Cuba Experience - Havana to the East
Cuba Experience - Havana to the East
Cuba Experience - Havana to the East
15 Days Starting in Havana Cuba and ending in Havana, Cuba
Visiting: Havana, Cienfuegos, Camaguey, Holguin, Baracoa, Santiago de Cuba, Bayamo, Trinidad
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CA
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 14
Age range:
1-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Gluten free
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
Tour Overview
The 15 day Original Cuba tour package is our most long-standing itinerary. It packs into 2 weeks what we consider the most fascinating elements of this unique country. As well as visiting many of Cuba's more interesting and popular destinations, our focus is on contact with the Cuban people and their culture, in understanding the Cuban history and society, and having a lot of fun along the way. Accommodation is in guesthouses, which are Cuba's version of b&b accommodation. They are small privately owned businesses in Cuba typically run by a local family. An English and Spanish speaking local Cuban tour guide accompanies the group throughout.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Havana
Location: Havana
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
You are free to arrive in Havana at whatever time you can today. We have set aside this first day for this purpose, so you won't miss out on anything, even if you arrive late in the evening. Your included airport arrival transfer will be provided. This will be either a government taxi or a private car, and will take you directly from the Havana airport to your guesthouse for the first night in Havana.
Your tour guide will leave a note for you in the guesthouse with some information for you to get settled and details of any tour group meeting times. The first of these will be a get together for dinner on the first night for those tour group members that have arrived in time.
If you do happen to arrive earlier in the day, you may have time to go and explore some of Havana. At some stage during the tour, your tour guide will include a walking tour of Old Havana. After confirming your tour booking with us, we will also send you a set of maps for each city you will visit in Cuba. This is like a mini guide book that we update every year - so it is usually more up-to-date than a typical guide book. We do recommend the guide books for Cuba however, especially for the background historical and cultural information sections.
Day 2 : Cienfuegos Via Bay Of Pigs
Location: Cienfuegos
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
On our way to Cienfuegos, we drive along the beautiful coastline of the Bay of Pigs. This is where the landing of a counter-revolutionary exile militia occurred in 1961. The ensuing battle with the Cuban Revolutionary forces resulted in the first defeat of a U.S backed take-over in Latin America. Your guide will explain in more detail the dramatic events. If the conditions are favourable, we can stop for a swim at a beautiful spot on the bay that is ideal for snorkelling. Snorkelling masks are available at a small cost.
Cienfuegos appeal lies partly in the European flavour of its colonial hub, with a wide Parisian-style boulevard and elegant colonnades, and there is an ambience to inspire Cuba’s most celebrated Son singer to write the words “Cienfuegos is the city I like best”. You'll have time to take in the ambience with a pleasant stroll along the boulevard and to the main square.
Day 3 : Camaguey Via Santa Clara
Location: Camaguey
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before reaching Camaguey we first drop in on the historic inland city of Santa Clara. It's here that we encounter a huge statue of Ernesto Ché Guevara. We take time to visit the museum that is directly under the statue, and which tells the story of Ché's fascinating life. There is also a mausoleum with an eternal flame that commemorates his death and that of the revolutionaries who were with him in Bolivia.
Cuba's third largest city lies about halfway between Havana and Santiago de Cuba. Camaguey was designed in the 17th century to disorientate potential invaders such as pirates and plunderers, so the street layout is a jumble of narrow alleys where no two streets are parallel. There are large parks, various private art galleries, and a thriving market garden, and one will enjoy strolling through this city. This is also a university town and has a rich cultural tradition, and like just about everywhere in Cuba, there is plenty of night time entertainment to be had.
Camaguey is a proud and cultural city, and has some of the best schools and institutions in Cuba.
Day 4 : Holguin
Location: Holguin
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before we set off for Holguin we will start the morning with a guided visit to the ballet school in Camaguey. We then head to the province of Holguin - the third largest province in Cuba. While Holguin is popular mostly as a beach resort destination, it is also known for its rich architectural structures that date back to the 19th century, among many other historical places in the city which we will see on our walking tour. The rest of the day is free to wander this interesting city and visit some of the many historical sites and museums, take a cultural trip to learn more about the original inhabitants of the island, or visit some of the beautiful parks and green spaces or walk to the Loma de la Cruz (the hill of the cross) well worth a visit with spectacular views. Holguin has a number of places related to a Cuban hero called Calixto Garcia. There are numerous great venues for music and to enjoy the nightlife, and many good places to eat.
Day 5 : Baracoa
Location: Baracoa
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
When Christopher Columbus first encountered Cuba it was here, and he duly noted in his log-book that this was the most beautiful land that human eyes could set upon. You will understand what he meant when you see the beaches and verdant mountain landscape that surround Baracoa. Situated on a beautiful bay with the mountains of the Sierra del Purial in the background, Baracoa was the first settlement founded by the Spanish in Cuba, and was only accessible by sea until the end of the 1960s.
There are numerous options for outdoor activities in the nearby mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and beaches. Baracoa is also known for its variety of fresh seafood, and chocolate made from local cacao plantations.
Day 6 : Baracoa
Location: Baracoa
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
More exploration of this delightful town
Day 7 : Santiago De Cuba
Location: Santiago de Cuba
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
A spectacular drive through lush mountains of eastern Cuba, then along a rugged and beautiful section of coast, and later past the region’s most controversial leasehold of Guantanamo Bay, brings us to what is known as the “cradle of Cuba's Revolution”. Santiago is home to much of Cuba’s famed music, like the Son. There are also museums, colonial churches and buildings of more recent historical importance, such as the Moncada Barracks, which are well worth exploring.
Santiago de Cuba has a very vibrant traditional music scene, and it's here that we include what we call a Noche Santiaguera. It's an interactive night of music and dance where we invite some local Santiago friends of ours to come with us to a local traditional music venue, and they will invite you to join them on the dance floor to learn some dance moves. For those that are willing, you'll have the chance to get up on stage and play an instrument with the local Cuban band. Culturally, Santiago has a different feel to the rest of Cuba, undoubtedly coming from the mix of French speaking slaves from Haiti and its proximity to Jamaica.
Day 8 : Santiago De Cuba
Location: Santiago de Cuba
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Santiago de Cuba has a very vibrant traditional music scene, and it's here that we include what we call a Noche Santiaguera. It's an interactive night of music and dance where we invite some local Santiago friends of ours to come with us to a local traditional music venue, and they will invite you to join them on the dance floor to learn some dance moves. For those that are willing, you'll have the chance to get up on stage and play an instrument with the local Cuban band. Culturally, Santiago has a different feel to the rest of Cuba, undoubtedly coming from the mix of French speaking slaves from Haiti and its proximity to Jamaica.
Day 9 : Bayamo Vía Sanctuary Of El Cobre
Location: Bayamo
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we head to Bayamo from Santiago de Cuba, via the Sanctuary of El Cobre. El Cobre is a small town with a significant statue to Cimmaron, commemorating the copper mine slave uprising in the 17th century. It is also the most important place of worship in Cuba and the home of the patron Saint of Cuba - Our Lady of Charity. This is a fascinating stop and insight into Cuba culture, religion and customs.
After we leave El Cobre we continue onto Bayamo, a small quiet town, not what you would expect for the capital of this province. The people in Bayamo are very laid back and it is a pleasant contrast to the hustle and bustle of vibrant Santiago de Cuba. Bayamo is the second Spanish city founded in Cuba (1513) as was named Villa de San Salvador de Bayamo”. During the 17th and 18th century, the idea of Cuban Independence began here with Cespedes who freed his slave and formed a small army, starting the War of Independence against Spain. Rather than surrender, the rebels famously held Bayamo for three days before burning it to the ground. There is an interesting wax museum we will visit during our walking tour.
Day 10 : Trinidad
Location: Trinidad
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Trinidad is home to numerous churches and many beautiful colonial buildings. We are near the lovely Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of Sugarmills) and Playa Ancón, where you can enjoy long stretches of unspoiled, white sand beaches. Scuba diving, snorkelling, swimming in waterfalls and horse-riding are other optional activities.
Day 11 : Trinidad
Location: Trinidad
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
The nightlife in Trinidad is probably the most accessible and intense in all of Cuba, with numerous live music venues and many dance performances everyday of the week, all amongst the enchanting setting of old colonial buildings and the cobblestone streets.
Day 12 : Trinidad
Location: Trinidad
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
What better way to spend the day than with a ride to one of the beautiful sandy beaches of Trinidad.
Organise a classic car to transport you to the beach.
You will be driven & entertained by an enthusiastic local who will pick you up for the return journey at a pre arranged time.
Day 13 : Havana
Location: Havana
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Caribbean's largest and most exciting urban concentration, Havana is one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982. Options are to take the included walking tour of the Old town with the guide or to find your own adventure.
Day 14 : Havana
Location: Havana
Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your last full day in Havana and what better way to spend it than doing the Old Town walk, followed by a walk along the Malecon.
Discover the sights and sounds of this enchanting city & stop off at one of its famous bars for a refresher.
Engage with the people - they are so friendly & welcoming.
Day 15 : Departure Day
Location: Havana
Meals Included: Breakfast
You can depart Havana at any time today or maybe you have arranged to stay on for extra days
What's Included
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Accommodation
Guesthouses throughout. Twinshare
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Arrival transfer included
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Fully Guided
Tour Leader throughout, some local specialised guides
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Meals
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner,
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Transport
Private land transport - minibus or taxi (depending on group size)
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Additional Services
Walking tour of Old Havana, Che Guevara Museum, Ballet School visit in Camaguey, Music & dance night in Santiago, visit to El Cobre.
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
Visa & passport fees
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Tipping and Gratuities
Gratuities for tour leader, driver, local guides, musicians, etc not included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport Departure Transfer
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Optional
Optional activities / day-tours / excursions
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Meals
All meals (except for 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner)
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Drinks
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Insurance
Insurance (Travel Medical Insurance is required to participate on the tour)
Check out our Q&As
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
The visa (or tourist card) is not included, it can be obtained from your airline, local embassy, or third party seller.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
We suggest you bring spending money in USD or Euros
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Cuba requires citizens from most countries to have a visa (tourist card)
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What is the maximum group size?
16 travellers
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What is the tipping policy?
Cuba is a tipping country. You can budget $2-5/day for the tour leader, $1-3/day for the driver, $1-5 for a local guide, $1 for musicians in restaurants or on the streets, $.25 for bathroom attendants
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
You will receive the name and address of your Havana casa 10 days in advance. Your accommodations in the rest of the provinces are assigned upon arrival.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour will be cancelled and booked travellers will be given a full refund
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes, children 18 and under are welcome accompanied by an adult
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What documentation will I receive?
You will receive the name and address of your Havana casa 10 days in advance. Your accommodations in the rest of the provinces are assigned upon arrival.
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
Yes, we require proof of vaccination or a signed medical waiver.
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Are flights included in this tour?
No flights are included
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
At a minimum all guides speak English and Spanish
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
Solo travellers are invited to share a room with a same sex traveller on the tour. If you prefer a single room, you can pay the single supplement of US$436
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
You must be able to carry your own luggage up stairs, so we suggest packing lightly.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Airport arrival transfer is included, as long as we have arranged your first night stay. Otherwise the transfer is included from your pre-tour accommodations to your first night casa.
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, all of our transportation is air conditioned
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
This tour is designed for the traveller that wants the freedom to do what they want while in Cuba. The only thing you need to do is make sure you are ready for the bus to the next destination, aside from that you have complete freedom in each destination. The guide gives a walking orientation tour, suggestions for restaurants and activities, and then you're off on your adventure.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
Most accommodation do not offer free wi-fi, although increasingly they do have a connection. You must buy a wi-fi card to connect, it is around US$1
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
The guesthouses we stay in are all professionally run, and have been vetted for cleanliness and standard level comfort. They are all air-conditioned or sufficiently cooled, and nearly all have an en-suite bathroom. They are more like a bed & breakfast and less like a homestay and are all unique. We encourage you to interact with the families and staff, but it is not necessary.
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
We will gladly arrange for pre- or post- tour accommodation.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
There is a lot of walking on this tour, so travellers should feel comfortable with that.
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Travellers from all countries are welcome on this tour.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, we can normally arrange for you to meet up with the group. Transportation at traveller's own expense.
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How long is a Cuba visa / tourist card valid for after entry to Cuba?
The standard Tourist Card is valid for 90 days. However, this can be extended once when you are in the country upon payment of a small fee – our local team can help you. This means you can stay for up to 180 days maximum on a single visit.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We can often change the dates with no penalty if it's far enough in advance. Otherwise, our cancellation policy will apply.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes, there are strict health and safety guidelines that all casas particulares must adhere to.
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What currencies or money should I take to Cuba?
Following the abolition of the CUC (convertible peso) in 2021 the only official national currency now in circulation is the Cuban Peso (CUP, also known as ‘Moneda Nacional’). However, it is not necessary to exchange money to local currency, USD and Euro cash are widely accepted. We do not recommend exchanging money at official institutions, the rates are very unfavourable. Ask your guesthouse staff or guide for help exchanging to CUP. Travellers must bring USD or EUR cash sufficient for the length of their stay in Cuba. Bank cards cannot be relied on to work in Cuba and US affiliated cards will not work at all in Cuba. Card payments are usually only accepted at government run institutions and hotels, the majority of restaurants, galleries, and privately owned shops are cash only.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We adhere to all local protocol and best practices, including social distancing, sanitizing, and mask wearing. Travellers must be fully vaccinated.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
When you are confirmed on the tour you will receive the Essential Trip Notes with information to help you prepare for your tour and maps of each of the destinations. Then 10-days before the tour you'll receive a pre-departure message with the tour leader's name, arrival instructions, and the name and phone number of the casa where you'll be staying in Havana.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have proudly been in operation since 2005
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I am a US citizen. Can Americans go on these tours?
Yes, Americans can join all our tours legally. Our Ultimate Cuba tours (coded SCP) are designed with a full itinerary to satisfy USA requirements. Other tours are fine as well, but since there is a lot of free time they require the traveller to select activities appropriate under Support for the Cuban People, such as visiting private business or interacting with locals. US travellers on any tour must maintain a daily record to show that they are complying with Support for the Cuban People and keep it for 5 years.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Solo travellers are not required to pay single supplement if they are willing to share with someone of the same gender.
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Are Cuban Adventures tours legal for Americans?
Yes. Our programs comply with ongoing US travel restrictions and are legal for US and non-US citizens alike. It is not necessary to apply to ‘OFAC’ for special permission to visit Cuba, We will provide you with an affidavit to sign that will serve as proof of your legal travel. When reserving airfare, the airlines will require you to confirm that you are travelling to Cuba under one of 12 permitted categories of travel. For general purpose visits, select ‘SUPPORT THE CUBAN PEOPLE’, this is a travel category our programs comply with.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded individuals of all ages who are interested in a cultural adventure and getting to know the real Cuba
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Do I need a visa for Cuba?
Citizens of most countries will need to get a visa (also known as a Tourist Card) to enter Cuba. When flying from a country in the Americas to Cuba, you can purchase these tourist cards at the departure airport. Flying from Europe you can request the tourist card from the consulate or buy in advance online from companies such as https://www.easytouristcard.com?aff=43 A pink coloured ‘Tourist Card’ is required for any nationality when flying to Cuba directly from the USA and a green coloured ‘Tourist Card’ is required to visit Cuba when flying from any country except the USA. NOTE: From 1 January 2025 the Tourist Card will be replaced by an eVisa which will be obtainable in the same way as above.
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Cuban Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 100 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cuban adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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