Climbing Heights

Rock climbing in Viñales has an incredible history. It was a nonexistent sport until a  few foreign climbing fanatics introduced in in the 1990s, and from there it exploded into the local community. Cuban climbers created the sport from literally nothing but innovation, motivation, and serious passion. Many of the first harnesses (climbing equipment is still not available anywhere in Cuba) were made out of seat belts, and car parts.

Rope is incredibly difficult to find in Cuba, and is only available through foreign donations. 

For years these up-and-coming climbers discovered routes and coordinated with foreign climbers to develop the sport. But it did not take long for the government to take notice of its popularity... and crack down. Due to the regulations and restrictions implemented many of the top climbers left Cuba in search of more welcoming areas. Since then the sport has suffered. Though still sustained by a few of the most dedicated Cuban climbers, it is technically illegal in Cuba, and gear is few and far between. Luckily we were able to connect with Yaroby, one of the few that has stayed in Cuba, care taking and developing the sport despite the rejections from the government. 

The view down from Punto Repaso 

We spent the day climbing around Raul's Enseñada. Yaroby and Alberto were lead climbing while Mad and I followed in dedicated succession. It quickly became obvious why rock climbing was limited to the winter season in Cuba... even the smallest exposure to the sun while climbing and you were boiling!

Looking out from Punto Repaso on Raul's ensenada, and Viñales in the distance. 

But sun or shade the climbs were always worth it. Our views looked out the Viñales valley, across Raul's farm and over the magote mountain ranges. 

El Puntia 

For Yaroby the climbs were as easy as a walk in the park. He had each one memorized and chatted while he led climbed, setting the routs up for us. Thus we were always amazed at how difficult we found them as soon as positions were reversed. 

Fila del Cuchillo 

The hope is that the generation of climbers left in Cuba will be able to sustain the sport long enough for the government to change its mind, and realize that these athletes are not a threat to anyone. There are strict regulations based on the preservation of nature, but in my experience climbers are far more knowledgable and careful with the local nature than swarming, government guided, tourist groups. I am as hopeful as any that there will be some serious changes, until then we will keep climbing in cognito.