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A tropical paradise of seclusion
Cayo Saetía, a hidden gem in eastern Cuba, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife. This 42 km² dream island, connected to the mainland by a causeway, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil oasis off the beaten path. More than half of the island is covered by dense forest, making it a perfect sanctuary for wildlife. Zebra, buffalo, white-tailed deer and antelope roam the forests here, while wild boar dig in the ground for food. The journey by bus or car can be adventurous due to some potholes, but the reward is a breathtaking paradise.
Highlights
in Cayo Saetía
✓ Pristine beaches
✓ Crystal clear water
✓ Rich wildlife
✓ Snorkeling opportunities
✓ Adventurous exploration tours
Places of interest Cayo Saetía
Playa del Este
A beautiful, pristine beach with fine white sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Enjoy the peace and seclusion of this paradise while you enjoy the gentle waves and breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. The beach is perfect for long walks, relaxing days under the sun and romantic sunsets.
Safari Tour
An exciting tour through the nature reserve where you can observe exotic animals such as zebras, antelopes and ostriches in the wild. These guided tours offer you the opportunity to experience the diverse wildlife of Cayo Saetía up close. Experienced guides share their knowledge of the animals and the island's ecology as you drive through the breathtaking landscape in off-road vehicles.
Snorkeling spots
Discover the colorful underwater world at the various snorkeling spots around the island, rich in corals and tropical fish. The clear waters offer ideal conditions for exploring the diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, the snorkeling spots on Cayo Saetía offer unforgettable experiences.
Mangrove forests
Explore the dense mangrove forests, which are home to unique flora and fauna and are a perfect place for nature photography. These fascinating ecosystems provide a habitat for many species of birds, fish and other animals. Hiking or kayaking tours through the mangroves offer an excellent opportunity to experience nature up close and take breathtaking photos.
Popular activities in Cayo Saetía
Snorkeling
Discover the fascinating underwater world with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. The clear waters around Cayo Saetía offer ideal conditions for snorkelers of all experience levels with a colorful marine fauna.
Riding
Experience the island on horseback and enjoy the beautiful landscape. These guided horseback tours take you through picturesque trails and offer you the opportunity to experience the diverse flora and fauna of Cayo Saetía.
Animal observations
Take part in an exciting safari tour and see exotic animals in their natural habitat. Observe zebras, antelopes and ostriches in the wild and learn more about the island's fascinating wildlife from experienced guides.
Walks on the beach
Enjoy relaxing walks along the pristine beaches of Cayo Saetía. The fine white sand and crystal-clear water invite you to take leisurely walks, where you can soak up the tranquillity and beauty of the surroundings.
Kayaking
Explore the picturesque coastline and mysterious mangrove forests by kayak. This activity offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the island and the opportunity to discover hidden bays and lagoons.
Nature photography
Capture the island's impressive flora and fauna with your camera. The diverse landscapes and rich animal life offer countless photo opportunities that will delight amateur and professional photographers alike.
Are you ready to discover Cayo Saetía? Request your personalized itinerary and a quote today! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and take the first step towards your unforgettable adventure!
Start your perfect round trip
Hiking tour Pico Turquino
- Experience the unspoilt East Cuba
- Climb the highest mountain in Cuba
- Turquino National Park and Sierra Maestra
Cuba Cross Over
- Our most popular active round trip
- Dream beaches of Cayo Jutias
- Trinidad, Viñales, Cienfuegos, Havana
Adventure Cuba
- Dancing, cycling, hiking, horse riding
- National parks, waterfalls, mountains
- Beach holiday in María la Gorda
History of the place and interesting facts
Cayo Saetía was originally used as a hunting reserve for the Cuban elite and was declared a nature reserve in the 1970s. Today, the island is a popular destination for nature and animal lovers who want to experience numerous exotic animal species in the wild. The pristine beaches and clear waters make Cayo Saetía a paradise for those seeking relaxation and adventure.
The protection of the nature park is very important to the Cuban government, which is why access is controlled by the military. Tourists can either purchase a day pass from the guards for around 10 CUC or present a reservation for the hotel on the island. This strict control has helped to ensure that many of the original flora and fauna species have survived to this day. Read more about the history of Cuba.
Culture
The culture on Cayo Saetía is strongly influenced by the natural environment. There are no urban structures and life is simple and in harmony with nature. The local cuisine consists of fresh seafood and traditional Cuban dishes. Read more about the culture of Cuba.
Our tips on site
The best time to visit Cayo Saetía is from November to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry and you can enjoy the island in all its glory.
The island is home to a variety of insects, especially in the dense and lush mangrove areas. These unique ecosystems are home to a variety of insect species.
Comfortable hiking boots are ideal for exploring and long hikes through the island's extensive and varied nature reserve.
Hotels Cayo Saetía
There are various accommodation options available for your stay on Cayo Saetía and in the surrounding area, from rustic bungalows to comfortable hotels in the nearby towns of Holguín and Guardalavaca.
On Cayo Saetía itself, the simple Hotel Cayo Saetía offers spacious rooms, a bar, a beach barbecue, a store and a restaurant serving exotic dishes. Enjoy dishes such as roast antelope on the balcony with great views at dusk. A day trip from Holguín or Guardalavaca to Cayo Saetía is ideal for experiencing the island's unspoiled nature and diverse wildlife.
Discover the best accommodation and find the perfect base for your exploration of this fascinating region on our general hotel page.
Transport in Cuba
Comfortable intercity buses are available for travelling between Cuba's cities and regularly connect the most important metropolises. Although the journeys can take several hours, the advantage is that you can reach your destination comfortably and safely.
Are you ready to explore Cuba on your own? Hire a car now and experience the freedom to organise your own adventure. Start your journey and discover the island's hidden treasures at your own pace. Book your vehicle now and hit the road!
If you want to opt for maximum comfort and a stress-free journey, book your taxi or private transfer now and enjoy a direct, fast journey without detours. Treat yourself to this luxury - relax and get to your destination effortlessly.
Would you like to find out more about transport options in Cuba? Find out what the differences are between public transfers, car hire and a car with a private driver. Click here to explore the different options and make the right choice for you.
Places of interest in the vicinity
Discover Holguín, known as the "city of parks", and enjoy its picturesque green spaces, lively squares and rich cultural scene.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this city and visit its historic sites while enjoying the musical tradition and lively city life.
Explore Bayamo, the cradle of the Cuban independence movement, and be impressed by its historical significance and charming colonial architecture.
Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to Cuba. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on the time change and recommendations for important health precautions you should take before you leave.
We have compiled all the necessary information for you to ensure that your stay in Cuba is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.