Laguna del Tesoro

The third best lake to visit in Cuba is definitely Laguna del Tesoro. The Laguna del Tesoro or Treasure lake is located just in the heart of the Zapata Swamp, a huge wilderness area in southwestern Cuba. Boats can travel from Boca de Guama to the Laguna del Tesoro Lake along a waterway lined with thick flora. There are many trout in this lake's crystal-clear, 4 m deep waters, which has an area of 9 km2 and a diameter of 5 km. Cuba is a great destination for sports fishing and ecotourism. Legend has it that the native inhabitants sank a boat containing their most valuable goods in the lake to prevent the Spanish conquistadors from stealing their wealth because they thought they were in danger. Tourists can also see manatees and manjuari (Cuban gar), a living fossil that is only found in the Zapata Swamp and where fishing is prohibited along with trout.

The lake's four-meter depth makes it the ideal location for nature tourism and sport fishing, and its clear waters are home to many fascinating marine species, including golden trout. Its surroundings include the well-known Taino Village, a creation by Cuban sculptor Rita Longa, which depicts the way of life and traditions of the indigenous tribes, including the statue of Chief Guamá. Villa Guamá, a tourist destination with housing options, restaurants, and bars where patrons may sample cuisine based on fish and reptiles, is one of the attractions of the Laguna del Tesoro. Entering the Laguna del Tesoro is like traveling back in time to when the ancestors lived, where you may take in the scenery and the clean air that nature provides in this region of Cuban topography.

Location: Southwestern Cuba