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El Yunque

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Mountain
—°1
El Yunque (Cuba)

Weather…

El Yunque is a prominent table mountain located approximately 10 kilometers west of the city of Baracoa in eastern Cuba. Rising to an elevation of 575 meters above sea level, it is an unmistakable landmark of the region and was designated a National Monument in 1979. The name "El Yunque" is Spanish for "The Anvil," referring to the mountain's characteristic flat-topped shape. The plateau is surrounded by dense tropical rainforest that hosts a vast array of endemic flora and fauna. Christopher Columbus mentioned the mountain in his logbook during his first voyage in 1492, describing it as a key navigational landmark. Due to the high humidity and frequent rainfall, the vegetation on the mountain is exceptionally lush, featuring rare species of orchids and ferns. Climbing to the summit provides panoramic views of the Bay of Baracoa and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252525262728282828282726
Rain mm3523324197775169931428141

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The trailhead is usually reached by a short taxi or organized transport ride from the nearby coastal town of Baracoa.
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Best season
The dry season from November to April is good, as the trails can become extremely slippery and muddy during the rainy months.
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Terrain & paths
The hike involves a steep, challenging ascent through humid tropical forest, with rocky sections and river crossings along the way.
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What to bring
Proper hiking boots with good grip are essential due to mud, along with lightweight breathable clothing, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
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Parking
Vehicles can typically be left at the official visitor center or trailhead parking area where local guides are often hired.
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Safety
The high humidity and steep slopes require a good level of fitness. A local guide is often mandatory or highly recommended for navigation.
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Time needed
The round-trip hike typically takes about four to six hours, depending on individual fitness levels and trail conditions.

Geography

Coordinates
20.33330, -74.58330

Facts

  • El Yunque de Baracoa stands at an altitude of 575 meters above sea level.
  • It was declared a Cuban National Monument in 1979 for its natural value.
  • Christopher Columbus recorded the mountain in his diary on November 27, 1492.
  • Its name means 'The Anvil' in Spanish due to its distinctive flat summit.
  • The mountain is located within the Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve.
  • The area is home to the rare and endemic Cuban dwarf hawk.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Cuchillas de BaracoaCuchillas de Baracoa3 km · SEExplore →
Baracoa Cocoa PlantationBaracoa Cocoa Plantation4 km · NExplore →
Yumurí RiverYumurí River7 km · SExplore →
Fuerte MatachínFuerte Matachín9 km · NExplore →
ImíasImías11 km · SWExplore →
San Antonio del SurSan Antonio del Sur25 km · SExplore →
Boca de YumuríBoca de Yumurí32 km · NExplore →
Cuchillas del ToaCuchillas del Toa35 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town El Yunque (1)

El Yunque (Cuba)📍 landmark

El Yunque is a distinctive table-top hill located near Baracoa in eastern Cuba.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is El Yunque mountain?
The table mountain has a distinctive flat top and is 575 meters high.
Is it allowed to climb the mountain alone?
No, a local guide is mandatory for the climb.
What happens if it rains?
In heavy rain, the path becomes very slippery, and the tour may be canceled for safety reasons.
Are there refreshments at the foot of the mountain?
Yes, there are small stalls selling coconuts and fruit.
How long does the climb take?
The ascent and descent take about 3 to 4 hours in total.
El Yunque: where is it located?
El Yunque is located in Cuba.
El Yunque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
El Yunque: why is it worth visiting?
El Yunque is a prominent table mountain located approximately 10 kilometers west of the city of Baracoa in eastern Cuba.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
North America
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Nearby cities

Guantánamo (city) — El Yunque (Cuba)
Guantánamo (city)
The capital of Guantánamo province, near the controversial U.S.
Baracoa — El Yunque (Cuba)
Baracoa
The oldest city in Cuba, founded by Diego Velázquez in 1511.
Maisí — El Yunque (Cuba)
Maisí
The easternmost municipality of Cuba, known for its lighthouse and unique terraced landscape.
Imías — El Yunque (Cuba)
Imías
A coastal municipality in the far east of Cuba, known for its terraced coastal formations.
San Antonio del Sur — El Yunque (Cuba)
San Antonio del Sur
A municipality in Guantánamo, located in one of the driest regions of Cuba.
Boca de Yumurí — El Yunque (Cuba)
Boca de Yumurí
Boca de Yumurí is a tiny fishing village marking the mouth of the Yumurí River, offering dramatic canyon views and nature tours.
Yateras — El Yunque (Cuba)
Yateras
A mountainous municipality in Guantánamo, known for its rich biodiversity and coffee production.
Manuel Tames — El Yunque (Cuba)
Manuel Tames
A municipality in Guantánamo province whose economy is based on agriculture and coffee cultivation.
Caimanera — El Yunque (Cuba)
Caimanera
A fishing village on Guantánamo Bay, right on the border with the US naval base.
El Salvador — El Yunque (Cuba)
El Salvador
A municipality in Guantánamo dedicated to the production of coffee and cocoa.

Nature

Yumurí River — El Yunque (Cuba)
Yumurí River
A river in eastern Cuba that has carved a spectacular canyon through the mountains.

More places

Cuchillas de Baracoa — El Yunque (Cuba)
Cuchillas de Baracoa
A rugged mountain chain around Baracoa in eastern Cuba.
Fuerte Matachín — El Yunque (Cuba)
Fuerte Matachín
Historic fortress in Baracoa, home to the municipal museum.
Cuchillas del Toa — El Yunque (Cuba)
Cuchillas del Toa
A rugged mountain area in far eastern Cuba with rich biodiversity.
Maisí Plateau — El Yunque (Cuba)
Maisí Plateau
A high plateau at the far eastern tip of Cuba.
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Port of Guantánamo
A southeastern Cuban port linked to regional commerce and coastal shipping.
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Guantanamo Mining
Mineral extraction in the east.