Essence of Cuba tour

Duration: 7 days

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from NZ$2308

Take a 7 day adventure through cultural and natural beauty, as well as the colonial history of the colourful island of Cuba. Cruise through Havana’s historical streets in a classic car and take a walk along Trinidad’s cobblestone avenues as you soak up the sights and sounds of the Caribbean’s largest island. Add a trip to Cienfuegos and an opportunity to relax on unspoiled beaches and you have the perfect introduction to all things Cuban. For the days outside of Havana we include a private driver guide to give you the flexibility to explore the areas of Cuba which are most interesting to you

Overview
Itinerary
Dates
Accommodation
Inclusions

Itinerary Highlights
- Explore the cobbled streets and fabulous colonial architecture of Havana Vieja.
- Take a classic vintage American car around the modern part of Havana.
- Travel to the small village of Vinales, which possesses some of Cuba's most dramatic landscapes and is the worlds best tobacco growing region.
- Explore the colonial streets and wonderfully preserved buildings in atmospheric Trinidad.
- Learn about Cuba’s turbulent history and, in particular, it’s revolutionary hero, Che Guevara.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Cienfuegos.
- Travel with your own personal driver guide, a local who speaks good english and will be able to adapt your holiday to your preferences.
- Experience Cuban hospitality with a stay at a bed and breakfast known as a 'Casa Particular' (hotel can be included if you prefer).
- We can help with your Cuba visa arrangements.
Itinerary in brief
Day 1: Havana arrival transfer

Day 2: Havana Old & New city tour

Day 3: Havana-Vinales-Havana

Day 4: Havana-Cienfuegos Tour - Trinidad

Day 5: Trinidad City Tour

Day 6: Trinidad – Santa Clara tour - Havana

Day 7: Havana departure transfer

Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary
- Why not consider an overnight stay in Viñales and also the picturesque seaside town of Cienfuegos
- If you would like to extend your holiday and visit Mexico have a look at our Best of Mexico and Cuba combined package
Day 1: Havana Arrival
On arrival at Havana airport you will be met by a local representative and chauffeur-driven in a classic American car to your centrally located hotel

This evening is at your leisure. We recommend wandering through the streets and, perhaps, soaking up the atmosphere and music in a bar whilst sipping on a Mojito.

Day 2: Havana Old & New Tour

Today you will get acquainted with Cuba's capital city by taking a guided walking tour through the crumbling splendour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed site, Habana Vieja (Old Havana). Wars and revolution have done little to damage its heritage, making it one of the finest examples of a Spanish colonial city anywhere in the Americas.

You will first enjoy a short walking tour around Old Havana including its most important squares and fortresses being picked up at the Plaza de Armas in your chauffeur-driven, classic American car for a scenic drive along the Malecón seafront to the elegant suburb of Miramar, with a stop at Revolution Square. Finally we include a traditional Cuban lunch, a visit to the Ernest Hemingway museum and drop you off at your hotel.

This evening is at your leisure. You might want to consider taking in a cabaret show at Havana’s famous Tropicana nightclub, which boasts more than two hundred performers, a fabulous orchestra, and astonishing acrobatic feats.

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 3: Havana-Vinales-Havana
Today we’ll travel to Pinar del Rio province, in the west of Cuba, and to the small village of Viñales located in a valley of the same name, which possesses some of Cuba’s most dramatic landscapes and is the world’s best tobacco growing region. The beautiful, fertile valley is surrounded by unusual limestone outcrops known as ‘Mogotes’. A visit here is a great way of gaining an insight into life in rural Cuba and you’ll be served a traditional Cuban lunch.

On the way in from Havana, you will enjoy a visit to a cigar factory and a working tobacco farm, where you will learn about the lifestyle of local farmers as well as about the growing of tobacco. In Viñales, we include a visit to the ‘Mural de Prehistorica’ where a history of evolution is painted in bright colours on the side of a Mogote, and an underground boat ride in the ‘Cueva del Indio’, one of Viñales many fascinating caves. After enjoying this spectacular environment you’ll travel back to Havana where the evening is free

Breakfast, Lunch included.

Day 4: Havana-Cienfuegos Tour-Trinidad

This morning you will set off towards the central regions of Cuba.Stop in Guama then continue along the legendary bay of pigs stoping at a beautifal swimming hole for a well deserved swim.After your swim you will continue until Cienfuegos. Enjoy a French colonial flair during a city tour. Afterwards continue to Trinidad

Breakfast included.
Day 5: Trinidad City Tour
Trinidad, often referred to as the Soul of Cuba, is one of the main highlights of the island and today we’ll include a walking tour of the main sights of the city. The city was founded in 1514 by the Spanish conquistador Diego Velasquez and became a major centre for trading sugar and slaves for almost two hundred years. The wealth generated by the landowners during this region's dark past is reflected by the well restored colonial architecture found in Trinidad's colonial centre, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

After further walking the cobble stoned colonial heart of Trinidad, you will have the afternoon free to enjoy this beautiful place. We suggest you consider a drive out to Playa Ancón for relaxing on the beach or a sunset cocktail.

Tonight we recommend you check out one of Cuba's classic venues, Casa de la Musica. This informal outdoor gathering has a good mix of tourists and locals with a great chance to listen to live music and watch some salsa dancing.

Breakfast included.
Day 6: Trinidad-Santa Clara-Havana

Today we will return to Havana via the city of Santa Clara, a key location in the history of the Revolution. We visit three key historical sites, including the massive Che Guevara monument and mausoleum, his final resting place.

Tonight you will enjoy one final night in the Cuban capital and we recommend you to consider a night out at Café Taberna Beny Moré in the heart of the old town, listening to the music of a great band reminiscent of the 1950’s music. Excellent dancers accompany the band to let you have a glimpse into Cubans great dancing skills. Your guide will be able to assist you with reserving this.

Breakfast include.
Day 7: Havana Departure

A representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Havana airport for your departure flight.

Breakfast included.
Departs - Daily
Suggested Hotels

City

Comfort

Superior

Deluxe

Havana
Casa Vitrales
Hotel Sevilla

Hotel Saratoga

Trinidad
Casa Martica y Jose
Casa Martica y Jose Iberostar Trinidad
What's included
- Accommodation with private facilities
- Hotel taxes
- Entrance fees and excursions as per program
- Private tours with English speaking guides
- Transfers and meals as specified
What's not included
- Air Transportation
- Additional hotel nights
- Meals and Drinks not mentioned in program
- Travel Protection Plan
- Passport, visa, and immigration fees
- Cuban Tourist Card
- Airport entrance/departure taxes
- Gratuities any items not mentioned as included
Notes
Hotel rates are based on lead-in rooms. Other room types and hotels are available. Rates are subject to change and different rates may apply during holiday seasons and special events.

For a small surcharge we can assist with organising your Cuba Tourist Card (the visa).