Heavenly West Cuba self-drive discovery tour

Havana

Day 1: Welcome to Cuba!

Upon arrival, a representative will pick you up from the airport before transferring you to your casa. During this ride you can bask in the surroundings and colourful suburbs of Havana. 

After a long flight nothing feels better than to relax a little and feel the vibe of Havana. Stroll down the streets and get to know Havana, a city where you can walk for hours and discover all of its pretty places. 

Alongside Havana Vieja, Centro Habana is worth a visit. This is the most colorful district, with a distinct local touch. In the evening, try some local cuisine: fried plantains or yucca, white rice, pork, black bean soup, and salad are the staples of a traditional Cuban meal that you will find almost everywhere. Cuba is renowned for its nightlife and salsa scene; if you have the energy, this is not to be missed. 

Havana

Day 2: Cruise Around Havana

There’s no better way to explore the enigmatic streets of Havana than in a classic vintage car.

Sit back as you cruise to Old Havana, Centro Habana, Vedado and Nuevo Vedado, as you watch the city transform before your eyes. Driving past colorful colonial architecture, mysterious cobbled alleyways, you cannot help but feel like you've stepped back in time. 

Afterwards, a guided walking tour will take you to sights with considerable cultural, political, and artistic significance. Step into the everyday lives of local people and witness how the city has developed over time into a grandiose, bustling urban community. 

Wander through the Plaza Vieja where you can absorb its social buzz. At the city cathedral, marvel at its theater-like facade before discovering more hidden gems of the old town. 

Havana

Day 3: Uncover the Secrets of Cuba

Havana may seem like a city of contradictions, an audacious yet gentle city begging you to enjoy each step with vigor. 

With 2.1 million inhabitants, Havana is the largest city in the Caribbean. Today you have the freedom to roam at your own pace and leisure.

We recommend the walk along Malecón, a 7 km long promenade that runs from the old town to the Rio Almendares, connecting the districts of Habana Vieja, Centro Habana and Vedado before ending in Miramar. You can also follow the tracks of Ernest Hemingway in Havana and visit the Ambos Mundos Hotel, Finca Vigía, Cojímar Village, Floridita, and Bodeguita del Medio Bars. Plaza de la Revolución is another place to visit. Start discovering - Havana is waiting for you!

Havana - Viñales

Day 4: Journey towards Serenity in Viñales

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for your next adventure in Cuba.

After an early breakfast, you will be ready to start your trip to Viñales. Pick up your car and begin the journey!

Get ready to explore the Viñales Valley area with its haystack hills and take a look at some tobacco plantations. This is a slow, relaxed, wonderfully traditional region. Eease into the tranquility of the region.

Viñales

Day 5: Live Life Like a Local in Viñales

People don't come to Viñales for the music or the mojitos, they come to dip indulgently into the natural world, to partake in a plethora of activities such as horse-riding, cycling or hiking through some of the most wonderful landscapes in Cuba. Why not join in on the fun?

What you see in Viñales is what you get – an agricultural town where front doors are left wide open, everyone knows everyone else, and a night out involves sitting on a sillón (rocking chair) on a rustic porch analyzing the Milky Way. 

Why not taste the local liquor known as “Guayabita del Pinar” and learn about the process of making cigars at a local factory. 

Viñales - Peninsula De Zapata

Day 6: Get Up Close to Cuba's Wildlife

After a comfortable night’s rest and a hearty breakfast, you will leave Viñales for Península de Zapata National Park, one of the country's largest eco holiday destinations.

The national park, which is half plain, half swamp is home to a large number of animal species including the Jutia, Conejo Cimarron, a Cuban breed of rabbit, the red deer and the wild boar.

Declared a Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar Site, it is famous for its crocodile farm and Guama, a replica of a Tainan village erected over the waters of La Laguna del Tesoro Lake. Also, this wet and green paradise offers visitors the opportunity to witness a rare and unique event, the migration of land crabs.

Peninsula De Zapata

Day 7: Find Serenity in Península de Zapata

Zapata`s well preserved wetlands can be explored from numerous trails, from low-difficulty hikes to more complex itineraries involving cave exploration, swimming, diving, observing nature or even cycling. For those interested in catch and release fishing, the Península de Zapata is worth a visit.

Situated on the Bay of Pigs are Playa Larga and Playa Girón, both offering sandy shores and spectacular diving opportunities. 

Peninsula De Zapata - Cienfuegos

Day 8: Roam the Streets of the Pearl of the South

Today after breakfast, you will depart the wilderness of the Península de Zapata to continue your trip to Cienfuegos city where French style architecture and eclectic buildings will amaze you. Make sure you have taken your road map provided during the rental process. 

Discover the secrets of Cienfuegos, the so-called Pearl of the South. Tour through the national monument (La Punta), El Palacio de Valle, and El Paseo del Prado. Walk along the boulevard to see the statue of one of Cuba's most famous musicians, Benny Moré.

Spend the best of your time in the heart of the city by visiting the iconic Cathedral and the Thomas Terry Theatre, one of Cuba's oldest and most beautiful theaters. 

Cienfuegos - Trinidad

Day 9: Fall in Love with Trinidad

We hope that after yesterday’s adventure, you have had a restful night’s sleep because this morning you will be making the journey towards the city of Trinidad.

Trinidad is one of the best preserved colonial cities in Cuba and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage  city since 1988. Once the home of sugar barons and pirates, Trinidad is now a living museum; the walls seem to breathe history. Enjoy an afternoon exploring the quiet historical center as you stroll past impressive, candy-colored colonial houses.

Perhaps join a guitar workshop to learn more about Cuban music. If you fancy a more relaxing affair, sit back in front of a live show while sipping on fresh guarapo frio. Trinidad is the ideal location to relax and discover true Cuban culture. 

Trinidad

Day 10: Immerse Yourself in the Slow Life in Trinidad

After a delicious breakfast prepared by your hosts, you will have an entire day to continue to explore the city, or venture out on a trip to the beach. There will be plenty of options; you just need to decide what you prefer the most.

Explore the old cobblestone streets of Trinidad and be amazed by the history and beauty of this colonial city. Visit the museums in the historical center or explore the art galleries to get to know more about the city, its people, history, and traditions. 

From Plaza Mayor, take Amargura street until Las Tres Cruces. It is interesting just to walk around and see the locals passing by going about their daily activities. Visit the Canchanchara Bar in Trinidad, the most traditional bar in the city, where they serve the delicious local cocktail "Canchanchara."

Trinidad - Varadero

Day 11: Journey to Paradise in Varadero

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for one final longer drive in Cuba. What awaits you today? A journey to Varadero, an idyllic paradise that'll be your home for the next four nights.

Swap your back-country rambling for some stress-free beach life. Varadero can provide a few nights of well-earned rest and relaxtion after a dusty few hours on the road.

Varadero

Day 12: Activities Abound in Varadero

Are you looking to experience the pleasure of swimming with dolphins or the excitement of a speed boat or Jet Ski?

Maybe you're looking to snorkel in the crystal clear waters or to indulge in a delectable lobster dinner? This is just a taste of what a holiday in Varadero has to offer to anyone looking to enjoy the excitement of Cuba.

Varadero

Day 13: Experience the Cuban Approach to Fun

This white sand beach stretching along 20 kilometres offers endless entertainment possibilities. Cliffs, impressive caves and small lakes dot the peninsula. A group of cays are easily accessible for those who wish to explore further.

Two international marinas are departure points for nautical tours and fishing and diving trips while a colorful dolphinarium runs shows attracting crowds from all ages. The Varadero Golf Club and Parque Josone - a limestone mansion located right next to a small, artificial lake - are amongst the attractions to visit.

Varadero

Day 14: Rest and Relaxation in Varadero

Where life moves a little slower. 

If you're feeling adventurous, try some watersports, or relax on the white-sand beaches and explore the hidden gems of the town. Our local experts are on hand with suggestions and advice to ensure you get the most out of your day. 

The surroundings of Varadero are worth getting to know. If you would like go on an adventure, discover Cuevas de Saturno, Rio Canimar, or Cayo Blanco. 

At night, it is very nice to walk through the main avenue to take in the fresh sea breeze. You can also go out dancing at live music places like Snack Bar Calle 62 or The Beatles Bar/Restaurant.

Varadero - Havana

Day 15: Say Farewell to Cuba!

All good things must come to an end but we hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the very best that Cuba has to offer. The rich history, its natural beauty and the people that make the country what it is.

At an arranged time you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your international flight back home. 

We hope you have had a memorable trip and wish you pleasant onward travels!