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Imagine stepping into a hidden gem of the Caribbean, where nature reigns supreme, and history whispers through the winds. Welcome to Isla de la Juventud, Cuba’s largest offshore island and a true enigma. This comma-shaped paradise, located 60 miles south of the Cuban mainland, offers an escape to a world of palm and pine trees, citrus groves, and marble hills few have ever seen. Here, adventure and serenity blend seamlessly, making it one of the top vacation spots for those seeking a unique travel experience.

A Historical Hideaway
Isla de la Juventud is steeped in a rich tapestry of history. Pirates of the Caribbean once called this island their haven, slipping into its coves with boats laden with illicit booty. Today, you can embark on a journey from the port of Batabanó, 56km south of Havana. The three-hour ferry ride, costing a mere 0.50 Cuban Pesos (£0.35), offers a glimpse into the island’s mysterious past. The more adventurous might opt for one of the irregular flights to this secluded paradise.

Diving into Adventure
For many visitors, the allure of Isla de la Juventud lies beneath the waves. Punta Francés, located at the island’s southwestern tip, is a diver’s paradise. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts. Here, you can stay at the island’s sole hotel and spend your days exploring the depths, discovering a world teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and even the occasional shark.

Historical Echoes
Beyond the natural wonders, Isla de la Juventud holds a piece of Cuban history. The panopticon prison, Presidio Modelo, now an eerie museum, once housed Cuba’s late Communist leader, Fidel Castro, in 1953. His imprisonment here was pivotal in the events leading up to the 1959 Cuban Revolution. Walking through the prison’s haunting corridors offers a chilling glimpse into Cuba’s turbulent past.

Untouched Natural Beauty
The sugar-soft beaches, distinctive culture, and protected wildlife havens of an island offer a much different experience from the busy streets of Havana. Christopher Columbus anchored close to this island, which would eventually serve as a haven for pirates, as he crossed the Atlantic for a second time in 1493 Dubbed both the “Island of Pirates” and “Treasure Island,” La Isla de la Juventud was thought to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s masterwork book, Treasure Island.

A Legacy of Learning
In the late 1970s, Fidel Castro opened numerous universities on the island for foreign students. Although these schools closed in the late 1990s, their legacy endures in the island’s name, which was changed from Isla de Pinos (Isle of Pines) to Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth) in 1978.

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Biodiverse Haven
The remote southern third of the island is a protected area known as South of the Isle of Youth Protected Area of Managed Resources (APRM). This 1,455sq km region boasts a mosaic of swamps, mangroves, beaches, coral seas, limestone forests, and prehistoric cave paintings. Here, you’ll find a sanctuary for endangered species such as the Antillean manatee, hammerhead sharks, elkhorn coral, and marine turtles.

Cuban Crocodile Conservation
One of the island’s hidden treasures is the Ciénaga de Lanier (Lanier swamp), the refuge of the critically endangered Cuban crocodile. Although these elusive crocs were nearly wiped out in the 20th century, conservation efforts continue to reintroduce them into their natural habitat.

Turtle Nesting Grounds
Guanal Beach on the island’s south coast is a crucial nesting ground for endangered green turtles. Here, conservationists monitor and protect over 250 nests each year. Climate change poses a significant threat to these turtles, as rising temperatures are resulting in fewer males being born. Efforts to mitigate this include shading nests, relocating them to cooler spots, or watering the sand to lower the temperature.

Remote Village of Cocodrilo
Venture 86km southwest of Nueva Gerona to find Cocodrilo, the most remote inhabited spot in Cuba. Originally settled by English-speaking Cayman Islanders in the early 20th century, this village now houses 122 families in single-story homes facing the sea. Despite its isolation, Cocodrilo has become a beacon of conservation efforts.

Eco-Conservation in Cocodrilo
Conservationist Reinaldo Borrego Hernández, known as “Nene,” runs a tourism and conservation project, Consytur, with his wife, Yemmy. By staying at their B&B, Villa Arrecife, visitors contribute to initiatives such as beach cleanups, lionfish capture, and staghorn coral restoration. Nene’s dedication to preserving the reef and wildlife ensures that future generations can enjoy this pristine environment.

Sustainable Tourism
Staying in Cocodrilo offers more than just a comfortable bed; it provides an opportunity to make a difference. By participating in conservation activities, you contribute to the protection and restoration of the island’s delicate ecosystems. From collecting rubbish to planting new coral, your actions help preserve the natural beauty of Isla de la Juventud.

Conclusion
Isla de la Juventud is more than just a travel destination; it’s a journey into Cuba’s hidden past and a step towards a sustainable future. This remote nature paradise, with its rich history, diverse wildlife, and pristine landscapes, offers a unique and enriching travel experience. Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters of Punta Francés, exploring the eerie halls of Presidio Modelo, or contributing to conservation efforts in Cocodrilo, Isla de la Juventud promises an adventure like no other. Pack your bags and set sail for Cuba’s hidden gem – a paradise waiting to be discovered.

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