From CAD 2401 Was CAD 2825
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
From Cuba's historical streets to the shores of the Caribbean, you'll stroll through UNESCO World Heritage-listed cities, learn about a fascinating history and experience the music and dance culture Cuba's renowned for. Dive into the incredible marine world and history of the Bay of Pigs, discover Baracoa’s mountainous surrounds, visit the birthplace of salsa and admire Trinidad on this two-week adventure. From historic cars to fragrant cigars, and with plenty of rum and rumba in between, this adventure will take you into the heart of all things Cuban.
Highlights
- Discover the rich history and exciting nightlife of Havana – this city is like nowhere else on Earth! See the difference between city life and coastal life on a guided walking tour of the old capital.
- Receive a fascinating insight into the rise and fall of the charismatic and highly celebrated Cuban revolutionary – Che Guevara – at his mausoleum and museum in Santa Clara.
- Bust out some moves in Santiago de Cuba – with its vibrant music scene and Afro-Cuban roots, this place is the perfect spot to hit the dance floor with the locals.
- Experience old-world charm in the colourful coastal town of Trinidad. Delve into the city’s sultry Latin rhythms with a salsa class and enjoy plenty of free time for seaside relaxation.
- Take inspiration from the locals and mix things up with a bicycle-taxi tour of Camaguey – roll through the winding streets on two-wheels, visiting markets, plazas and an art gallery.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2470
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Taxi,Boat
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: QUSH
Starts: Havana, Cuba
Finishes: Havana, Cuba
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (14),Accommodation: Standard guesthouse (14 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2401 (CAD 160 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cuba. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, consider a stroll through Old Havana to acquaint yourself with the colourful mix of '50s Americana, colonial architecture and budding modernity. There are plenty of good museums to check out, like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts). Maybe line up with the locals for a taste of Coppelia ice cream, or wander along the Malecon (ocean walkway) – the sea wall that skirts the coastline.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Havana's history is as colourful as its cars and buildings, and today you’ll get to experience the magic of Old Havana on a walking tour with your local leader. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982, this well-preserved area remains virtually unchanged, making it one of the Caribbean’s most impressive historical cities. An air of faded glory comes through in the peeling paint of the grand old buildings, and the narrow streets, spacious plazas and Spanish architecture make it a charm to explore on foot. Visit La Catedral San Cristobal de la Habana, the Palacio de los Marqueses de Aguas Claras and the Plaza de Armas. Visit the Museo de la Revolucion to learn about the history of the Cuban Revolution, then you’ll have free time to explore on your own. Perhaps check out a cigar factory or cruise around outer-Havana in a vintage American car.
Included Activities:
- Havana - Leader-led walking tour of Old Havana
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to Havana and head towards Santa Clara – the final resting place of Cuba’s most famous son, Che Guevara. Visit his mausoleum and memorial – Che's remains were brought here after they were found in a remote corner of Bolivia in 1997, where he was assassinated by the CIA-backed Bolivian army. Check out the impressive bronze statue of Che bearing his rifle and learn about his life. Check into your guesthouse, follow your leader on an orientation walk and enjoy the rest of the afternoon free.
Included Activities:
- Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
- Santa Clara – Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, continue your journey to Bayamo. On the way, stop at Ciego de Avila to visit a local jewellery workshop that sprung from a community-based project that provides training to young people and the unemployed. Much of the work on display here is from local artisan, made from discarded old silverware that’s repurposed and recycled. Arrive in Bayamo in the early afternoon, one of the original Spanish settlements, you’re more likely to see locals travelling on horses than in cars here. Take a walk through the slow-paced city, then settle in for a restful night.
Included Activities:
- Ciego de Ávila - Jewellery workshop (Community-based project)
- Bayamo - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, hop back on the bus and travel to Baracoa through central Cuba, tucked between forests and the Caribbean Sea. On the way, stop at Guantanamo Bay and if time permits, visit a lookout for a view of the Guantanamo Naval Base and surrounding bay. Join your leader on an orientation walk to get your bearings – the town was only accessible by sea until 1960, and even after a road linking Baracoa to Guantanamo was built, the settlement maintains a small-town feel. In your free time, wander along the beautiful Malecon, chill at the beach or explore the forts that were built to withstand pirate attacks. Maybe visit the Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion to see the bust of the Indigenous leader Hatuey, who was burned at the stake for refusing to accept the Spanish and their Catholicism.
Included Activities:
- Baracoa - Leader-led Orientation Walk
- Guantanamo Bay Viewpoint (time & weather dependent)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, head to Boca de Yumuri Canyon. On the way, visit a local cocoa plantation and learn about these magic beans. When you arrive, take a walk in the nature and ride in cayuca (traditional boat) along the canyon formed by the Yumuri River. From the boat, maybe take the chance to cool off with a swim in the river. Then, return to Baracoa for a free evening. As one of Cuba’s major agricultural zones, Baracoa is a great place to try local foods like chocolate, prawns in coconut sauce and banana-stuffed tamales. Don’t miss the cucurucho tonight (a sweet treat of coconut, sugar and fruit wrapped in dried cone-shaped palm leaves).
Included Activities:
- Baracoa - Boca de Yumuri Canyon boat tour
- Baracoa - Cocoa plantation visit
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
A spectacular journey to Santiago de Cuba will take you through the mountains and along the Atlantic coastline to the dry region surrounding Guantanamo. Grab a windowseat if you can, to see the passing cacti and wiry goats. Arrive in the hottest place in Cuba – both in temperature and atmosphere – in the mid-afternoon. Set between the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range and the Caribbean, this city's historical centre retains a timeworn atmosphere, ideal for photographers. After an orientation walk with your leader, perhaps join with some of your travel buddies and head out for a group dinner. Alternatively, get a good night’s rest ready for a day of exploration tomorrow.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Cuba - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Set off on a half day city tour of Santiago. You'll visit El Morro Castle, Ifigenia cemetery and the Moncada barracks and learn about the city’s rich history. For nearly a century, the city was the island's seat of power and it also played a vital role in the Revolution. The people of Santiago were the first to rise up in arms against government troops in 1956, and it was in Santiago that Fidel Castro declared the triumph of the Revolution. The city is also famous for its energetic Carnaval celebrations and its lively Festival of Caribbean Culture. With a strong Afro-Cuban heritage, it's no surprise that Santiago has a vibrant music scene and is seen as Cuba’s capital of music. It’s the home of son music, which is a mix of Spanish guitar and African percussion. In the evening, maybe head to a live music venue and dance the night away.
Included Activities:
- Santiago de Cuba - Half-day City Tour including El Morro Castle, Santa Ifigenia Cemetery & Moncada Barracks (guide, transport &entrance fees included)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Head east along the Carretera Central to Camaguey today. When you arrive, explore the winding streets – the city was planned in a deliberately confusing pattern to disorient any would-be assailants – and look out for tinajones (large clay pots used for collecting water). Stop by the Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad to see its baroque frescoes, then the rest of the day is free to uncover more of the city’s history at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Camaguey - Leader - led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll take a guided tour of Camaguey on a bicycle taxi. Cycling is a popular form of transport in Cuba, and bicycle taxis are very common – in the confusing streets of Camaguey, it's a particularly good way to get around. Visit a local market, some of the local parks and plazas and an art gallery. Maybe head to a local farmers' market for an insight into daily Cuban life. There are plenty of interesting tropical fruits, vegetables and herbs available. Later, your leader will take you to a local bar where you'll get to compare white rum to aged rum – Cuba is known as the origin of some of the smoothest and most sought-after rums on the entire planet!
Included Activities:
- Camaguey - Rum tasting in a local bar
- Camaguey - Bicycle Taxi City Tour (guide and transport included)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel through the centre of the country to Trinidad, which sits on the scenic Caribbean coast. No other city is as well preserved and the residents are extremely friendly here. Trinidad is also steeped in religion, including the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. On an orientation walk, you’ll see the former wealth generated by the sugar industry in the town's once-grand mansions, colourful public buildings, wrought iron grill work and cobblestoned streets.
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Leader-led orientation walk
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll have plenty of free time in Trinidad. At some point while you're here, you'll have the opportunity to get involved in an informal salsa class. Cuba has a hugely rich and varied dance and musical tradition that draws its roots from Africa and France. Many styles that have greatly influenced music worldwide originated in Cuba, such as mambo, cha-cha-cha, son and rumba. There’s also a chance to get a hands-on lesson with the musical instruments themselves in a percussion workshop. By now, hopefully you've learnt enough of the local rhythms to join in with the locals – maybe at a certain venue hidden within a cave! You could also take a hands-on percussion workshop. A bike is a great way to explore the local area, but like its cars, Cuba's bicycles are vintage, which means a little bit of practicality may be sacrificed for the romance. You could even take a trip to Playa Ancon and relax on the beach or go snorkelling through the clear waters (just watch for sea urchins, which can be a problem here). Party the night away at one of the town’s live music venues or attend a folklore show at one of the town's open-air venues.
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Salsa Dance Lesson (1 hour)
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel on to Cienfuegos, known affectionately as 'The Pearl of the South'. Part of the city's appeal lies in its colonial centre, which features wide Parisian-style boulevards and elegant colonnades. On the way, stop at Guanaroca Lagoon, one of the most unique ecosystems in Cuba, constituting an essential link in sustaining marine life in Cienfuegos bay. A large number of waterfowl find refuge in its waters, such as pink flamingos, sea corúas, gannets, Florida ducks. Take a boat tour on the lagoon for a unique opportunity to see these birds in their natural habitat. Then continue onto Cienfuegos. Drive along the peninsula to see Cienfuegos' architectural pride and joy, the Moroccan-influenced Palacio del Valle. On arrival, join your leader on an orientation walk to admire the city’s elegant architecture and glittering bay. Then enjoy an afternoon for your own discoveries. The province is known for its coffee production, so perhaps find a spot to enjoy a fantastic brew, visit the Jardin Botanico de Cienfuegos, Cuba’s oldest botanical gardens, or head to Club Cienfuegos to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Included Activities:
- Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cienfuegos - Palacio de Valle (from entrance fee)
- Guanaroca Lagoon - boat tour
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Return to Havana today, stopping at a local cigar factory along the way. Here, you'll learn the process of manufacturing the most popular product of Cuba (the Cuban cigar). Carry on to the Playa Giro, which sits on the eastern side of the Bahia de Cochinos (the Bay of Pigs). With crystal clear Caribbean waters, a deep underwater wall and a huge variety of coral and fish, the bay is a haven for a taking a refreshing swim. Then, continue your journey to Havana. At the end of a long day, it's time for a mojito and one final night of salsa in Habana Vieja's bars. Hit the streets and celebrate the end of a fantastic adventure!
Included Activities:
- Bay of Pigs - Coastal swim stop
- Cienfuegos - cigar factory visit
Accommodation:
- Standard Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Susan and David - Traveled, September 2023
I think we could have had an extra day in Trinidad.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2023
Michael - Traveled, July 2023
A very comprehensive overview of Cuba. Gloria and Ivan were very kind and helpful. Cuba is not the easiest destination but it was very rewarding. Don't forget to bring much-needed medicine for the locals.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/11/2023
Marina - Traveled, July 2023
This tour exceeded my expectations. I have visited the Cuba that not everybody has the privilege to visit, with a tour leader who could not have done any more to make our experience so unique and marvellous! I would recommend this trip to anybody eager to learn about this incredibly fascinating country, its multifaceted culture, history, architecture, natural environment and much more…in a nutshell: thank you to Intrepid and its Cuba based team for providing me with a truly unforgettable experince! ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2023
Michaela - Traveled, April 2024
Fantastic trip. Cuba is beautiful. The people are warm and welcoming. So much more to see than just the beautiful architecture of Havana. Fascinating history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2024
Carole - Traveled, April 2024
I’ve travelled with other tour groups and my experience with Intripid has been the best one, small group structure works well in showcasing the best a location has to offer and the quality of the tour leader Alejandro was excellent in his knowledge of Cuba and it’s people , I recommend both Intripid and Alejandro
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/24/2024
Barbara - Traveled, February 2024
Cuba is not your usual tourist destination, but this trip was the perfect opportunity to see the country as it is, and Chino was the best guide to show us around. Be open minded, prepared to spend a lot of time in the car, eat more than expected and just have fun :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/01/2024
Keith - Traveled, May 2023
Adrian our tour guide was exceptional. His enthusiasm knowledge and love of his country was ‘full on’. -this he shared with us. His amicable easy going nature made travelling a breeze and each day a pleasant adventure. He was both the guide and driver on our journey, he admirably contended with the petrol shortage, which meant we were limited to 10 liters, at garages, and had to navigate queues and frustrating local bureaucracy. Never without a smile. An unforgettable tour. Highly Recommended!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/19/2023
Maria J · - Traveled, April 2023
great trip thou lacking cultural exposure on each stop besides dancing salsa
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/22/2023
Jeannie - Traveled, March 2023
Overall a very enjoyable, educational if disturbing trip; awareness of a society coping with a country where communism does not appear to be working can only be gained by visiting. The country is beautiful and FULL of opportunities, its inhabitants at times showing that wonderful Latin joyfulness; they deserve a change for a better life.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Jeannie - Traveled, March 2023
A most enjoyable, educational and well organised trip; disturbing at times but a must for anyone who needs to have a clearer understanding of a failing communist government. A beautiful country with endless opportunities and that wonderful Latin joyfulness still apparent through their wonderful music and at times by their friendliness. Cubans deserve whatever it takes to improve their present situation. Some knowledge of the language would be a definite advantage.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Rodrigo - Traveled, March 2023
Amazing trip to get to know all aspects of Cuba - its history, culture, and society - and having lots of fun at the same time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2023
Katherine - Traveled, February 2023
Absolutely awesome holiday, Ali was brilliant, leave more time at the end to explore Havana though! Also don't do if you don't like being in a car for a long time. Worth it for what we got to see though!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2023
Sarah - Traveled, January 2023
The trip is suitable for people that like to learn a lot about history, enjoy spending a lot of time in restaurants and seeing the landscape. The hotels are very nice and also the stuff is excellent! For young people who are looking for some adventure it might not be the perfect choice.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/10/2023
Mark - Traveled, December 2023
Cuba is a fascinating country, full of lovely colonial-era towns even if there are many buildings in need of a lick or two of paint. We also enjoyed lots of beautiful Caribbean scenery and covered a lot of ground in 2 weeks. But be warned that Cuba's economy is in a bit of a mess; food is rationed for the locals and there are virtually no shops or supermarkets in which tourists can buy food or drinks. An organised tour like this is probably the only way to see the country as I think the public transport network has collapsed. Our tour leader was very efficient and the bus driver put in a lot of hours to help us get the most out of our trip. I would strongly recommend spending a few extra days in Havana at the start or end of the trip as there is a lot to see and do there
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/09/2023
Jennifer - Traveled, January 2024
In-depth tour of Cuba avoiding beach resorts. If you like history/architecture then you'll find this interesting. But be warned, anyone who visited Cuba 5+ years ago probably won't give you good advice on what Cuba is like now. Cubans are facing many challenges; this tour is not easy mentally.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Steven - Traveled, November 2023
An excellent trip for experiencing and gaining an understanding of Cuba today, the history, politics and geography with plenty of opportunity to meet Cubans and see how they live. They are some of the most friendly and welcoming people making do with a lot less than we are used to.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Layton - Traveled, November 2023
Cuba is a wonderful experience for all back packers. There is plenty to see and do with its breath taking lstin culture that would take your breath away.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/27/2024
Zena - Traveled, November 2023
The Best of Cuba holiday was one amazing experience, the historical and cultural heritage was amazing. Felt safe , our Casas we stayed at was as expected . Out intrepid Tour Guide Juan Carlos was very approachable . I'd recommend Cuba any time . Be mindful of the temperature can get pretty hot.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/01/2023
Jose Luis - Traveled, October 2023
Very recommendable trip. It will show you most of highlights in Cuba, and you will see how things are going on there at the moment
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/19/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, October 2023
Awesome experience! Great overview of Cuba with very knowledgable and personable guide. Highly recommend. Be aware this involves LONG days of bus travel. Bring a Grayl water purifier. Have a look at http://www.cubalibrohavana.com/donations if you want to help the Cuban people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/02/2023
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