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Moa Nickel Plant

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Industrial site
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Moa Nickel Plant (Cuba)

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The Moa nickel plant, officially known as the 'Pedro Sotto Alba' facility, is located in northeastern Holguín province and serves as the epicenter of Cuba's mining industry. The plant specializes in extracting nickel and cobalt from the region's globally significant laterite deposits using high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) technology. Moa is a leading global producer of nickel-cobalt intermediates, which are essential raw materials for stainless steel production and the manufacturing of electric vehicle batteries. Since the 1990s, the facility has been operated as a joint venture with the Canadian firm Sherritt International, providing access to modern processing techniques and international markets. The intense industrial activity has defined the town of Moa, where the characteristic red soil of open-pit mines dominates the landscape. While economically vital, the region faces significant environmental challenges regarding waste management and the reclamation of mined lands. The plant remains a cornerstone of Cuba's export sector and a major contributor to the national gross domestic product.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232324252627272727262424
Rain mm2318213263573342601176632

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The Moa Nickel Plant is the center of nickel and cobalt mining in Cuba, processing raw materials from surrounding mines. It holds enormous economic importance for the region and the country.
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Visiting
The plant is an active industrial area and thus generally not open to visitors. From nearby public roads, the large production halls and chimneys are visible.
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Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the bridge over the Moa River, offering a panorama of the entire plant. From the hills above Moa town, an impressive view of the facility is also possible.
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Local products
Here, nickel and cobalt products are produced in various intermediate forms, including mixed hydroxide and sulfate. These substances are exported or supplied to domestic industry and are not viewable on site.
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Active season
Production runs around the clock year-round, with seasonal fluctuations due to maintenance. The strongest export activity typically occurs between February and June.
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Nearby
Nearby are the Moa mines and Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the park with its unique ecosystems complements the industrial visit.

Geography

Coordinates
20.67000, -74.93000

Facts

  • The plant employs High-Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) technology.
  • Cuba possesses some of the largest nickel reserves in the world.
  • The joint venture with Sherritt International was established in 1994.
  • Nickel is a top-tier export commodity for the Cuban economy.
  • The facility was originally constructed by U.S. interests in the late 1950s.
  • Cobalt is recovered as a high-value byproduct of the nickel refining process.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

MoaMoa2 km · SExplore →
YaterasYateras9 km · WExplore →
Alexander von Humboldt National ParkAlexander von Humboldt National Park10 km · SWExplore →
Cuchillas del ToaCuchillas del Toa11 km · WExplore →
Manuel TamesManuel Tames19 km · SWExplore →
San Antonio del SurSan Antonio del Sur23 km · NWExplore →
CaimaneraCaimanera31 km · SWExplore →
Yumurí RiverYumurí River32 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Moa Nickel plant?
One of the world's largest nickel extraction centers.
Is photography allowed at the plant?
Photography is usually prohibited for security reasons.
Why is the soil red here?
Due to the high iron and nickel content.
When is it worth visiting the region?
In the dry season, as roads are muddy during rain.
What is the environmental impact?
Open-pit mining has significantly altered the landscape.
Moa Nickel Plant: where is it located?
Moa Nickel Plant is located in Cuba.
Moa Nickel Plant: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Moa Nickel Plant: why is it worth visiting?
The Moa nickel plant, officially known as the 'Pedro Sotto Alba' facility, is located in northeastern Holguín province and serves as the epicenter of Cuba's mining industry.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Jobabo — Moa Nickel Plant (Cuba)
Jobabo
A city and municipality in the province of Las Tunas, which is an important center for sugar production.
Amancio — Moa Nickel Plant (Cuba)
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A municipality in the south of Las Tunas province, whose main industry is sugar production.
Colombia — Moa Nickel Plant (Cuba)
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A city and municipality in the province of Las Tunas.
🗺️
Playa Covarrubias
A tranquil, secluded beach resort in Las Tunas, Cuba, boasting a magnificent coral reef and crystal-clear waters.

History & landmarks

Plaza Mayor in Trinidad — Moa Nickel Plant (Cuba)
Plaza Mayor in Trinidad
The heart of colonial Trinidad, surrounded by imposing mansions.

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