The original Cuban capital and still its second biggest city, a visit to Santiago de Cuba truly completes Cuba holidays for those who want to soak up authentic Cuban culture in the south of the country. Nested on the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by a majestic mountain range, Santiago de Cuba has a uniquely Caribbean flavor compared with its Cuban contemporaries. Influences from neighboring Haiti and the Dominican Republic come together with a cosmopolitan mix of inhabitants from Africa, France (who have come over from Haiti) and Spain to give Santiago de Cuba a distinct Afro-Caribbean feel.
But this doesn’t detract from its Cuban identity; if anything this combination of Caribbean influence and Cuban history and traditions cultivate the most authentic Cuban experience you could find. This is a hubbub of Cuban music; you’ll find rhythms and sounds in their most basic, folk form. It is the “Heroic” city of Cuba, named so for being the birthplace of the Cuban Revolution, as well as playing a pivotal role in the War of Independence. A rich history, quintessential Caribbean Festivals and a deep rooted musical life.
“The Hot Land”
Although Santiago de Cuba arguably offers the richest profile of Cuban’s volatile history, it also offers stunning natural landscapes just outside the city and a scorching climate which sets it apart from Havana. Known as “The Hot Land’ temperatures here are a few degrees higher than in Havana, contributing to that unrivaled Caribbean vibe. Santiago de Cuba then offers a heady but surprisingly languid atmosphere. The city is built on a series of hills meaning its colorful streets take you through a myriad of different levels. Luckily the city is well-equipped with fantastic hotels for any price range meaning you can pop back after a hot walk to take a rest and cool down.
Carnival Beats
One of the most notorious events in Santiago de Cuba is Carnival. Carnivals are widely held throughout Cuba but the Santiago de Cuba Carnival holds special status in the hearts of Cubans. It kicks off in July and if you’re ever going to experience a real carnival in your life, this is a great one too pick,make a visit to this city completely essential during your next Cuba Holidays
Must-Sees
The rich history of this city means there are a huge variety of historical sites and museums which you really should check out. Visit the San Pedro de la Roca del Morro, now declared a world heritage site by UNESCO. Other great things to see are the Rum Museum, Troubadours’ House and the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery.
If you fancy popping out of the city for a day, go to the Baconao Park; a beautiful place to take in the untamed landscape in the Santiago de Cuba Province.