Cuban Experience - Havana to the East and West
Cuban Experience - Havana to the East and West
$1958
Tour Overview
Our 20 day Complete Cuba tour is a combination of our 15 day Original Cuba tour package and our 6 day Western Cuba tour package. We think this is the best tour to travel the entire length of the island to experience Cuba's fascinating diversity. It takes you to many of Cuba's natural and historic highlights, however the emphasis of the tour is on contact with the Cuban people and their culture. We also give you plenty of time to do your own adventuring in Cuba. Nevertheless, your local tour guide is available everyday to recommend places to explore and to help you arrange excursions and day trips. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Havana Arrival
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
You are free to arrive in Havana at whatever time you can today. We have set aside this first day for this purpose, so you won't miss out on anything, even if you arrive late in the evening. Your included airport arrival transfer will be provided. This will be either a government taxi or a private car, and will take you directly from the Havana airport to your guesthouse for the first night in Havana.
Your tour guide will leave a note for you in the guesthouse with some information for you to get settled and details of any tour group meeting times. The first of these will be a get together for dinner on the first night for those tour group members that have arrived in time.
If you do happen to arrive earlier in the day, you may have time to go and explore some of Havana. At some stage during the tour, your tour guide will include a walking tour of Old Havana. After confirming your tour booking with us, we will also send you a set of maps for each city you will visit in Cuba. This is like a mini guide book that we update every year - so it is usually more up-to-date than a typical guide book. We do recommend the guide books for Cuba however, especially for the background historical and cultural information sections.
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Day 2 : Santa Clara
Location: Santa Clara
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
We begin our day with a 2-hour walking tour through Old Havana’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed squares, the heart of the city since 1519. You will see beautiful examples of baroque, neoclassical, and eclectic architecture exploring iconic squares like Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, and Plaza de la Catedral, home to the breathtaking Catedral de San Cristóbal. Each square tells a story of Havana’s rich history and cultural evolution.
Afterwards, we embark on a 3-hour journey to Santa Clara, a city deeply rooted in Cuba’s revolutionary history. Upon arrival, visit the Che Guevara Monument, a striking memorial complex that houses the mausoleum of the iconic guerrilla leader and a museum dedicated to his life, ideals, and legacy. Nearby, explore the Tren Blindado (Armored Train) site, where Che’s forces famously derailed a Batista regime supply train in 1958—a decisive moment in the Cuban Revolution. Walk through the preserved train cars and relive this pivotal chapter in history.
End your day with a leisurely stroll through Santa Clara’s streets, soaking in the city’s unique blend of history and modern energy.
Day 3 - 4 : Segundo Frente Via Bayamo
Location: Segundo Frente
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 we have a 6-hour journey to Bayamo, the cradle of Cuba’s independence movement, where the nation’s history was shaped. This historic city is not only the birthplace of Cuba’s national anthem but also where the first version of the Cuban flag was created. Learn about Bayamo’s pivotal role in the fight for freedom, led by local hero Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, known as the "Father of the Homeland." In 1868, Céspedes made a bold and revolutionary move by freeing his slaves and initiating Cuba’s independence war, marking the beginning of the abolition of slavery and the struggle for independence from Spain.
After delving into Bayamo’s rich history, we continue 2-hours east, past Santiago de Cuba to the serene Mountains of Segundo Frente, where you’ll stay in a beautiful location surrounded by nature. This peaceful retreat offers the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 5 - 6 : Baracoa
Location: Baracoa
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
Our day trip to Baracoa, Cuba's oldest village founded in 1511, begins with a scenic 5-hour drive. We'll make a stop at the La M viewpoint for impressive panoramic views that include the notorious US leasehold Guantanamo Bay detention center. This location offers an interesting perspective on the region's history. Continuing our drive, we'll experience the winding road passing through the mountains. This drive provides beautiful views as we approach the coastal town of Baracoa.
Once in Baracoa, you'll see where the mountains meet the Caribbean Sea. This area is known for its natural beauty, local food, and traditions. We'll see El Yunque Mountain, a flat-topped landmark that offers challenging hikes and scenic views, and explore the local culture with a discussion about Hatuey and the area's Taíno heritage. We'll also enjoy Baracoa's local cuisine, including coconut dishes, fresh seafood, and the popular cucurucho dessert. You can take an optional visit to a local cocoa farm to learn how Cuban chocolate is made. Other optional activities include a boat trip on the Yumuri River through its canyon; exploring the natural beauty of Humboldt National Park with its diverse plant and animal life; or visiting the beaches, such as the white sand Playa Maguana or the black sands of Playa Duaba.
Day 7 - 8 : Santiago De Cuba
Location: Santiago de Cuba
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
Founded in 1515, Santiago de Cuba was the first capital of Cuba and played a crucial role in the island's development and still maintains a vibrant connection to its past. We'll start by exploring the city's key landmarks, including the Parque Céspedes, the central square that is a hub of activity, and the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a beautiful cathedral steeped in history. We'll also see the Casa de Diego Velázquez, one of the oldest colonial houses in Cuba, and now a museum offering a glimpse into the city's early life.
On the second day, we will visit the sacred Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, a beautiful yellow church perched in the hills near Santiago de Cuba. See the revered image of the Virgin, explore the Hall of Miracles, and learn about Cuban faith.
Optional but highly recommended is the city tour which includes the Castillo del Morro, a well-preserved fortress overlooking the bay. Here, you will learn about the city's strategic importance and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. A visit to the Moncada Barracks, now a school complex, provides a deep understanding of the Cuban Revolution's beginning. It allows us to reflect on the events that helped shape the island's path to independence.
You can also explore the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, the final resting place of many prominent Cuban figures, including Fidel Castro and national hero José Martí.
Day 9 - 10 : Camaguey
Location: Camaguey
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
Venture next to Camagüey, a city known for its artistic spirit and a deep-rooted Catholic heritage. Camagüey is west of Santiago, a fiercy proud city that was once home to wealthy Spanish families. This city is known for the purity of its Spanish language and the complexity of its winding streets. Visit art galleries, delve into the story of Cuba's ballet, and admire the beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Camagüey also has a history as a major agricultural region known for its extensive grasslands, cowboys, and cattle farms.
Day 11 - 12 : Trinidad
Location: Trinidad
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
This morning we will stop at the Pauyet Art Gallery, featuring an intriguing local artist who specializes in alpaca wool, creating unique pieces of art. After our visit, we will continue to Trinidad, where you can immerse yourself in the colonial beauty of this historic city, founded in 1514. Trinidad, with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture, offers a glimpse into its rich 400-year-old pottery tradition and its storied sugar mill past. Known as a living museum, you can use your free time to visit one of several sugar baron mansions that have been converted to museums that share the history of the city.
For those seeking adventure, there is an optional hike to the stunning Javira Waterfall, or relax at the pristine Playa Ancón. As evening falls, Trinidad comes alive with vibrant nightlife and salsa rhythms; the nightlife in Trinidad is probably the most accessible and intense in all of Cuba, with numerous live music venues and many dance performances every day of the week, all amongst the enchanting setting of old colonial buildings and the cobblestone streets.
Day 13 : Cienfuegos
Location: Cienfuegos
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
A short drive brings us to another coastal city, Cienfuegos, known as the "Pearl of the South”. Founded in 1819 by French settlers, Cienfuegos is celebrated for its neoclassical architecture and strategic importance as a port city, which contributed to its growth during the sugar industry boom of the 19th century. Key highlights include visits to Parque José Martí, the impressive Palacio de Valle, and the lively Bodega de la Plaza, all reflecting the city's cultural heritage. The tour also includes a serene visit to Guanaroca Lagoon, a natural paradise teeming with wildlife, including migratory flamingos. Here, guests can enjoy an optional guided boat tour through lush mangroves, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities while learning about the area's ecological significance.
Day 14 - 15 : 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
En route to Havana we stop on The Bay of Pigs (Playa Girón) which is renowned for the failed U.S. invasion in 1961, which sought to overthrow Fidel Castro's government. Today, it stands as a beautiful destination with clear waters and rich marine life. We stop at a museum where those who are interested can explore the historical context leading up to the invasion, including the political climate in Cuba during the early 1960s, the details of the invasion itself—its objectives, key figures involved, and subsequent consequences—and the cultural impact it had on U.S.-Cuba relations. Visitors can also enjoy a refreshing swim at nearby beaches like Playa Larga or Playa Girón, taking advantage of the blue waters and soft sands. Time permitting, you may have the opportunity to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life with a snorkeling or scuba session.
We arrive late in the afternoon of Day 13, so you have 3 nights and 2 whole days to experience the Caribbean's largest and most famous city in this middle part of the tour. Your tour guide will provide an introduction with the included walking tour of the Old town scheduled for the morning of Day 14. You always have the option to skip this and explore on your own. We also offer a range of other day tours in Havana that you can add to your package.
The Caribbean's largest and most exciting urban concentration, Havana is one of the oldest cities in the Western Hemisphere, and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982. Options are to take the included walking tour of the Old town with the guide or to find your own adventure.
This concludes the first section of your tour. On Day 15 you may lose some of your travelling companions and possibly welcome some others to the group who are only doing the last section of this tour. It's also possible that you will have a change of tour guide, however we do always try to schedule things so that the same guide takes you for the entire 20 days.
Day 16 : Soroa Via Jaimanitas Y 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
Heading west of Havana in private transport, we stop in a couple of Havana neighbourhoods to see some community art projects. The first one is an alley called the Callejon de Hammel. This is where local artist Salvador Gonzáles Escalona has done some colourful decorations of the street with a distinctive African flavour. In fact, many of the works are dedications to specific Afro-Cuban religious demi-gods.
Next we visit a neighbourhood on the outskirts of Havana called Jaimanitas. It is here that Jose Fuster has made a very impressive project called Fusterlandia in which works are made in mosaic ceramics. It extends from his own residence to surrounding houses and streets. Even the local medical clinic has been targeted by his creative efforts.
Next stop is a mountainous area called Las Terrazas. The town itself was built as part of an environmental project in the early days of the Revolution. You'll have time for a walk around the town and to meet some of the locals. Apart from its environmental characteristics, Las Terrazas is also known as for its art, and there are a few woodwork, painting 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 with about 200 different types of orchids, more than half of which are endemic to Cuba. Today there won’t be time for activities, but you may be able to do them tomorrow morning before departing to Viñales.
Day 17 : 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
Before reaching the town of Vinales we can stop at a lookout which has some great views of the Vinales valley. Parts of this stunning area are listed with UNESCO for the value of their rural scenery and heritage.
In the afternoon we have time to take you to the home of a local tobacco farmer, who will show you his life and how he rolls his own cigars.
Day 18 : 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 you have a full day with no included activities. This is you opportunity to do as you please, and there are plenty of options available that your guide can arrange for you. Our travelers in the past have highly recommended the walk through parts of the valley with a guide that is local to the Vinales area. There are also caving, horse riding, and biking excursions available.
Another option is to do some voluntary work on a local organic farm (and staying for dinner!), or heading to one of the beautiful beaches nearby - Cayo Levisa or Cayo Jutias.
There are a couple of hotels on the outskirts of the town with some swimming pools you can use for a small fee - a good option if you just want to relax and enjoy the views while drinking a cocktail or two.
The nightlife in Vinales is very friendly and active, and the locals are always enthusiastically involved. There is live music nightly and usually a dance performance or two. But the main emphasis is on participation and the locals are not shy in asking visitors to share a dance. In fact, many travelers will tell you that Vinales is one of the best places in Cuba to interact with the locals.
Day 19 : 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
We return to Havana to celebrate the last night of the tour, and for some, their last night in Cuba. With recent changes to the laws in Cuba, and legal opportunities for Cubans to open their own businesses, there are many more good options for restaurants, bars, and night spots. Your tour guide will no doubt suggest a few for a group celebration.
Day 20 : Departure Day
Location: Havana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is the departure day of the tour, and you are free to depart at anytime. Don't hesitate to ask your guide for help if you want to organise a few extra days in Havana at the end of your tour.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Guesthouses - air-conditioned rooms with ensuite bathroom. Twinshare.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport arrival transfer
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Fully Guided
Local Cuban tour guide throughout
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Meals
19 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
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Transport
Private air-conditioned land transport - mini-bus or taxi (depending on group size)
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Activities
Walking tour of Old Havana, Che Guevara Museum, Ballet School visit in Camaguey, Music & dance night in Santiago, Visit to community art projects of Callejon de Hammel and Fusterlandia, Visit to Tobacco Farmer's house.
What's Not Included
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Country Entry Visas
Visa and passport fees
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Drinks with Meals
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Tipping and Gratuities
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Airport Transfers at Destination
Airport departure transport
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Insurance
Travel Medical Insurance is required to participate on the tour)
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Meals
All meals except 19 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
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Optional
Optional Activities
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International Flights
Check out our Q&As
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Travellers from all countries are welcome on this tour.
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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
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Cuba requires citizens from most countries to have a visa (tourist card)
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What is the maximum group size?
16 travellers
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
Yes, we require proof of vaccination or a signed medical waiver.
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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.
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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
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
We will gladly arrange for pre- or post- tour accommodation.
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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
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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.
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What documentation will I receive?
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.
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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.
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Are flights included in this tour?
No flights are included
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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.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
We suggest you bring spending money in USD or Euros
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
At a minimum all guides speak English and Spanish
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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.
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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.
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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$602
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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.
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes, children 18 and under are welcome accompanied by an adult
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, all of our transportation is air conditioned
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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.
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How long is a Cuba visa / tourist card valid for after entry to Cuba?
The standard Tourist Card oe evisa 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have proudly been in operation since 2005
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Do I need a visa for Cuba?
Citizens of most countries will need to get a visa (formerly known as a Tourist Card) to enter Cuba. From 1 January 2025 the Tourist Card will be replaced by an eVisa Tourist Cards purchased before 1 January 2025 will be valid until 30 June 2025 When flying from a country in the Americas to Cuba, you can purchase the evisa at the departure airport or in advance on line at Easy Tourist Card When flying from other countries you can request the evisa from the Cuban consulate or buy in advance online from companies such as Easy Tourist Card
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Cuban Experience - Havana to the East and West
20 Days Starting and ending in Havana, Cuba
Visiting: Havana, Santa Clara, Segundo Frente, Baracoa, Santiago de Cuba, Camaguey, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, Soroa, Vinales ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CT
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 14
Age range:
1-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Gluten Free
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour