Located in the eastern part of the country. On October 27, 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in Bariay, on the coast of Holguin and immediately said that it was the most beautiful land ever seen by human eyes.

Holguin is home to 30 percent of Cuba's endemic vegetable species, together with over a thousand animal species typical of the island, especially birds and butterflies. An important bird corridor crosses over the spa, which is situated at a place designated by experts as the archaeological capital of Cuba.

In over 25 miles (40 kilometers), the northern coastline of Holguin has 41 beaches. Guardalavaca and Esmeralda Beaches are the most popular ones among foreign tourists.

Guardalavaca is not far from Gibara, the place where Colon first landed in Cuba. The so called "Chorro de Maita", a few minutes from the beach, is among one of the most important funeral places in the Caribbean area, while Banes boasts of hosting one of the best Indocuban Museum, which is located at a place regarded by experts as the archeological capital of Cuba.

Gibara is the only Cuban city besides Havana to be surrounded by walls.

The Saetia Key where the largest wild animals in the country can be found. A vast array of buffalo, antelope, deer and wild hogs can be hunted in this area.

Among other attractions, Holguin offers the Loma de la Cruz (the Hill of the Cross), the most famous place in the city, featuring a 450-step stairway that is replete with legends. The site was founded on May 3, 1950, and every anniversary is celebrated with a pilgrimage, masses and a multitude of dances.