Cuba Experience - Havana to the West

Cuba Experience - Havana to the West

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6 Days From

$575

Cuba Experience - Havana to the West

6 Days Starting and ending in Havana, Cuba

Visiting: Havana, Soroa, Vinales

Tour operator:

Cuban Adventures

Tour code:

CX

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 14

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

1-90

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $575

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

A journey into the Western provinces of Cuba offers a taste of both Cuba's rural and urban life with some spectacular scenery along the way. We visit some community art projects in Havana and then the mountain communities of Las Terrazas and Soroa, that are surrounded by some of Cuba's lush forest. Viñales offers a charming village atmosphere, and some stunning mountainous scenery, sprawling tobacco fields and friendly locals. We include a visit to a tobacco farmer's house and learn how to roll the perfect Cuban cigar. There are also opportunities to experience Cuba's famous white sand beaches of Cayo Levisa and Cayo Jutias near to Vinales.

Highlights

  • Visit Community Art Projects Havana - Vibrant representation of the Arts & Music, driven by the community

  • Las Terrazas - a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Take a walk through this unique mountain community

  • Soroa - a wonderful example of Cuba's lush flora both wild and in the Botannic Gardens

  • Explore the lush landscapes of the Viñales Valley with optional visits to a local farm to sample hand rolled cigars

  • Have the freedom to explore each destination just as you like; flexibility with the advice and support of a local guide

  • Stay in casa particulars (privately owned guesthouses) each unique, comfortable, and an excellent opportunity for local interaction

Places You'll See

Cigar Rolling - And Smoking!

Farming With Manual Labour - Vinales

Fusterlandia - Colourful Sculpture At Its Best

The Beauty Of The Lush Flora In Soroa

Fun In Havana

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Havana

Location: Havana

Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort

Arrive in Havana at any time. Today is the arrival day of the tour so there are no planned activities and you can check into the arrival guesthouse and relax or go and explore the city. One of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, Havana was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982. Adventure among the splendorous crumbling architecture of the streets of Central and Old Havana, and sit on the famous sea wall (El Malecon) to take in the view and some fresh air, and to socialize with the colourful and friendly 'Habaneros'.

Day 2 : Soroa Via Jaimanitas & Las Terrazas

Location: Soroa

Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort

Meals Included: Breakfast

On the way to Soroa we stop by at a couple of street art projects as well as the eco-community of Las Terrazas. The first street art project is the Callejon de Hammel where local resident Salvador Gonzáles Escalona has decorated, and painted in vibrant colours, a pedestrian alleyway with scrap objects like bathtubs, hand pumps, and pin wheels, with many works being dedicated to various Afro-Cuban deities. It has now become a cultural focal point with workshops for young Cuban children to learn painting.

Then we visit the fishing village of Jaimanitas and the home of the famous artist Jose Fuster. Fuster has made his entire home, and much of the surrounding neighbourhood, into an artwork using tiles in mosaic forms. Now referred to as Fusterlandia, it is a unique work of public art with over 80 houses decorated with ornate murals and domes to suit the personality of each of Fuster's neighbours. He has built a chess park with giant boards and tables, a theatre, and public swimming pools. Nowadays, Fuster’s art is a cherished part of Cuban culture and joins the rank of other public artworks such as that of Gaudi in Barcelona or that of Brâncuși in the Romanian city of Targu Jiu.

About lunch time we reach the mountain community of Las Terrazas which was built as a reforestation project in the 1960s and is now a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. You can take a walk around the town to meet the friendly locals. In Las Terrazas there are also art, woodwork and pottery studios that are open to the public.

We eventually arrive to the mountain resort town of Soroa where we stay in the homes of the local humble residents. There are quite a few attractions around this heavily forested area including a short trek to a waterfall, a steep walk to a lookout, and an orchid garden.

Day 3 : Vinales

Location: Vinales

Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Reaching Viñales we find ourselves surrounded by picturesque limestone pincushion hills - called (“mogotes”). Vinales is one of the more agriculturally productive areas, so an abundance of local seasonal fruit and vegetables is always on offer such as enormous avocados and mangoes, pineapples, papaya, guava, and a several varieties of sweet potatoes. It's one of the cooler areas of Cuba, so it's also a nice escape from the hotter parts of the country. The nightlife is very active in this village with the local residents more than willing participants in dancing to the local live music.

This afternoon we include a visit to a tobacco farmers house to learn how to roll a perfect Cuban cigar.

Day 4 : Vinales

Location: Vinales

Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is a free day to choose your own adventure in Vinales. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer, such as exploring caves, hiking in the valley, biking, horseback riding or simply enjoying the views of the valley and sprawling tobacco fields.

There are also the options of doing some voluntary work in a local organic farm (and staying for dinner!), or heading to one of the beautiful beaches nearby - Cayo Levisa or Cayo Jutias.

Day 5 : Havana

Location: Havana

Accommodation: You will be staying at a casa particular a licensed and professionally run guesthouse that has been vetted for cleanliness and comfort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Returning to Havana, the guide will take you on a walking tour to the must-see parts of Old Havana. In Havana, there are plenty of restaurant and bar options to celebrate this last night of tour with your guide.

Day 6 : Departure Day

Location: Havana

Meals Included: Breakfast

You can depart Havana at any time today or maybe you have arranged to stay on for extra days

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Standard casa particular (guesthouse)

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Arrival transfer included

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

    Private air conditioned transportation in taxi, minibus, or bus

  • Fully Guided

    English and Spanish speaking tour leader

  • Meals – Breakfast Only

  • 2 hour walking tour in Old in Old Havana. Bottled water to refill your personal water bottle, please bring bottle

What's Not Included

  • Country Entry Visas

  • Drinks with Meals

  • Meals – Full Board

    Lunch and dinner not included

  • Departure transfer not included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Gratuities for tour leader, driver, local guides, musicians, etc not included

  • Entrance Fees

  • Entrance Fees

  • Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We will gladly arrange for pre- or post- tour accommodation.

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    The visa (or tourist card) is not included, it can be obtained from your airline, local embassy, or third party seller.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    The guesthouses we stay in are all professionally run, and have been vetted for cleanliness and standard level comfort. They are all air-conditioned or sufficiently cooled, and nearly all have an en-suite bathroom. They are more like a bed & breakfast and less like a homestay and are all unique. We encourage you to interact with the families and staff, but it is not necessary.

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Airport arrival transfer is included, as long as we have arranged your first night stay. Otherwise the transfer is included from your pre-tour accommodations to your first night casa.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    At a minimum all guides speak English and Spanish

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    You must be able to carry your own luggage up stairs, so we suggest packing lightly.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, children 18 and under are welcome accompanied by an adult

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Cuba is a tipping country. You can budget $2-5/day for the tour leader, $1-3/day for the driver, $1-5 for a local guide, $1 for musicians in restaurants or on the streets, $.25 for bathroom attendants

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    You will receive the name and address of your Havana casa 10 days in advance. Your accommodations in the rest of the provinces are assigned upon arrival.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No flights are included

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes, all of our transportation is air conditioned

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    Most accommodation do not offer free wi-fi, although increasingly they do have a connection. You must buy a wi-fi card to connect, it is around US$1

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Cuba requires citizens from most countries to have a visa (tourist card)

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

    This tour is designed for the traveller that wants the freedom to do what they want while in Cuba. The only thing you need to do is make sure you are ready for the bus to the next destination, aside from that you have complete freedom in each destination. The guide gives a walking orientation tour, suggestions for restaurants and activities, and then you're off on your adventure.

  • What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

    The tour will be cancelled and booked travellers will be given a full refund

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    Travellers from all countries are welcome on this tour.

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    Yes, we require proof of vaccination or a signed medical waiver.

  • What currencies are required for this tour?

    We suggest you bring spending money in USD & Euros

  • What is the maximum group size?

    16 travellers

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Solo travellers are invited to share a room with a same sex traveller on the tour. If you prefer a single room, you can pay the single supplement of US$436

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    There is a lot of walking on this tour, so travellers should feel comfortable with that.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, we can normally arrange for you to meet up with the group. Transportation at traveller's own expense.

  • How long is a Cuba visa / tourist card valid for after entry to Cuba?

    The standard Tourist Card is valid for 90 days. However, this can be extended once when you are in the country upon payment of a small fee – our local team can help you. This means you can stay for up to 180 days maximum on a single visit.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    We can often change the dates with no penalty if it's far enough in advance. Otherwise, our cancellation policy will apply.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes, there are strict health and safety guidelines that all casas particulares must adhere to.

  • What currencies 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 (CUP, also known as ‘Moneda Nacional’). However, it is not necessary to exchange money to local currency, USD and Euro cash are widely accepted. We do not recommend exchanging money at official institutions, the rates are very unfavourable. Ask your guesthouse staff or guide for help exchanging to CUP. Travellers must bring USD or EUR cash sufficient for the length of their stay in Cuba. Bank cards cannot be relied on to work in Cuba and US affiliated cards will not work at all in Cuba. Card payments are usually only accepted at government run institutions and hotels, the majority of restaurants, galleries, and privately owned shops are cash only.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We adhere to all local protocol and best practices, including social distancing, sanitizing, and mask wearing. Travellers must be fully vaccinated.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    When you are confirmed on the tour you will receive the Essential Trip Notes with information to help you prepare for your tour and maps of each of the destinations. Then 10-days before the tour you'll receive a pre-departure message with the tour leader's name, arrival instructions, and the name and phone number of the casa where you'll be staying in Havana.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have proudly been in operation since 2005

  • I am a US citizen. Can Americans go on these tours?

    Yes, Americans can join all our tours legally. Our Ultimate Cuba tours (coded SCP) are designed with a full itinerary to satisfy USA requirements. Other tours are fine as well, but since there is a lot of free time they require the traveller to select activities appropriate under Support for the Cuban People, such as visiting private business or interacting with locals. US travellers on any tour must maintain a daily record to show that they are complying with Support for the Cuban People and keep it for 5 years.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Solo travellers are not required to pay single supplement if they are willing to share with someone of the same gender.

  • Are Cuban Adventures tours legal for Americans?

    Yes. Our programs comply with ongoing US travel restrictions and are legal for US and non-US citizens alike. It is not necessary to apply to ‘OFAC’ for special permission to visit Cuba, We will provide you with an affidavit to sign that will serve as proof of your legal travel. When reserving airfare, the airlines will require you to confirm that you are travelling to Cuba under one of 12 permitted categories of travel. For general purpose visits, select ‘SUPPORT THE CUBAN PEOPLE’, this is a travel category our programs comply with.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Like-minded individuals of all ages who are interested in a cultural adventure and getting to know the real Cuba

  • Do I need a visa for Cuba?

    Citizens of most countries will need to get a visa (also known as a Tourist Card) to enter Cuba. When flying from a country in the Americas to Cuba, you can purchase these tourist cards at the departure airport. Flying from Europe you can request the tourist card from the consulate or buy in advance online from companies such as https://www.easytouristcard.com?aff=43 A pink coloured ‘Tourist Card’ is required for any nationality 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. NOTE: From 1 January 2025 the Tourist Card will be replaced by an eVisa which will be obtainable in the same way as above.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Sydni  

Cuban Adventures

19-Oct-2024

Alejandro was an amazing tour guide! He was very informative and patient with the entire group. He was flexible in allowing time for everyone to do the things they wanted to, in addition to staying on time. He’s by far the best tour guide I’ve had. I can’t wait to share my experiences with my client. Thank you Cuban Adventurers!

Alison  

Western Cuba Tour

28-Oct-2024

Cuban Adventures handled everything so well. I never felt unsafe or worried. The main issue with the outage was we didn't have easy access to WiFi so our families were worried until we were able to get it. I can't stress enough how incredible the trip was. Our guide (Yu Yu) and driver (Yoelle) were delightful, the locations and restaurants were so amazing and the owners of the guests houses were lovely. I adored Cuba, even with the challenges, it was incredible. I am going to go back in a couple of years with my daughter so she can experience it. I have some recommendations if you are interested. • Bring a water bottle with a filter. The water is ok for brushing your teeth and showering, etc. We also drank the ice and did not have an issue. • Bring a flashlight. Even with the grid repaired there are rolling blackouts. It is what it is. Bring a flashlight or a headlamp. • Bring a lightweight rain jacket. I live in Portland and never use an umbrella. They're annoying to hold and in places like Havana, where it is crowded, they get in the way. I can send some recommendations if you like. • If you check a bag, it will take about 30 min for you to get it when you land. Everything is on Cuba time, so if you're an uptight former NYC'er like me, you have to take a deep breath and get comfortable with waiting. • Bring hot sauce • Bring gifts! Of course it isn't mandatory but if you have an ounce of empathy you will want to bring supplies to the Cuban people. My friend and I "travel light", we had a backpack and a duffle bag. Even so, you can bring so many things that are needed. Toothbrushes, tooth paste, packages of tissues, OTC medication, really anything that you take for granted is something they need. I also left things behind that I wasn't going to use again, like a pair of sandals and a shirt I have bought just for the trip. You will be surprised by how little people have, especially when you are out of the cities. Anything you can think of, they can use. • Lastly, being a good attitude. For any issue that annoys you, the Cuban citizens have to deal with every single day. Lack of fuel, rolling black outs, trash collection, amenities that we are used to in the US and other countries. Whatever annoyance you encounter most likely can't be solved by your guide so it isn't worth complaining. Accept it and work around it. The people make the country and the locations, the vibe, the food, all of it is worth any aggravation you may have. Have an awesome time! It will be a trip you remember for the rest of your life :)

Dagzaira Gomez  

Cuban Adventures

10-Aug-2024

Best trip I’ve ever taken. I would recommend this tour to anyone. They are attentive, friendly and knowledgeable. If your going to Cuba Cuban adventures is definitely the way to go. Cuban Adventures

Quenna  

Cuban Adventures

13-Jul-2024

Cuban Adventures worked with us to create a custom tour, and we could not have been more pleased with the results, and of course, with our amazing tour guide Lazaro!

Migueel  

Cuban Adventures

15-Oct-2024

This was an excellent trip. Not only was it educational but it was fun !! Please do yourself a favor and book a Cuban Adventure.

Melva  

Cuban Adventures

09-Sep-2024

From day one to the end excellent service, always available to answer our questions and every experience as described. We were able to visit our family as well as engage in cultural activities with the locals. Would defined consider returning!!

Jeremy   United States

Western Cuba Tour

11-Feb-2024

Cuba Adventures made our trip a great success! We were worried about all the rules for US travelers, but they made it easy to understand, and the tour included all the authentic experiences we wanted. Highly recommended!

hudsoncrider  

Cuban Adventures

13-Jul-2024

Jul 2024 • Couples Our trip with Cuban Adventures was a very enriching travel experience! From the moment we began our trip, we felt safe and excited to experience Cuba with a trusted company. Cuban Adventures took care of every detail, from organizing our itinerary to providing us with knowledgeable local guides who enriched our understanding of Cuba's culture and history. What stood out the most was how Cuban Adventures supports local communities. By staying in casas particulares, dining in private restaurants, and hiring local guides, Cuban Adventures helps contribute directly to the local economy. We were constantly amazed by the kindness and resilience of the Cubans we met. We highly recommend Cuban Adventures to anyone seeking an authentic and meaningful experience in Cuba. They make sure your journey is not only unforgettable, fun, and safe - but also that it supports the local communities you visit.

Olivia  

Western Cuba Tour

14-Mar-2024

The tour was great! It was very informative and eye opening to the daily struggles of the Cuban people. We visited beautiful sites with historical value and learned so much about their culture. Yasiel, our guide, is amazing and helped in every way to make this tour enjoyable.

Joseph Alonso  

Cuban Adventures

08-Apr-2024

Our trip with Cuban Adventures was the best my family has ever taken. It provided an authentic, exciting and educational experience that we will never forget. Their website clearly explains how to legally travel to Cuba, what documents and procedures are needed, and the reservation process was clear and easy. We experienced historical, artistic, cultural, culinary, business and local sites in Havana and the gorgeous Vinales valley, mountains and caves. Every meal was delicious, including a variety of music, dance, art and a farm-to-table lunch. Our tour guide was experienced, fun, and knowledgeable and kept us, including our 16, 12 and 9 year old daughters, engaged the entire time. The guest house and transportation were safe, comfortable and professional; We highly recommend Cuban Adventures. Joseph and Alisa, Atlanta, USA.

Read all 27 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Cuban Adventures 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.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Cuban Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform cuban adventures, 15 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Cuban Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 100 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cuban adventures charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.