Best of Cuba
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Experience Overview
Stroll through Cuba’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed cities, experience the country’s renowned music and dance culture and sip local rum on the shores of the Caribbean. On this two-week adventure, you’ll explore the living museums that are Cuba’s cities, learn the sobering history of the Bay of Pigs and explore Baracoa’s remote mountains. Visit the birthplace of salsa and admire Trinidad, a cradle of crafts and cobblestone streets. Hear the rumble of historic cars, smell fragrant cigars and feel the rumba beat in the heart of all things Cuban.
Highlights
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Havana on foot, visit the grand Plaza de Arms and Spanish-era landmarks, and learn about Cuba’s rich history at the Museo de la Revolucion.
- Learn about the rise and fall of the charismatic and highly celebrated Cuban revolutionary – Che Guevara – at his mausoleum and museum in Santa Clara.
- Feel the beat in Santiago de Cuba – with its vibrant music scene and Afro-Cuban roots, this is a lively spot to hit the dance floor with the locals.
- Soak up the coastal charm of colourful Trinidad. Delve into the city’s sultry Latin rhythms with a salsa class and enjoy plenty of free time for seaside relaxation.
- Take inspiration from the locals and mix things up with a bicycle-taxi tour of Camaguey – roll through the winding streets on wheels, visiting markets, plazas and an art gallery.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2470
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle, Taxi, Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: QUSH
Starts: Havana, Cuba
Finishes: Havana, Cuba
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14),Accommodation: Standard guesthouse (14 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2840 ($189 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cuba. Your adventure begins in Havana with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, consider a stroll through Old Havana to acquaint yourself with its colourful mix of 1950s Americana, and range of architectural styles from Spanish-influenced to Cuban Baroque and Neoclassical. There are plenty of good museums to check out, like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts). Maybe line up with the locals for a taste of Coppelia ice cream or wander along the Malecon – the sea wall that skirts the coastline.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Jose Marti Memorial tower entrance fee (150 CUP)
- Havana - Museo Hemingway Finca Vigia (entrance fee, no guide, no transport) (125 CUP)
- Havana - Camera Obscura by Leonardo da Vinci (entrance fee and guide included) (400 CUP)
- Havana - Morro Castle (entrance fee, no guide, no transport)10 am-9 pm (200 CUP)
- Havana - Cigar Factory Tour (entrance fee and guide) (10 USD)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Havana's history is as colourful as its cars and buildings, and today you’ll get to experience the magic of Old Havana on a walking tour with your local leader. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982, this well-preserved area remains virtually unchanged, making it one of the Caribbean’s most impressive historical cities. An air of faded glory comes through in the peeling paint of the grand old buildings, and the narrow streets, spacious plazas and Spanish architecture make it a charm to explore on foot. Visit La Catedral San Cristobal de la Habana, the Palacio de los Marqueses de Aguas Claras and the Plaza de Armas, and pop into the Museo de la Revolucion to learn about the history of the Cuban Revolution. Then, have some free time to explore on your own. Perhaps check out a cigar factory or cruise around outer Havana in a vintage American car.
Included Activities:
- Havana - Leader-led walking tour of Old Havana
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Havana and head towards Santa Clara – the final resting place of Cuba’s most famous son, Che Guevara. Visit his mausoleum and memorial – Che's remains were brought here after they were found in a remote corner of Bolivia in 1997, where he was assassinated by the CIA-backed Bolivian army. Check out the impressive bronze statue of Che bearing his rifle and learn about his life. After, check into your guesthouse, join your leader for an orientation walk, then enjoy the rest of the afternoon free.
Included Activities:
- Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
- Santa Clara – Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, continue your journey to Bayamo. On the way, stop at Ciego de Avila to visit a local jewellery workshop that sprung from a community-based project that provides training to young people and the unemployed. Much of the work on display here is from local artisans, made from discarded silverware that’s repurposed and recycled. After checking it out, continue to Bayamo, one of the original Spanish settlements – you’re more likely to see locals travelling on horses than in cars here. Take a walk through the slow-paced city, then settle in for a restful night.
Included Activities:
- Ciego de Ávila - Jewellery workshop (Community-based project)
- Bayamo - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, hop back on the bus and travel through central Cuba to Baracoa, tucked between forests and the Caribbean Sea. On the way, stop at Guantanamo Bay and, if time permits, visit a lookout over the Guantanamo Naval Base and surrounding bay. When you arrive in Baracoa, get your bearings on a walk with your leader. The town was only accessible by sea until 1960, and even after a road linking Baracoa to Guantanamo was built, the settlement maintains a small-town feel. Then, have some free time, maybe to wander along the beautiful Malecon, chill at the beach or explore the forts that were built to withstand pirate attacks. Or, perhaps you’d like to visit the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion to see the bust of the Indigenous leader Hatuey.
Included Activities:
- Baracoa - Leader-led Orientation Walk
- Guantanamo Bay Viewpoint (time & weather dependent)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast today, it’s on to Boca de Yumuri Canyon. On the way, visit a local cocoa plantation and learn about these magic beans. When you arrive in Baracoa, take a walk through the lush natural landscapes and hop in a cayuca (traditional boat) for a cruise through the canyon, formed by the Yumuri River. From the boat, maybe cool off with a swim in the river. Then, return to Baracoa for a free evening. As one of Cuba’s major agricultural zones, Baracoa is a great place to try local foods like chocolate, prawns in coconut sauce and banana-stuffed tamales. Don’t miss the cucurucho (a sweet treat of coconut, sugar and fruit wrapped in dried, cone-shaped palm leaves).
Included Activities:
- Baracoa - Boca de Yumuri Canyon boat tour
- Baracoa - Cocoa plantation visit
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today’s spectacular journey to Santiago de Cuba will take you through the mountains and along the Atlantic coastline to the arid region surrounding Guantanamo. Arrive in the hottest place in Cuba – both in temperature and atmosphere – in the mid-afternoon. Set between the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range and the Caribbean, Santiago de Cuba’s historical centre retains a timeworn atmosphere, making for some great photo opportunities. After an orientation walk with your leader, perhaps join with some of your travel buddies and head out for a group dinner. Or, get a good night’s rest before a day of exploration tomorrow.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Cuba - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off on a half-day city tour this morning to learn more about Santiago’s backstory. Trace its revolutionary history at El Morro Castle, Ifigenia Cemetery and the Moncada Barracks. Learn how the city served as Cuba’s seat of power for nearly a century and became a key centre of resistance – it was here that Fidel Castro declared the triumph of the Revolution. This afternoon is yours, so maybe enjoy some downtime if you plan to head out in search of live music and some dancing tonight. With a strong Afro-Cuban heritage, Santiago is considered Cuba’s capital of music and is home to a mix of Spanish guitar and African percussion.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Cuba - Half-day City Tour including El Morro Castle, Santa Ifigenia Cemetery & Moncada Barracks (guide, transport &entrance fees included)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Head east along the Carretera Central to Camaguey today. When you arrive, explore the winding streets on a leader-led walk – the city was planned in a deliberately confusing pattern to disorient any would-be assailants – and look out for tinajones (large clay pots used for collecting water). Stop by the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad to see its Baroque frescoes, then the rest of the day is free to uncover more of the city’s history at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Camaguey - Leader - led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
If you found Camaguey’s labyrinth of streets confusing yesterday, you’ll look forward to today’s locally guided bicycle taxi tour. Cycling is a popular form of transport in Cuba and you'll see plenty of other ‘bici-taxis’ as you visit a local market, an art gallery and some of the local parks and plazas. Later, your leader will take you to a local bar where you'll get to compare white rum to aged rum – Cuba is known as the origin of some of the world's smoothest and most sought-after rums.
Included Activities:
- Camaguey - Rum tasting in a local bar
- Camaguey - Bicycle Taxi City Tour (guide and transport included)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll travel through the centre of the country to Trinidad on the scenic Caribbean coast. This incredibly well-preserved city is steeped in religion, including the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk and get a feel for the former wealth generated by the sugar industry through the town's once-grand mansions, colourful public buildings, wrought-iron grill work and cobblestoned streets. This evening, you might like to head out to dinner and to hear some live music with your fellow travellers – maybe try Trinidad’s signature local cocktail, La Canchanchara, made with rum, honey and lemon and usually served in a pottery cup.
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll have plenty of free time in Trinidad. Maybe choose to step into Cuba’s rich musical traditions with an informal salsa class. Many African and French-influenced music styles that have left a mark on the world originated here, like the mambo, cha-cha-cha, son and rumba. Or, perhaps you’d like to explore by bike – this is a great way to see the local area, but like its cars, Cuba's bicycles are vintage, which means a little bit of practicality may be sacrificed for the romance. If you’re craving beach time, maybe head to Playa Ancon and relax on the sand, take a swim in the clear waters or head to one of the beachside restaurants. If you’re up for it, spend the evening at one of the town’s live music venues or attend an open-air folklore show.
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Salsa Dance Lesson (1 hour)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel on to Cienfuegos today, known affectionately as 'The Pearl of the South.’ Part of the city's appeal lies in its historic centre, which features wide Parisian-style boulevards and elegant colonnades. On the way, stop at Guanaroca Lagoon, one of the most unique ecosystems in Cuba. Hop in a boat for a lagoon tour and maybe glimpse pink flamingos, sea coruas, gannets and Florida ducks in their natural habitat. Then, continue to Cienfuegos, arriving along the peninsula in view of the renowned, Moroccan-influenced Palacio del Valle. Settle in, then join your leader on an orientation walk to admire the city’s Neoclassical architecture and glittering bay. Then, enjoy an afternoon for your own discoveries, perhaps finding a spot for a local cup of coffee. Maybe visit the Jardin Botanico de Cienfuegos, or head to Club Cienfuegos for a sunset cocktail.
Included Activities:
- Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cienfuegos - Palacio de Valle (from entrance fee)
- Guanaroca Lagoon - boat tour
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Return to Havana today, stopping at a local cigar factory along the way, where you’ll learn the process of manufacturing the popular Cuban cigar. Then, carry on to the Playa Giro, which sits on the eastern side of the Bahia de Cochinos (the Bay of Pigs). If there’s time, you may have the chance to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, with a deep underwater wall and a huge variety of coral and fish. After, continue your journey to Havana. At the end of a long day, it's time for a mojito and one final night of salsa in Habana Vieja's bars. Why not hit the streets and celebrate the end of a fantastic adventure!
Included Activities:
- Bay of Pigs - Coastal swim stop
- Cienfuegos - cigar factory visit
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent.
Similar Tours
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
Susan and David - Traveled, September 2023
I think we could have had an extra day in Trinidad.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2023
Michael - Traveled, July 2023
A very comprehensive overview of Cuba. Gloria and Ivan were very kind and helpful. Cuba is not the easiest destination but it was very rewarding. Don't forget to bring much-needed medicine for the locals.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/11/2023
Marina - Traveled, July 2023
This tour exceeded my expectations. I have visited the Cuba that not everybody has the privilege to visit, with a tour leader who could not have done any more to make our experience so unique and marvellous! I would recommend this trip to anybody eager to learn about this incredibly fascinating country, its multifaceted culture, history, architecture, natural environment and much more…in a nutshell: thank you to Intrepid and its Cuba based team for providing me with a truly unforgettable experince! ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2023
Michaela - Traveled, April 2024
Fantastic trip. Cuba is beautiful. The people are warm and welcoming. So much more to see than just the beautiful architecture of Havana. Fascinating history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2024
Carole - Traveled, April 2024
I’ve travelled with other tour groups and my experience with Intripid has been the best one, small group structure works well in showcasing the best a location has to offer and the quality of the tour leader Alejandro was excellent in his knowledge of Cuba and it’s people , I recommend both Intripid and Alejandro
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2024
Barbara - Traveled, February 2024
Cuba is not your usual tourist destination, but this trip was the perfect opportunity to see the country as it is, and Chino was the best guide to show us around. Be open minded, prepared to spend a lot of time in the car, eat more than expected and just have fun :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Keith - Traveled, May 2023
Adrian our tour guide was exceptional. His enthusiasm knowledge and love of his country was ‘full on’. -this he shared with us. His amicable easy going nature made travelling a breeze and each day a pleasant adventure. He was both the guide and driver on our journey, he admirably contended with the petrol shortage, which meant we were limited to 10 liters, at garages, and had to navigate queues and frustrating local bureaucracy. Never without a smile. An unforgettable tour. Highly Recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/19/2023
Maria J · - Traveled, April 2023
great trip thou lacking cultural exposure on each stop besides dancing salsa
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/22/2023
Jeannie - Traveled, March 2023
Overall a very enjoyable, educational if disturbing trip; awareness of a society coping with a country where communism does not appear to be working can only be gained by visiting. The country is beautiful and FULL of opportunities, its inhabitants at times showing that wonderful Latin joyfulness; they deserve a change for a better life.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Jeannie - Traveled, March 2023
A most enjoyable, educational and well organised trip; disturbing at times but a must for anyone who needs to have a clearer understanding of a failing communist government. A beautiful country with endless opportunities and that wonderful Latin joyfulness still apparent through their wonderful music and at times by their friendliness. Cubans deserve whatever it takes to improve their present situation. Some knowledge of the language would be a definite advantage.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Rodrigo - Traveled, March 2023
Amazing trip to get to know all aspects of Cuba - its history, culture, and society - and having lots of fun at the same time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2023
Katherine - Traveled, February 2023
Absolutely awesome holiday, Ali was brilliant, leave more time at the end to explore Havana though! Also don't do if you don't like being in a car for a long time. Worth it for what we got to see though!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2023
Sarah - Traveled, January 2023
The trip is suitable for people that like to learn a lot about history, enjoy spending a lot of time in restaurants and seeing the landscape. The hotels are very nice and also the stuff is excellent! For young people who are looking for some adventure it might not be the perfect choice.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2023
Mark - Traveled, December 2023
Cuba is a fascinating country, full of lovely colonial-era towns even if there are many buildings in need of a lick or two of paint. We also enjoyed lots of beautiful Caribbean scenery and covered a lot of ground in 2 weeks. But be warned that Cuba's economy is in a bit of a mess; food is rationed for the locals and there are virtually no shops or supermarkets in which tourists can buy food or drinks. An organised tour like this is probably the only way to see the country as I think the public transport network has collapsed. Our tour leader was very efficient and the bus driver put in a lot of hours to help us get the most out of our trip. I would strongly recommend spending a few extra days in Havana at the start or end of the trip as there is a lot to see and do there
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2023
Jennifer - Traveled, January 2024
In-depth tour of Cuba avoiding beach resorts. If you like history/architecture then you'll find this interesting. But be warned, anyone who visited Cuba 5+ years ago probably won't give you good advice on what Cuba is like now. Cubans are facing many challenges; this tour is not easy mentally.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Steven - Traveled, November 2023
An excellent trip for experiencing and gaining an understanding of Cuba today, the history, politics and geography with plenty of opportunity to meet Cubans and see how they live. They are some of the most friendly and welcoming people making do with a lot less than we are used to.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Layton - Traveled, November 2023
Cuba is a wonderful experience for all back packers. There is plenty to see and do with its breath taking lstin culture that would take your breath away.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Zena - Traveled, November 2023
The Best of Cuba holiday was one amazing experience, the historical and cultural heritage was amazing. Felt safe , our Casas we stayed at was as expected . Out intrepid Tour Guide Juan Carlos was very approachable . I'd recommend Cuba any time . Be mindful of the temperature can get pretty hot.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/01/2023
Jose Luis - Traveled, October 2023
Very recommendable trip. It will show you most of highlights in Cuba, and you will see how things are going on there at the moment
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, October 2023
Awesome experience! Great overview of Cuba with very knowledgable and personable guide. Highly recommend. Be aware this involves LONG days of bus travel. Bring a Grayl water purifier. Have a look at http://www.cubalibrohavana.com/donations if you want to help the Cuban people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/02/2023
