Geological heritage management in Cuba

Efforts to manage and recognize Cuba’s geological heritage have focused on both the Guamuhaya National Geopark and the Viñales Valley.

In the Guamuhaya National Geopark, authorities and experts are advancing integrated management strategies to protect natural heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and involve local communities across Sancti Spíritus, Villa Clara, and Cienfuegos. Enrique Castellanos Abella, Director of Geology at the Ministry of Energy and Mines, noted the massif is a key element in the geological evolution of the Caribbean, reflecting the separation of Pangea. The region contains rare metamorphic rocks, such as eclogites, which are highly valued for dating rock ages. Geopark director Baudilio Naranjo has highlighted various high-value geosites, including the Agua Caburní and Vegas Grandes waterfalls and the Julio César cave.

Concurrently, the Viñales Valley in Pinar del Río has reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of UNESCO Global Geoparks Network status. Following a formal evaluation process that began in June 2025, the UNESCO World Council has recommended the Viñales Valley for inclusion in the network. This recommendation follows an October evaluation of the area’s karst systems, mogotes, and 57 geosites. The Council recognized the technical quality of the proposal and the geological significance of the valley, noting the strength of the candidacy despite difficult economic and material circumstances. The successful integration of geological protection with local agricultural traditions and community participation remains a central component of the candidacy.