Pico Turquino
Mountain Cuba's highest mountain peak in Sierra Maestra
Pico Turquino crowns Cuba’s Sierra Maestra as the nation’s highest peak; hikers follow multi‑day trails through protected forests for summit views and to observe endemic flora.
Pico Turquino is the highest mountain in Cuba, rising to 1,974 metres, and forms the summit of the Sierra Maestra range in the island’s southeast. It is a national landmark and a destination for multi-day hikes and eco-tourism.
The mountain is frequently climbed via trails that approach from the east and north slopes, typically requiring one to two days of trekking depending on route and pace. Hikers pass through montane forest and protected areas en route to the summit.
Pico Turquino lies in Santiago de Cuba Province within the Sierra Maestra, inside a protected national park area. The nearest major city is Santiago de Cuba, roughly 80 to 100 kilometres to the east by road, with local access routes into the mountain foothills.
- Elevation: At 1,974 metres above sea level it is Cuba's highest peak and the highest point of the Sierra Maestra range.
How to Get to Pico Turquino #
Most expeditions to Pico Turquino start from the eastern approaches near the town of Santo Domingo or from trailheads in Sierra Maestra accessed from Santiago de Cuba. Local guide services arrange transport, permits and camping logistics.
Tips for Visiting Pico Turquino #
- Hire a local guide for mountain treks-routes through Sierra Maestra are best navigated with local knowledge.
- Combine a Pico Turquino climb with a stop in the village of Santo Domingo (the usual trailhead) for cultural context and supplies.
- Acclimatize gradually and allow extra days in the schedule: weather and path conditions can slow progress.
Best Time to Visit Pico Turquino #
November-April is the most comfortable window for trekking Pico Turquino.
Weather & Climate near Pico Turquino #
Pico Turquino's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 9°C to 21°C. Heavy rainfall (2110 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm).
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (160 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (315 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (238 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (170 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (227 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (262 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (285 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (143 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm).
