The city of Mantanzas and the Saturno cave

The guide's little note

Matanzas was founded in 1693 by the Spanish under the name of San Carlos y San Severino de Matanzas. Matanzas was one of the regions that experienced intensive development of sugar plantations during the colonial era. Known for its poets, culture, and Afro-Cuban folklore, Matanzas is located on the northern coast of the island of Cuba, in Matanzas Bay, 90 kilometres east of the capital Havana and 32 kilometres west of the resort town of Varadero.

Matanzas is called the city of bridges, due to the seventeen bridges that span the three rivers that run through the city (Rio Yumuri, San Juan, and Canimar). For this reason, it has been nicknamed the "Venice of Cuba". It was also referred to as "La Atenas de Cuba" ("The Athens of Cuba") for its poets.

Matanzas is known for being the birthplace of the musical and dance traditions of danzón and rumba.

The itinerary of the excursion

1. As we approach Matanzas, we pass by the Canimar River 
2. Scenic tour of the San Juan and Yumuri rivers to find the Bay of Matanzas at the Viaduct 
3. Visit to the highest point in the city of Matanzas, Ermita de Monserrate 
4. View of the Yumurí Valley from Monserrate 
5. Panoramic or walking tour of the historic centre of the city where all the architecture dates back to the colonial era
6. Lunch in a private restaurant (not included in the price of the tour)
7. Visit to the Saturno Cave

Details