At María La Gorda, two aspects of nature come together: the marine world with its dive sites and the wooded surroundings with their birdlife. In the seabeds near CIB María La Gorda, you can see more than 20 coral species, as well as fish of various sizes, which are commonly found there, lobsters, crabs and moray eels. There is also the Valle de Coral Negro and the Salón de María, both associated with crinoids and brightly colored corals. This diversity makes the area interesting for travelers who want to explore both the underwater world and nature on land.

Diving and other activities at sea

María La Gorda is known as a destination for water sports and has 50 dive sites. According to the tourism information, it is one of Cuba's best diving areas. Snorkeling and boat trips are also among the activities available in María La Gorda. Diving, snorkeling and boat trips offer different ways to enjoy the sea, so the area's maritime character is not limited to its dive sites. The number of sites and the other activities mentioned give water sports in María La Gorda several facets.

Corals and named natural sites

The Valle de Coral Negro and the Salón de María are each places where crinoids and brightly colored corals can be seen. The two natural sites share a feature but remain distinct places with their own names in descriptions of María La Gorda. Together with the seabeds near CIB, they offer a contrast between the underwater world in general and two specifically named sites. Travelers interested in the destination's natural features will find these two specific points of interest alongside the diversity of marine life.

Birdlife in the wooded surroundings

The wooded surroundings of CIB María La Gorda also shape the area's natural character. According to CIB, more than 100 native bird species nest there, including the Cuban green woodpecker, the Cuban parrot and the Cuban trogon. Many other bird species are also present temporarily. The birdlife thus includes both species that nest there and temporary visitors. This adds a distinct natural aspect to the marine fauna: while various sea creatures are the focus in the seabeds, the wooded surroundings are characterized by native and temporary birdlife.

Excursions and sports activities

CIB María La Gorda offers excursions within the protected area. The listed sports activities are subject to availability and weather conditions. If you want to make one of these activities a firm part of your plans, check the specific conditions before your visit. Excursions within the protected area and sports activities subject to availability and weather are distinct aspects of the leisure activities on offer.

Nature experiences in the wider destination of Sandino

The Guanahacabibes National Park visitor center is located in La Bajada, within the wider destination of Sandino. The tourism information associates the center with hiking, birdwatching and contemplative diving. These activities extend the nature theme to the wider destination; the seabeds and wooded surroundings described above are specific to María La Gorda.

The sea and the forest as distinct focuses

The difference can be summed up briefly when making your choice: diving, snorkeling and boat trips focus on the sea, while the wooded surroundings are home to nesting and temporary bird species. This can help you decide whether water sports or birdlife should take priority in your travel plans. For CIB's sports activities, remember that they depend on availability and weather.

For the wider travel overview: Sandino.