Anyone interested in Cuban history (and who is physically fit) should visit the Comandancia, nestled in the Sierra Maestra.
Getting to La Plata presents its own challenge. This is not a well travelled area (for now) although excursions by some tour companies, via Santiago or Bayamo, are offered, as well as from the tour office in Santo Domingo. The steep roads from Santo Domingo to Parque Pico Turquino necessitate off-road vehicles, requiring pre-arrangement.
There are restrictions on hours of access because of the length of the trek – arrival at Alto de Naranjo before 10:00am is crucial. Competent guides lead you through the 3km trek, with a mid-stop for orientation (and bathroom breaks) – ours, George, was a life saver. Bring water, snacks if needed, and repellant.
It’s important to know your limitations here. In my group of 17 travellers of 30-to some really buff 70-year-olds, we were all challenged by the ungroomed trails. Wear reliable hiking boots or walking shoes because the terrain is gruesome: mud, clay, small rocks, huge boulders, no railings but frequent sheer drops on the side. (The air was tainted by many of my curses by the time we’d finished!)
Now for the rewards. It’s hard not to be impressed by the amount of fortitude required by Castro’s rebels to exist for a few years in this difficult habitat, or by the clever strategies used to remain hidden from Batista’s forces (such as keeping buildings spread apart, and even the growing of beards to identify infiltrators). A small wooden museum shows artifacts and displays about the rebels’ campaign, but elsewhere building reproductions are amazingly primitive, including the hospital. A read of some of Ché Guevara’s diaries provide a lot of insight into living conditions during this time.
As if this isn’t enough, there is also lots to see in this area besides the Comandancia. Wonderful flora and fauna abound everywhere, ..a Cuban Trogan, the national bird, perched in a tree near Fidel’s cabin while I was there – does it get more perfect than that?

I'm 67 and managed this hike - was not easy, but so was worth the climb - no wonder the Army could not find Fidel Castro. Of all our 14 day tour this was a highlight for me - not to be missed

Hiked the mountain using a novice level tour. It was a little challenging because I’ve never hiked a mountain before, but well worth the energy!! The Sierra maestra is a spectacular mountain range and has no snakes!! The beauty is breathtaking and its history is majestic. I learned so much about the revolution of the country, it was amazing. Can’t wait to go back again. Viva La Cuba 🇨🇺 !! ❤️❤️❤️