Self-drive Cuba adventure across hidden gems

Arrival transfer from Havana Airport to Havana accommodation - Arrival transfer from Havana Airport to Havana accommodation - Information about your self drive tour 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.


Information about your self drive tour in Cuba
Excursion: All or some of this tour is self-drive. Travelling by rental car is an ideal way to discover Cuba as it gives you the freedom to enjoy the island at your own pace. Not all rental companies offer the same service so our local experts have been particularly vigilant in choosing the most reliable, trusted and reputable company for this service. Cuba's sudden influx of tourism means the demand for rental cars has risen dramatically over the years, which has had an impact on their price and availability. Once you have agreed on your itinerary, our local experts will request the most appropriate car suited to your needs - please discuss with them if you have any particular requirements for the vehicle. Our local experts are unable to hold vehicles provisionally so once you have booked your tour, it usually takes a couple of days for the confirmation of the vehicle to come through. In high season, there is a possibility that the requested category of vehicle is no longer available or that the price has changed. In this scenario, our local expert will discuss with you alternative options. In Cuba, rental cars are not always the newest models but they do come with air conditioning and the usual functionalities. It is recommended that you drive in daylight so as to avoid potholes in the road. When you collect your car, some charges must be paid locally direct to the rental company. This is due to the nature of Cuban road legislation and includes items such as insurance, the vehicle deposit, a full tank of gasoline, extra driver fees and, in some cases, a one way drop-off fee. Our local experts will discuss these with you ahead of time so that you are prepared for these local costs and have budgeted for them. As you are not allowed to bring a GPS into the country (it will be taken from you at customs) and navigation with internet on your phone will not work, we recommend you do things the old-fashioned way and bring a map. You can also download an app with offline maps - one that works without an internet connection, such as MAPS.ME. What it is like to drive in Cuba? Cubans drive on the right side of the road. On highways you can drive some 80-100 km/h, and on the B-roads some 50-80 km/h. Pay close attention to the traffic signs. Especially around ‘’punto de control’’-signs (police control) you should be very careful of your speed. Along the way you will often have to adjust your speed. People might be standing along the highway, animals might be crossing the roads or you might encounter large holes in the road. We recommend to use the main roads as much as you can. In case you still want to try another road, always ask your casa owners if they know what the state of the road is. Enjoy the adventure and explore this amazing island!


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)
Shared 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.


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.


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.
Start 17:00

Independently experience Havana's nightlife
Excursion: As the sun goes down and night falls, the hidden gems of Havana city start to glisten in the moonlight. Don't miss the sunset from the Malecon - walking down the Malecon gives an amazing sense of Havana's rambunctious spirit. Every night at around 9pm, there is a lively ceremony in La Cabaña fort called El Cañonazo which is a fun way to start your evening. Havana offers many artsy options throughout the night: performances from Cuban artists take place at theatres, cabarets, cultural venues and cafes like El Batazo. We highly recommend you to visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano. Alternatively, if you are a fan of jazz music, you should definitely not miss El Gato Tuerto or La Zorra y el Cuervo. These suggestions are self-guided so you can take the city on at your own pace this evening and really absorb its magic!

Pick-up rental car in Havana - Pick-up rental car in Havana - Self-drive from Havana to Viñales

Day 3: Vinales

Pick-up rental car in Havana
Car Transfer: Today at 09:00 you will pick-up your rental car in Vedado, Havana. Once the rental car is confirmed, we will send you all the necessary information, such as the exact address and what you need to bring. After picking up your car, you can make your way to your next destination at a pace that suits you -perfect!


Self-drive from Havana to Viñales
Car Transfer: Today you will drive from Havana to Your next destination in the west of Cuba, beautiful Viñales. Located in a verdant valley, enjoy the green surroundings as you head out of Havana into this tobacco-farming area! Distance: 185 km. 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.


Enjoy a typically Cuban lunch in Viñales
Excursion: The small village of Viñales is situated in a vast karstic landscape lending itself to tobacco plantations and various crops. For this reason it is a great place to sample some of Cuba's tastiest dishes, as many are farm-to-plate preparations. As well as the fresh taste, traditional cooking styles passed on from generation to generation are used to make these exquisite dishes here. We can definitely recommend El Olivo, recommended here is the rabbit with herbs in a dark chocolate sauce. Or La Carreta de San Vicente, where the specialty "de la casa" is lamb stew in red wine. At the Finca Agroecológio El Paraíso you should try the roasted pork. And lasty, we recommend at El Campesino (Paladar Yuri y Nino), a lovely all-round restaurant that serves a great variety of food. The views from this restaurant over the adjacent fields are particularly beautiful at sunset. Enjoy the tastes of Cuba, buen provecho!


Tour of a local Viñales tobacco farm
Shared 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.
Start 14:00

Ecological farm tour in Viñales - At leisure in Viñales

Day 4: Vinales

Ecological farm tour in Viñales
Shared Excursion: This excursion is a real authentic adventure as you will mingle with the local farmers and become one of them for the day. During this tour you will visit a local farm in Viñales that is located in a protected natural area. The farm's hospitable family will show you how they produce their organic products. You will have the opportunity to work on the land yourself and make a traditional Cuban lunch to enjoy. The farm also produces tobacco and the family can tell you everything about the production: growing the plants, the tobacco leaves, the drying process - all the steps required to produce infamous Cuban cigars. You will be an expert by the end. Apart from the tobacco and tobacco dry hut, the farm has many animals and they grow their own organic fruits and vegetables. Finally, the family also gives you a cooking workshop. You cook with the family and they teach you a special local recipe. When dinner is ready, you will enjoy it together. This tour is great fun for all ages and really gives you the opportunity to get a deeper interaction with Cuban locals! Start: 08:30. For this excursion you will be picked up from your accommodation. This tour may be a shared tour of up to 25 people. Language: Spanish and English. Included: transport to / from Viñales and La Ermita in a typical Cuban horse and carriage, organic fruit juice or fruit cocktail, agro-tourism explanation, tobacco cultivation and its processes, traditional cooking workshop, and a traditional Cuban lunch. Important note: make sure you are ready at the casa or hotel 15 minutes before departure. The guide will also pick up other people for this activity, so wait for him at the accommodation. It is recommended to wear good shoes for walking, as well as long sleeves / pants against mosquitoes.


At leisure in Viñales
Excursion: Explore the surroundings of the village and relax with the breathtaking views of the valley. The lookout points at hotel Los Jazmines or hotel La Ermita are just amazing. Feel the valley at your feet. You can also rent bicycles or go on a beautiful nature walk. There are also several excursions that you can book locally should you want to do something more structured with your free time. Whatever you opt to do, enjoy this day in the lush greenery!

Day trip to Cayo Levisa Island - Taste the Cuban food in Vinales at your own leisure

Day 5: Cayo Levisa - Vinales

Day trip to Cayo Levisa Island
Shared Excursion: Cayo Levisa, with its feathery white sands and azure waters, is one of the closest examples to paradise in Cuba. It is made for relaxing, sunbathing and swimming; in fact, Ernest Hemingway himself has praised this area extensively after coming across it in the early 1940s. In the morning, a driver will take you to Palma Rubia, where you can take a charming little boat to this small island. We recommend finding a patch of sand and pitching your base for the day; if it gets too warm, there are plenty of palm trees for shade. After having a swim in the warm Caribbean sea, you could check out the local bars for some island drinks and snacks. If you fancy something more active, be sure to take a wander to the deserted side of the island, where you'll find picturesque mangroves, exotic crabs and great snorkelling. Start: 08:15. You may be taken to Cayo Levisa in a group. Transport to/from the island is included.


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!

Self-drive from Viñales to Soroa - Self-drive from Viñales to Soroa - Excursion Huellas de la Historia in Soroa

Day 6: Soroa

Self-drive from Viñales to Soroa
Car Transfer: Your journey continues to Soroa, which is relatively close to Vinales and an easy drive. Known as Cuba's Rainbow, Soroa is an area of particular beauty and is famous for its orchids which grow well due to the frequent rains in this part of the Country. Distance: 107 km. Estimated travel time: 2 hours.


Excursion Huellas de la Historia in Soroa
Shared Excursion: During this 7 km walking tour in the Sierra del Rosario bio-reserve you will go back in time. The English-speaking guide will tell you all about the history of the French coffee settlers and you will visit the former coffee plantation, La Independencia, among other things. A visit to the Salto de Soroa waterfall and the orchid garden is optional and can be arranged locally at an additional cost - we highly recommend both. Please bring good shoes for this excursion. And possibly long sleeves / long pants against the insects. This excursion may be shared.
Start 14:00

Afternoon at leisure in Soroa
Excursion: Spend the afternoon exploring the characterful town of Soroa at your leisure. Located in a small mountain resort near the western Sierra del Rosario, it is an area renowned for its heavy rainfall and luscious scenery which is well worth a visit. Originally a personal retreat, it was developed into a tourist destination after the revolution. This plush oasis is a nature lovers ideal haven - imposing trees, colourful orchids and extensive coffee plantations that transcend to the horizon. Spend your time exploring the wilderness searching for secret waterfalls and spotting wildlife. Go for a mountain bike ride or there are several hikes you could undertake, for example to the Castle of the Clouds, the Mirador de Venus. Don't forget to take your walking shoes (as well as sun screen, enough water, and your swimming clothes)!

Self-drive from Soroa to Playa Girón - Self-drive from Soroa to Playa Girón - At leisure in Playa Girón

Day 7: Playa Giron

Self-drive from Soroa to Playa Girón
Car Transfer: Today your trip continues to the Bay of Pigs. It's a lengthy journey so make sure to stop off along the way to stretch your legs. When you're almost in Playa Girón, we recommend making a stop in Playa Larga and explore this lovely town. Distance: 290 km. Estimated travel time: 4 - 4,5 hours.


At leisure in Playa Girón
Excursion: Relax and discover the beautiful nature of this area, located in one of the most valuable nature reserves of Cuba: Cienaga de Zapata. Lay back on the beach, take a dip in the Carribean Sea or stroll around this small fisherman’s village. If you fancy a bit of history, the town museum boasts an impressive display of Cold War artefacts. Playa Giron is particularly well-known for its diving and snorkelling spots so it is a good place to take part in these activities. If you would prefer not to dive, you can make your way inland to the Cueva de los Peces, a stunning 70m-deep cenote and ideal swim spot. If you're in need of some shade and a refreshment, there are a couple of inviting beach-bar shacks along Playa Girón to enjoy a fresh drink.

Discover 'El Sendero del Enigma' - Free time in Playa Girón

Day 8: Playa Giron

Discover 'El Sendero del Enigma'
Shared Excursion: Get ready to explore some of Cuba's best wild swimming spots with a knowledgeable local guide. You will be picked up from your casa particular at 9am and greeted by your bilingual guide who will stay with you for the duration of the day. First stop is Cueva de los Peces, which directly translates as 'fish cave'. This 70m cenote is a hotspot for swimmers and snorkelers in search of tropical fish. Situated about 300m from Ciénaga de Zapata beach, it is connected via sea tunnels - the clear emerald waters make for perfect swimming conditions, keep your eyes peeled as there are bound to be plenty of opportunities for underwater photography! The next stop is El Sendero del Enigma. Here you will learn about the different species of endemic animals and plants - your guide will talk you through the flora and fauna and give you plenty of chance to ask questions along the way! Once you feel well versed in Cuban wildlife knowledge, you have the opportunity to swim in a large natural pool centred between large imposing rocks. The water clarity is unparalleled, giving you chance to observe the lofty caves below you. Start: 09:00 Duration: approximately 4 hours. For this excursion the guide will come to your accommodation. In April, May and June this excursion may be replaced by another excursion because of the crabs emigrating from the forests to the sea, blocking the road. We recommend that you bring comfortable footwear and wear long sleeves / pants against mosquitoes. Don't forget to bring your swimwear and a towel. Children from 10 years old can participate with parental consent. This may be a shared excursion. If you travel by bus or private transfers, we can arrange transportation (at an additional cost) and the driver will wait for you during the excursion.
Start 09:00

Free time in Playa Girón
Excursion: Another beautiful day awaits! You can go back to your favourite beach, or, if you like, you can go snorkelling or diving. This is one of Cuba's perfect spots for it, as the corals are amazing and the beaches are fairly quiet! On the coastal road between We can recommend Caleta Buena, where you find many fish & beautiful coral. If you have a rental car, you could opt to take a trip to the nearby city of Cienfuegos which is approx 1.5 hours drive away. Cienfuegos is well-known for its colonial era buildings Teatro Terry, in particular, is a stunning architectural achievement and it is used today as a theatre. If you do not have a rental car, there are excursions that can be booked to take you here or to other nearby towns.

Self-drive from Playa Girón to Trinidad - Self-drive from Playa Girón to Trinidad - At leisure in Trinidad - Discover the secrets of the city

Day 9: Trinidad

Self-drive from Playa Girón to Trinidad
Car Transfer: Today you will travel to the beautiful and vibrant colonial town of Trinidad. Sit back and relax, this route is beautiful! On your way you can make a stop in Cienfuegos - an architecturally rich city that's known as the Pearl of the South. Another amazing stop would be El Nicho - the famous waterfall. Make sure you make the most of this journey! Distance (without stops): 160 km. Estimated travel time (without stops): 3 hours.


At leisure in Trinidad - Discover the secrets of the city
Excursion: Wander around the timeworn streets of Trinidad and we guarantee you'll be stunned by the heritage of this colonial city. Pay a visit to the museums in the historic centre, stroll around the art galleries and get a feel for the city's people, narratives and traditions. From the stunning Plaza Mayor, take Amargura street until Las Tres Cruces- this will give you plenty of chances to soak up the atmosphere and watch locals go about their daily activities. Head down to the Canchanchara Bar in Trinidad - the most loved bar in the City where they serve the delicious local cocktail “Canchanchara”. A traditional band is usually playing in the mornings and afternoons, so you can tap your feet to the Cuban rhythms anytime!

Half day 'bicitaxi' tour of Trinidad - Experience the music of Trinidad at your own leisure - Photography workshop in Trinidad

Day 10: Trinidad

Half day 'bicitaxi' tour of Trinidad
Shared Excursion: Today you will discover the suburbs of Trinidad in a real Cuban bicitaxi! Though Cuba is widely revered for its classic American cars, bicitaxis are also a common way of getting around and offer a more intimate way of getting to know the real charms of Trinidad. The bicitaxis are typically adorned with colourful ribbons, vibrant paintings and personal knick knacks which is sure to make this journey a memorable one. You will be accompanied by your own personal guide, who will take you to the places where Cubans live, work, go to school, and play. You will pass by local shops and places that sell fresh fruit, coffee, or lemonade made of cane sugar. Gain an insight into the local education system and economic backbone of the town by visiting an elementary school and, in contrast, a tobacco and cigar factory. Not only will this give you a glimpse into the life of the people who call Trinidad home but you will also discover the different branches of Cuban society which make it the compelling country it is. Start: 09:00. This tour may be shared (max 10 people, 2 per bicitaxi) and it takes about 1,5 hours.
Start 09:00

Experience the music of Trinidad at your own leisure
Excursion: When discovering the secrets of Trinidad, the music scene is not to be missed. This excursion is self-guided so you can experience Trinidad's musical spirit based on preference and at your own pace. Enjoy a coffee or cocktail at the popular Café Don Pepe, right in front of Plaza San Francisco de Asis in the historical centre. There is a dancing route throughout the city, from Casa de la Musica to Casa de la Trova, or to El Palenque de los Congos Reales. This is a fantastic way to interact with the local people. If you would like to experience the most popular night club of the city, the Ayala disco is the place to be. The locals call it: “La Cueva” because its is inside a real cave. Head here in the evening to practice your salsa! If you need a break from the rhythms of the city, you can hike all the way up to Loma de la Vigía. Here, enjoy some peaceful silence, alongside a 360 degree view over the city, the coast and the valley. It can be tiring but is certainly worth it once you reach the top of the hill for a fantastic panorama.


Photography workshop in Trinidad
Shared Excursion: You’ll go on an adventure with an English-speaking local photographer and artist who graduated from the Art Academy. You will discover the hidden gems of Trinidad through artistic eyes and learn to take pictures that are different from the standard pictures you often see of Trinidad and the locals. You’ll explore both the historic centre and the less touristy areas outside of it. Please make sure you’re ready at the meeting point about 15 minutes before the start of the tour and do not forget to bring your mobile phone or camera. This excursion can take place in a small group and takes about 1,5 hours.

Experience beautiful nature in El Cubano Natural Park - At leisure in Trinidad - The Caribbean coast

Day 11: Trinidad

Experience beautiful nature in El Cubano Natural Park
Excursion: Less than 20 minutes’ drive from Trinidad you will find "El Cubano" Natural Park at the edges of the Guamuhaya Mountains. Here you will take a medium-level difficulty path to the beautiful "Javira" waterfall, accompanied by a local guide who will explain about the local flora and fauna. At the waterfall, you can take a dip in the refreshing natural pool if you would like or jump off the rock if you're feeling brave! The park is well known in the region and is visited by tourists and locals alike. Departure: 09:00am There is also the chance to have lunch at the park (not included). This excursion takes about 3-4 hours; it includes transportation, entrance fee to the park and a private tour guide. It's recommendable to bring decent walking shoes, long sleeves/pants against mosquitoes, a bathing suit and a towel. We also advise you to bring enough drinking water and some snacks to keep you going.


At leisure in Trinidad - The Caribbean coast
Excursion: Trinidad is one of the highlights of Cuba and what better way to experience it than discovering at your own pace. There is a fantastic array and variety of excursions that you can find here. Explore the fisherman's village of Casilda, which is located just 5 km from Trinidad city. For the foodies, there are incredible restaurants there, particularly for seafood- we recommend ”La Rosa”. Head for the beach and relax in the warm Caribbean sea. The beaches are located about 12 km from the city, and you can get a bicitaxi to the coast from the town. Ancon is the largest white sandy beach in the area but you can also explore the smaller or rocky ones along the coast.

Self-drive from Trinidad to Sancti Spíritus - Self-drive from Trinidad to Sancti Spíritus - Afternoon at leisure in Sancti Spíritus

Day 12: Sancti Spiritus

Self-drive from Trinidad to Sancti Spíritus
Car Transfer: Enjoy your drive from Trinidad to the neighbouring city Sancti Spíritus. You will pass through the beautiful Valle de los Ingenios, where you can make a stop, and past small villages at the edges of the Guamuaya mountains. Distance: 72 km. Estimated travel time: 1,5 hours.


Afternoon at leisure in Sancti Spíritus
Excursion: Sancti Spíritus is truly one of Cuba's hidden gems. Located close to Trinidad, with its own kind of amazing architecture, but still largely undiscovered by tourists who often do not have time to see it. This is good for you as you will gain a unique insight into local life. Stroll around the city centre, you can do some shopping here or enjoy a drink on a terrace in the main square. Make sure to also visit the river Yayabo, which Sancti Spíritus is known for. Enjoy the beautiful view from the bridge!


Cooking workshop in Sancti Spíritus
Excursion: Get stuck into this fun cooking workshop in Sancti Spíritus. Learn the basics of real Cuban food so you can recreate your holiday favourites for friends and family when you return home! Although Cuba is not renowned for its fine culinary prowess, the full bodied flavours create tasty wholesome dishes that will leave you reminiscing long after your last mouthful. Under the expert guidance of a local chef you will prepare a meal - dishes such as arroz congris, cerdo asado (grilled pork), frijoles negros and yuca con mojo will no longer be a mystery! Once your meal is ready, you will be welcomed into a local artist's home and studio. Here you can sit and indulge in your delectable offerings - bon appetit! Start: 17:00. This workshop might be shared with others (max 10 people) and takes about 2 hours.

Self-drive from Sancti Spíritus to Boca de Camarioca - Self-drive from Sancti Spíritus to Boca de Camarioca - Drop-off rental car at Varadero

Day 13: Boca de Camarioca

Self-drive from Sancti Spíritus to Boca de Camarioca
Car Transfer: Today you will head to the beautiful fishing village of Boca de Camarioca. We recommend a stopover in Santa Clara en route where you will find the Che Guevara museum and mausoleum - definitely worth a visit! Distance (without stop): 304 km. Estimated travel time (without stop): 4 hours.


Drop-off rental car at Varadero
Car Transfer: Your rental car needs to be returned by 9am tomorrow morning in Varadero. If you would prefer to avoid an early start, you can return the car today. From the rental office, it is easy to get a taxi to your accommodation. Once the car is confirmed, we will provide you with the final information, such as the address and what you need to think of.


At leisure in Boca de Camarioca
Excursion: If you prefer low-key places rather than the popular ones, then Boca de Camarioca is the perfect place for you. It is located within walking distance to the sea and white sandy beaches. Boca de Camarioca is a place for relaxing days, enjoying the beach and the sun. It is a laid-back fishing village - small but charming! Don't miss the opportunity to try some seafood in one of the local restaurants or at your accommodation.

Full day at leisure in Boca de Camarioca

Day 14: Boca de Camarioca

Full day at leisure in Boca de Camarioca
Excursion: Enjoy a day at the beach or combine it with some other activities such as watersports or snorkelling. You can pay a visit to the Saturno Cave, which has a natural pool where you can swim in crystal clear waters. You may also choose to visit Playa El Coral (11 km west), a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. Should you want a sneak peak of the famous Varadero beach then it is easy to do so as it’s only 9 km away. Your casa host will be happy to assist you with ideas and even bicycle hire in case you fancy cycling around the area!

Departure airport transfer from Boca de Camarioca to Havana airport - Departure airport transfer from Boca de Camarioca to Havana airport

Day 15:

Departure airport transfer from Boca de Camarioca to Havana airport
Car Transfer: Unfortunately it’s time to say adiós! You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Your pick-up time depends on you flight details but we will ensure you are at the airport with plenty of time to spare. Cuba, see you next time! Estimated journey time: 2 - 2.5 hours.