HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style

Reserva Antropológica Cuevas del Pomier: Discover Caribbean's Premier Prehistoric Cave Art

Explore the Reserva Antropológica Cuevas del Pomier, where ancient history unfolds in stunning limestone caves. Located 10km north of San Cristóbal, this site features 57 caves, with five open to visitors showcasing nearly 600 prehistoric paintings—though closures for renovations occur periodically. These caves hold the Caribbean's most extensive collection of indigenous art by the Igneri, Caribs, and Taíno peoples.

Crafted with charcoal and manatee fat, the faded drawings depict birds, fish, animals, and enigmatic deities. Dating back up to 2,000 years, they offer rare glimpses into Hispaniola’s earliest inhabitants. The main cave was first documented in 1851 by explorer Sir Robert Schomburgk, who etched his name and companions' on the walls.

Mandatory local guides do not speak English, but English pamphlets are available for tours lasting 30 minutes to a full day. Previously closed due to nearby marble mining blasts, the site is now safeguarded by dedicated local advocates, though its long-term protection remains a concern.

Reaching the caves independently is challenging despite signage. Opt for a taxi or motoconcho (motorcycle taxi) for RD$400 round-trip, including wait time. Drivers: From Parque Colón, head north on Calle Padre Ayala to Calle Máximo Gómez, east one block to Av. Constitución, north to La Toma (across from San Cristóbal highway). Spot the faded sign post-bridge, then 400m to right onto Carretera de Medina (look for Ministerio de Turismo sign). Continue 2.6km to T-junction, left (Cuevas del Pomier sign and cockfighting ring), up 2.6km. Right past Docalsa factory (into quarry area), straight 600m, left at fork to green house entrance. Ask locals; watch for mine trucks on blind curves.

For advance bookings, contact Alex (809-721-5965), Victor (809-201-9778), or Yabel (809-573-8850) from the Asociación de Guías Cuevas del Pomier (fundacioncuevasdelpomier@gmail.com).

Tourist Attraction
  • Plaza del Carmen: Camagüey s Stunningly Restored Historic Square

    Just 600 meters west of the vibrant bustle of Plaza de la República lies Plaza del Carmen, a serene and exquisitely beautiful square thats far less crowded than the citys central plazas. Anchoring its eastern side is the masterful Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, one of Camagüeys most picturesque churches.Over a decade ago, Plaza del Carmen lay in ruins, but it has since been meticulously restored to surpass its original splendor. The cobblestoned central area now boasts enormous tinajones

  • -

    Towering over 100 meters, Salto del Guayabo—located just 15 km from Villa Pinares del Mayarí—is widely regarded as Cubas highest waterfall. Enjoy panoramic views from the stunning overlook, then join a guided 1.2 km trek through lush tropical forest to the base, complete with a refreshing swim in a pristine natural pool.

  • -

    Cuitzeo del Porvenir is located 35 minutes from Morelia (34 km / 21 miles). With a warm climate during the day but with cold nights and cold mornings, this town reserves charming places that you will like to discover during any time of the year. On the north shore of the lake of Cuitzeo, Purepechas settled initially. With the arrival of the Augustinians there, a convent was built to evangelize the region. Through the years the region was transformed but resisted giving up its Purepecha