Annika Hipple

Annika Hipplehttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/annika-hippleAnnika Hipplehttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/south-america/chile/top-places-to-go-in-southern-chileIn contrast to the dry north, southern Chile is a wonderland of lakes, rivers, fjords, and glaciers ready to be explored. Annika Hipple shares her tips on where to go.2025-06-04T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/south-america/chile/top-places-to-go-in-southern-chilehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Chile's climate is temperate, becoming increasingly variable further south, so it’s best to be prepared for four seasons in one day, especially in Patagonia.</p> <p>South of Temuco, the Lake District begins, a varied landscape of rivers, lakes, volcanos, and forests. Off its southern end, the lush green Chiloé Archipelago occupies a special place in the Chilean imagination. In Patagonia, the coastline becomes a <a href="/explore/south-america/chile/cruising-the-southern-patagonia-ice-field">patchwork of fjords</a>, channels, and islands, while the plains and peaks shelter some of South America’s most iconic wildlife.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#lakesdistrict"> The Lake District </a></li> <li><a href="#chiloearchipelago"> The Chiloé Archipelago </a></li> <li><a href="#aysenregion"> The Aysén Region </a></li> <li><a href="#torresdelpaine"> Torres Del Paine </a></li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/glacier-grey-torres-del-paine-milly-mcgrath.jpg" alt="Grey Glacier is a highlight of The W Trek, Torres del Paine." /> <figcaption> Grey Glacier is a highlight of The W Trek, Torres del Paine. Photo credit: Milly McGrath </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lakesdistrict">The Lake District</h2> <p>With snow-capped volcanoes rising above pure blue lakes and dense forests, it’s no wonder the Lake District is Chile's favorite year-round playground. Much of the region is protected in national parks and reserves, including Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park with its centerpiece, the perfectly conical Volcán Osorno. The pretty town of Puerto Varas, founded by German immigrants on the shore of Lake Llanquihue, is an excellent base for <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance">hiking</a>, <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/mountain-biking">mountain biking</a>, water sports, and other activities.</p> <p>Further north, Pucón is another adventure hub, situated on Lake Villarrica at the foot of the region’s highest peak, Volcán Villarrica. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/kayaking-or-rafting">kayaking</a>, fly-fishing, rafting, and climbs to the volcano’s crater. In winter, the Pucón area is a good base for <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/ski-snowboard-travel-insurance" target="_blank">skiing</a>, with several resorts nearby.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/petrohue-waterfalls-southern-chile-istock-sl-photography.jpg" alt="Petrohue Waterfalls, Southern Chile." /> <figcaption> Petrohue Waterfalls, Southern Chile. Photo credit: iStock/SL_Photography </figcaption></figure> <p>The Lake District is also the heartland of the local Mapuche people; visitors can explore indigenous traditions at handicrafts markets and on cultural tours.</p> <h2 id="chiloearchipelago">The Chiloé Archipelago</h2> <p>A short ferry ride from Pargua (37mi/60km south of Puerto Montt on the mainland), Chiloé is a world apart, with distinctive nature, architecture, folklore, and food. The archipelago is known for its wooden churches, 16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed. Food-related cultural experiences abound, from farm tours to <em>curanto</em>, a feast of shellfish, meat, and potatoes cooked in a hole in the ground.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/church-san-francisco-chiloe-island-istock-ifonimages.jpg" /> <figcaption> Church of San Francisco in the main square of Castro at Chiloe Island. Photo credit: iStock/tifonimages </figcaption></figure> <p>Whereas eastern Chiloé is gently rolling, with sheltered bays and colorful fishing communities, the west is wild and rugged. Chiloé National Park and other reserves protect mountains, bogs, and temperate rainforests, with hiking trails and wildlife ranging from diverse birdlife to foxes and Chile’s smallest deer, the pudú. In northwest Chiloé, the islets of <span>Puñihuil Bay are the only place in the world where Magellanic and Humboldt penguins nest in the same place. They can be seen on boat tours, along with many other seabirds.</span></p> <p>Accommodation in Chiloé includes hostels, hotels, and self-catering cabins. On a recent visit, I stayed at an all-inclusive hotel, then explored further with Chiloé Natural, which operates a variety of tours throughout the archipelago.</p> <h2 id="aysenregion">The Aysén Region</h2> <p>South of the Lake District, Aysén is Chile’s least populated region, a land of fjords, glaciers, and rivers that remains off the beaten path – though probably not for long.</p> <p>The ultimate Chilean <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/road-trip">road trip</a>, the Carretera Austral (Southern Highway) runs 770mi (1,240km) from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins. Coyhaique is the region’s capital and has good services. Further south, I found a wonderful temporary home an ecolodge overlooking Lake General Carrera, Latin America’s second-largest lake. Along the lake’s northern shore lie the Marble Caves, an extraordinary series of naturally carved formations, accessible by boat tour and kayak.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/marble-caves-chile-istock-relsegraf.jpg" alt="Marble caves, Lake General Carrera." /> <figcaption> Marble caves, Lake General Carrera. Photo credit: iStock/relsegraf </figcaption></figure> <p>Aysén is home to <a href="/explore/south-america/chile/exploring-chiles-route-of-parks">several stunning national parks and reserves</a>, including Queulat National Park, known for its hanging glacier, and the new Patagonia Park, which protects varied wildlife and landscapes including grasslands, forests and wetlands. In Laguna San Rafael National Park, boat cruises and kayaking tours visit the San Rafael Glacier, which calves into a lagoon.</p> <p>Whitewater kayakers and rafting enthusiasts will find plenty of adventure on the mighty Baker River and its tributaries. From Puerto Río Tranquilo, guided treks venture onto the impressive Exploradores Glacier, which can also be admired from an overlook, a short hike off the road.</p> <h2 id="torresdelpaine">Torres Del Paine</h2> <p>Torres del Paine dazzles with its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and feeling of remoteness. Dominating the landscape is the Paine Massif, its distinctive peaks include the park’s namesake towers (torres) – three sheer granite pillars – and the Horns of Paine, rising above turquoise Lake Pehoe. At the western end of the park, deep blue icebergs calve from Grey Glacier into Grey Lake.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/lake-reflection-torres-del-paine-milly-mcgrath.jpg" alt=" The Horns of Paine." /> <figcaption> The Horns of Paine. Photo credit: Milly McGrath </figcaption></figure> <p>Day excursions range from wildlife safaris and easy lakeside walks to moderate cross-country hikes and the demanding climb to the base of the towers. Commonly seen animals include guanacos, foxes, and many species of birds, including condors. Horseback riding is also available.</p> <p>Travelers seeking a greater challenge can choose between the full Paine Circuit, aka the O Circuit (seven to nine days) around the Paine Massif, and the W Trek (five to seven days), comprising the circuit’s southern sections.</p> <p>Accommodation ranges from basic <em>refugios</em> (shelters) and campgrounds to all-inclusive hotels.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/chile/campsite-torres-del-paine-milly-mcgrath.jpg" alt="Wooden platforms for camping in Torres del Paine." /> <figcaption> Wooden platforms make it easey to find a place to set up the tent. Photo credit: Milly McGrath</figcaption></figure>Milly McGrath 0 A hiker on the W Trek in Torres del Paine, Chile.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/north-america/canada/canadas-best-destinations-for-wildlife-encountersCanada is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations, where close encounters lie just around the corner. Here are some of the best places to see a variety of species.2021-08-12T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/north-america/canada/canadas-best-destinations-for-wildlife-encountershttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Where should you go to see moose in Canada? How about bears or bald eagles? Here are some of Canada's best spots for wildlife spotting.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#vancouver-island"> Vancouver Island </a></li> <li><a href="#british-columbia"> Mainland British Columbia </a></li> <li><a href="#alberta"> Alberta </a></li> <li><a href="#manitoba"> Manitoba </a></li> <li><a href="#ontario"> Ontario </a></li> <li><a href="#quebec"> Maritime Quebec </a></li> <li><a href="#fundy"> Bay of Fundy </a></li> <li><a href="#newfoundland"> Newfoundland </a></li> <li><a href="#safety"> Wildlife Safety</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vancouver-island">Vancouver Island: whales, bears & snorkeling with salmon</h2> <p>Between <a href="/explore/north-america/canada/adventure-guide-to-victoria-and-vancouver-island" target="_blank">Vancouver Island</a> and mainland British Columbia lies the Johnstone Strait, renowned for its whales, including orcas, humpbacks, and minkes. Day-trips and excursions to see the whales operate from several island communities.</p> <p>The Salish Sea, where Canada meets Washington state, is another great spot for orcas, with whale watching trips out of Victoria.</p> <p>Campbell River is a jumping-off point for grizzly bear viewing in late summer/early fall. From mid-July through September there’s also the exhilarating opportunity to snorkel with thousands of salmon.</p> <p>On the west coast, Tofino is a popular base for viewing whales, sea otters, sea lions, black bears, and more.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/grey-whale-british-columbia-istock.jpg" /> <figcaption> Grey whale off the coast of Tofino, British Columbia. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="british-columbia">Mainland British Columbia: eagles & spirit bears</h2> <p><a href="/explore/north-america/canada/exploring-british-columbia-beyond-the-well-known-destinations" target="_blank">Squamish, north of Vancouver</a>, attracts one of the world’s largest concentrations of bald eagles each winter. Float trips on the Cheakamus and Squamish Rivers are the best way to see them.</p> <p>The remote Great Bear Rainforest offers a chance of sighting a spirit bear, a subspecies of black bear with a recessive gene that makes its fur cream-colored.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/spirit-bear-british-columbia-istock.jpg" alt="A spirit bear watches for fish in a British Columbia river." /> <figcaption> A spirit bear watches for fish in the river. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="alberta">Alberta: bison, wolves & beavers</h2> <p>In the <a href="/explore/north-america/canada/the-ultimate-guide-to-exploring-the-canadian-rockies" target="_blank">Canadian Rockies</a>, Banff and Jasper National Parks provide plentiful opportunities to spot bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and other wildlife.</p> <p>Wood Buffalo National Park in northern Alberta is a huge wilderness famous for its 5,000 free-roaming wood bison. It’s also home to wolves, beavers, sandhill and whooping cranes, and much more.</p> <p>A smaller, translocated bison herd can be seen at the more accessible Elk Island National Park, east of Edmonton.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/bison-elk-national-park-istock.jpg" alt="A bison in Elk National Park, Alberta." /> <figcaption> A bison in Elk National Park. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="manitoba">Manitoba: polar bears in Churchill</h2> <p><a href="/explore/north-america/canada/polar-bear-encounters-churchill-manitoba" target="_blank">Churchill is famous for its polar bears</a>, which gather along the Hudson Bay shoreline each autumn. Another reason to visit is to see thousands of beluga whales that throng the Churchill River estuary every summer.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/beluga-whales-hudson-bay-istock.jpg" alt="Beluga whales frolicking in Hudson Bay at sunset." /> <figcaption> Beluga whales frolicking in Hudson Bay at sunset. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="ontario">Ontario: moose on the loose</h2> <p><a href="/explore/north-america/canada/ontarios-best-national-parks-and-outdoor-adventure-activities" target="_blank">Algonquin Provincial Park</a> is one of Canada’s best places to see moose, particularly in spring along the Highway 60 corridor.</p> <p>A few other wildlife encounters you might experience include wolves, black bear, deer, beavers, and 272 species of birds including seasonal migrants.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/moose-algonquin-provincial-park-istock.jpg" alt="A moose in the water, Algonquin Provincial Park." /> <figcaption> A moose in the water, Algonquin Provincial Park. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="quebec">Maritime Quebec: beluga whales & gannets</h2> <p>Wide and deep, the <a href="/explore/north-america/canada/day-trips-and-outdoor-adventures-in-quebec-province" target="_blank">St. Lawrence River near Tadoussac</a> boasts as many as 13 whale species between May and October, including a large population of belugas as well as humpbacks and blue whales.</p> <p>Off the Gaspé Peninsula, Bonaventure Island has one of the world’s largest colonies of northern gannets. Boat tours with time ashore operate from Percé.</p> <p>In the peninsula’s interior, the heavily forested Chic-Chocs Mountains offer good chances to see moose.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/northern-gannett-birds-quebec-istock.jpg" alt="Northern gannets covering a cliff-side on Bonaventure Island." /> <figcaption> Northern gannets covering a cliff-side on Bonaventure Island. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="fundy">Bay of Fundy: whales & puffins</h2> <p>Between <a href="/explore/north-america/canada/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-new-brunswick" target="_blank">New Brunswick</a> and <a href="/explore/north-america/canada/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-nova-scotia" target="_blank">Nova Scotia</a>, the Bay of Fundy is famous for the world’s highest tides. Up to 12 whale species frequent the area, with humpback, fin, and minke whales the most common.</p> <p>The bay is also a great birdwatching destination, with more than 260 species including puffins, eagles, and sandpipers.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/canada/puffin-bay-of-fundy-istock.jpg" alt="A puffin in the Bay of Fundy." /> <figcaption> A puffin in the Bay of Fundy. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="newfoundland">Newfoundland: more whales & moose</h2> <p><a href="/explore/north-america/canada/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-newfoundland-and-labrador" target="_blank">Newfoundland’s</a> rich waters attract 22 species of whale including large numbers of humpbacks, along with minke, sperm, blue, orca, and pothead whales. Seabirds number in the millions, and include North America’s largest population of Atlantic puffins.</p> <p>Gros Morne National Park has a dense population of moose, frequently seen along roadsides.</p> <h2 id="safety">Wildlife safety</h2> <p>No matter where you choose to explore Canada's amazing wildlife, always take care to maintain a safe distance and avoid acting in any way that might disturb the animals or cause them to modify their natural behavior. Remember that wildlife is just that – wild – and do your best to ensure that it remains so long after your visit is over.</p> <p></p>iStock/wwing 0668063768 iStock Pair of bull elk in mountain grassland Banff

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/wildlife-experiences-for-outdoor-explorers-in-cubaCuba has a great diversity of endemic wildlife species, particularly when it comes to birds, reptiles, and marine life. Here are some of Cuba’s best wildlife destinations.2017-04-19T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/wildlife-experiences-for-outdoor-explorers-in-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Cuba has a wide range of unspoiled habitats, from densely forested mountains and expansive wetlands to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean, as well as two of the region’s most important sea turtle nesting sites.</p> <p>Popular wildlife-related activities include <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-hikes-and-treks-for-travelers-to-cuba" target="_blank">hiking</a>, birdwatching, kayaking, snorkelling, and <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">diving</a>.</p> <h2>1. Ciénaga de Zapata</h2> <p>The largest wetlands in the Caribbean, the Zapata Swamp is a tremendously diverse ecosystem, home to many hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.</p> <p>With luck, you might spot endemic species such as Cuba’s national bird, the Cuban trogon, or the world’s smallest bird, the bee hummingbird.</p> <p>The endangered Cuban crocodile can be seen at the Guamá Crocodile Breeding Farm at Laguna del Tesoro.</p> <h2>2. Guanahacabibes National Park</h2> <p>The remote, undeveloped Guanahacabibes Peninsula is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered green and hawksbill turtles, which come ashore to nest on the white sand beaches between June and November.</p> <p>Maria La Gorda makes a good base for exploring the terrestrial attractions of Guanahacabibes National Park, as well as <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">diving the gorgeous coral reefs just offshore</a>.</p> <h2>3. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park</h2> <p>Located in Cuba’s humid east, this national park is widely considered the most biologically diverse part of the island.</p> <p>Wildlife found in its lush rainforests includes the world’s second-smallest bat and the smallest frog in the northern hemisphere.</p> <p>The easiest way to visit is on a day trip from <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-do-in-baracoa" target="_blank">Baracoa</a>. Exploration without a guide is not permitted.</p> <h2>4. Topes de Collantes National Park</h2> <p>In the Sierra del Escambray, Cuba’s second-highest mountain range, lies Topes de Collantes, a thickly forested reserve whose abundant wildlife includes the Cuban trogon, Cuban parrot, and several species of hummingbird.</p> <p>The park is easily reachable on a day trip from nearby <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cuba" target="_blank">Trinidad</a> and has an extensive network of hiking trails.</p> <h2>5. Cayo Largo</h2> <p>Along with Guanahacabibes, Cayo Largo in the Canarreos Archipelago offers the best chance in Cuba to see endangered sea turtles.</p> <p>Its white sands draw nesting loggerheads between April and September, as well as green and hawksbill turtles from June through November.</p> <p>Crystal-clear waters and dazzling nearby coral reefs also make Cayo Largo a great destination for diving and snorkelling.</p> <h2>6. Pico Turquino and the Sierra Maestra</h2> <p>Blanketed with forests of pine, bamboo, and ferns, the Sierra Maestra mountains boast Cuba’s highest peak, Pico Turquino (1, 974 metres).</p> <p>Wildlife includes tiny frogs, butterflies, and as always, an abundance of birds.</p> <p>A guide is required for climbing Pico Turquino.</p> <h2>7. Viñales Valley</h2> <p><a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-do-in-vinales-western-cuba" target="_blank">The Viñales Valley</a> is a spectacular landscape of lush vegetation, red earth, and steep, rounded limestone hills called <em>mogotes</em>.</p> <p>Much of the area is devoted to agriculture, especially tobacco, which is still cultivated using traditional methods.</p> <p>Trails through the valley provide opportunities to see a variety of birds, including the bee hummingbird.</p> <h2>8. Las Terrazas</h2> <p>Located inside the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve, the eco-village of Las Terrazas was built as part of a reforestation project in 1968.</p> <p>Footpaths through evergreen and semi-deciduous forest offer excellent opportunities to view around 800 species of plants and well over 100 bird species.</p> <h2>9. Jardines del Rey</h2> <p><a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">Some of the best diving and snorkelling</a> in Cuba can be found in the clear waters around this string of small islands off the north coast.</p> <p>A large seasonal colony of flamingos, as well as reptiles such as turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas can be seen among the mangroves and lagoons on Cayo Coco.</p> <h2>Heading to Cuba? Download our FREE Insider’s Guide!</h2> <p><a href="/explore/guides/cuba-insiders-guide" target="_blank"><strong>Put down the cigars and step out of the vintage cars! Explore historical sites of revolution, taste peso food, or go diving among vibrant marine life.</strong></a></p>iStock/Gfed 0508811504 iStock Crocodile Lying Low

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cubaDon’t miss Cuba’s best-preserved colonial town, Trinidad. From pastel-colored houses to a car-free historic core our local insider shows you what to see and do here.2017-04-19T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The streets surrounding Trinidad’s main square, Plaza Mayor, are lined with beautiful mansions from the heyday of the local sugar industry.</p> <p>Several of these are now museums, highlighting various aspects of the town’s past. </p> <p>Trinidad’s gorgeous natural surroundings also offer several worthwhile destinations for day trips.</p> <h2>1. Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad</h2> <p>Facing the Plaza Mayor, Trinidad’s main church was built over a 75-year period in the 19th century, and is known for its impressive neoclassical altar and fine acoustics. </p> <p>Its greatest treasure is an 18th-century wooden statue of Christ, known as El Señor de la Vera Cruz. </p> <h2>2. Museo de Historia Municipal</h2> <p>Housed inside a magnificent 19th-century mansion, the Palacio Cantero, this museum contains an eclectic assortment of antique furniture, artwork, and decorative items, as well as exhibits on the sugar industry and other aspects of local history.</p> <p>Climb the tower for great views of Trinidad and the Sierra del Escambray mountains.</p> <h2>3. Museo Romántico</h2> <p>Dating from 1740, with an upper floor added in 1808, the Palacio Brunet houses the Museo Romántico, which focuses on the period from the 1830s through the 1860s.</p> <p>Objects on display include porcelain, glass, furniture, artwork, and other items owned by the wealthy Brunet family and other local elites.</p> <h2>4. Museo de Arquitectura Colonial</h2> <p>Flanking the Plaza Mayor, the Museum of Colonial Architecture occupies two connected blue buildings from the 18th century.</p> <p>It highlights outstanding examples of domestic architecture from the colonial period, including walls, ceilings, carved doors, ironwork, and other elements.</p> <h2>5. Convento de San Francisco</h2> <p>A block off the Plaza Mayor, the Convent of Saint Francis, with its distinctive yellow bell tower from 1813, is Trinidad’s most recognizable landmark.</p> <p>It’s now home to the Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos, with exhibits about the Castro regime’s struggle against counterrevolutionaries during the 1960s.</p> <p>There are also spectacular views from the bell tower.</p> <h2>6. Casa de la Música</h2> <p>Atop the wide stone staircase beside the Iglesia Parroquial, is Trinidad’s most popular choice for a night out - an open-air venue where you can dance the night away under the stars or just sip a mojito and enjoy the entertainment.</p> <p>There are live salsa shows and music nightly.</p> <h2>7. Playa Ancón</h2> <p>Playa Ancón is a lovely 4km stretch of white-sand beach located on the Peninsula Ancón, 12km south of Trinidad.</p> <p>Cuba’s largest black coral reef is located just offshore at Cayo Blanco; <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">day trips for snorkelling and diving are available</a>.</p> <h2>8. Valle de los Ingenios</h2> <p>Most of Trinidad’s wealthiest colonial-era families made their fortunes in the sugar industry, centred in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios.</p> <p>Stop at the Mirador de la Loma del Puerto for a panoramic view of the entire valley, dotted with the ruins of former sugar plantations.</p> <p>One of the most interesting is the Manaca Iznaga estate, where you can visit the restored manor house, sample hand-pressed sugar cane juice, and climb a 45-metre bell tower built in 1816 for more stunning views.</p> <h2>9. Topes de Collantes National Park</h2> <p>The Sierra del Escambray mountain range forms a verdant backdrop for Trinidad.</p> <p>The best place to explore it is at Topes de Collantes, a natural reserve with numerous forest trails, some of which lead to natural swimming holes and waterfalls.</p> <p>Organized day trips are available from Trinidad, but you can also <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/a-guide-to-getting-around-cuba" target="_blank">arrange your own transportation</a> and <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/cost-guide-to-cuba" target="_blank">pay a usage fee</a> for trail access.</p> <h2>Heading to Cuba? Download our FREE Insider’s Guide!</h2> <p><a href="/explore/guides/cuba-insiders-guide" target="_blank"><strong>Put down the cigars and step out of the vintage cars! Explore historical sites of revolution, taste peso food, or go diving among vibrant marine life.</strong></a></p>iStock/Nikada 0611288680 iStock Trinidad, Cuba - March 23, 2015: Local people and tourist walking on the streets of Plaza Mayor in Trinidad, Cuba.