Zapata Peninsula - Matanzas province

Where is it? The Zapata Peninsula in western Cuba's Matanzas province, is roughly 2 hours south of the famous white sand beach of Varadero. The Zapata Peninsula is comprised of swamplands, the Salina flora/fauna refuge, the Guama alligator farm & recreated Taino indian village, Playa Larga & Playa Giron (the Bay of Pigs) and more. Getting there: Access to the Zapata Peninsula is by surface transfer. It is approximately 2 hours from Varadero, or 2.5 hours from Havana. Transfer, bus service, or car rental are possible transportation options for arriving at the site. About the area: The Zapata Peninsula has the most complex system of carstic drainage in Cuba. That, coupled with the genetic potential of the flora and fauna that inhabit the area, make the Zapata Peninsula one of the best-conserved green areas in the Antilles. Almost 56% of the wetlands are covered by forests, and it's calculated that some 900 diverse floral species grow here, many of which are autoctonous. The region has recently been declared a Biosphere Reserve due to the previous biodiversity coupled with the presence of some 109 forms of fauna with 12 mammiferous species, 160 bird species, 31 reptiles, and a large variety of amphibious and invertebrates.   The Fishing: Catch & Release fly fishing is offered in several areas. In Las Salinas de Brito, flat-bottomed boats are maneuvered by poling. One boat per angler.  Rio Hatiguanico & Laguna del Tesoro feature motor-powered boats. Nautical transportation here may be assigned individually or 1 boat/2  anglers, subject to availability.

Prices include:
-Ground handling fees & airport reception
-Transfer in/out HAV airport-HAV hotel (options # 1 , 2 & 3)
-2 nts accommodation in 4* Occidental Miramar hotel with breakfast included (options #2 & 4)
-Transfer Havana-Cienaga de Zapata (RT) (options #3 & 4)
-Accommodation in hotel Playa Larga with 3 meals included daily
-Meeting with fishing guides, plus 5 days of fishing (3 in las Salinas and 2 in the rivers) with 2 anglers/1 guide per boat. Up to 8 hours daily with your fishing guide included.
-All transfers to/from the fishing zone
-Fishing license

Prices do not include:
Fishing equipment, gratuities, beverages, items of a personal nature

Packages includes:
-Ground handling fees & airport reception
-Fishing License (for anglers only)
-3 days of fishing including up to 8 hours daily with your sport fishing guide. Single skiffs subject to availability and destination selected.
-Nautical transfer
-Accommodation in Bohio Don Pedro, Villa Guama or Hotel Playa Larga with three daily meals included

Prices do not include:
Land transfers, fishing equipment, gratuities, beverages, items of a personal nature.

Companions: Companions are permitted to accompany anglers in the fishing areas when coordination is made one day prior to the visit to the area of interest.    
Salinas -  One companion per boat due to the lower water level/poling navigation.
Hatiguanico & Laguna del Tesoro -  One companion per boat sharing with angler. 

Equipment:
It is strongly suggested to bring your own equipment. Among other things, the following are recommended: #8 & 10 rods (at least 3), untied leaders (10-13 lb). No less than 2 rods for salt water. Good reels. Guides up to 12 ft and various from 20-80 lbs. A detailed suggested packing list will accompany your confirmed invoice.

General Notes:
Remember that while the species is ever-present, there are sometimes climactic afectations in the months from October to December during the Caribbean hurricane season which can affect fishing activities.

Back to main fishing menu