Discover the west of Cuba in 8 days

Arrival transfer from Havana Airport to Havana accommodation - Arrival transfer from Havana Airport to Havana accommodation - A note on accommodation in Cuba

Day 1: Havana

Arrival transfer from Havana Airport to Havana accommodation
Car Transfer: Welcome to Cuba! After collecting your luggage and exiting into the arrivals hall of the Airport, you will be met by your Spanish speaking driver. He will wait for you outside the airport building with a sign with your name and will transfer you to your accommodation in Havana. For up to three persons, transportation is by car and for four people or more we will arrange a minivan for you. All vehicles are airconditioned. During the ride enjoy the views as you watch the changing landscape pass before your eyes. Estimated journey time: 30-40 minutes.


A note on accommodation in Cuba
Excursion: Since tourism hasn't fully developed in Cuba since the Revolution, accommodation differs somewhat from other parts of the World that you may have travelled to. You are most likely to stay in casas particulares which are typically a house belonging to a local person where rooms are rented out to tourists. Whilst few could be categorised as upmarket in the way that hotels are described elsewhere, many casas particulares offer conditions far superior to Cuban hotels of the same standard. Given that a casa particular is somebody's home, you will likely eat breakfast cooked by your hosts in their kitchen. The closest comparison would be a bed and breakfast but there is a stronger impression of living in somebody's home here. As you might expect, the casas differ from one to the other in atmosphere , furnishings, interior decor and general amenities. In some scenarios, the hosts may keep to themselves and in others you will be made to feel like part of the family. Rest assured that the rooms will always be comfortable and clean. Most importantly, staying in a casa particular provides you with a real insight into the everyday lives of local people! There is a growing number of hotels in Cuba but currently they all belong to the State, which means they tend to lack in maintenance and the level of service one might usually expect. Of course, there are hotels of good quality but due to rising demand the prices can be high when compared to hotels of the same standard in other parts of the World. If you'd prefer to stay in hotels then our local experts will aim to choose the best hotels in that destination (usually 5 star standard) but please bear in mind that there is the slim possibility that this can change due to availability.


At leisure in Havana after your arrival
Excursion: Spend some time getting to know the vibrant and musical city of Havana. As you amble down cobbled streets, feel the bustling atmosphere of Cuba's capital, see the beloved vintage cars pass by and hear the faint sounds of Cuban salsa at every turn. Havana is a city with an incomparable energy,. You can walk for hours and discover gem after gem. After recovering from your flight, take a leisurely stroll around and enjoy the first impressions of the City - it is safe to do so unaccompanied. Alongside Havana Vieja, Centro Habana is worth a visit- it is the most colourful district, with a distinct local touch. In the evening, try out some local cuisine: fried plantains or yucca, white rice, pork, black bean soup, and salad are the staples of a traditional Cuban meal. Cuba is renowned for its nightlife and salsa scene - if you have the energy, this is not to be missed in Havana.

Meet and greet in Havana - Tour Havana in a vintage classic car - Guided tour of Havana Vieja (Old Town)

Day 2: Havana

Meet and greet in Havana
Excursion: Welcome to Havana! One of our local experts will greet you with and provide some practical information about what to expect during your time in Cuba. You will have the chance to ask questions about your itinerary and also get some insider tips on how to make the most of Cuba so that you can enjoy your adventure like a local. Start: 08:30 am Duration: 0.5 hour.


Tour Havana in a vintage classic car
Excursion: There is no better way to explore the enigmatic streets of Havana than in a classic vintage car. This is the quintessential image of Havana and is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. These American classic cars were imported into Cuba for about 50 years from the early 20th century but after the Cuban Revolution and the US embargo, their importation was banned by the Cuban leader, Fidel Castro. Many of these cars remain on the road and are an icon of Cuba. Sit back as you cruise your way to Old Havana, Centro Habana, Vedado and Nuevo Vedado, taking in the highlights of this characterful city. You will have the opportunity to customise the tour and stop off in your favourite spots. Driving past colourful colonial architecture, mysterious cobbled alleyways and spirited paladares, will be sure to make you feel as though you've stepped back in time. Duration: 1 hour.


Guided tour of Havana Vieja (Old Town)
Excursion: Havana Vieja, or Old Havana, is a sensory adventure packed with a rich and turbulent history. On this shared walking tour, you will visit monuments, buildings and squares which hold considerable cultural, political and artistic significance. You will mingle with local people going about their daily business. Wander through the Plaza Vieja, discover its fascinating history from 1559 all the way up to today, before going on to visit the City Cathedral with its stunning architectural features that have been described as 'music set in stone'. Marvel at its theatre-like façade before discovering more hidden gems of the old town and absorbing the social buzz of the picturesque bars and restaurants. This may be a shared activity (in which case there are max 6 people per guide). The Guide speaks Spanish and English and the duration of the tour is approximately 2 hours. The tour ends in the city centre, so you can continue to explore this amazing area independently or revisit some of the spots that your guide took you to.


Salsa workshop in Havana
Shared Excursion: It’s time to get your feet moving in this salsa workshop! The Cuban music is perfect for salsa. The workshop takes place in the centre of town and there are several levels, from beginner to pro. This may be a shared activity (max 6 people) and the duration is 1 hour. The Salsa teacher speaks English and Spanish.

Tour Havana in classic car - Hemingway route - Taste local Cuban cuisine - Afternoon at leisure in Havana

Day 3: Havana

Tour Havana in classic car - Hemingway route
Excursion: Climb into an old American Classic Car, and discover the places the famous writer Ernest Hemingway used to frequent a lot when he stayed in Havana for a few years in the 1930s. You will visit the “Finca La Vigia”, Hemingway's house in Cuba (including entrance fee); continue to the Fishermen's town in Cojimar, before heading to La Bodeguita del Medio. The Ambos Mundos hotel was another hot spot of his. No Hemmingway tour is complete without slipping into El Floridita’s Bar for a famous Daiquiri cocktail. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, clothing, and most importantly your sunglasses. The tour will take about 4 hours.


Taste local Cuban cuisine
Excursion: With some spare time, why not be adventurous and get to know Havana's culinary scene? Havana is flourishing with many bars, cafes and restaurants started by local entrepreneurs. In a way, the city cumulates the vibrant tastes of Cuba. You'll no doubt encounter local Cuban fare and interesting takes on international cuisine during this feat; we really recommend trying Habana 61, Habana Mia 7 and La Guarida. Of course, no foodie venture is complete without a famous Cuban rum cocktail or cup of local coffee. High quality lobster here is inexpensive, so we recommend making the most of that! Some other suggestions are traditional ropa vieja (beef stew), octopus carpaccio, tostones rellenos (stuffed fried plantains), and of course pescado, gambas y camaronesany (seafood). If you're too full to finish, most restaurants offer cajitas: a plain cardboard box for any leftovers you don't want to waste!


Afternoon at leisure in Havana
Excursion: The rest of the afternoon you are free to explore the City on your own. Havana is a notably safe and easy place to get around with every neighbourhood offering something unique. Whether it's eating at a quintessential paladar or taking a leisurely stroll along the Malecón as you take in the views, you're bound to find something that tickles your fancy. There is also an abundance of art studios and boutiques selling local artistry so if you're an art fanatic, be sure to pay a visit to shops like Clandestina and Pisoclabis Bazar-Café in Old Havana. And of course, there will be ample opportunities to sip on a refreshing mojito when the mood strikes you.

Transfer from Havana to Viñales - Transfer from Havana to Viñales - At leisure in Viñales

Day 4: Vinales

Transfer from Havana to Viñales
Car Transfer: You will be picked up at 9.00am to your next destination in the west of Cuba, beautiful Viñales. Estimated travel time: 3 hours.


At leisure in Viñales
Excursion: In the province of Pinár del Río lies the charming village of Viñales. Rocky peaks called Mogotes burst through the verdant valley, made lush by the abundance of tobacco plants that grow here. As you'll likely witness, these are farmed in the old traditional ways. With free time here take advantage of ways to enjoy the surrounding landscapes - from the right vantage point, the views are stunning. Perhaps wander through the streets admiring the typically colonial style houses, cycle or horse-ride through the fields or find yourself an outside seating spot to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the town.


Taste the Cuban food in Vinales at your own leisure
Excursion: Make the most of your leisure time in Vinales by sampling some of the delectable food on offer. We recommend Tres Jotas for small plates and sharing dishes. Being Vinales' first original tapas bar, you can expect mouth-watering dishes, superb cocktails and Cuban charcuterie board specials. Alternatively, if you're seeking plentiful portions and a farm-to-plate menu, El Olivio has you covered. With a Mediterranean influence, it serves some delicious Italian classics in a charming restaurant setting - if you like the food, see where it comes from and visit their farm only 3km away! Lastly, for something more traditional, Balcon del Valle is a must visit! Boasting breathtaking valley views there is no better place to indulge in some of the countries famed favourites prepared country-style!

Tour of a local Viñales tobacco farm - Afternoon at leisure in Viñales

Day 5: Vinales

Tour of a local Viñales tobacco farm
Excursion: One needn't wait long for cigars to be mentioned in any conversation about Cuba and today you'll get a better understanding of how this classic Cuban export is made. Together with a local guide, you will visit a tobacco farmer in the Vinales valley who will take you on a tour around his farm, explaining the tobacco making process before demonstrating how he rolls these cigars. This excursion may be shared. In high season the average amount of people in a group is 8-14, in low season 6-8 people. The tour takes approx 2.5 - 3 hours.


Afternoon at leisure in Viñales
Excursion: In the afternoon, take some time to stroll around the town or have a nice lunch in one of the many restaurants. If you're feeling up for an adventure, you could visit one of the beautiful caves in the area; though they are small, they shelter some unique stalactite formations and ancient paintings.

Transfer from Viñales to Varadero - Transfer from Viñales to Varadero - First day in Varadero

Day 6: Varadero

Transfer from Viñales to Varadero
Car Transfer: Be on your way now to Varadero for a wonderful time on the coast. Estimated travel time - 5 hours.


First day in Varadero
Excursion: For beach lovers, the town of Varadero and its sprawling golden sands are a joy to relax in. Take a stroll along the picture-perfect shoreline and pick a tropical spot for the day. You have the whole day to bask in the Caribbean sunshine and float idly along the surface of crystal clear waters.

Second day at leisure in Varadero

Day 7: Varadero

Second day at leisure in Varadero
Excursion: This will be your second day basking in tropical Varadero and we hope that you have already settled in to the slow pace of life here. If you fancy something more active for today, watersport excursions are easily available throughout the area- just ask our local expert or the hotel staff on arrival.

Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport - Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport

Day 8:

Departure transfer from Varadero to Havana airport
Car Transfer: Unfortunately it’s time to say adiós! A taxi will bring you to the airport in plenty of time for your flight home. Estimated travel time - 2 hours.