Guanahacabibes Peninsula, in the western portion of the island, is a true natural treasure characterized by its exuberant vegetation, flora and fauna, with the additional attraction of the seabed.

Classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1987, it holds a National Park of more than 50,000 hectares, where visitors can find 172 species of birds belonging to 42 families, of which 11 are endemic and 84 are migratory.

The region begins in the Remates Swamp and ends in Cabo de San Antonio, home to about a hundred archaeological sites related to the life of the native aborigines, which are distributed throughout the space occupied by the peninsula.

Therefore, the territory is considered as one of the last refuges of those communities that inhabited the island at the arrival of Spanish colonists, commonly known as Guanahatabeyes.

Lovers of endemic flora and fauna have an unrivaled wealth, although many prefer to appreciate the “zunzuncito” or bee hummingbird (Calypte helenae), the world's smallest bird and only reachable at Guanahacabibes and the Zapata Swamp.

The area is inhabited by 47 percent of all species reported in the Cuban archipelago; 44 of them classified as endemic, and it is also recognized as a migratory corridor.

In a relatively small area it holds some 100 lakes and reservoirs of purest silica sand, with a rate of 99.8 per cent, highest in the country.

Guanahacabibes is a low plain with abundance of underground cavities, such as the Cueva de la Barca, of great speleological potential, combined with freshwater sea anchorages.

The diving and snorkeling options are available thanks to the International Diving Center Maria la Gorda, excellent place of transparent and warm waters with 39 sites destined for this activity

Also available to visitors is the chance to admire the biggest reservation of black coral that exists in the Caribbean Island´s sea.

The depths of Maria la Gorda qualify in the top 10 of the Latin American subcontinent due to the abundance of marine species and corals of extraordinary beauty.

Thus, perfectly preserved coral reefs boost the development of underwater programs, backed by the transparency and average annual temperature in Cuban waters.

The Marina Gaviota of Cabo de San Antonio, located on the site of the same name, provides ideal conditions for vessels transiting the area.

The center currently provides services such as piers, fuel supply, potable water, electricity, guards for the safety and security of ships and supplies.

Thousands of ships sail every year from the waters near the peninsula, which evidence the huge capability of the territory for water activities.

Roncali Lighthouse, built in 1850 and with a height of 33 meters above ground level, marks the western end of Cuba and sends its signal up to 18 miles into the Yucatan Peninsula waters.