The 2.5KM (1.5 miles) of underground caves called the Cuevas Bellamar are by far Cuba’s oldest tourist attraction. Located just 5km southeast of Matanzas the caves have been carbon dated to be 300,000 years old. The cave system was originally discovered in 1861 and now provides terrific spectacle of stalactites and stalagmites and impressive crystallized domes. Tour of the Bellamar caves take 45-minutes and tours are every hour starting at 9:30am. There is no need to book in advance and the guides all speak (and make the tours) in English.

As a hands-on history lesson for kids, it offers a deep insight into the stupendous geology. The caves on show include a vast 12m stalagmite and crystaline underground stream. The Bellamar cave walls glitter crystals as you walk by. The entrance is through a small museum which displays some of the caves historic finds, a real treat. Outside the Cuevas de Bellamar there are two small restaurants offering snacks and meals plus a largish playground for kids. To get to the Bellamar Caves, take bus 12 from Plaza Libertad near the Hotel Velasco or take the Matanzas Viazul Bus and disembark at the stop near the caves, it’s a 5 minute walk afterwards.