CubaPLUS Magazine

If there is a crown jewel among Cuba’s natural wonders, it is undoubtedly Cayo Saetía. Perched at the entrance of Nipe Bay, just off the coast of Holguín province, this sanctuary is so accessible that a small bridge connects it to the mainland, allowing visitors to cross over into a different world.

Spanning 42 square kilometers, the cay’s primary allure lies in its breathtaking coastline. Its beaches are defined by crystalline, temperate waters and sands so fine that walking along the shore feels like drifting across the clouds.

For those seeking adventure, Saetía offers everything from catamaran voyages to immersive water sports, including world-class diving. The underwater shelf surrounding the cay is a vibrant marine habitat; its coral reefs host kaleidoscopic communities of tropical fish, while the surface is equally alive with a diverse array of birds and mammals.

What truly sets Cayo Saetía apart, however, is its signature safari experience. Travelers often describe the excursion as a journey into the heart of the African wilderness. Across its sprawling plains, one can spot an array of exotic species brought from across the seas—primarily from Africa—including antelopes, ostriches, zebras, impalas, deer, wild boar, giraffes, buffalo, and macaws.

This biodiversity hotspot is home to approximately 110 bird species, including Cuba’s national bird, the tocororo. The ecosystem also supports 12 species of reptiles, six amphibians, and a staggering variety of marine life, with 145 fish species and dozens of mollusk varieties. The flora is equally impressive, boasting over 136 plant species—including wild orchids—17 of which are endemic to the region.

While the inland landscape is captivating, the spectacular beaches remain the focal point. Among them is Playa El Cristo, a singular spot featuring one of the cay’s two cozy restaurants right on the water’s edge. Here, guests can savor an exquisite lunch while gazing out at the timeless beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

Cayo Saetía invites you to discover a singular fusion of Caribbean charm and African spirit—a blending of natural worlds that you will rarely find anywhere else on Earth.