Cuevas de Bellamar
A limestone cave on the outskirts of Matanzas, discovered in 1861. It was the first cave in Cuba opened to tourists, and its sparkling white stalactites are a highlight.
Cuevas de Bellamar lies about 5 km southeast of Matanzas. Quarry workers stumbled upon it in 1861. It is Cuba's oldest cave open to visitors and has a history of more than 160 years. The cave system stretches roughly 23 km, and guided tours take visitors about 1 km inside along paths and steps. Highlights include the Gothic Hall and other chambers with gleaming white stalactites, stalagmites, and calcite crystals. Admission costs a few dollars or euros and includes a guided tour that lasts about an hour. The cave is about 35 km from Varadero. Note: the inside is damp and muggy, so wear non-slip shoes. Photography may incur an extra fee.
Opening hours
About 09:00–17:00; guided tours on the hour
Nearby sights
- Castillo de San Severino
- Teatro Sauto
- Matanzas Historic Centre
- Museo Farmacéutico de Matanzas
- Río Canímar
- Ermita de Monserrate (Matanzas)
- Valle del Yumurí
- Playa Coral