Discover Cuba - Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero in 12 days
Discover Cuba - Habana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santa Clara & Varadero in 12 days
$995
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! ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
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! ...more ...less
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
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Accommodation
double or twin room as requested with en suite/private bathroom in a centrally located Casa Particulare
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)
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Fully Guided
Tours and local guides as described in itinerary
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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
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Country Entry Visas
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Entrance Fees
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International Travel
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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. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
15 but please contact us if you have a larger group and we can make this happen also!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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 ;)
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes - no problem. We are open 365 days a year.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 ;)
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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!
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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.
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Company Instant Book
Yes!
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Hopefully!
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Free Date Changes
Corazon Cuba allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Corazon Cuba allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform corazon cuba, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Corazon Cuba requires a minimum deposit of 100 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 31 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of corazon cuba charges.
Up to 31 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 6 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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 ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DC-12-CC
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Group size:
2 - 15
Age range:
0-95
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Gluten Free
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour