"HIKING AND BIRD WATCHING IN THE SPELEOLACUSTRINE SYSTEM OF THE ZAPATA SWAMP" Tour

"HIKING AND BIRD WATCHING IN THE SPELEOLACUSTRINE SYSTEM OF THE ZAPATA SWAMP" Tour

Birdwatching is relatively easy by walking the various trails we have designed for you in the Cienaga de Zapata such as: Bermejas, Las Salinas de Brito, Los Arroyones, among others. Of the 368 known birds in Cuba, 70% are present in the Zapata Reserve, including three locally endemic species: the Ferminia, the Cabrerito de la Ciénaga and the Gallinuela de Santo Tomás, true treasures of Cuban ornithology. Our proposal is that you walk these trails with different natural values. The main values of the Biosphere Reserve are given in the diversity, complexity and degree of conservation of its ecosystems, variety of landscapes with important scenic value, biological diversity, endemism and historical-cultural values. These trails reveal to the visitor a splendid observatory of endemic and migratory species where the marsh goat, the zunzún, the cranes, the flamingos and the herons stand out.

To do the bird watching we will leave early in the morning from the place of accommodation that is defined for this activity, to reach the places where the trails begin we will use the transport available to the TTOO or the customers themselves, because we do not have transfer to do the same. The tours have an estimated duration of 3-5 hours, returning to the initial point of departure (hotel or other places of accommodation), or to the places where lunch and dinner are planned and will be divided into groups with no more than 10 people.

HIKING AND BIRD WATCHING IN THE SPELEOLACUSTRINE SYSTEM OF THE ZAPATA SWAMP: Explore one of Cuba’s most extraordinary natural environments with a visit to the Speleolacustrine System of the Zapata Swamp, a unique network of caves, underground rivers, and freshwater lagoons located within the largest wetland in the Caribbean. This remarkable ecosystem combines geological wonder with exceptional biodiversity, offering visitors an immersive experience in a pristine and scientifically significant landscape. The speleolacustrine system is characterized by crystal-clear cenotes, submerged caves, and interconnected lakes formed over thousands of years. These natural formations are home to endemic species of fish, birds, and plants, making the area a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and eco-tourists. The calm waters and shaded cave entrances create a serene atmosphere ideal for exploration and observation. Guided visits allow guests to learn about the geological processes that shaped the system, as well as its vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Zapata Swamp. Whether hiking along surrounding trails, observing birdlife, or admiring the clarity of the lagoons, visitors gain a deep appreciation for the environmental importance of this protected area. The Speleolacustrine System of the Zapata Swamp is a must-see destination for travelers seeking authentic nature experiences, scientific curiosity, and a profound connection with one of Cuba’s most unique ecosystems.

Area Values

The Ciénaga de Zapata is the most humid territory in Cuba and one of the largest in Latin America and the Caribbean, approved by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization as a Biosphere Reserve and also declared a Ramsar Site.

It has a wide variety of flora and fauna. The ornitofauna amounts to 212 species, of which 86 are permanent residents of our country, 101 migratory and 25 bimodal residents. It is important to highlight that the endemism of 23 of them constitutes 95.8% of the endemic birds of our country. Six of the seven Cuban endemic genera and three local endemics are also found in this area: the ferminia (Ferminia cerverai), the gallinuela de Santo Tomás (Cyanolimnas cerverai) and the sub-species of the cabrerito de ciénaga (Torreornis inexpectata inexpectata).

The native mammals of the Ciénaga de Zapata are represented by the orders Rodentia, Chiroptera and Sirenia, and this is the only region of Cuba where the three living genera of capromids coexist: Capromys, Mesocapromys and Mysateles. The conga hutia (Capromys pilorides) is the most abundant species in the area and can be seen mainly in Cayo Venado and Cayo Las Vacas, where they have shelters among the stones. Eight bat species have been reported in Cienaga de Zapata. The manatee (Trichechus manatus) is another mammal that inhabits this wetland. It has been reported at the mouth of the Hatiguanico River and can also be seen in areas with brackish water.

Details of the excursion

• Difficulty Level: Low
• Duration: 4 hrs
• The excursion is carried out in groups of no more than 10 people in the company of a local guide specialized in ornithological matters.
• Hiking or bird watching in the Speleolacustrine System of the Zapata Swamp.
• Including 2 liquids of national production.

Important

• The routes by land until arriving at the destination where the trails begin will be made in the means of transport available to the TTOO or customers because this tour does not include transfer.
• When the group is staying more than 1 day as part of the birding program, it is mandatory that the local specialized guide stays in a single room with the same conditions as the clients of the group. (Price 14 USD x Room per day)