Village de Boca de Camarioca : charme authentique à 20 min de Varadero

Village of Boca de Camarioca: authentic charm 20 minutes from Varadero

• A perfect escape from the resorts, with affordable accommodation and local restaurants.

• 
  

While Varadero attracts travelers with its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, just a 20-minute drive away lies Boca de Camarioca, a small village offering a more authentic Cuban experience. Located in the province of Matanzas, this village is not only an ideal stop on the way to the Cueva de Saturno,

but also a destination in its own right, rich in nature, culture and history. This note explores in detail what Boca de Camarioca has to offer, its attractions, its location, and why it's worth a visit for those wishing to discover another face of Cuba.

Background and location

Boca de Camarioca is a village in the province of Matanzas, part of the municipality of Cárdenas since 2010, after being attached to Varadero. According to Wikipedia: Boca de Camarioca, it has around 6,500 inhabitants (2004 data) and is located at the mouth of the Camarioca river. The terrain is predominantly calcárea (calcita), with natural formations such as "los caletones," small bays formed by marine erosion. The village stretches along the coast, with beaches such as Playa El Buren (in the center, near the church) and Playa Los Pinos (on the northeastern edge).

To get there, simply take the Autovía La Habana-Varadero (Via Blanca), a journey of around 20 minutes from Varadero, making this destination easily accessible for a day trip or extended stay. According to TripAdvisor: Boca de Camarioca Tourism, this is an economical and authentic alternative for travellers wishing to avoid Varadero's high prices.

Attractions and activities

Boca de Camarioca offers a variety of activities, including :

• Cueva de Saturno: This cenote, located in the village itself, is the main attraction. According to TripAdvisor: Cueva Saturno, it is known for its crystal-clear waters, with depths ranging from 1 to 22 meters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling or even scuba diving. Entry costs around 5 CUC per person, and visitors describe the experience as "magical" and "refreshing," with comments from February 2024 highlighting the beauty of the clear water.

  
  

• Local beaches: The village boasts beaches less crowded than those in Varadero, such as Playa El Buren and Playa Los Pinos. These beaches offer a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing, swimming or enjoying the scenery. According to Maxicuba: Boca de Camarioca, they are ideal for those seeking a quieter, more authentic experience.

  
  

• Local culture and events: Boca de Camarioca is a traditional fishing village, and visitors can observe daily activities such as fishing or trading at the local market. A notable attraction is the Festival del Pargo, which takes place in mid-June. According to Wikipedia: Boca de Camarioca, this four-day festival includes music, DJs, attractions and, originally, a fishing competition, offering an immersion in Cuban culture.

  
  

• Natural exploration: The village's calcárea terrain, with formations like "los caletones," offers opportunities for short hikes or nature observation, including the petrous mogotes that emerge from the sea.

  
  

Accommodation and catering

For travelers, Boca de Camarioca offers affordable accommodation options, often in the form of casas particulares, which are private homes offering an authentic experience.

For dining, the village boasts several restaurants and paladares (private restaurants). Places like El Regreso (specializing in Caribbean, Latin and seafood dishes), Cata-Lejo Bar Restaurante (American, Caribbean and international cuisine) and A Dram and More (Una Copita y Más) are recommended. These establishments offer local cuisine at reasonable prices, perfect for sampling Cuban flavours.

Historical significance

Boca de Camarioca is not only a place of natural beauty; it also has significant historical importance. According to Encyclopedia.com: Camarioca Boat Lift, in 1965, the village was the scene of the first mass exodus of Cubans to the United States, known as the "Camarioca boatlift." From September 28 to November 15, 1965, Fidel Castro authorized Cubans with relatives in the United States to leave the island via the port of Camarioca, resulting in the departure of nearly 3,000 people, assisted by the U.S. Coast Guard.

This two-month event was followed by "Freedom Flights" until 1975, marking a turning point in Cuban-American relations. This story adds a fascinating dimension for visitors interested in Cuba's contemporary history.

Why visit Boca de Camarioca?

Boca de Camarioca is the perfect alternative for those wishing to escape the resorts of Varadero and discover a more authentic side of Cuba.

Influenced by Varadero's proximity but remaining quieter, this destination offers a unique combination of nature, culture and history. Whether it's a stopover on the way to the Cueva de Saturno, a swim in its crystal-clear waters, or an immersion in local life, Boca de Camarioca is a hidden gem worth exploring.

Boca de Camarioca vs. Varadero

Conclusion

In summary, Boca de Camarioca is a charming and accessible destination, perfect for travelers in search of authenticity. Close to Varadero but distinct in atmosphere, this village offers a unique experience with its natural landscapes, local culture and rich history. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation or cultural immersion, Boca de Camarioca is a must-see stopover to discover another face of Cuba. Plan your visit and let yourself be surprised by this hidden gem.