Pilon: Archaeology and Walking Trails in the National Park

Desembarco del Granma National Park is located within the municipality of Pilon. Archaeological sites and designated circular trails give this part of Granma two distinct focuses. When planning, it is worth considering them separately: the area’s cultural history is reflected in caves, plazas and material remains, while the hiking options vary in trail length and, in some cases, difficulty.

Archaeological Sites in the National Park

The archaeological sites include ceremonial caves and plazas of the original Indigenous inhabitants. Numerous sites with petroglyphs, pictographs and artefacts made by Taíno potters are also spread throughout the national park. These remains offer different facets of the area’s cultural heritage and are not confined to a single site. For travellers interested in archaeological history, this diversity is what gives the national park its distinctive character.

Circular Trails with Different Features

Three hiking trails in the national park are designated as circular routes: one is 3 kilometres long, one is 6 kilometres, and one is 17 kilometres. The 3-km route is classified as a cave trail; the 6-km circular route is rated as highly difficult. The 17-km loop is the longest of the three options. Comparing them can help with day planning: the shortest route focuses on caves, while the difficulty rating should be taken into account for the 6-km trail. This lets you choose based on what matters most to you: the cave theme, the stated difficulty rating or a longer circular route. Check locally before your visit to confirm whether each trail is currently open. If hiking is to be a key part of your stay, factor in trail length, difficulty and current conditions when planning your accommodation and day trips.

A Broader View of Granma

In the wider destination of Granma, Turquino National Park offers another perspective. The protected area lies in the heart of the Sierra Maestra, is associated with events surrounding Cuba’s independence and covers 17,450 hectares. Its peak, Pico Real del Turquino, rises 1,974 metres above sea level and is Cuba’s highest point. July, September and October are the rainiest months in the mountains; February, March and April are the driest. These seasonal details refer to Turquino National Park.

The San Juan Bautista festival is part of the region’s culture. It is celebrated every year on 24 June, especially in the mountain communities of Guisa and Buey Arriba, as well as in Bayamo. The celebrations include a procession to the river and communal cooking of Ajiaco Rivelino and fried fish with sweet potatoes. In Bayamo, Plaza del Himno is where Cuba’s national anthem was composed and first sung. Every year on 12 January, the historic burning of Bayamo is also commemorated. These cultural and mountain themes broaden the picture of Granma as a destination; Pilon’s local focus is on the archaeological sites and walking trails in Desembarco del Granma National Park.

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