Topes de Collantes (aka Forest/Mountain Adventure)
Price (2014): Adult 125 USD / Child 100 USD

This intensive full-day tour will take you to the beautiful and lush rainforest of the Sierra Escambray. The route between Varadero and Topes de Collantes passes through beautiful landscape and plantations, small villages, and stunning views of the Escambray mountain range.

You will go up to Topes de Collantes where you will climb aboard a big Russian off-road truck which will take you upwards into the heart of the forest to the Guanayara Natural Park. Then, accompanied by an ecologist guide, you will continue on foot for a hike (~ 3 km) into the rainforest following a river and reaching the “El Rocio” waterfalls. Here the group splits into two: Jungle 1 and Jungle 2.

Raiders of the Jungle 1 will continue on the trails to explore further the forest with the ecologist guide, and the more adventurous Raiders of the Jungle 2 will follow another guide and walk into the river and follow the trail through the drops and rapids, both options (wet or dry) are fun! The two groups cross a few time to finaly get back together at a beautiful turquoise lagoon in the middle of the jungle for a well-deserved rest and refreshing swim. Then a short hike will take you to “La Gallega” restaurant. After a typical Cuban lunch the Russian truck will carry you down the mountains to your comfortable air-conditioned bus back to Varadero.

Inclusions: Tour guide, transportation in air-conditioned bus, lunch with one drink.

Departure: 7:00 am (may vary depending on hotel and tour operator)
Return: 6:30 pm (may vary depending on hotel and tour operator)

Suggestions on what to wear and bring:
• Comfortable wear
• Comfortable shoes (appropriate for hiking) • Water shoes (if you choose to walk in the river)
• Swimwear and towel
• Sunglasses and hat
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Camera
• Bottled water
• Cash in small denominations for souvenirs, drinks and tips

Note: This tour involves strenuous activities, not recommended for the elderly, people in wheelchairs, or with physical disabilities.

Lily & Normand
© varaderoguide.net
© destilino.com