
Gibara is a small seaside town in the North-Eastern part of Cuba. It has some 30 000 inhabitants. The town has a very relaxing atmosphere and the locals are super-friendly and accommodating. There are no hotels in Gibara and just a handful or two of bed-and-breakfast places, casa particular in Spanish.

Gibara at night

Fishing boats at dusk
Gibara used to be an important port in the Spanish colonial era. Its tasteful architecture reflects this beautifully. Unfortunately most of the magnificent buildings are almost run down; many don’t even have a roof.

Local guy taking it easy...

Making cigars is an important industry in Gibara

This pig will become New Year Eve's dinner
Gibara is the perfect place for a totally stress- and hassle-free holiday. You can just have a few (or many more!) beers with the locals and enjoy interesting conversations or maybe go lie on the beach. There are no beach chairs or umbrellas for hire, so make sure to bring your own towels, caps etc.

A horse drawn carriage is an everyday means of getting around
The easiest way to get to Gibara is to take a legal or illegal taxi from Holguin. We paid 15 pesos convertibles for a 45 minute ride in a Lada that had seen better days, maybe twenty or so years ago.

No ceiling

Old graffiti and an even older car

Fidel's thoughts can be read on the walls of every Cuban town and city

... likewise murals of Che Guevera

A statue of the third most important revolutionary, Camilo Cienfuegos

This wood carving sure makes a statement

Gibara beach

Kids playing in the Caribbean Sea
Next you might want to read our article on
Celebrating New Year in Gibara
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