Vivero de Crocodrilos

Isla de la Juventud & Cayo Largo del Sur


A beautiful, old building on Cayo Largo? You'd better believe it. Just past the turnoffs to the Sol resorts, the stone tower marking the Vivero de Crocodrilos dates from 1951 – the island's first construction. Here, you can meet real Cubans, who will show you the few animals that reside in and around the small lagoon – Kimbo the croc, Lola the iguana and a couple of turtles.

You can also climb the rickety ladder for decent views. This is where the plants that decorate your hotel grounds are grown.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Isla de la Juventud & Cayo Largo del Sur attractions

1. Centro de Rescate de Tortugas Marinas

3.25 MILES

A small, often-closed complex beyond the airstrip on the northwest end of the island in the settlement of Combinado. From May to September guides here can…

2. Playa Sirena

3.39 MILES

Cayo Largo's (and, perhaps, Cuba's) finest beach is the broad westward-facing Playa Sirena, where 2km of powdery white sand is wide enough to accommodate…

3. Playa los Cocos

3.44 MILES

You can head up the island's east coast via this beach, where there is good snorkeling, but no shade or facilities. The paved road gives out after Playa…

4. Cayo Iguana

3.94 MILES

Off the northwest tip of Cayo Largo, Cayo Iguana is home to, that's right, hundreds of iguanas. A catamaran trip with snorkeling and lunch will cost you…

5. Playa Tortuga

8 MILES

Beyond Playa los Cocos at the far end of the island is this beach, where sea turtles lay their eggs in the sand in the summer.

6. Cayo Rico

9.08 MILES

A big day-trip destination between Cayo Largo and Isla de la Juventud. Boat excursions to the beaches leave from the hotels (for around CUC$85 per person)…