Jardín de los Helechos
Cuba's unique open-air fern garden, boasting the second-largest collection in the Americas. A botanical treasure trove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery year-round
Jardín de los Helechos
Best Time
Lush greenery year-round
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cuba's unique open-air fern garden, boasting the second-largest collection in the Americas. A botanical treasure trove.
"A must-see for all visitors to Santiago de Cuba and locals alike. Another wonderful site discovered."
📞 Verify Opening Status
Recent visitor reports suggest closure. Call ahead or check local sources to confirm if it's open before you go.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located on El Caney Highway, it's a bit remote. Arrange your taxi or private transport in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Fern Collection
Main garden areas
Explore Cuba's unique fern species and exotic varieties from around the world. A paradise for plant enthusiasts!
Orchid Displays
Designated sections
Discover a vibrant array of orchids alongside the ferns, adding bursts of color to the lush greenery.
Historical Significance
Garden entrance and informational plaques
Learn about its origins as a private collection and its international recognition as a key botanical institution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Opening Status
Location & Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Verify Opening Status
Recent visitor reports suggest closure. Call ahead or check local sources to confirm if it's open before you go.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located on El Caney Highway, it's a bit remote. Arrange your taxi or private transport in advance.
🌿 For Plant Lovers
This garden is a must-see for anyone passionate about tropical flora, especially ferns and orchids.
🎁 Potential Fern Gift
If you impress the owner, you might even receive a fern variety as a gift!
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Verify Opening Status
Recent visitor reports suggest closure. Call ahead or check local sources to confirm if it's open before you go.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located on El Caney Highway, it's a bit remote. Arrange your taxi or private transport in advance.
🌿 For Plant Lovers
This garden is a must-see for anyone passionate about tropical flora, especially ferns and orchids.
🎁 Potential Fern Gift
If you impress the owner, you might even receive a fern variety as a gift!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Jardín de los Helechos is celebrated as a unique botanical gem in Santiago de Cuba, boasting an impressive collection of ferns and orchids. Visitors praise its charm and the knowledgeable staff, highlighting it as a must-see for nature lovers. However, recent reports suggest the garden may be permanently closed, causing disappointment for those planning a visit.
"Fern Garden. Located on El Caney Highway, "La Caridad" number 129. It began as a private collection of Manuel G. Caluff in 1976, after its creator joined the Botanical Enthusiasts Group of that city. National and international visitors enjoy this facility daily, which opens its doors and offers the opportunity to delve into this world. This garden, specializing in ferns, is unique in Cuba and is considered the second largest in the Americas in terms of species. It is the only one open-air. It is internationally recognized and maintains exchange relations with institutions and specialists from many countries. It belongs to the Network of Botanical Gardens of Cuba. It holds the status of "Double Excellence," the highest award given in Urban Agriculture, and has received the distinctions "Academy of Sciences Award" and "Provincial Environment Award.""
Leonardo Gonzalez
"Went in July 2024. Family who was running it left for the United States last year and it is permanently closed now. The entry way path looked nice from the outside. Too bad.
Update late August 2025: despite the recent photos posted (only one week before this update), the gardens remain closed as the most recent caretaker died some months ago. I'm not sure if the gardens were open at some point earlier in 2025 or late 2024, but I'm told that they will be closed until a new caretaker can be found. Which is expected to take awhile.
The person who's initials are LG and giving this place a nice review may be accurate in regards to the history, but obviously has not visited the gardens anytime recently. Call first, as they are a little away from other sites in Santiago."
Michael Romagnoli
"It's an excellent place to enjoy this type of plant, not only those native to Cuba, but also those from many other countries. I never thought such a beautiful place would exist in Santiago de Cuba. Plant lovers visiting the city must definitely visit this place. Who knows? Maybe they'll even give you a fern variety as a gift, as I did (make sure you please the owner!)."
Jose Antonio Suarez Marcheco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jardín de los Helechos is located on El Caney Highway, number 129, in "La Caridad." It's a bit outside the main city, so it's best to arrange a taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited.
While it has a specific address, its location on El Caney Highway means it's not as centrally located as other attractions. Confirming the route with your driver is recommended.
Taxis are the most convenient option for reaching the Jardín de los Helechos, especially if you're coming from downtown Santiago de Cuba.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Recent visitor feedback indicates the garden may be permanently closed or intermittently closed due to caretaker issues. It is highly recommended to call or check with local sources for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.
Historically, the garden was open daily for visitors. However, due to recent closure concerns, current operating hours are uncertain. Verification is essential.
Information on admission fees is not readily available in recent reports. If the garden is open, expect a modest entrance fee typical for botanical gardens.
There is no indication of an online ticketing system for Jardín de los Helechos. Entry is typically handled on-site.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The garden specializes in a vast collection of ferns, including native Cuban species and varieties from other countries. You can also find orchids and other tropical plants.
Yes, it's a charming place for nature lovers and families who enjoy tropical environments. The lush greenery and diverse plants can be engaging for all ages.
It is considered the second largest fern garden in the Americas and is unique for being an open-air facility.
While not explicitly mentioned, the staff historically possessed solid knowledge of their work. Inquire upon arrival if guided tours or information sessions are offered.
It's internationally recognized, holds the status of "Double Excellence" in Urban Agriculture, and is the only open-air fern garden of its kind in Cuba.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Botanists
Beyond ferns, the presence of orchids and other tropical plants adds to the botanical richness. The garden's history as a private collection that grew into an internationally recognized institution also offers a fascinating narrative for those interested in the development of botanical sciences.
👨👩👧 Families & Casual Visitors
While the garden's primary appeal is its botanical collection, its tranquil atmosphere and the potential for unique discoveries (like receiving a fern as a gift) can make it an engaging visit for all ages. However, it's essential to confirm its operational status before heading out, as recent reports indicate potential closures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Unique Botanical Treasure
The garden is part of the Network of Botanical Gardens of Cuba and has received prestigious awards, including the "Academy of Sciences Award" and the "Provincial Environment Award," underscoring its scientific and environmental importance. Its international recognition is further solidified by ongoing exchange relations with institutions and specialists worldwide.
Despite its historical significance and unique offerings, recent reports suggest potential closure due to caretaker issues. This highlights the importance of verifying its operational status before planning a visit, as its future accessibility remains uncertain.
Navigating Your Visit
While the garden was historically known for its knowledgeable staff and pleasant family visits, recent accounts suggest a period of uncertainty regarding its operational status. It's crucial to call ahead or consult local sources to confirm if the garden is open before making the journey. This proactive step will prevent potential disappointment.
For those who manage to visit when open, the experience is described as truly charming for nature lovers, with unbeatable service and a deep knowledge of the work being done. It's considered a must-see for visitors to Santiago de Cuba and locals alike, offering a chance to enjoy tropical nature and potentially even receive a fern variety as a gift.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit