Beautiful Cuba
Experience Overview
From vintage cars to fragrant cigars, salsa your way from the colourful capital of Havana through the beautiful island of Cuba and surround yourself with history, music and mojitos in one of the world’s most unique places. Roll a cigar and sip rum with locals in the rural village of Vinales, feel the seaside breeze along the French-infused waterfront of Cienfuegos, surrender to the sultry salsa rhythms in perfectly preserved Trinidad and look behind the legend of Che Guevara on a visit to his memorial in Santa Clara. From the fresh mountain air that fills the streets of Soroa, to the crystal-clear waters that lap the shores of Playa Larga – experience a nation as endearing and diverse as its people on this eight-day adventure that immerses you in the colour, culture and natural beauty of this seductive Caribbean island.
Highlights
- Walk around Old Havana, which sheds lights on the difference between the lifestyle of city and rural life in Cuba.
- Take in all the colours and aromas of Soroa, the stunning valley area known as the 'rainbow of Cuba' and immerse yourself in local culture.
- Stroll along the rural dirt roads of Vinales as tractors, vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages pass you by.
- Step back in time in Trinidad – a real Cuban treat. Explore its old-world streets, then hit some fine palm-flanked beaches for a bit of rest and relaxation.
- Marvel at the unique architecture of Palacio del Valle in Cienfuegos and ask your local leader for all the best local (and secret) spots.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2462
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: QUKA
Starts: Havana, Cuba
Finishes: Havana, Cuba
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (3), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Comfortable Guesthouse (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $1,860 ($232 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cuba. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Havana. If you arrive early, the day is yours to explore. Consider a stroll through Old Havana to acquaint yourself with its colourful mix of 50s Americana, colonial architecture and budding modernity. There are plenty of good museums to check out, such as the Museo de la Revolucion (Museum of the Revolution), which is housed in the former Presidential Palace, and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts). Perhaps line up with the locals for a taste of the legendary Coppelia ice cream, or wander along the Malecon, the sea wall that skirts the coastline.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Camera Obscura by Leonardo da Vinci (entrance fee and guide included) (12 CUP)
- Havana - National Museum of Fine Arts (entrance fee) (250 CUP)
Accommodation:
- Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Spend the morning enjoying a short tour around Old Havana with your local guide. Founded in 1519 by the Spanish and designated a World Heritage Site in 1982, this well-preserved area within Cuba’s capital remains virtually unchanged which makes it one of the Caribbean’s most impressive historical cities. Wander through Havana’s oldest square, Plaza de Armas, stroll around the architecturally eclectic buildings that line the 16th century Plaza Veija, admire the basilica of San Francisco de Asis and visit the Cathedral with its elaborate baroque facade. After, drive to Soroa, a lush enclave nestled in a picturesque valley and aptly known as the ‘rainbow of Cuba’. Stop for lunch and tour a beautiful orchid garden where you’ll learn the medicinal secrets behind wild Cuban herbs, before continuing your journey to Vinales. Located in the province of Pinar del Rio – Vinales is a landscape of tobacco and agricultural fields dotted with limestone outcrops. The scenery here is some of the most picturesque in Cuba and there are many ways to take it all in, ask your leader about the optional activities available including cycling, walking through tobacco fields and hiking to the mountains to explore the vast cave system of Gran Caverna de Santo Tomas.
Included Activities:
- Havana - Leader-led walking tour of Old Havana
- Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
- Soroa - Orchid Garden (entrance fee and guide included)
- Vinales - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, enjoy a walking tour through farms, tobacco plantations and lush cultivated lands for an insight into rural life in Vinales. Learn more about the simple lifestyle here and see first-hand the farmers who grow tobacco for some of the world’s most expensive cigars. For dinner this evening, relish a real garden-to-plate experience with an included dinner at an organic eco-farm. Indulge in a variety of fresh produce – from numerous vegetables and salads to meats, seafood and salsas – all while gazing across sweeping views of the verdant valley. After, why not head out to a quaint bar and get to know some of Vinales’ residents. This small and charming rural village is one of the easiest places to mingle with locals in Cuba, who are very sociable, and many of them love nothing better than to drink rum and dance the night away!
Included Activities:
- Vinales - Half-day Valley tour on foot including Tobacco Farmhouse
- Vinales - Farm-to-table dinner at an eco-friendly ranch
Accommodation:
- Standard guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin the day by travelling to a peaceful sandy arc on Cuba’s southern coast, commonly known as the Bay of Pigs. Learn about the Bay of Pigs Invasion – the battle between the US and the Cuban revolutionaries which resulted in the first defeat of a US-backed takeover in Latin America. Then, stop for a dip in its tranquil waters, with an outstanding variety of coral and fish, it just might be Cuba’s best-kept secret. Then continue along the picturesque coast to Cienfuegos, a slice of Paris in the Caribbean. This is the gem of the south, a seaside town of relaxing streets and dazzling buildings that strike a beautiful pose by the water. Founded in 1819 by pioneering French immigrants, the elegant architectural influence that these settlers brought with them earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing in 2005. Enjoy a photo stop at Palacio del Valle, which is Cienfuegos' architectural pride and joy. Learn more about its history as you take in the beauty of its intricate carvings of Venetian alabaster and if you’re up for it, why not head to the rooftop for a sunset drink.
Included Activities:
- Bay of Pigs - Coastal swim stop
- Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cienfuegos - Palacio de Valle (from entrance fee)
Accommodation:
- Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Perhaps kick-start your morning with some Cuban coffee (it's served black, strong and super sweet) then bid farewell to Cienfuegos and board the bus for a short drive to Trinidad – a beautifully preserved colonial down that sits on the scenic Caribbean coast. There's no doubt it's one of Cuba's alluring destinations, a great place to wander around, with almost every scene offering a photo opportunity. Watch as locals casually smoke their huge cigars on the doorsteps of their homes, and hear the old Chevrolets rumbling by. Begin by strolling along the cobbled streets and marvelling at some of the colourful colonial architecture on display (this town was put on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988 for good reason), then feel the Cuban rhythms during a casual salsa class – a sure-fire way to boost your confidence in preparation for Trinidad’s nightlife!
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Leader-led orientation walk
- Trinidad - Salsa Dance Lesson (1 hour)
Optional Activities:
- Trinidad - Romantic Museum (entrance fee) (120 CUP)
- Trinidad - Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra los Bandidos (entrance fee) (70 CUP)
Accommodation:
- Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Trinidad’s old-fashioned feel and friendly folk make it a standout destination for many visitors to Cuba, and the Santeria religion (a voodoo-like Afro-Cuban tradition) which is practiced here makes the town even more intriguing. Enjoy a free day to check-out Trinidad at your own pace. There are some great Spanish-style churches to see, and nearby is the Valle de los Ingenios, where sugar plantations stretch out as far as the eye can see. Why not go for a dip at nearby Playa Ancon and loll about on the long stretches of white sand or hire a bike of the vintage variety and cycle along Trinidad’s colourful (and cobblestone) streets. If you’re feeling energetic, then hiking in the Sierra del Escambray (the local mountains) is a great option – just ask your leader to help you decide! This evening, a folklore dance and music show in one of the open-air venues is highly recommended – a great chance to immerse yourself in Cuba's African, French and Spanish-influenced music and dance culture.
Optional Activities:
- Trinidad - Live Music Venues (entrance fee) from (2 EUR)
- Trinidad - Ancon beach shuttle bus (4 EUR)
- Trinidad - Massage - from (24 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
On your way back to Havana, you'll stop in at Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara mausoleum and memorial where you can get a rare insight into the legacy of the revolutionary leader. Che's remains were brought to rest here after they were found in a remote corner of Bolivia in 1997, where he was assassinated by the CIA-backed Bolivian army. The memorial is home to an impressive bronze statue of Che bearing his rifle and inside the museum, you can learn about his amazing life and see photos and exhibits such as letters, firearms, medical devices and other interesting artefacts – including his famous black beret. Upon arrival in Havana, stop by Revolution square then prepare for a final night of celebrations where you can toast to an incredible adventure across beautiful Cuba!
Included Activities:
- Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
- Havana - Revolution Square
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Jose Marti Memorial tower entrance fee (200 CUP)
- Havana - Buena Vista Social Club Performance (entrance fee & dinner) (35 USD)
Accommodation:
- Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast, check-out time is 10 am. If you wish to stay on in this colourful capital, just speak to your booking agent.
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Cigar Factory Tour (entrance fee and guide) (10 USD)
- Havana - Half-day Ernest Hemingway Tour (guide and transport included 2 clients min required) (68 USD)
- Havana - Morro Castle (entrance fee, no guide, no transport)10 am-9 pm (200 CUP)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Clare - Traveled, April 2024
Beautiful Cuba was a fantastic trip with a great leader (Estefan), driver (Osmani) and a wonderful group. Accommodation was clean and comfortable, food simple but enjoyable. Activities fun and informative. If you are expecting luxury and culinary variety, then this isn't the trip for you. Cuba is a fascinating but complicated country - so you need to go in with an open mind and easygoing attitude. You will learn lots and have tons of fun. I will definitely be returning to Cuba :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip. Learnt such a lot about this unique country and it's long suffering peoples. Had wonderful experiences, saw beautiful scenery and wildlife. Would definitely recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
David - Traveled, March 2024
Fascinating country, not enough time! Take plenty of USD not Euros as they give the same exchange rate to pesa. Knowledgeable guide but seemed distracted by his own affairs. Lot of bus time. Allow extra time in Havana - lots to do and see and some great restaurants!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/10/2024
Lynette - Traveled, March 2024
Come to Cuba for the history and the colour, but most importantly, come for the music
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Lois - Traveled, March 2024
A trip to remember. Finally understanding the history of a very turbulent country. People friendly and helpful, never felt threatened just loved it. Countryside pretty. Some lovely beaches and the old cars and horses and carts gave it such fun atmosphere. Have so many happy memories thanks to fantastic tour guide!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Rosalind - Traveled, February 2024
Highly recommend this trip. Our tour guide Yummet was brilliant. I learnt so much about Cuban history and culture. The tour is quite fast paced and covers quite a lot of ground but you see lots of different places and get a good idea of the island. Loved all the salsa dancing in bars. Had a great time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/11/2024
Joanne - Traveled, February 2024
Yumet was THE best guide! Full of enthusiasm, knowledge of the culture and history, and well organized. It covered a good variety of settings in western Cuba and we learned a lot about local, activities, cultures, and histories. Plus time for the beach and canchancharas!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/11/2024
Emer - Traveled, February 2024
From start to finish our experience was top class. We had a great experience created by a great leader coupled with a great group of travellers in a great set of locations. We would highly recommend Emilio, Beautiful Cuba and Intrepid Travel.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/27/2024
Mike - Traveled, February 2024
See if you can get on a trip where Yummet is your guide, we all learnt so much from her.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2024
Tim - Traveled, January 2024
Barbara (Adita) is an indefatigably professional and enthusiastic guide. Her affection and pride in the Cuban people was the through line underpinning the tour, and she offered a perspective and context for such a beautiful and unique country that we would never have otherwise had.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/05/2024
Tridib - Traveled, January 2024
Most satisfying trip I had since a long time . The official guide Ale was very well informed and extremely hospitable and helpful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/18/2024
Daniel - Traveled, January 2024
Cuba is a different world and I feel like I discovered as much as possible during this trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/20/2024
Peter - Traveled, January 2024
Emilio has wonderful local knowledge and is very down to earth, providing us with a unique Cuban experience. He can even sing ! Bravo
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/30/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, January 2024
A diverse trip which covered many different places in a short amount of time , I really felt I got a good first impression of Cuba and enjoyed my time there
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/13/2023
Debbie & Rob - Traveled, December 2023
Yummet our tour leader was fantastic. The trip itinerary was varied, with a mixture of scheduled activities and free time. All accomodation was clean, comfortable and the hosts were attentive. Transport was excellent. Food was tasty and plentiful. Our group worked well together and life long friends were made.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/12/2024
Rachel - Traveled, December 2023
Had a fantastic time on the beautiful Cuba tour learning all about the country and enjoying everything on offer.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Amy - Traveled, December 2023
Really interesting and well organised trip, and our guide Adita was fantastic. Would definitely recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/25/2023
Brenda - Traveled, December 2023
Wow! Beautiful Cuba is an understatement. This was an amazing tour that explored beyond the resort setting and really gave a glimpse of everyday life in Cuba. What an experience with an outstanding guide Barbara (Adita).
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/25/2023
Jo-Anne - Traveled, November 2023
Beautiful Cuba…….so true. An amazing experience for my first Intrepid trip. Comfortable accommodations and an amazing, informative local guide. I saw and learnt so much about Cuba. From the mountains to the Caribbean and the history of the various locations and revolutions……..so many memories.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/03/2023
Nikolaos - Traveled, November 2023
Amazing trip with a lovely group of people and an excellent guide. Emilio was outstanding as a guide in a very unique and beautiful country that made this trip truly memorable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/22/2023
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