Standard Itinerary
History and Nature of Cuba
12 days / 11 nights
Tour Description
This is a suggested itinerary.
All our tours are 100% private, so you can customize them as you prefer.
You can extend them for one or more days, add or remove any activity, site or location, etc.
Day 1
Welcome to Havana
Arrival at Havana Airport.
Your tour guide and driver will be waiting there to pick you up and assist you for the rest of the tour.
Transfer to your Boutique Hotel in Old Havana.
Free time to check in, freshen up, and get comfortable.
Short walk around the area.
Your tour guide will show you some points of interest and suggest good cafes, live music bars, and restaurants.
Welcome dinner at Paladar Los Mercaderes.
Day 2
Exploring Havana
Breakfast at the Boutique Hotel.
Old Havana walking tour.
In this historic center, designated UNESCO Heritage Site in 1982, you can admire the Four Main Squares: Plaza Vieja, Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, Plaza de Armas, and Plaza de la Catedral. This area is rich in cultural experiences, featuring notable attractions such as museums, art galleries, libraries, parks...
You can stroll down Obispo Boulevard, where you'll find a variety of local shops and craft markets. Be sure to stop by El Floridita Bar, famously known as Hemingway’s favorite place in the 1920s and currently ranked among the Top 10 Most Famous Bars in the World.
Other significant sites include the Capitol, Central Park, the Grand Theatre, the Bacardí Building, and the Museum of the Revolution.
Lunch break.
Classic American convertible car ride.
During this tour, you will have the unique experience of riding in a classic convertible car from the '50s as you delve into both historic landmarks and modern attractions of the city.
Your adventure will begin at the Old Forts known as Morro-Cabaña Castle, a majestic fortress that offers a glimpse into the city's rich colonial history. A cigar shop next to the fort will call your attention, since they have an exhibition with the Guinness Record of the Biggest Cigar in the World.
Next, you will visit the iconic Christ Statue, which provides stunning panoramic views of Old Havana. Take in the sights along the Malecón Promenade, where the ocean waves create a backdrop to the vibrant atmosphere of the city, and as you cruise through the upscale neighborhood of Vedado, you'll witness the elegance and style of high-class living.
You'll have a stop at the National Hotel, a symbol of historic luxury and mafia affairs in Havana before the Revolution, to appreciate its architectural beauty and storied past.
Continue your journey to the Revolution Square, the historic place where thousands of Cubans, during the first decades of the Revolution, stood for hours listening to the speeches of president Fidel Castro. This is an essential highlight, as it remains a pivotal site in the nation’s history.
When passing in front of Colón Cemetery, prepare to be captivated its numerous mausoleums and intricate sculptures. Lastly, find serenity in the greenery of the Metropolitan Forest, a peaceful oasis amidst the urban buzz.
Enjoy every moment of this unforgettable adventure!
Free evening.
Day 3
Pinar del Río
Breakfast at the Boutique Hotel and check-out.
Trip to Pinar del Río Province.
Las Terrazas Complex.
Visit Las Terrazas, a tourist complex with outdoor activities like boat rides on the lake, horseback riding, zipline, hiking paths, and picnic areas. The town, also called Las Terrazas, was the birthplace of one of the most famous Cuban singers and composers: Polo Montañez. You can visit his former house, nowadays working as a museum, and there are also some local artshops in the area.
Soroa Natural Park.
Soroa Natural Park is located in the Guanahacabibes Mountains, a World Biosphere Reserve. This is one of the most beautiful ecosystems in Cuba, famous for the variety and good conservation of its flora and fauna. You can visit the Orchids Garden, hike to Soroa’s viewpoint, and swim to a beautiful waterfall known as The Cuban Rainbow.
Lunch break.
Trip to Viñales and check-in at a Deluxe Casa Particular.
Stop at Los Jazmines Viewpoint, conveniently situated just a few minutes from the town center, to have a beautiful view of the valley and its distinctive "mogotes" (limestone monolyths) rising above the lush tobacco fields and coffee plantations.
Viñales Town walking tour.
Declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1999, Viñales is a beautiful villa in a valley surrounded by mountains and with a lifestyle mainly rural. Take a short walk around the town center to get familiar with the area, the good places to eat and drink, see the main plaza with the church, and the Historic Museum of Viñales.
Free evening.
Day 4
Exploring Viñales
Breakfast at the Casa.
Viñales Valley tour.
Tobacco Farm and Plantations.
The economy of Viñales is predominantly based on the tobacco plantations, and alongside with Pinar del Rio city, is renowned as the source of most of the finest tobacco leaves and cigars in the world.
During your visit to a tobacco farm, a farmer will teach you the whole process, from sowing the tobacco seeds to the art of rolling handmade cigars. As part of this experience, the farm will graciously offer you one of their cigars to smoke and enjoy.
Horseback riding / Horse cart excursion.
Take a horseback ride or a horse-drawn cart to visit another farm that produces local rum, honey, and coffee. This is the perfect opportunity to discover other handcrafted products that are characteristic of Viñales Valley.
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and flavors of the region, as you learn about the production processes of these delightful local goods.
Lunch break.
Don't loose the opportunity to try the typical farm-to-table meal of Viñales! Vegetables, fruits, and creole food, all served fresh on the table.
(This meal is not included in your package)
Valley of Prehistory.
Other things to do in Viñales are related to our island's prehistoric times.
Visit the Cueva del Indio, an ancient cave where indigenous communities settled centuries ago, with the arrival of the Spaniards to the island. A river flows through the cave, and you can navigate a section of it in a motorboat to appreciate the beauty of this remarkable location.
Other important landmark is the Mural of Prehistory, a massive artwork which honors the archaeological findings of fosiles in the valley. The mural is represented by these prehistoric animals and the first men to inhabit the island. This is a very nice spot for picnics, capturing photos, and sipping on piña coladas
Not far from the Mural of Prehistory, there's the second largest Canopy Zipline, in Cuba, with a distance of 1000 meters and a height of 35 meters above the ground. This will be an exhilarating way to take in the views of the landscape while enjoying a bit of adventure!
Free evening.
Day 5
Cayo Jutías Beach
Breakfast at the Casa.
Santo Thomas Cave exploration.
Being the largest cave system in Cuba and the second largest in America, with three underground levels, a professional guide will take you inside the cave for an exciting hike. You will be provided with the necessary equipment, like lanterns and helmets.
Lunch break.
Trip to Cayo Jutías Beach.
A haven of peace and tranquility and one of the most beautiful beaches in Cuba, with white sand, turquoise water, mangroves, and starfish. This time is mostly for relaxing, and you can also rent kayaks and snorkeling gear if you wish.
Return to Viñales and free evening.
Day 6
Discovering Art
and Local Projects
Breakfast at the Casa and check-out.
Trip to Havana and check-in at the Boutique Hotel.
Fusterlandia Art Project.
Fusterlandia was establishd in the 1990s in a small fishing town called Jaimanitas. The artist, José Fuster, envisioned this vibrant project with the idea of improving the town's economy by attracting both national and international tourists. His unique mosaics and painting styles draw inspiration from many artists, notably Picasso and Gaudí, which he cultivated during his extensive trips across Europe. Over the years this town gained significant popularity, and even celebrities such as Madonna and Katy Perry visited and supported this initiative, solidifying its status as a cultural landmark .
Lunch break.
Rum Museum tour.
Discover everything about Cuba’s beloved national liquor: the rum. From the origins of rum history, tracing back to the arrival of the Spaniards in the New World, to the development of the sugarcane industries and how it played a crucial role un the evolution of various types of rum. By hearing the fascinating story about the processes behind this iconic spirit, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in rum production.
The experience will conclude with a rum tasting, allowing you to sample a selection of rums and savor the distinct flavors that each variety has to offer. This immersive moment will elevate your understanding of one of Cuba's most cherished traditions. Cheers to that!
Salsa dancing class with the local school Salsa Cubana Habana.
Cannon Shot Ceremony.
(from 8:45 pm to 9:00 pm)
One of the oldest traditions in Cuba is the ceremony of El Cañonazo, a cannon shot that has been happening every day for the last 350 years. Originally meant to be a signal to close the doors of the city wall in order to defend from pirates and bandits, nowadays is a symbolic and impressive performance carried on exactly at 9:00 PM.
Free evening.
This could be the ideal opportunity to attend a show like the Buenavista Social Club, a Jazz concert, Tropicana Cabaret, or the Parisienne Cabaret. For any of these, you should ask us to reserve your tickets ahead of time.
Day 7
Exploring Cienfuegos
Breakfast at the Boutique Hotel and check-out.
Trip to Cienfuegos city.
Cienfuegos, often referred to as "The Pearl of Cuba", was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005 due to its unique blend of architectural styles and historical significance.
Drive along the city's most important streets and avenues, such as Paseo del Prado, the Malecón, and Punta Gorda. Stop at the Main Square, where you can take memorable photos, stroll through the town center, shop for souvenirs, and explore the local markets.
Your tour will also include a visit to a Moorish Palace called Palacio de Valle, showcasing exquisite architecture, ornaments, and furnishings that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
This journey through Cienfuegos promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with beauty and history!
Lunch break.
Trip to Trinidad.
The Sugar Mills Valley.
The first thing you see when you reach Trinidad is the Sugar Mills Valley and Manaca-Iznaga, an old Sugar Factory (known as “ingenio” in Spanish). Climb its imposing tower that once served to overlook the slaves to admire what used to be the biggest sugarcane valley in Cuba. Even though this factory is not working anymore, it still has the original tools, pots, and machinery used centuries ago to press the sugar cane, process the juice, and obtain the sugar crystals. You can even press the sugarcane on your own and try a fresh sugarcane juice (guarapo).
Check-in at a Deluxe Colonial House.
Free evening.
Day 8
Exploring Trinidad
Breakfast at the accommodation.
Trinidad walking tour.
Walk around the historic center of Trinidad, also designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. This charming town is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and vibrant culture.
Your exploration will take you to the Three Main Squares: Plaza Carillo, Plaza Mayor, and Plaza de Santa Ana. You can visit several enriching museums around, including the Historical Museum of Trinidad, the Museum of Colonial Architecture, and the Museum of Romantic Arts, and important art galleries like the Handfans Workshop. And for sure, don't miss the opportunity to see the beautiful Church of the Holy Trinity, and swing by the local Beer Brewery for a refreshing ale.
Trinidad is also famous for its lively music scene. Check out some of the best venues in Cuba for live music and dancing, such as La Casa de la Música, El Rincón de la Salsa, La Casa de la Canchánchara, and La Casa de la Trova.
With its rich cultural offerings, Trinidad promises an unforgettable experience filled with history, music, and vibrant local life.
Lunch break.
Historic city tour.
Visit the Old Trains Museum and delve into the history of Cuba's railway system. Explore its fascinating collection of vintage locomotives and carriages, that worked in the past transporting the sugar canes to the factories in the valley.
Afterwards, head to the Pottery House of the Santander family, renowned for their unique and refined ceramic works. Here, you'll meet Azariel Santander, an 80-year-old artisan who has dedicated his life to the family business since he was just a child. He will warmly welcome you and share his expert knowledge, as he demonstrates the elaborate techniques behind his art. This visit promises to offer a blend of history and craftsmanship.
Playa Ancón.
Enjoy the rest of the day at Ancón beach, a peninsula with hotel resorts, cafés, bars, and restaurants. If the sky is clear, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful beach sunsets.
Free evening.
Day 9
Hiking and Waterfalls
Breakfast at the accommodation and check-out.
Trip to Topes de Collantes and El Cubano natural parks.
Topes de Collantes and El Cubano Park are one of the most famous mountains in Cuba. Wether you take a jeep car to Topes de Collantes, or gallop a horse to El Cubano Park, you will be stunned with the beautiful landscapes conformed by rivers, waterfalls, giant pinetrees, cafetales (coffee farms and plantations), rural colonial houses, and the ranchones (family-owned country style restaurants).
Take one of the many hiking trails you'll find hidden in the nature, and get lost in time with the sound of leaves moved by the wind, the chant of birds, and the crack of branches on the floor while you step on them.
The views of the waterfalls, with its bright curtains of water falling from up high the rocks, and the crystal clear pods, will be the right zen experience you were looking for during this trip.
Lunch break.
Trip to Guajimico.
A tourist villa made especially for nature lovers. Situated next to an almost unexplored virgin landscape with mountains and beaches, it offers wide ecotourism opportunities like hiking, caving, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sports fishing. The villa, in addition, offer the customers many other entertainment activities such as board games, acess to the swimming pool, and bar services.
Trip to the Bay of Pigs and check-in at a Deluxe Casa Particular.
Free evening.
Day 10
The Bay of Pigs and
The Zapata Swamp
Breakfast at the Casa and check-out.
Bird watching safari excursion.
The Zapata Swamp, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the biggest wetland of all the Caribbean islands, with a total area of 4000 km². It's composed by many different types of ecosystems, such as mangroves, savannahs, and swamps, and it houses more than 1000 different species of plants and 258 types of birds.
Very early in the morning, a local tour guide will join you to enter this reserve and head to Las Salinas de Brito, the preferred gathering site of flamingoes. On the way, you will admire different species of plants, birds, and even wild mammals, while the tour guide explains you everything about them.
Fish habitat snorkeling.
Next, you'll go to the Fish Cave, a wonderful rocky beach of clear blue waters, ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. The name "Fish Cave" comes from a natural underwater tunnel that links the beach to a nearby sinkhole, creating a unique submarine habitat.
Here, you can marvel at the abundance of sea life, with numerous species of fish swimming around. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, the Fish Cave offers a fantastic chance to live the beauty of Cuba's aquatic surroundings.
Lunch break.
Don't miss the opportunity to try the exotic delicacies found only in the Bay of Pigs! From excellent fish and seafood options to fresh meats from the local hunting.
(This meal is not included in your package)
Crocodiles Reserve.
Visit the Crocodile Breeding Farm, a biological station dedicated to the preservation of the Cuban endemic crocodile species. This is going to be an eduactional tour about these fascinating creatures, to learn everything concerning their lifestyle, unique biological features, reproductive characteristics, and diet habits.
A local guide will share valuable information about the efforts aimed at protecting the crocodile population and its ecological importance for maintaining the balance of the swamp's ecosystem.
Trip to Havana and check-in at the Boutique Hotel.
Free evening.
Day 11
Hemingway Tour
Breakfast at the Boutique Hotel.
Ernest Hemingway tour.
Your visit will begin at Vigía Farm, the former residence of Ernest Hemingway, who lived there for over two decades before the Revolution. The property has been turned into a museuming and remains remarkably preserved, showcasing his personal belongings, a vast collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and trophies from his hunting expeditions, and all the furnitures and decorations of the house just as he left them.
After touring Vigía Farm, you will head to Cojímar, a charming fishermen's town where Hemingway spent many of his days aboard his beloved boat. This picturesque village not only served as a retreat for the author, but also inspired his acclaimed novel “The Old Man and the Sea.”
This journey offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's greatest writers and the beautiful surroundings that shaped his stories.
Lunch break.
Free afternoon with optional activities.
You can choose the activity you want from the following options, or let us know about something else you would like to do:
- Some hours at the Eastern Beaches of Havana, just relaxing.
- Visit a Cigar Factory.
- Visit El Callejon de Hamel Afrocuban Project.
Farewell dinner at Havana 5 Rooftop.
Day 12
Departure
After your breakfast, the driver and the guide will take you directly to the airport, unless you have a late afternoon flight that allows to add more optional activities.
Standard Package Price
Based on 2 adults sharing a room 60% OFF* for children between 4 and 12 years old sharing the tour with two adults FREE* for children below 4 years SPECIAL RATES for Travel Agencies and large groups * The discount is for the tour package only. Kids still have to pay for the flight ticket (except 0 - 2 year-old infants traveling on laps) and the visa.
Solo Traveler
$5500
Two Participants
$3900
per person
Three / Four Participants
$3100
per person
Five+ Participants
$2900
per person