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The mountain ranges of the Sierra
del Rosario in the far east of Cordillera de Guaniguanico,
provide a peaceful enclave to Las Terrazas village in the
western uplands of Cuba. With its highest point of 563 meters
above sea level, the El Salon Mountain from its top overlooks
the fertile valleys, lakes, rivers, streams and emerald blue
waters of the lagoon. The dwindling steeply sloping areas are
the breeding ground of shrubs grasslands and thorny bushes. The
mountain chain in Las Terrazas at other parts is covered with a
tropical forest of rich biodiversity. Trees of 35 meters high
build up a thick canopy and nest the many colorful birds of
Cuba. It is also the home ground of endemic animals the bats,
mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects of the island. The
most important river, the Los Banos del San Juan, takes its
source 160 meters above sea level in the Sierra del Rosario. The
sparkling streams meet for a picturesque waterfall inviting for
a refreshing shower with a delicate rock pool for a thermal
bath. The population of Las Terrazas, of approximately 1000
inhabitants, sustain themselves by being the guardians of the
forest and ecotourism. |
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