Experience Cuba from West to East
OVERVIEW
A varied and interesting journey to the most important Highlights of West-, Central- and East Cuba including some insiders’ tips “off the beaten track”. Enjoy the “nostalgic” Cuba while smoking a nice cigar with a glass of good aged rum and experience the “new” Cuba, now more exciting than ever, a country that is changing, with its multifaceted culture and its unexpected culinary secrets...
Feel the pulse and the unique flair of Havana with American classic cars, Hemingway and Tropicana, arts, music and architecture. The world famous tobacco landscape of Pinar del Rio, Che Guevara in Santa Clara, the town of Sagua de la Grande – a hidden gem still nearly untouched by tourism …and the colonial charme of Trinidad, UNESCO world heritage. Discover the mazy lanes and hidden squares of Camaguey, Santiago de Cuba – cradle of the Cuban “Son”… and relax at the beautiful beaches of the island Cayo Guillermo. During the tour you will stay in both, comfortable and also more basic, but authentic hotels or casas particulares, some of them surrounded by beautiful nature.
DAY 1 : ARRIVAL IN HAVANA (- / - / -)
Arrival. Meet & greet at the airport by your English speaking guide and transfer to your hotel in Havana.
Accommodation with breakfast : COMFORT Casa Particular
DAY 2 : COLONIAL HAVANA AND THE 1950 (B / L / D)
In the morning pick-up by your English speaking guide. During a walking tour through colonial Old Havana you will see the most important squares and sites. Plaza de Armas with Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, El Templete, Castillo de la Real Fuerza, Cathedral Square, Plaza San Francisco de Asis and Plaza Vieja.
Before having lunch, dive into the world of Salsa during a 1-hour class with a private teacher.
Lunch at one of the favoured private restaurants, e.g. “La Moneda Cubana”.
In the afternoon American classic cars are waiting for a tour to Hemingways Finca Villa Vigia in San Francisco de Paula, where the famous writer hosted his prominent guests, today a museum, where you can also see his yacht “Pilar” on which he went out for deep sea and sword-fishing. On the way back visit the fortress El Morro, situated high above the entrance to the harbour.
During a coffee or a cocktail on the balcony of restaurant La Tasca enjoy beautiful panoramic views over Havana Bay and to Old Havana. Late in the afternoon back to the hotel.
Dinner at paladar "El Figaro“, located in small beautiful alley in the old city centre near your hotel.
Accommodation with breakfast : COMFORT Casa Particular
DAY 3 : HAVANA (B / L / D)
The day starts with a visit of one of the famous tobacco factories, e.g. Partagas, H. Upmann, Romeo y Julieta or La Corona. See the skillful hands of the torcedores (cigar rollers) while producing the best cigars of the world. Later on to Marianao, where you will watch a training session of „Havana Queens“, the most hip modern dance ensemble in town. Immerse into the world of the young dancers and get an authentic insight, including a small live performance and explanations about their life and history by the manager and/or the choreographer.
Lunch at nearby Club Havana, meeting place of diplomats and the local business elite with its beautiful mansion and humidor bar, big pool and the only private sand beach in town, with time to relax. On the way back enjoy a cocktail at the panoramic bar of the FOCSA Building with the best views over the city.
Dinner at the paladar “Los Mercaderes” in the old city centre.
OPTIONAL in the evening : Havana Queens Show at "Casa Miglis“
Enjoy an exclusive dinner show in the cosy and stylish atmosphere of Casa Miglis, one of the Top Restaurants of Havana, hosting the top contemporary dance ensemble in town. The Young talents of “Havana Queens”, winners of several Cuban „Lucas“ awards, will impress you with their dynamic and beautiful show combining the Nostalgic and the New Cuba. The location, Casa Miglis and its bar „Impala“ has become a meeting point for creative people and artists from all over the world. The owner – Swedish film producer Mr. Miglis is a passionate „aficionado“ of the Cuban culture. His film “El Medico - Cubaton” (2012/13) about the Cuban music scene was awarded at the New York Latino Film Festival. Swedish Chef Jonas Anderson offers a creative fusion of Cuban and Swedish cuisine.
Accommodation with breakfast : COMFORT Casa Particular
DAY 4 : HAVANA – VIÑALES – HAVANA (APPROX. 400KM, 5H BY CAR) (B / L / -)
In the morning following the „Ruta de Tabaco“ along the “autopista” (Cuban highway) to the province of Pinar del Rio. On the way visit a “veguero” (tobacco farmer), who will introduce you to the world of tobacco growing, followed by a panoramic tour through the Mogote-Valley with its impressing limestone rocks an, the “Mogotes” and the village of Viñales, surrounded by nature. Stop at the house of a local artist (plastic arts) and lunch „criollo“ e.g. at the paladar of „Alberto Vitamina“.
After a visit of the prehistoric wall, a huge painting on a big rock from the 1960s, enjoy breath-taking views over the Mogote-Valley during an „anti-stress“ cocktail at Finca Agro-Ecologica. In the late afternoon back to Havana.
Accommodation with breakfast : COMFORT Casa Particular
DAY 5 : HAVANA – BAY OF PIGS – CIENFUEGOS (APPROX. 290KM, 5H BY CAR) (B / L / D)
In the morning start for a longer trip to Central Cuba, following the „autopista” the Cuban central highway, sometimes nearly empty without traffic and where you still can encounter strange “vehicles” such as horse drawn carriages, bicycles or even sleeping cows. After a coffee break at the farm „Fiesta Campesina“ with its mini-zoo continue along the historic “Bay of Pigs” (failed invasion of the Exile Cubans 1961) via Playa Larga and Playa Girón to Cienfuegos.
Lunch (buffet) and time for a refreshing swim at Caleta Buena.
OPTIONAL in the evening : TROPICANA – paradise under the stars
Enjoy a nostalgic journey through Cuban Music and Dance from Cha-Cha-Cha to Mambo, from Son to Salsa and Afro-Cuba. More than 150 artists, dancers and musicians, including a big 1950s style live orchestra will entertain you in a beautiful garden ambience with a big open air stage. Since 1939 Tropicana has been known as one of the most famous Cabarets around the world with stars like Nat King Cole, Josephine Baker, and Frank Sinatra performing. Havana’s “Paradise under the stars” – a must when in Havana.
In the evening aperitif at the mudejar-style Palacio del Valle on the Peninsula Punta Gorda, where you will also have dinner with bay view, e.g. at the terrace of paladar “Villa Lagarto”.
Accommodation with breakfast : Colonial hotel MELIA San Carlo (4*) or Hotel La Union managed by MELIA (4*) both just a few steps from the main square, Standard room.
DAY 6 : CIENFUEGOS – EL NICHO – TRINIDAD (APPROX. 140KM, 3,5H BY CAR) (B / L / D)
The day starts with a stroll around the main square of Cienfuegos with its French colonial architecture and the nostalgic Terry Theatre, where Caruso once sang. Further on through the foothills of the Sierra Escambray for a hiking tour to the waterfalls of El Nicho, followed by a rustic lunch in the local ranchon. In the afternoon to Trinidad, UNESCO world heritage with its unique colonial architecture. Walking tour through the historic centre and its cobblestone lanes to the Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the mansions of the sugar barons and the mighty tower of the church “Santissima Trinidad”.
Dinner at paladar “1514“, the interior like a museum with its unique table decoration of antique crystal glasses and precious porcelain. On a stroll through the romantic nightlife of Trinidad you can dance with locals to live-music, Salsa and Son, e.g. at the stairs and terraces near the main square or at the local Casa de la Trova.
Accommodation with breakfast : Colonial style hotel La Ronda (3*) or hotel E La Calesa (3*) or hotel and bungalows Las Cuevas (3*), set on a hilltop with panoramic views over the town, Standard room.
DAY 7 : TRINIDAD AND THE SUGARMILL VALLEY (APPROX. 90KM, 2H BY CAR) (B / - / -)
In the morning enjoy a tour with a local nostalgic steam or diesel train (depending if it is ready to operate) from the idyllic train station in Trinidad through a typical green Cuban landscape to the Sugarmill Valley. Visit of the Hacienda de Iznaga with breathtaking panoramic views from the top of legendary slave tower. Later back to Trinidad and and short stop at the Templo de Yemaya, house of an Afro-Cuban Santeria priest. Afternoon at leisure for a visit at one of several museums (e.g. the MuseoHavana, Romantico at Palacio Brunet or the town museum at Palacio Cantero). Or relax at the sand beaches of Playa Ancon at the Caribbean Sea.
Accommodation with breakfast : Colonial style hotel La Ronda (3*) or hotel E La Calesa (3*) or hotel and bungalows Las Cuevas (3*), set on a hilltop with panoramic views over the town, Standard room.
DAY 8 : TRINIDAD – TOPES DE COLLANTES – SANTA CLARA – SAGUA LA GRANDE – REMEDIOS (APPROX. 220KM, 4,5H BY BAR) (B / L / -)
Today continue on a scenic road into the Sierra Escambray passing coffee plantations and a look-out point with panoramic views until reaching Topes de Collantes, known for its healthy micro climate. After a coffee break at the Casa del Café further on through the mountains to the historic city of Santa Clara, where Che Guevara celebrated his greatest victory and found his last rest.
Visit of the Revolution Square with the Che Guevara Monument and lunch. Further on to the north side of the island to Sagua La Grande, a hidden gem, still nearly untouched by tourism and birth place of the famous Cuban painter Wilfredo Lam. Discover the town during a walking tour, with its antique iron bridge over the river and lots of neoclassic buildings of the 19th century, such as the former Spanish casino or the Bank of Canada, reminiscences of the charm and splendour of bygone times. In the late afternoon you will reach the colonial city of Remedios, known countrywide for its “Parrandas”. In the evening stroll around the idyllic main square with the church “Parroquia San Juan de Bautista” (mahogany altar of the 16th century).
Accommodation with breakfast : At one of the charming Hoteles de Encanto, all situated near or around the main square and with colonial ambience, e.g. Hotel E Barcelona (3*), Hotel Mascote (3*), Hotel E Camino del Principe (3*) or similar, Standard Room.
DAY 9 : REMEDIOS – CAIBARIEN - YAGUAHAY – CAYO GUILLERMO (APPROX. 220KM, 3H BY CAR) (B / - / D)
In the morning a short trip to Caibarien at the north coast and visit of the local sugar and steam train museum before you continue along the by tourists only rarely frequented northern route. Stop at Yaguahay with the memorial of Camilo Cienfuegos, friend and comrade of Che Guevara and one of the most important Comandantes of the Cuban Revolution. On a 37 km causeway crossing the sea you will reach the offshore islands of Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo in the early afternoon – a beach and nature paradise. Time for relaxing.
Accommodation with All Inclusive : MELIA Jardines del Rey (4*), Classic Room.
DAY 10 : CAYO GUILLERMO - CAMAGUEY (APPROX. 240 KM, 3H BY CAR) (B / L / -)
In the morning back to the mainland and along the “Carretera Central” to Camaguey, UNESCO world heritage and until the 1950s centre of the Cuban cattle-breeding industry and until today an important railway junction, also known as the city of the “Tinajones” (big clay jugs). Lunch with colonial ambiences at restaurant La Campana de Toledo or at one of the local paladares. After a stroll over Plaza San Juan del Dios and Plaza Agramonte with the birth place of the Cuban national hero immerse into the labyrinth of lanes and small squares on a tour with the local Bici-Taxis, which in earlier times also served as a protection against pirates. In the late afternoon visit of the Swiss children project „Camaguito“.
Accommodation with breakfast : Hotel El Camino de Hierro (3*), the decor dedicated to the local railway history. Or one of several colonial hotels such as La Avellaneda (3*), Santa Maria (3*), El Marquez (3*) La Sevillana (3*) or the Grand Hotel managed by MELIA (3*) with the charm of bygone times, Standard Room.
DAY 11 : CAMAGÜEY - BAYAMO - SANTIAGO (APPROX. 330KM, 4,5H BY CAR) (B / L / D)
In the morning continue to East Cuba including a break at Bayamo, city of horse carriages and birth place of the national hero Manuel Cespedes, who in the 19th century proclaimed independence from the Spanish crown. It is also the place where the Cuban national anthem (“La Bayamesa”) was composed. After a walking tour around the main square lunch and further on to Santiago, capital of the „Oriente“, city of the revolution and cradle of the Cuban “Son”. Visit of the cemetery Santa Ifigenia including the tombs of the Bacardi Dynasty, the poet and national hero Jose Marti and of several Cuban presidents, among them also the late Comandante Fidel Castro. Dinner at your hotel.
Accommodation with dinner: Hotel MELIA Santiago (4*), the leading hotel of Santiago in a high building similar to a sugar central and with panoramic views over the city and to the mountains of Sierra Maestra, Classic Room.
DAY 12 : SANTIAGO – BIRAN – BANES (OR HOLGUIN) – GUARDALAVACA (APPROX. 190KM, 3H BY CAR) (B / L / D)
The day begins with a walking tour around the main square Parque Cespedes including the historic town hall, and Casa Velazquez, seat of the former Spanish Governeur and oldest house in town. Stroll through Calle Heredia to Plaza Dolores followed before you drive to the fortress El Morro, UNESCO world heritage overlooking Santiago Bay and the coast. Early lunch with panoramic views and back through the residential quarter of Vista Alegre with the mansion of the Bacardi Family.
Finally after a stop at the Revolution Square you will reach the “autopista” to Holguin. In the afternoon visit of the Finca Manacas in Biran, birth place of Fidel Castros where you will have some interesting insights into his childhood, youth, his parental home and the socio-economic conditions before the revolution. Later via Banes or the capital of the province Holguin to the beach hotel in Guardalavaca.
Upon arrival at your hotel, you will say goodbye to your guide and driver.
Accommodation with All Inclusive : Hotel SOL Rio de Luna y Mares (4*) located at a nice sandy beach, Standard Room.
DAY 13 : GUARDALAVACA (B / L / D)
Time for Sun & Beach. (AI)
DAY 14 : GUARDALAVACA – HOLGUIN - DEPARTURE (B / - / -)
In the late afternoon (depending on the flight time) private transfer with local guide to the international airport and check-in for the departure flight back to Europe or another destination.
End of the Tour
Our services include :
Overview
- 13 Night’s accommodation on a double/twin room basis in the above mentioned hotels.
- 04 Nights in Havana
- 01 Night in Cienfuegos
- 02 Nights in Trinidad
- 01 Night in Remedios
- 01 Night in Cayo Guillermo
- 01 Night in Camaguey
- 01 Night in Santiago
- 02 Nights in Guardalavaca
Meals
- 13 Breakfast
- 9 Lunches
- 8 Dinner
- 3 nights with All Inclusive in Cayo Guillermo and Guardalavaca
Transfers
- Roundtrip in a modern air-conditioned Taxi, Microbus or Minibus with driver.
- With 02 persons in a comfort taxi (Upon request only with English-speaking driver-guide).
- With 03 – 05 persons in a microbus or minivan.
- Transfer Airport Havana - Casa / Hotel Havana and transfer back from the hotel in Guardalavaca to the airport in Holguin, if the transfer is on the last day of the round-trip.
- Transfer back to the airport in Holguin with a local English-speaking guide.
- In case of an extension or beach extension, the transfer back must be booked additional or organized by the client himself.
Excursions
- Excursions, visits and entrance fees according to the program
- During the program day 1 to day 12 English speaking Cuban guide
Our services do not include :
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the above program.
- Programs/Excursions/Activities described as "Optional“ (see supplements in the program)
- Additional nights after the end of the round trip (e.g. beach extension in Varadero)
- Tropicana Show and Havana Queens Show
- Personal Expenditures
- Tips for waiters and live music during the meals in restaurants or paladars
- Tips for guide and driver
- Airport Tax
B=Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner BL= Box Lunch
HOTELS :
Havana : COMFORT Casa Particular
Cienfuegos : Colonial hotel Melia San Carlo
Trinidad : Colonial style Hotel La Ronda
Remedios : Hotel E Barcelona (3*), Hotel Mascote (3*)
Cayo Guillermo : Melia Jardines del Rey (4*)
Camaguey : Hotel El Camino de Hierro (3*)
Santiago : Hotel Melia Santiago (4*)
Guardalavaca : Hotel Sol Rio de Luna y Mares (4*)
Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic landscapes. From the bustling streets of Havana to the tranquil beaches of Varadero, Cuba offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, lush countryside, and a lively arts scene.
Getting There:
By Air: Major international airports include José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana, Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA) in Varadero, and Antonio Maceo Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba.
By Sea: Cruises often dock at Havana, offering a scenic entry into the country.
Best Time to Visit:
Dry Season: November to April is the best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall.
Wet Season: May to October is warmer and wetter, with a higher chance of hurricanes.
Major Attractions:
Havana:
Description: The capital city, known for its colorful colonial buildings, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
Highlights:
Old Havana (Habana Vieja): A UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, historic plazas, and famous landmarks like El Capitolio and the Malecón.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Home to a vast collection of Cuban art.
La Bodeguita del Medio: Famous bar known for its mojitos and association with Ernest Hemingway.
Varadero:
Description: A popular resort town on the Hicacos Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches.
Activities:
Beach Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on pristine white sands.
Parque Josone: A beautiful park with gardens, lakes, and recreational facilities.
Viñales:
Description: A picturesque valley in the Pinar del Río province, known for its tobacco farms and dramatic landscapes.
Activities:
Viñales Valley: Hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the tobacco plantations.
Cueva del Indio: A limestone cave with a subterranean river.
Trinidad:
Description: A colonial town known for its well-preserved architecture and cobbled streets.
Highlights:
Plaza Mayor: The historic center surrounded by museums and churches.
Museo Romántico: Showcases 19th-century Cuban life.
Valle de los Ingenios: A nearby valley with historic sugar plantations.
Santiago de Cuba:
Description: The second-largest city, known for its revolutionary history and vibrant Afro-Cuban culture.
Highlights:
Castillo del Morro: A historic fortress with stunning views of the bay.
Casa de la Trova: A famous music venue showcasing traditional Cuban music.
Cienfuegos:
Description: A coastal city known as the "Pearl of the South" for its French-inspired architecture.
Highlights:
Parque José Martí: The city’s main square, surrounded by beautiful buildings.
Palacio de Valle: An eclectic mansion with stunning views of the bay.
Activities:
Diving and Snorkeling:
Locations: Jardines de la Reina, Playa Girón, and María la Gorda.
Highlights: Coral reefs, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life.
Music and Dance:
Venues: Casa de la Musica in Havana and Trinidad, Tropicana Club in Havana.
Experiences: Live music, salsa dancing, and cultural performances.
Cigar and Rum Tours:
Locations: Tobacco farms in Viñales, cigar factories in Havana, and rum distilleries like the Havana Club Rum Museum.
Highlights: Learning about the production process and tasting sessions.
Nature and Outdoor Adventures:
Top Spots: Sierra Maestra mountains, Topes de Collantes National Park, and Cayo Coco.
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and exploring natural parks.
Accommodation:
Luxury Resorts:
Examples: Iberostar Grand Packard, Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski in Havana.
Features: High-end amenities, stunning views, and excellent service.
Mid-Range Hotels:
Examples: Hotel Nacional de Cuba, Melia Cohiba.
Features: Comfortable accommodations, often with pools and restaurants.
Budget Options:
Examples: Casa particulares (private guesthouses), hostels, and budget hotels.
Features: Basic amenities, local hospitality, and affordable rates.
Cuisine:
Local Dishes:
Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef stew, a Cuban classic.
Moros y Cristianos: Black beans and rice.
Lechón Asado: Roast pork, often served at festive occasions.
Restaurants:
Paladares: Private restaurants offering authentic Cuban cuisine. Examples include La Guarida in Havana and Paladar Sol y Son in Trinidad.
Tips for Travelers:
Language: Spanish is the official language. Basic English is understood in tourist areas, but learning some Spanish phrases is helpful.
Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP) is the currency used. The Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) was used by tourists but has been phased out.
Internet and Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available but can be limited and slow. Purchase an ETECSA card for access.
Transport: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the island. Taxis, buses, and shared taxis (colectivos) are also available.
Health and Safety: Ensure vaccinations are up to date. Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food.
Useful Contacts:
Tourist Information: Cuba Tourism Board (Website)
Emergency Services: Dial 106 for medical emergencies, 105 for fire, and 104 for police.
Cuba's captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a destination like no other, offering unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.
Experience Cuba from West to East
Reference #: WTP0128
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A varied and interesting journey to the most important Highlights of West-, Central- and East Cuba including some insiders’ tips “off the beaten track”. Enjoy the “nostalgic” Cuba while smoking a nice cigar with a glass of good aged rum and experience the “new” Cuba, now more exciting than ever, a country that is changing, with its multifaceted culture and its unexpected culinary secrets...
Feel the pulse and the unique flair of Havana with American classic cars, Hemingway and Tropicana, arts, music and architecture. The world famous tobacco landscape of Pinar del Rio, Che Guevara in Santa Clara, the town of Sagua de la Grande – a hidden gem still nearly untouched by tourism …and the colonial charme of Trinidad, UNESCO world heritage. Discover the mazy lanes and hidden squares of Camaguey, Santiago de Cuba – cradle of the Cuban “Son”… and relax at the beautiful beaches of the island Cayo Guillermo. During the tour you will stay in both, comfortable and also more basic, but authentic hotels or casas particulares, some of them surrounded by beautiful nature.