"Fluvial Walk by the Hatiguanico River"

"Fluvial Walk by the Hatiguanico River"

The Hatiguanico River is located in the Zapata Peninsula, south of the province of Matanzas. It is a beautiful place with abundant vegetation and endemic fauna. The river is born in a gigantic spring of fresh and crystalline water. Species such as tarpon (tarpon) and snook (robalo) are characteristic of this area. Manatees, manjuarí and other species are also found here.

This site is a must visit for nature lovers, for this reason we have designed this river walk where you can appreciate the exuberant mangroves and a diverse variety of vegetation, fish, water birds, reptiles and mammals, at the end of the tour you can refresh yourself in its crystalline waters.

Area Values

The Hatiguanico River is located in the Ciénaga de Zapata, where forests predominate over limestone and poorly drained areas, as well as mangroves. In addition, there are large extensions generally flooded where the marsh grass grows, formed by Cortadera, Palmanaca, Arraiján, Yana and Guanito, among others.

The forest heritage of the Ciénaga de Zapata is made up of: natural forests (233 265.3 ha), young plantations (928.2 ha) and established plantations (4 170.8 ha). According to The Field Museum 2005, it is estimated that there are around 1000 species of native plants grouped in 110 families, with 130 Cuban endemics standing out, of which 6 are local and 14 are rare or endangered species (Amorín, J, et al 2002).

The fauna is represented by 15 species of mammals, 258 of birds, 43 of reptiles, 4 of fish and 16 of amphibians, as well as a great variety of insects and other invertebrates. Among the animal species, 5 are local endemics and 16 are in danger of extinction. This region is also one of the most important refuges for 65 species of migratory birds.

Details of the excursion

• Difficulty Level: Low
• Duration: 2 hrs
• The excursion is made in the company of a local guide.
• Access through an embankment of about 8 kilometers from the point known as Hato de Jicarita (Km 104 of the National Highway).
• Motor boat ride on the Hatiguanico River.
• Swimming time at the river springs.
• Snack included (snack + liquid)

Important: This tour does not include transfer.

TIPS: - Light clothing, sunglasses, hats or caps, tennis, sandals or comfortable shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent and camera.