Birdwatching, a form of tourism centered around observing these usually colorful creatures that play a vital role in various ecosystems, has been steadily gaining popularity among nature lovers. Cuba is home to two iconic locations that serve as true sanctuaries for these feathered species: Las Salinas de Brito and the Bermejas Wildlife Refuge.
Both are located within the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, a peninsula in the southwest of the island. This area is the largest and most well-preserved wetland in the insular Caribbean and has been designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and a RAMSAR Site (a wetland of international importance). These classifications underscore the region’s significant avian biodiversity.
These two exceptional locations offer the opportunity to observe both resident birds that nest and thrive in the area, as well as migratory species that spend a significant part of the year here.
Many of these migratory birds travel from the north and can be spotted primarily between October and March.
Covering approximately 40,000 hectares, Las Salinas de Brito was once a salt production site. Today, it provides an ideal setting for birdwatching, with access routes leading through mangroves and inland lagoons—prime spots for sightings. The area’s marshland ecosystem makes it a perfect refuge for nearly 60 species of migratory birds.
Thanks to its geographical conditions, Las Salinas de Brito is not only a birdwatcher’s paradise but also an excellent location for other outdoor activities, such as recreational fly fishing.
Spanning 811 hectares, the Bermejas Wildlife Refuge offers four trails, each between 4 and 5 kilometers long.
These trails provide visitors with the chance to spot at least 13 of the 28 bird species endemic to Cuba.
Visitors are also encouraged to take in the stunning natural surroundings, which feature dense forests with abundant vegetation. The refuge is home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna beyond just birds, making it a must-visit site for nature enthusiasts.
The Cuban archipelago boasts more than 390 recognized bird species, found in both natural ecosystems and human-altered environments.
The two sanctuaries in western Cuba are ideal locations to observe migratory birds such as:
• Florida duck
• Brown pelican
• Kingfisher
• Mourning dove
• Various species of herons
• Batista hawk
• Stork
• Large flocks of pink flamingos
Additionally, Cuba is home to 28 endemic bird species and 22 species unique to the Caribbean. Among these are:
• The tocororo (Priotelus temnurus) – Cuba’s national bird.
• The bee hummingbird (Mellisuga helenae) – The smallest bird in the world, weighing less than two grams.
• The Cuban tody (Todus multicolor).
• The Fernandina’s flicker (Teretristis fernancinae).
• Two species of pygmy owls: the Cuban pygmy owl (Glaucidium sijú) and the bare-legged owl (Margarobyas lawrencii).
These bird sanctuaries offer an extraordinary experience for visitors, providing a glimpse into Cuba’s rich natural heritage. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a casual nature enthusiast, these locations are well worth discovering and enjoying.
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