Hey ya’ll,

Have heard some interesting things about climbing in Cuba, but don’t have any solid details.  Was wondering if anyone could share some beta on travelling and climbing down there.  Am thinking of going for a week’s vacation with the fam.  The focus will be on R & R, but would like to fit in some climbing if it’s worthwhile.  Also have some dated climbing gear that is still in good shape and useable.  Have heard of people bringing down old gear for the locals - is this still practiced?  Any info would be great.

Cheers - martin

Hey Martin,

The climbing in Cuba is great! Overhanging limestone with biiiiiiiig features and very 3 dimensional climbing. The developped climbing area is Vinales which is 2-4 hours west of Havana depending on the reliability of your taxi/bus. There are crags all around town with many 1-3 pitch options within an easy walk and 4-6 pitch routes a 10 minute drive out of town.

Bring whatever you can, there are many climbers without gear and even kids who have climbing shoes but no regular shoes! Dont bring chalkbags, they have enough, bring chalk!

You can check out http://www.cubaclimbing.com for some topos and an online guide. If you can, book the upstairs room at Oscar’s in Vinales. (Adela Azcuy #43, Viñales, Pinar del Rio, 08-93381)

Pictures 2-4 on http://www.craigluebben.com/photography/climbing/index.html are from Vinales.

Have fun!