Saturn Cave: A Hidden Gem in Varadero, Cuba
When we were in Varadero, we found it to be way too touristy, and honestly not as enjoyable as we were hoping - until we found Saturn Cave that is!
Located just outside of Varadero, Saturn Cave makes for the perfect adventure to check out on your own.
In this guide we're going to share everything you need to know for visiting Saturn Cave, from how to get there to things you need to keep in mind when you go there.
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Visiting Saturn Cave: a Brief Intro
First, let's go over a bit of the basics! What is Saturn Cave? What is the History Behind it? and where exactly is it located?
What is Saturn Cave?
Saturn Cave—or Cueva de Saturno in Spanish—is a natural limestone cave featuring a deep, freshwater cenote. Inside, you'll find an open pool perfect for swimming and snorkeling, surrounded by stalactites, stalagmites, and an otherworldly vibe.
It’s not a massive cave system, but it feels like your own private little oasis. Locals and travelers alike love coming here to take a refreshing dip and explore the calm, cool waters underground.
History & Info About Saturn Cave
These caves were discovered in 1861, but were formed millions of years ago! They developed through the slow accumulation of mineral deposits from water droplets, and today showcase fountains, stalactites, stalagmites, and crystallized vaults.
Saturn Cave has a depth of 22 meters, and is an excellent place for a dip, snorkeling, or even diving!
Where is Saturn Cave?
You’ll find Saturn Cave just a short 20-minute drive from Varadero, near the town of Carbonera and very close to the Varadero International Airport. It’s tucked away off the main road, but it’s easy to reach by road.
It’s also a great stop if you’re heading to or from the airport, or if you want a quick and easy half-day trip while staying in Varadero.
How to Get to Saturn Cave in Varadero
There are a few different ways that you can get to Saturn Cave from Varadero. Here are the different options:
- Rent a car and drive to Saturn Cave
- Rent a scooter and drive to Saturn Cave
- Hire a taxi to get to Saturn Cave
- Go on a tour from Varadero to Saturn Cave
Renting a Car/Scooter in Varadero
The easiest way to get to Saturn Cave is by renting a vehicle and going on your own. You can easily get a car or scooter from the Transtur office. Renting a car is honestly really expensive though, and due to the short distance involved, we'd recommend getting a scooter instead.
Renting a scooter in Cuba is really easy, and you can get more info about prices and the logistics in our scooter guide.
Taxis in Varadero
If you don't feel comfortable driving, another option can be to hop in a local taxi. Taxis are readily available around Vardero, and are an easy way to get around. Just make sure to have USD on you, and you may need to bargain a bit.
Saturn Cave Tours
There are a few tours that go to Saturn Cave from Varadero, and you can probably get one by asking someone from your accommodation in Varadero. If you'd like to book ahead though, we've found this site offers tours there.
Saturn Cave Prices & Timetable
Now that you know how to get to Saturn Cave, here are the times and ticket pirices to keep in mind.
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Saturn Cave Opening Hours
Saturn Cave is open daily from 9 am to 5:20 pm. There are 80 people allowed at a time, and the last entry time is 4:30 pm.
Saturn Cave Ticket Prices
The crazy thing about traveling in Cuba is that prices for many attractions are given in CUP for locals, but can only be paid in dollars or euros for foreigners.
For locals, Saturn Cave costs 40 CUP for children 2-8, and 75 CUP for adults. The price for foreigners to visit is $3 for children, and $5 for adults, and must be paid in cash.
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Saturn Cave Amenities
Here are some of the amenities that Saturn Cave has on their premises:
Parking: perfectly paved lot for plenty of cars, and free of charge
Toilets: indoor toilets which are clean and have toilet paper and soap
Showers: outdoor facilities to wash off before and after entering the cave
Restaurant: both indoor and outdoor dining with some snacks, drinks, and a meals available
Gift Shop: a small area that sells souvenirs, clothing, and handmade crafts
There are plenty of amenities on the premises of Saturn Cave.
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What to Expect at Saturn Cave in Cuba
Saturn Cave is the perfect place to spend a few hours. With plenty of amenities and easy accessibility, we found it such a pleasant day trip from Varadero.
We rented a scooter and drove there. We parked right in the paved lot, purchased out tickets, and explored the property. The bathrooms were clean, the shop had some cute finds, and there were a few people watching tv while having a bite to eat.
After showering, we the walk was short and scenic, going down a set of stairs under canopies of trees.
Right down the stairs the view opened up to a stunning cave with crystal clear waters. There was a platform to sit on, and a ladder to enter the cave safely. The waters were crisp and refreshing, perfect after being in the intense heat and humidity of Varadero.
Saturn Cave is a really special place, and can either be a quick stop for a dip, or you can spend a couple of hours eating, drinking, and diving to explore the cave more deeply.
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Safety & Rules at Saturn Cave
Saturn Cave is perfectly safe for people of all ages. You'll need to be able to walk, since there is a set of stairs, and of course it's better if you know how to swim. If you don't though, you can simply ask for a life vest to use.
Here are a few things that you should keep in mind when visiting:
Stay on the Pathways - and use the platform to enter the water.
Respect the Environment - don't destroy plants or trees.
Stay Quiet - remember, there are bats liviing here!
No Food/Drinks - keep them upstairs at the restaurant.
Don't Litter - leave no trace and leave the cave how you found it.
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Other Things to Keep in Mind for Visiting Saturn Cave
Now you know almost everything you need for visiting Saturn Cave from Varadero! Here are a few final details to keep in mind though.
Weather in Varadero
Cuba has tropical climate, with a wet and dry season. In the summer (wet season) temperatures and humidity are very high, while in the dry season (winter) temperatures are more pleasant with nice, sunny days.
We visited in June, and it was nice and sunny on our way there, but was absolutely pouring on our way back - not too pleasant while riding a scooter.
If you do visit in the wet months, keep an eye on the weather patterns for the day, so you don't get caught in a storm like we did.
The Best Time to Visit Saturn Cave
Saturn Cave is a great destination year-round! Rain or shine, you can enjoy the cave since it is covered. We'd recommend going there in the early morning or late afternoon if you'd like to avoid the crowds though.
How to Prepare for Saturn Cave
- Wash off before entering the cave.
- Wear a bathing suit to go swimming.
- Take snorkel/diving gear to explore more deeply.
- Bring a towel to dry off.
- Take toiletries with you to shower afterwards.
- Have cash to pay for your ticket.
- Leave your valuables or helmets from your scooter with the front desk.
- Ask for a life jacket if you can't swim well.
You can ask for a life vest free of charge.
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Is Saturn Cave Worth Visiting?
Saturn Cave is definitely worht visiting! While it's small, it is really beautiful, and the perfect escape from the touristy beaches of Varadero.
Saturn Cave is an excellent quick trip from Varadero.
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So are you ready to explore the unique Saturn Cave? We hope this guide has inspired you to explore off the beaten path. Have any questions? Feel free to drop them below.
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