1,974 m
Elevation
1,974 m
Prominence
19.9833°, -76.8333°
Coordinates
Unknown — pre-modern era; Fidel Castro's rebels used the Sierra Maestra as their base
First Ascent
About Pico Turquino
Cuba's highest peak in the Sierra Maestra, where Castro's revolution began. The 2-day guided trek passes through revolutionary history and virgin forest.
Climbing Pico Turquino: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months.
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Cuba?
The highest mountain in Cuba is Pico Turquino, at 1,974 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Pico Turquino?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Pico Turquino without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Pico Turquino?
The usual season is the local dry season — anytime outside the monsoon or rainy months. Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Pico Turquino?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Pico Turquino?
Pico Turquino stands at 1,974 meters (6,476 feet).
Where is Pico Turquino located?
Pico Turquino is located in Cuba, within the Sierra Maestra.
Has Martin climbed Pico Turquino?
Not yet — Pico Turquino is still on Martin's list of remaining country highpoints.