LAS TERRAZAS & SOROA
Las Terrazas and Soroa represent the verdant, ecological heart of western Cuba. This lush subregion within the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve seamlessly blends sustainable community living with breathtaking tropical landscapes.
This area is a sanctuary for nature lovers and those seeking serenity away from the city. It is a land of orchid-misted mountains, rushing waterfalls, and pioneering eco-villages that define Cuba’s green soul.
Most Popular Attractions
Las Terrazas Eco-Village & Nature:
Comunidad Las Terrazas: A pioneering sustainable village built around a scenic lake, featuring white-walled houses with red roofs and vibrant local art.
Cafetal Buenavista: The ruins of Cuba’s oldest coffee plantation, offering insight into 19th-century history and panoramic views of the valley.
Baños del San Juan: A series of natural crystalline pools and small cascades along the San Juan River, perfect for swimming and riverside picnicking.
Lago El Palmar: A tranquil lake at the center of the community where visitors can rent rowboats or enjoy the surrounding birdlife.
Las Terrazas Canopy Tour: A thrilling zip-line circuit that glides over the village and forest canopy for nearly 2 kilometers.
Callejón de la Moka: A charming walkway lined with local craft shops, small cafes, and the famous Café de María.
Casa de Polo Montañez: The former home turned museum of the legendary Cuban singer-songwriter, located right on the edge of the lake.
Sendero Las Delicias: A popular hiking trail leading to a lookout point that offers a 360-degree view of the Biosphere Reserve.
Ruinas de Cafetal San Salvador: Another historic coffee estate ruin that showcases the architectural heritage of the region’s agricultural past.
Rancho Curujey: A welcoming visitor center and restaurant overlooking the lake, often the starting point for guided eco-tours.
Soroa – The Rainbow of Cuba:
Soroa Orchid Garden (Orquideario): The largest orchid garden in Cuba, housing over 700 species of orchids and numerous ornamental plants.
Salto de Soroa: A spectacular 22-meter waterfall nestled in lush vegetation, often creating rainbows in the mist—hence the area’s nickname.
Castillo en las Nubes: A medieval-style “Castle in the Clouds” perched on a hill, now a boutique hotel and restaurant with stunning vistas.
Mirador de Soroa: A steep but rewarding hiking path leading to a summit with views stretching all the way to the southern coastline.
Baños Romanos: Natural sulfur springs located near the base of the mountains, known for their relaxing properties.
Plaza Soroa: The central hub where local artisans sell handmade wooden carvings and typical Cuban souvenirs.
El Nicho de Soroa: A secluded spot within the forest known for high biodiversity and sightings of the Tocororo, Cuba’s national bird.
Sendero El Valle del Amor: A romantic, shaded walking trail that winds through the dense tropical flora connecting different forest tiers.
Loma del Fuerte: A historical site featuring the remnants of old fortifications used during colonial times to survey the mountain passes.
Soroa Birdwatching Station: A designated area where enthusiasts can spot endemic species like the Cuban Trogon and various hummingbirds.
Activities & Experiences
Zipline over Las Terrazas: Soar through the canopy on a 1.8km circuit of steel cables, offering a bird’s-eye view of the community and the San Juan Lake.
Visit the Orquideario Soroa: Explore the world-famous orchid garden, home to over 700 species of orchids and numerous tropical plants in a lush hillside setting.
Hike to El Salto de Soroa: Take a short trek to this 22-meter waterfall (The Rainbow of Cuba). Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool at the base.
Tour the Ruins of Cafetal Buenavista: Explore Cuba’s oldest restored coffee plantation. Learn about the 19th-century coffee boom and see the original grinding stones.
Birdwatching in the Biosphere Reserve: Join a guided tour to spot endemic species like the Tocororo (Cuba’s national bird) and the tiny Bee Hummingbird.
Swim in the Baños del San Juan: Relax in the tiered natural sulfur pools of the San Juan River. It is a favorite local spot for a picnic and a cool dip.
Visit Lester Campa’s Art Studio: Meet one of Cuba’s most famous landscape artists in his lakeside studio and see how the surrounding nature inspires his work.
Trek the El Contento Trail: Hike this scenic path that connects several old coffee estates, offering views of the valley and encounters with local farmers.
Rowboat on San Juan Lake: Rent a small boat for a peaceful afternoon on the water, surrounded by the eco-village’s unique architecture.
Climb Castillo en las Nubes: Hike or drive up to this “Castle in the Clouds” for the best panoramic views of the Sierra del Rosario and the southern plains.
Engage with the Community Workshops: Visit local artisans specializing in handmade paper, pottery, and woodworking to see sustainable art in action.
Local Tips & Transport
Viazul Bus & Private Transfers: The Viazul bus line stops at both Las Terrazas and Soroa on the route between Havana and Viñales. For more flexibility, a “taxi colectivo” (shared taxi) from Havana is a common and faster way to reach the region.
Getting Between the Two: While Las Terrazas and Soroa are in the same region, they are about 20km apart. There is no reliable public shuttle between them; you will need to arrange a private taxi or have your own rental car to move between the two hubs.
Walking and Biking: Las Terrazas is highly walkable and designed for pedestrians. Many visitors rent bicycles at Hotel Moka to explore the various trails and lakeside paths at a leisurely pace.
Car Rentals: If driving from Havana, the Autopista Este-Weste (A1) provides quick access. Be aware that signage for the specific turn-offs into the mountains can be small, so keep a map or offline GPS (like Maps.me) handy.
Eco-Conscious Etiquette: This is a protected Biosphere Reserve. Visitors are expected to stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing the wildlife, and carry out all trash. The community of Las Terrazas was built specifically as a reforestation project.
Weather and Humidity: Being a mountainous rainforest area, Soroa is significantly more humid than Havana. Expect frequent afternoon rain showers, even in the dry season. Bring a light rain jacket and insect repellent for evening walks.
Dining at El Romero: Don’t miss this famous restaurant in Las Terrazas. It is one of the few places in Cuba specializing in “eco-cuisine” and vegetarian dishes using ingredients grown within the community.
Limited Connectivity: Internet access is sparse. While Hotel Moka and Villa Soroa may have Wi-Fi spots (requiring ETECSA cards), connection speeds are slow. Embrace this as a place to “unplug.”
Hidden Gems:
- Café de Maria: A small, family-run coffee shop on a hill in Las Terrazas. It serves some of the best coffee in Cuba with a spectacular view of the white-roofed houses below.
- The Moka Lime Tree: The Hotel Moka was built around the existing trees. Look for the giant lime tree growing right through the middle of the lobby and balconies.
- The Artist’s Alley: Beyond the main plaza in Las Terrazas, look for the small workshops of local craftsmen. It’s often quieter than the main tourist spots and offers a deeper look at the community’s creative heart.
- Soroa’s Mirador: For those who find the “Castle” too crowded, seek out the smaller lookout points along the trail to the waterfall for a more private view of the valley.
Top Restaurants
El Romero [$15-$25] – A standout eco-restaurant in the heart of Las Terrazas community that specializes in high-quality vegetarian and vegan dishes using ingredients grown in the village’s own organic gardens.
Restaurante El Lago [$15-$25] – Situated on the banks of San Juan Lake in Las Terrazas, this open-air spot offers a tranquil setting for enjoying classic Cuban roast pork and black beans while watching rowboats pass by.
Rancho Curujey [$10-$20] – Located at the entrance of Las Terrazas near the information center, this rustic farmhouse restaurant serves simple, authentic Creole fare with a beautiful view of the valley.
Restaurante El Castillo [$15-$25] – Perched on a hill overlooking Soroa, this castle-like building offers traditional Cuban dishes and panoramic views of the palm-studded mountains.
Casa de Agapito y Syra [$15-$25] – A beloved private paladar in Soroa where the family serves generous portions of ropa vieja and lobster in a cozy, domestic garden setting.
Restaurante El Salto [$10-$20] – Found right at the base of the Soroa Waterfall, this casual eatery is the perfect spot for a cold beer and a “pan con lechón” after a hike to the falls.
La Casa del Campesino [$15-$25] – A traditional wooden ranchón in Las Terrazas that recreates a rural farmer’s home, serving hearty country stews and fresh seasonal juices.
Café de María [$5-$10] – A tiny, legendary coffee house on a terrace in the Las Terrazas village, famous for serving the best local mountain coffee and light snacks with an aerial view of the community.
El Criollo [$15-$25] – Located along the main road toward Soroa, this no-frills spot is popular with locals for its charcoal-grilled chicken and crispy plantain chips.
Restaurante La Terrazas [$15-$25] – Not to be confused with the village name, this local diner offers a daily “menú del día” that provides an authentic, affordable taste of Pinar del Río’s home cooking.
Paladar Doña Myriam [$15-$30] – A charming private home in the Soroa area known for its personalized service and secret recipe for “Congrí” (rice and beans).
Restaurante Horizontes Soroa [$15-$25] – The main dining hall of the Soroa hotel complex which, despite its size, maintains a good reputation for traditional Cuban buffets and local fruit selections.
La Fonda de Soroa [$10-$20] – A small, roadside eatery near the Orchidarium that specializes in quick, flavorful Cuban sandwiches and tropical fruit shakes.
Restaurante Moka [$20-$35] – Located within the Hotel Moka in Las Terrazas, this elegant dining room features a tree growing through the floor and serves refined versions of Cuban classics.
Eco-Restaurante El Bambú [$20-$35] – Tucked away in the forest of Las Terrazas, this creative spot focuses on sustainable “slow food” and inventive ways to prepare local root vegetables.
Bazar El Cusco [$20-$35] – A modern, artistic space in Las Terrazas that combines a craft shop with a café, serving creative appetizers and unique herbal infusions.
Restaurante San Juan [$25-$40] – Located near the natural pools of the San Juan River, this restaurant offers an elevated menu featuring river fish and creative fruit-based sauces.
La Terraza de Soroa [$20-$35] – A contemporary paladar that experiments with fusion flavors, blending traditional Cuban ingredients with European cooking techniques.
El Balcón de los Artistas [$20-$35] – A creative hub in Las Terrazas where local painters dine, offering a modern take on Cuban tapas and vibrant cocktails.
Soroa Sky Bar [$25-$40] – A modern lounge area within the Soroa hills that offers creative “mojito” variations and a more sophisticated, lighter menu of grilled skewers.
Vista Hermosa Soroa [$20-$35] – A private restaurant that prides itself on modern presentation, offering beautifully plated seafood dishes with a backdrop of the Sierra del Rosario.
Restaurante El Bosque [$25-$40] – A hidden gem in the Las Terrazas woods that focuses on “forest-to-table” dining, featuring wild herbs and artisanal cheeses.
Café de los Poetas [$15-$30] – An atmospheric café in Soroa that hosts literary evenings and serves creative light bites and gourmet coffee blends.
Fusion Soroa [$25-$45] – One of the few spots in the subregion attempting international fusion, mixing Cuban staples with flavors from across the Caribbean.
Restaurante Buenavista [$40-$60] – Located in the restored ruins of an 18th-century coffee plantation in Las Terrazas, this is the area’s most exclusive dining experience with breathtaking mountain views.
The Moka Fine Dining Room [$40-$70] – The upscale wing of Hotel Moka, offering white-tablecloth service and a curated menu of premium Cuban beef and imported wines.
Privada Soroa [$35-$55] – An exclusive, reservation-only dining experience set in a private estate in Soroa, known for its multi-course tasting menus.
Le Jardin de Soroa [$40-$60] – A sophisticated restaurant located near the botanical gardens that offers refined French-Cuban fusion in a very intimate setting.
Hacienda Las Terrazas [$40-$65] – A colonial-style manor house that hosts high-end private dinners, specializing in whole roasted pig prepared with gourmet techniques.
Baños del San Juan Grill [$15-$25] – A series of stone terraces overlooking natural swimming holes in Las Terrazas, where you can eat grilled chicken right next to the rushing water.
Cafetal Buenavista [$15-$30] – While primary a historic site in Las Terrazas, the onsite café serves traditional “coffee-country” snacks and the best espresso in the province.
Orquideario Soroa Snack Bar [$10-$20] – Located inside the famous Orchidarium, this spot is unique for its floral-infused teas and light refreshments surrounded by thousands of orchid species.
Comunidad Las Terrazas [$5-$15] – A collection of small, local “ventanitas” (window shops) within the residential village where you can buy homemade sweets and local honey.
Casa del Bote [$15-$25] – A small dockside eatery in Las Terrazas where you can enjoy fresh fruit juices and light seafood bites before heading out on the lake.
La Ermita de Soroa [$20-$35] – A peaceful dining spot located near a small chapel in Soroa, offering a quiet, spiritual atmosphere and vegetarian-friendly options.
Restaurante La Casona [$20-$35] – A grand, airy building in Las Terrazas used for larger groups, known for its efficient service and massive platters of “viandas” (root vegetables).
El Mirador de Soroa [$15-$30] – A high-altitude snack bar reachable by a steep hike, offering rewarding views and simple cold refreshments.
Taberna del Rio [$15-$25] – A shaded wooden bar in Las Terrazas specializing in local rums and “guarapo” (fresh sugarcane juice) with simple snacks.
Puesto de Miel [$5-$15] – A unique roadside stop in Las Terrazas where you can sample different varieties of local forest honey paired with fresh cheese.
La Jungla Soroa [$15-$30] – A restaurant surrounded by dense tropical foliage that makes you feel like you are dining deep in the rainforest.
Café de la Plaza [$10-$20] – The central meeting spot in Las Terrazas village for locals, perfect for people-watching and a quick “fricasé de pollo.”
Rancho San Vicente [$20-$35] – Just on the outskirts of the subregion, this ranch-style restaurant offers a classic country atmosphere and traditional Cuban music.
Eco-Snack Bar El Macurije [$10-$20] – A sustainable snack spot in Las Terrazas that uses biodegradable packaging and offers healthy, locally sourced wraps.
La Casita de Soroa [$15-$25] – A tiny, brightly painted house turned restaurant that offers an extremely intimate and friendly local dining experience.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
El Batey: Located in the heart of the Las Terrazas community, this open-air bar is the social hub of the village, serving classic Cuban mojitos with a view of San Juan Lake.
Café de María: Perched on a hill in Las Terrazas, this famous coffee house doubles as a serene spot for coffee-based cocktails using locally grown beans.
Bar El Lago: Situated right on the shores of Lake San Juan, this bar offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy a Piña Colada while watching rowboats pass by.
Club Cantante (Hotel Moka): Found inside the iconic Hotel Moka in Las Terrazas, this sophisticated bar is built around a massive lime tree and serves premium Cuban rums.
Bar El Romero: Part of the famous eco-restaurant in Las Terrazas, this spot specializes in herbal infusions and cocktails made with organic ingredients from the local gardens.
Bar La Loma: Located at one of the highest points in the Soroa orchid garden area, offering refreshing daiquiris and sweeping views of the “Rainbow of Cuba” valley.
Bar Castillo de las Nubes: Set in a mock-medieval castle atop a mountain in Soroa, this bar offers the most dramatic sunset views in the province alongside a full cocktail menu.
Pool Bar Villa Soroa: A classic poolside spot within the Villa Soroa complex, perfect for a casual “Cuba Libre” after a day of hiking to the nearby waterfalls.
Rancho Curujey: Located at the entrance of Las Terrazas, this rustic bar overlooks the lake and provides a traditional country atmosphere for pre-dinner drinks.
Bar El Mirador: A small, breezy lookout bar on the road between Soroa and Las Terrazas, known for serving fresh fruit juices spiked with local aguardiente.
Bar del Salto: Positioned near the base of the Soroa Waterfall (El Salto), this bar allows you to enjoy a drink to the sound of crashing water.
Casa de la Música (Artemisa): While slightly toward the valley floor, this is the primary spot for locals and visitors to enjoy high-quality cocktails with live traditional trova music.
Bar La Terraza (Soroa): A quiet, shaded terrace bar near the Orchidarium that specializes in light, refreshing gin-tonics and local fruit punches.
Bar Hacienda La Unión: Located in the ruins of an old coffee plantation in Las Terrazas, this atmospheric spot serves drinks in a historical, colonial-era setting.
Cafetal Buenavista Bar: Situated at the restored 19th-century coffee estate, this bar offers a “time-travel” experience with its selection of aged rums and historical anecdotes.
Discoteca Las Terrazas: The primary late-night venue for the community, located near the lakeside, featuring a mix of salsa, reggaeton, and contemporary Cuban hits.
Villa Soroa Nightclub: An indoor-outdoor clubbing space within the Villa Soroa grounds that hosts weekend dance parties popular with both tourists and locals.
La Ruina: A unique “ruins-style” lounge and dance floor in Las Terrazas that hosts themed nights and live percussion performances.
Cinema-Teatro Las Terrazas: While a theater by day, it frequently transforms into a performance club at night for live bands and dancing.
El Mesón de Soroa: A large restaurant venue that turns into a lively dance hall on Friday and Saturday nights, focusing on traditional Son and Casino dance.
Centro Recreativo El Taburete: A community-focused club located near the foot of the mountains, offering a raw and authentic Cuban party experience with local DJs.
The Moka Lounge: The late-night extension of Hotel Moka’s bar, offering a more upscale, lounge-club environment with electronic and chill-out vibes.
Pista de Baile Soroa: An open-air concrete dance floor near the Villa Soroa, famous for its “Noches Campesinas” which blend rural folk music with modern dancing.
El Chalet Club: A cozy, wooden-beamed nightclub in the Las Terrazas hills that caters to a younger crowd with the latest global pop and reggaeton.
Salon de Eventos Artemisa: The largest nearby venue for major concerts and “fiestas,” attracting the best DJs from the province for high-energy dance marathons.