Cubans and visitors from other
latitudes reach the 6.7 kilometer long key via a
causeway, which provides an opportunity to take in
the landscape of red mangroves which cover 80% of
the island’s surface area.
A fascinating environment welcomes
summer visitors who come to enjoy the transparent
water and white sand beach, in the company of green
woodpeckers, hummingbirds and blackbirds, known as
totíes.
Other endemic bird species can be
sighted in Cayo Jutías, including the Great Lizard
Cuckoo and Cuban Blackhawk, in addition to Conga and
Carabali hutias, the large rodents which give the
island its name.
Within the mixed species mangroves
along the key’s northern coastline, small patches of
evergreen woods can be noted, formed by Mallows and
Seagrapes, while sandy areas are populated by tall
grasses and small bushes.
Among the island’s attractions is
its lighthouse, one of the oldest in Cuba, lighting
the way for boats at sea north of Pinar del Río for
over 100 years.
Unique in Latin America given its
skeletal, fragile-looking structure, it is in good
shape despite its age.
According to vistor Yudith Acosta,
the pristine beach, legendary lighthouse, and
interesting flora and fauna make the long trip to
Cayo Jutías well worth the effort, an unforgettable
family outing, far removed from the bustle of city
life. (AIN)
