Crocodiles and Treasure Islands in Southern Matanzas, Cuba

Photo Feature by Luis Rondon Paz

HAVANA TIMES — Some say the most interesting thing in the Zapata Swamp, located in southern Matanzas, are the beaches, the crocodile meat, scuba diving and the history museum recounting the events of the Bay of Pigs invasion in the 1960s.

But we can add two other attractions to the national and international tourist circuit: the crocodile breeding facilities, where we can see live specimens at different stages of growth (including full-grown adults) and a place popularly known as Treasury Island, or Guama – a place where one can have a truly unique experience.

The Taino-native village is located 15 minutes into the swamp and can be reached via a speedboat. Those who know the history of the village say that, many years ago, an indigenous community lived there, living off fishing and farming. The sculptures and structures built by these natives are a window to their rich culture.

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