YOUR GROUPS IN CUBA

DAY 2

DAY SUMMARY: CATHEDRAL SQUARE – SAN FRANCISCO DE ASIS SQUARE – OLD SQUARE – PLAZA DE ARMAS – ERNEST HEMINGWAY’S “FIRST HOME” – EL FLORIDITA BAR – LA BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO BAR – RUM TASTING – VINTAGE CAR RIDE

LUNCH: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT: SPRINTER – COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST AND DINNER

HOTEL: MELIA SEVILLA **** (or similar 4*)

We will take off with engines roaring toward Havana. After customs procedures, we will meet our local guide and head into the city. We’ll have breakfast in an authentic Cuban setting, at a local restaurant.
We begin our Havana adventure with a walking tour of the historic, colonial part of Old Havana, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Here, we will visit:
* Cathedral Square, one of the most beautiful colonial squares in Old Havana, dominated by the imposing San Cristóbal Cathedral and surrounded by historic buildings with impressive baroque architecture;
* San Francisco de Asís Square, an elegant historic square located near the Havana port, known for its central fountain and the impressive San Francisco de Asís Monastery, now transformed into a concert hall and art gallery;
* Old Square (Plaza Vieja), a lively and colorful space with restored colonial buildings and vibrant terraces, reflecting the authentic charm of Old Havana and Cuban daily life;
* Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Havana, surrounded by colonial palaces, museums, and open-air bookstores, filled with history and a bohemian atmosphere.
We will also visit Ernest Hemingway’s “first home”, where the famous writer lived between 1932–1939 and began writing the novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” The place that inspired him is Room 511 of Hotel Ambos Mundos, an iconic hotel in Old Havana, built in 1924–25, featuring five floors and an eclectic early 20th-century architectural style.
To dive deeper into the Cuban atmosphere, we’ll stop at two of Havana’s iconic bars:
* El Floridita, a famous bar-restaurant considered the birthplace of the Daiquiri cocktail and often visited by Ernest Hemingway, whose bronze bust still watches over the bar;
* La Bodeguita del Medio, an authentic Cuban tavern, famous for its mojito and walls covered in signatures from famous visitors like Hemingway, Picasso, and Salvador Allende. At La Bodeguita, we’ll enjoy a house mojito ourselves.
Optionally, we may take a short break for lunch, then continue the program with a true rum tasting ceremony, accompanied by a Cuban cigar. And how better to end our first evening in Havana than with an optional ride through the vibrant streets in a classic American vintage car? In the evening, we’ll enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant, then return to the hotel for rest.

DAY 3

DAY SUMMARY: JAZMINES VIEWPOINT – FAMOUS MOGOTES – BOAT RIDE IN CUEVA DEL INDIO – TOBACCO FARM – PREHISTORIC MURAL – PARISIEN CABARET SHOW

LUNCH & DINNER: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT:  SPRINTER – COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: MELIA SEVILLA **** (or similar 4*)

After breakfast at the hotel, you can either explore Havana at your own pace or join an optional adventure to the Viñales Valley, a spectacular rural area in western Cuba, famous for its landscapes with mogotes (rounded limestone hills), traditional tobacco plantations, and authentic Cuban atmosphere—perfect for hiking, horseback riding, quad biking, and more. Those who choose the second option will depart by coach to Viñales right after breakfast. Upon arrival, we will stop at the “Los Jazmines” viewpoint, an iconic spot on the edge of the Viñales Valley, perfect for panoramic photos and for admiring the unique and picturesque scenery, including the mogotes, massive rounded limestone formations rising dramatically from the green valley floor—offering a one-of-a-kind landscape, a true natural paradise for photography and adventure lovers. The tour continues by coach to La Cueva del Indio, where we’ll enjoy a fascinating boat ride along an underground river winding through the interior of the Haystack Hills. We’ll then visit a tobacco farm to learn about the cultivation process and how Cuban cigars are handmade. Optionally, we can take a lunch break before visiting the Prehistoric Mural, an artwork depicting the evolution of life on Earth—from mollusks and ancient marine creatures to dinosaurs and giant human figures. Painted in 1961 by Cuban artist Leovigildo González Morillo, a disciple of Diego Rivera, the mural covers the façade of the Pita mogote in the Sierra de los Órganos. With a height of 120 meters and a length of 160 meters, it is one of the largest outdoor murals in the world. In this stunning valley, we can optionally quench our thirst for adrenaline by horseback riding, riding quads, or trying out the zipline. In the evening, we will return to our hotel in Havana. Dinner is optional. After dinner, those who wish can join us in the Vedado district for an iconic Havana experience at the Parisien Cabaret Show, held at the historic Hotel Nacional, located by the sea—a venue where legends like Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner once performed. With dazzling costumes, vibrant choreography, and live music, Cabaret Parisien offers a unique chance to experience Cuban nightlife in an elegant setting.After the show, we return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

DAY 4

DAY SUMMARY: CIGAR FACTORY – HAVANA CAPITOL – GRAND THEATRE – EL PRADO BOULEVARD – PRESIDENTIAL PALACE – CENTRAL PARK – MALECÓN PROMENADE – SALSA LESSON – EL MORRO DISTRICT

LUNCH & DINNER: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT:  SPRINTER / COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: LA UNION **** (or similar 4*)

We begin the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out, then head to visit a cigar factory, where we’ll learn in detail how these uniquely flavored cigars are made. We then continue with a panoramic tour of Havana, passing by the National Capitol, the Grand Theatre of Havana—an architectural gem that hosts opera and ballet performances, and the El Prado Boulevard, one of Havana’s most elegant and oldest promenades. Inaugurated in 1772 and originally called Alameda de Extramuros or Isabel II, this was Havana’s first European-style boulevard, built on the former city walls. We’ll also pass by the former Presidential Palace, Central Park, and the famous Malecón Promenade—an 8-kilometer-long seafront road that connects Old Havana to Vedado. Known for its dramatic ocean views and long concrete seawall, Malecón was originally built as a barrier against ocean storms and has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll stop at some of these locations to take photos. Optionally, those interested can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of salsa with a one-hour dance lesson led by expert Cuban instructors. We’ll also visit the outer area of the El Morro district, known for its historical fortress. Leaving Havana behind, we continue our journey toward Cienfuegos, the next destination on our Cuban adventure. Upon arrival, we check in at the hotel. For those interested, optional dinner in the city is available.

DAY 5

DAY SUMMARY: *CIENFUEGOS: JOSE MARTI PARK – PALACIO FERRER – PALACIO DEL VALLE – KAYAKING IN CIENFUEGOS BAY *TRINIDAD: PLAZA MAYOR – PLAZA DEL JIGÜE – ROMANTIC MUSEUM – CANCHANCHARA BAR – CASA DE LA TROVA SHOW
LUNCH & DINNER: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT:  SPRINTER – COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: MYSTIQUE TRINIDAD ***** (or similar 5*)

We start the morning with breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out, and then head out on foot to explore the city of Cienfuegos. Known as the “Pearl of the South” for its extraordinary architectural beauty, the city’s historical and cultural value has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We will visit José Martí Park, a symbol of Cuban history and culture. Declared a National Monument, it was the site of a popular uprising against Batista’s regime in 1957. In the center of the park stands a statue of José Martí, Cuba’s national hero, surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Palacio de Gobierno, the Tomás Terry Theatre—a remarkable example of eclectic Italian architecture with French and Cuban influences, which we will admire up close—and the Benjamín Duarte House of Culture. After taking photos at the Palacio Ferrer, a beautiful example of eclectic and neo-Rococo architecture and a true architectural gem of the city, we will head to the Palacio del Valle, a masterpiece of design combining Arab, Moorish, and Gothic influences, now home to a distinguished restaurant. From the rooftop terrace, we’ll enjoy a stunning view over the port and the entire city of Cienfuegos, while sipping a refreshing Cuban cocktail. Before we leave for Trinidad, those who wish can enjoy an optional 2-hour kayaking session in Cienfuegos Bay. We’ll then be transferred to our hotel in Trinidad, check in, and afterward, those interested can opt for lunch in town. After lunch, we embark on a guided walking tour of Trinidad, a charming colonial city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its cobblestone streets, well-preserved 18th-century architecture, and authentic Cuban atmosphere. We’ll explore the city’s main streets, admire its colonial buildings, squares, and gathering spots—including Plaza Mayor and Plaza del Jigüe. During the tour, we will visit the Romantic Museum, housed in the Brunet Palace, considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Cuba. The museum offers a glimpse into the colonial era, showcasing the daily life and luxuries of that time. No visit to Trinidad is complete without stopping at La Canchánchara Bar, where we’ll taste the traditional cocktail of the same name, made with lime juice, honey, and Cuban rum, served in clay cups. Dinner is optional, and after dinner, those interested can join us at Casa de la Trova, where we’ll enjoy live Cuban music, dance salsa, and sip authentic cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to experience the local way of life and maybe even learn a few dance steps from the locals. Late in the evening, we return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

DAY 6

DAY SUMMARY: VALLEY OF THE SUGAR MILLS – IZNAGA TOWER – CHE GUEVARA MAUSOLEUM – SANTA CLARA CITY TOUR: ARMORED TRAIN

LUNCH: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT:  SPRINTER – COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST AND DINNER

HOTEL: MELIA VARADERO ***** (or similar 5*)

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, we set off toward Santa Clara, passing through the Valley of the Sugar Mills. This valley, part of the UNESCO World Heritage, is known for its history tied to sugar production and colonial-era sugar cane plantations. Today, the area stands as a reminder of Cuba’s once-glorious sugar industry, with scattered ruins and old watchtowers—like the Iznaga Tower, where we will stop to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire valley. We continue our journey to Santa Clara, the site of the final battle of 1958, which proved decisive for the Cuban Revolution’s victory. Here, we will stop at the Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum, dedicated to the legendary Argentine revolutionary who became a national hero in Cuba. The mausoleum holds the remains of Che Guevara and his 29 fellow guerrilla fighters. We then continue with a panoramic city tour of Santa Clara, learning about the city’s rich history and cultural significance. One of the highlights will be the Armored Train Monument, which commemorates the historic battle in which Che Guevara and his men managed to capture a military train carrying troops and supplies for Batista’s regime. The original train cars still display bullet holes and bomb damage, serving as powerful physical evidence of the 1958 clash. During the day, we will have time set aside for optional lunch, and by evening, we’ll arrive in Varadero, where we will check in and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel.

DAY 7

DAY SUMMARY: JEEP SAFARI – SNORKELING – BOAT CRUISE ON THE CANIMAR RIVER – HORSEBACK RIDING – SATURNO CAVE

MASA DE PRANZ: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT:  SPRINTER / COACH

INCLUDED MEALS: BREAKFAST AND DINNER

INCLUDED HOTEL: MELIA VARADERO ***** (or similar 5*)

On this day, we will enjoy Varadero, one of the most famous resorts on the Caribbean Sea. You can relax by the hotel pool or on the beach with all-inclusive service and participate in a variety of entertainment activities organized throughout the day by the hotel. But if you wish to explore more of Cuba’s beauties, we also offer optional activities that will start after breakfast at the hotel.

* JEEP SAFARI & Other Activities:

At 8:30 AM, we will be picked up by coach from the hotel and transferred to the jeep parking lot in downtown Varadero (about 30 minutes). For the Jeep Safari, you will drive the jeeps yourself, so you need to have your driver’s license with you. The jeeps have manual transmission. The Jeep Safari will be an off-road rally through the Cuban rural landscape, delighting your eyes with lush vegetation and stunning Cuban scenery. We will stop to snorkel in the coral reefs at Playa Coral and take a boat ride on the waters of the Canimar River, the largest river in Matanzas province — another chance for adventurers to enjoy the region’s lush and breathtaking greenery. We will have a hearty lunch, included, served Cuban style in a perfect setting at a local farm. Horseback riding is optional (each ride lasts about 5 minutes, so anyone who wants to ride can do so for an extra cost), or you can simply take your time relaxing while enjoying the flora and fauna.We will visit one of Cuba’s most famous caves, the Saturno Cave, considered by many as one of the island’s unique and unparalleled natural wonders.Around 4:00 PM, we will return to the hotel in Varadero. Free time until the included dinner.

DAY 8 

DAY SUMMARY: CATAMARAN CRUISE – SNORKELING – MUSIC AND OPEN BAR ON BOARD – DOLPHINARIUM – BEACH AND FUN

LUNCH: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT: SPRINTER / COACH

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST AND DINNER

HOTEL: MELIA VARADERO ***** (or similar 5*)

On this day, we will enjoy Varadero, one of the most famous resorts in the Caribbean. You can relax at the hotel pool or on the beach with an all-inclusive setup and participate in a variety of entertainment activities organized throughout the day by the hotel. However, if you wish to explore more of Cuba’s beauties, we also offer optional activities starting after breakfast at the hotel.

* Catamaran Excursion:

At 8:30 AM, we will be transferred from the hotel to the port, Marina (approximately 20 minutes), to board a shared catamaran. There will be music and an open bar on board (usually including water, soft drinks, and rum), and during the trip, the catamarans will stop at a fixed point for snorkeling. We will visit a dolphinarium, and lunch will be served at Cayo Blanco. There will be time for beach and fun activities. Around 3:00 PM, we will sail back to the port at Marina and be transferred back to the hotel, arriving around 5:00 PM. Free time until the included dinner.

DAY 9 

DAY SUMMARY:

BACUNAYAGUA VIEWPOINT – HAVANA

LUNCH: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT: SPRINTER – COACH

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST AND DINNER

HOTEL: MELIA SEVILLA **** (or similar 4*)

We have breakfast, and until around 12:00 PM, there is free time for the beach and relaxation, including the option to have a snack at the hotel’s snack bar. We check out and depart for Havana, as our Cuban adventure is nearing its end. On the way, we will stop at the Bacunayagua viewpoint, located near the tallest bridge in Cuba, to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the valley and surrounding mountainous landscape. We arrive at the hotel in Havana, have dinner (optional), and prepare for the journey back home.

DAY 10

DAY SUMMAR:  

RETURN FLIGHT

LUNCH: OPTIONAL

TRANSPORT: –

MEALS INCLUDED: –

HOTEL: –

Return flight.