El Nicho is a succession of waterfalls and natural pools at the heart of the Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes, in the Sierra del Escambray. This site in Cienfuegos province, located about 30 km from Topes de Collantes and near Lake Hanabanilla, is part of the protected reserve Laguna de Guanaroca-Yaguanabo-El Nicho, an ecological corridor spanning over 60 km².

Why visit El Nicho

El Nicho concentrates several assets within a compact area that make it a prized stop between Cienfuegos and Trinidad: a succession of waterfalls and natural pools ideal for swimming, a marked trail accessible to most walkers, and dense biodiversity including over 65 endemic plant species. The site allows you to combine short hiking, birdwatching and freshwater bathing in half a day, making it a logical break for travellers moving through central Cuba. Its cool highland air contrasts sharply with the heat of the coastal plains and offers a welcome alternative to Cuba's beaches.

What to see and do

Contrary to popular belief, El Nicho is not a single waterfall but a series of cascades and pools spread along a mountain stream.

The main waterfalls and pools

• Poceta de los Enamorados: a calm pool popular for swimming.
• Salto de los Desparramaderos: a waterfall of about 7 metres surrounded by dense vegetation.
• Poceta de Cristal: a pool renowned for the transparency of its water.
• Reino de las Aguas: an area with successive small waterfalls and shallow pools.
• Black Creek: a waterfall of over 30 metres, the most impressive on the site.

The El Reino de las Aguas trail

The main route forms a 1.5 km loop through a gallery forest. It alternates viewpoints, river crossings and access to swimming pools. The path ends at a viewpoint offering views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Lake Hanabanilla. Difficulty remains low to moderate, with some slippery sections after rain.

Fauna and flora

The forest is home to royal palms, tropical orchids and over 65 endemic plant species. For birdlife, you can spot parakeets, parrots, doves, swallows and the tocororo, the national bird of Cuba, recognisable by its plumage in the colours of the flag. Lizards and butterflies complete the list of common sightings along the trail.

Cueva Martin Infierno

Within reach for an excursion, Cueva Martin Infierno is listed as a national monument. It is home to the largest stalagmite in Latin America, standing 67 metres high. The cave is visited with a guide and is a natural extension for those with a full day in the Sierra del Escambray.

When to go

The dry season, from November to April, remains the most comfortable time: trails are passable, access roads are in good condition and waterfall flow is adequate. The wet season, from May to October, swells the falls but makes slopes slippery and tracks sometimes difficult, especially from Trinidad. To enjoy the site with fewer crowds, aim for an early morning arrival, before organised tours arrive.

How to get there

No regular public transport serves El Nicho. Access from Cienfuegos via Cumanayagua is the most direct and best-maintained route. From Trinidad, the road crosses more demanding mountainous sections, sometimes impassable after heavy rain.

By rental car

This is the most flexible option. The road from Cienfuegos is tarmacked but becomes steeper towards the end. Parking is available at the site entrance.

By private taxi

Bookable through your accommodation, the private taxi offers a round trip with waiting time on site (usually 2 hours). A comfortable solution at a price negotiated in advance.

By shared taxi (colectivo)

The shared taxi departs from Cienfuegos mid-morning (around 9am), leaves about 2 hours on site, then continues to Trinidad. This is the most economical option for reaching the south coast after your visit, leaving your luggage in the vehicle.

By organised tour

Several agencies in Cienfuegos offer day trips with transport, entry and lunch included. A convenient option for those who want to avoid any logistics.

Practical information

• Duration of visit: allow 2 to 3 hours on site to walk the trail and enjoy the pools.
• Equipment: closed shoes with good grip, swimming costume, towel and water. No changing facilities on site.
• Food and drink: a restaurant at the entrance serves simple Cuban cuisine, open around midday.
• Entry fee: paid admission to the site, to be settled in Cuban pesos (CUC is no longer in circulation since 2021).
• Level: trail accessible to most visitors, with a few slippery sections.

Nearby attractions

• Cienfuegos: a colonial city on a bay, the logical starting point for El Nicho.
• Jagua Castle: an 18th-century fortress at the entrance to Cienfuegos Bay.
• Topes de Collantes: the heart of the Sierra del Escambray, 30 km away, with other trails and waterfalls.
• Lake Hanabanilla: a mountain lake visible from the trail's viewpoint.
• Trinidad: a UNESCO-listed colonial city, accessible as an extension of your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

El Nicho fits naturally into an itinerary linking Cienfuegos to Trinidad, complementing colonial cities and southern beaches. To build a tailor-made trip incorporating the Sierra del Escambray, explore our Cuba travel experiences.