11 km from the center of Playa Larga, and then to Playa Máquina beach (4 km from Playa Larga). Remember to bring water, sunscreen, a hat or cap, and of course, some music! We left Playa Larga at 10 am, which was perfect for returning to our casa around 6 pm.
Our favorite restaurants
Chuchi El Gordo in Playa Larga
Quantity and quality are guaranteed.
La Finquita in Palpite
4 main courses (such as shrimp, lobster, fish, chicken, pork) with side dishes.
Laguna del Tesoro
The “Laguna del Tesoro,” with an area of 9 km2, is located 8 km from Boca de Guama. You need to take a boat to cross the Canal de la Laguna and arrive at the lagoon. This village built on small islets is a reconstitution modeled after an ancient Taíno village. Its name, “Laguna del Tesoro,” comes from a legend that says a treasure was thrown to the bottom of the lake by the Indians at the time of the arrival of the Spaniards.
Crocodile Farm
The crocodile farm has become one of the largest resources in the Cienaga. It houses several species of crocodiles of all ages, including the “crocodile Rhombifer,” an endemic species that has been saved from extinction thanks to breeding farms.
Cueva de los Peces
It is an immense flooded tectonic fissure (called Cenote in Central America) that hosts countless tropical fish. It is also a paradisiacal place where you can swim amidst lush vegetation in a magnificent natural pool. Finally, underneath the cave are underwater tunnels that connect to the sea.
Possibility to dive in this cenote with Octopus Club or to dive in the sea in front of the cenote.
Punta Perdiz and Caleta Buena, all-inclusive day trip
These are ideal spots for snorkeling and diving in turquoise waters. You’ll spend the day there, with sun loungers, unlimited cocktails, and buffet meals included. Fish and coral observation start just a few meters from the shore. You can also swim for free at El Tanque, right next to Punta Perdiz.
