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Discover Cuba - Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero in 12 days

Discover Cuba - Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero in 12 days

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12 Days From

~~$995~~

$948

Discover Cuba - Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero in 12 days

12 Days Starting and ending in Havana, Cuba

Visiting: Habana Vieja Old Havana, Havana, Habana Vieja - Regla, Vinales, Trinidad, Santa Clara, Varadero

Tour operator:

Corazon Cuba

Tour code:

DC-12-CC

Guide Type:

Partially Guided

Group size:

2 - 15

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

0-95

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Private Available:

From: $995 $948 Travel Club discount: -$47

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Cuba is one of the most beguiling travel destinations on the planet. Gorgeous neo classical buildings, classic American cars, the best music and dance on the planet and super friendly locals put Cuba firmly on everyone’s bucket list. Staying in Casa Particulare’s in Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero we start our adventure in the heart of Old Habana. Airport transfer and welcome followed by full day guided tour to explore the city - classic convertible 50's car for your first hour to get your bearings and then various walking tour options around Old Habana depending your particular interests. Day three we leave Habana to explore Viñales for two nights & then Trinidad for two nights with horseback tours (option for walking or horse-drawn buggy if preferred), salsa lessons and much more. We then continue to Santa Clara to learn more about iconic Che Guevara and his contribution to the revolution, before enjoying some quality beach time in Varadero. A final night in Habana will round off an amazing 12 day long Cuban adventure. This is a busy tour designed to maximise your time and give you an all round view of Cuba - past and present!

Highlights

1950's Classic American Car tour La Habana
Personal guided walking tour Habana Vieja with hip young guide
Horseback (horsedrawn cart or walking is an option too!) exploration Viñales Valley
Cubanito Natural Park & Waterfall Excursion in Trinidad
Che Guevara Mausoleum & Museum in Santa Clara
Centrally located Casa Particulare's in Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero with fun, well informed hosts and local guides
All cross country transfers Habana-Viñales-Trinidad-Santa Clara-Varadero-Habana in air conditioned bus or colectivo taxi

Places You'll See

Trinidad With Corazon Cuba

Havana With Corazon Cuba

Malecon Sunset With Corazon Cuba

Viñales Valley With Corazon Cuba

Vinales Exploration With Corazon Cuba

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - 2 : Discover Habana

Location: Habana Vieja Old Havana, Havana

Accommodation: HomestayCasa Particulare

Accommodation Name: Casa Leonel, 362 O'Reilly

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at your Casa Particulare in the atmospheric heart of Habana Vieja ('Old Havana') your guide will pick you up for a full day tour/exploration of La Habana.

There are a cluster of museums here including the Museum of the Revolution, but our walk will feature the beautifully preserved colonial plazas of Habana Vieja and neighbouring streets where Cubans live alongside visiting tourists, kids go to school, locals play games of chess or chequers in the street, sipping coffee from 'peso cafes' and all life seems to be happening in these atmospheric streets. Your Cuban guide will recommend some of the best bars for mojitos and live music and give you insights how Cubans live today in this complex and beguiling country.

Mid morning we pick up the pace as we are collected by a 1950's classic American car to explore some of the main features of the rest of the city. There are many options depending your preference but we recommend buzzing through the city to the Plaza de la Revolucion, a scenic drive along the Malecon and under the 'tunnel' to the Fort del Moro (best views across the city) before returning to Old Habana for drop off in Parque Central in time for lunch.

There are many options for lunch and time for a siesta if you would like before continuing our exploration of Habana Vieja. Late afternoon your guide will drop you back off at your Casa by which time you will be comfortable in your new neighbourhood and buzzing with ideas for how to spend your first night in Habana!

Day 3 - 4 : Discover Viñales

Location: Vinales

Accommodation: Casa Particulare

Accommodation Name: Casa de Sergio

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we take a comfortable air-conditioned bus to Viñales; a three hour drive west from Habana to the beating lung of Cuba sustaining some of the most productive plantations including world famous tobacco crops. A UNESCO World Heritage destination in its own right owing to spectacular Karsc mountains and distinctive tobacco drying houses. The best way to explore the valley is a 1/2 day trek on horseback (walking tour OR taxi ride to 'Miramar' viewing point are optional for those who prefer not to ride a horse).

Enjoy the simplicity of life and breathe fresh country air as you meet friendly locals who welcome you with their generous smiles. Your local guide - who has limited English but is an authentic Cuban gaucho will take you on a gentle exploration of the valley on horseback; an amazingly contrast to the environment you have left behind in Habana.

Day 5 - 6 : Discover Trinidad

Location: Trinidad

Accommodation: Homestay, Casa Particulare

Accommodation Name: Hostal Hermanos Reyes

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you catch an early morning bus to the beautiful colonial town of Trinidad, a perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement where time stopped back in 1850. After checking-in to your new Casa Particulare, take advantage of a free afternoon to wander around and see the numerous churches and beautiful colonial buildings of Trinidad. In the evening, take a salsa lesson with a local instructor!

After breakfast on your first full day in Trinidad we begin our adventure with 1-2 hour horseback ride (you may opt for biking, walking or taxi instead of horseback if you’d prefer - no extra charge - all options are accompanied by a guide.) Ride through the cobbled streets of Trinidad and into the rolling countryside, arriving at Cubanito Natural Park. Enjoy a 30 minute hike along the scenic river with lots of opportunities for spotting birds and flora along the way. Arrive at the grotto and waterfall, where you can jump into the fresh clean waters of a deep pool surrounded by high rock walls. Swim through the waterfall and into the cave behind for a magical experience. After some chill time and a picnic or snack lunch (not included) we walk back to the horses for the ride back to your casa particular, arriving mid afternoon.

NOTE: Please remember to bring your swimsuit!!

Day 7 : Discover Santa Clara

Location: Santa Clara

Accommodation: Homestay, HomestayCasa Particulare

Accommodation Name: Casa de Leonardo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we take the short drive inland to Santa Clara; a simple town in the centre of Cuba made famous for revolutionary events and the final resting place of Che Guevara. Half day walking tour to savour historic landmarks before hitting the road again tomorrow for the beaches of Varadero!

Day 8 - 10 : Discover Varadero

Location: Varadero

Accommodation: Homestay

Accommodation Name: Casa Marta Margarita

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we take a scenic drive heading northwards to Varadero and some quality R&R featuring pristine Caribbean beaches. This peninsula has the longest continuous stretch of sandy beach in the Caribbean and is famous for a string of resort hotels. However, we will enjoy a more authentic environment of a Casa Particulare in the small town of Varadero. Enjoy the short walk to sandy beaches

Day 11 : Return To Havana

Location: Habana Vieja - Regla

Accommodation: Homestay, HomestayHomestay

Accommodation Name: Casa Leonel, 362 O'Reilly

Meals Included: Breakfast

For our final night we leave Varadero and return to the familiar surroundings of Habana Vieja. Opportunity to explore and enjoy the amazing nightlife including salsa music and dance before we depart for the airport and home.

If you would like an extra night or two in Habana then let us know and we will make this happen!

Day 12 : Departure Havana

Location: José Martí international Airport

Accommodation Name: na

Meals Included: Breakfast

Perhaps some time in the morning for some last minute shopping before your airport transfer. We schedule a transfer to suit your flight departure time - early morning or later in the afternoon per your requirements.

If you would like an extra night or two in Habana then let us know and we will make this happen!

What's Included

Accommodation

double or twin room as requested with en suite/private bathroom in a centrally located Casa Particulare
Airport Transfers at Destination
All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)
Fully Guided

Tours and local guides as described in itinerary
Meals – Breakfast Only

Cuban breakfast is a generous affair and includes coffee or tea, fresh fruit juice, eggs, ham, cheese, bread or toast, assorted fresh fruits and honey/preserves.

What's Not Included

Country Entry Visas
Entrance Fees
International Travel
Tipping and Gratuities

Accommodation

Centrally located Casa Particulares selected for location, cleanliness and friendliness of your hosts!

Mode of Transport

All cross country transfers Habana-Viñales-Trinidad-Santa Clara-Varadero-Habana in air conditioned bus or colectivo (or private) taxi. Air conditioned buses are not available for all routes and all days you may wish to do this tour and so we guarantee onward transportation by colectivo (shared) or private taxi in this instance.

Check out our Q&As

What is the maximum group size?

15 but please contact us if you have a larger group and we can make this happen also!
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

None required though as usual you should seek professional advice from a medical practitioner as requirements are subject to change.
What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

We have no minimum pax for this tour - we welcome solo travellers, couples, family groups, friends and operate this tour 365 days a year.
Are airport transfers included in this tour?

Yes! When you advise your flight details - date, time & flight number - we will schedule your arrival and departure airport transfer. If you would like to stay some extra nights we can arrange this also.
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

See price for single person - a little more expensive owing to single room occupancy as you might expect but solo travellers always welcome!

Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

Yes - there is space in the itinerary to stretch your legs and explore by yourself. Our guides and hosts will give you tips and ideas... Cuba is very safe for travellers and it wouldn't be an adventure if you didn't step outside unaccompanied every now and then - enjoy!
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

There is a bit of walking and optional horse back tours. Travel to a tropical country is always a bit hot/sticky/uncomfortable for first timers but exciting and rewarding also. No minimum fitness required - just open mind and positive attitude, please!
What currencies are required for this tour?

All major currencies are acceptable in Cuba, e.g. EURO, USD, CAD, YEN, GBP etc Just make sure if bringing cash that the notes/bills are clean and not torn.
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

Yes - when you confirm your booking we will send you a voucher with details of accommodations.
Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

This tour is suitable for all ages, and all ages love Cuba! You are never too young, or old, to enjoy a formative travel experience ;)
Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes - no problem. We are open 365 days a year.
What is the tipping policy?

A tipping culture doesn't really exist in Cuba. However, as with anywhere everyone appreciates a little extra for good service.
Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

Different guides & hosts will look after you in each destination, and receive you when you arrive in a new destination.
Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

Yes - all our guides have worked with us for at least 2 years before we let them loose on their own ;) Our guides are very well informed, well educated and will adapt to any special interests you might have.
Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

As this trip is multi destination, for your own convenience we suggest you pack lightly. Also you are in a tropical country that is generally quite warm so not many layers required after you leave the airport. Plus the less you bring the more shopping you can do ;)
Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Yes - a tourist visa (also known as Tourist Card) is required. If travelling from north or south America your airline will normally supply this. If travelling from Europe or other locations you will generally have to obtain a visa in advance of travel. You can contact your nearest Cuban embassy or an online service. We can help!
What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

We only use licensed Casa Particulares - all have been personally inspected and we have worked with the owners for many years to ensure consistency, cleanliness and good local knowledge. Our hosts enjoy receiving our guests.
Company Instant Book

Yes!
Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

Hopefully!
Will there be WiFi or Internet Service?

WiFi is still not widely available in Cuba except on a pay as you go basis in government hotels and internet cafes. However, inexpensive SIM cards can now be purchased on arrival – our local team can help you buy these. It may be advisable to ensure your phone is ‘unlocked’ and/or has a VPN service to ensure continuity of services when in Cuba. The situation is constantly evolving and improving so there is no need to be ‘offline’ for extended periods – unless you would like to be!
What currency or money should I take to Cuba?

Following the abolition of the CUC (convertible peso) in 2021 the only official national currency now in circulation is the Cuban Peso (also known as ‘Moneda Nacional’). However, USD and EURO cash is widely accepted and easily converted into local currency. Bank cards drawn on US banks are still not accepted in Cuba so US residents should bring sufficient USD cash for all your spending requirements while in Cuba. For other visitors, to ensure maximum flexibility and to achieve the best rate of exchange, we also recommend you bring cash – ideally USD or EURO. Although ATM machines are widely available throughout Cuba the exchange rate is not so good – we will show you where/how to change money into local currency during your ‘welcome camino’ after you arrive to us. Only government owned business accept card payments.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Corazon Cuba have been running programs & tours since 2015 combining learning Spanish, ‘dance & discover’ cultural excursions and meaningful volunteering into 'student' programs for all ages as well as tours around the country - featuring our network of personally inspected Casa Particulares - to help you maximise your time in this amazing country. Cuba is a country like no other – gorgeous neo-classical buildings rubbing alongside primary coloured classic American cars, overlaid with exotic afro-Cuba music and some of the most exciting nightlife you will find anywhere. So… if you are interested in having a good time and learning more about Cuba please get in touch!
What documents will I receive before I travel?

Once you have confirmed your arrival & departure details (ideally dates, times & flight numbers to help us schedule your airport transfers) we will send you your booking confirmation as well as a link to our Field Manual which has practical information you may find useful to help you prepare for your trip. We are also on hand 24/7 for enquiries by email or whatsapp for any last minute questions etc
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

By visiting Cuba and spending locally you are making a huge contribution to the welfare of local people by creating meaningful employment. Corazon Cuba work alongside local community projects to enhance welfare, facilities and civic pride in Habana Vieja and Centro districts of La Habana - we also run a volunteer program and welcome donativo (donations) to support these endeavours.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

Please let us know of any changes to your travel plans at your earliest convenience so we can reschedule accordingly. We do not require prepayment/deposit which gives you flexibility to change plans as required.
Do I need a visa?

You will need to get a visa (also known as Tourist Card) to enter Cuba. These are easy to buy online – we recommend the following service, see; https://www.easytouristcard.com?aff=43 The standard Tourist Card is valid for 30 days. However, this can be extended twice when you are in the country on payment of a small fee – our local team can help you. This means you can stay for up to 90 days maximum on a single visit. From 1 January 2025 the Tourist Card will be replaced by an eVisa which will be obtainable in the same way as above. A pink coloured ‘Tourist Card’ is required when flying to Cuba directly from the USA and a green coloured ‘Tourist Card’ is required to visit Cuba when flying from any country except the USA. For US citizens / guests travelling directly from the US to Cuba we recommend the following service, see; https://www.onlinetouristcard.com Our programs comply with ongoing US travel restrictions and are 100% legal for US and non US citizens alike. It is no longer necessary to apply to ‘OFAC’ for special permission to visit Cuba. When flying direct from the US to Cuba your airline will require you to sign and retain a one page ‘affidavit’. This document lists 12 permitted categories of travel to Cuba. Please simply tick the box marked ‘SUPPORT THE CUBAN PEOPLE’ as this is a travel category our programs comply with.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Despite being a materially poor country Cuba is well organised and there is a lot of civic pride which is one of the reasons Cuba is such an enjoyable destination for first time visitors. There are many rules and bylaws required to operate a tourism business such as our and we are 100% compliant with all relevant rules and bylaws.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Loris Pisan

Once in a life time adventure

22-Jul-2023

Awesome, a must do in a life, Cuba is such an amazing country, and Corazon Cuba is a perfect option to go to discover La Havana ! I learnt a lot about cuban culture and I learn to love dance thanks to dance lessons provided by Corazon Cuba.

Belgium

Thomas USA

Corazon Cuba

27-Feb-2024

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the Corazon Cuba experience. What stood out the most were the exceptional friendliness of the staff and the effective leadership and coordination provided by Leo, which included arranging excursions, taxis, and restaurant recommendations. The central location in Havana Vieja was perfect. The quality of the food and coffee was excellent, and I particularly appreciated the casual dining atmosphere. I highly recommend Corazon Cuba, and I have already suggested it to others here in the United States. The only areas of improvement that I can think of would be to provide Wi-Fi/Internet access.

USA

Marta Wojtczuk - Poland

Było zajebiście!

27-Apr-2023

If everyone reading this review spoke Polish I'd use two words to describe my experience with Corazon Cuba - "Było zajebiście!!!", which translates to the highest level of awesomness possible! I cannot be more grateful for helping me live the best adventure of my live. ❤️❤️❤️ You can read on their website - "Corazon Cuba - Your home away from home" - when I've read it, my though was "Such a nice marketing statement" 😂 ... you will feel home... and you will NEVER want to go back to your real home. So, be careful, saying goodbye will hurt. I could go on with all the amazing stories FOREVER. But I think it is better to leave some space for you to be surprised with the program. Muchas gracias Leo & Tim and the entire Corazon Cuba family.

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~~$995~~ $948