Cuba by Bike
Cuba by Bike
Cuba by Bike
12 Days Starting in Havana and ending in
Visiting: Cuba
Tour Overview
Cuba is a Caribbean gem that is ideally suited to cycle touring and our local guides lose little time in introducing us to their favourite haunts and hideaways in a country with such contrast. After exploring the cobbled squares and narrow alleyways of the music filled capital Havana, we set off to explore the lesser known regions of Cuba at handlebar level. We pedal into the rural heartland, averaging 20 to 50 km each day through an ever changing landscape. From misty valleys to open woodland, to the caves and crags that characterise the Vinales Valley and the equally impressive coastline, Cuba has it all. Our final days are spent in the beautifully preserved town of Trinidad, with its colonial Spanish architecture together with excellent walking in the rugged Topes de Collantes forest region. As a fine finale we return to Havana via Santa Clara, the city that is forever associated with the name Che Guevara.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Havana
Upon arrival into José Marti International Airport in Havana please make your way through customs and to the baggage claim area. Make your way out of the airport and take a taxi to the group hotel (approx US$35). You may also elect to have a prearranged transfer that can be organized with us before departure. As travellers will be arriving at different times, you should simply check in at the group hotel. Overnight: Overnight: Ambos Mundos or Similar
Day 2 : Havana City Tour By Bike
After the bike fitting we set off on a panoramic sightseeing of the City (approx 30km cycling) covering the following areas; Miramar, Parque Metropolitano de la Habana, Nuevo Vedado, stop at the Revolution Square. Continue through Vedado passing by the Hotel Nacional de Cuba down to the Capitolio via Centro Habana. Stop at the Capitolio building, continue biking down Prado promenade, near the former Presidencial Palace, then on to the train station, the remains of the wall and to the Arms square. From here we continue on foot visiting the four most important colonial squares in Old Havana and have lunch in the area.
In the early evening we meet up for dinner at the Restaurant Meson de la Flota.
Overnight: Ambos Mundos or similar
Cycle: approx 22km. Ascent +149m / Descent -156m. 100% Paved
Day 3 : Cycle To Pinar Del Rio And Las Terrazas
After breakfast we’ll transfer by bus to collect the bicycles. After some minor adjustments we’ll commence cycling west out of Havana, along the coastal highway to Mariel (40km), a town founded in 1762 that is today a major industrial town and port with the largest cement factory in Cuba. We travel inland to the Sierra del Rosario Mountains where Royal Palms sprout abundantly among the tobacco and sugarcane filled valleys. Few Cubans own or drive a car making the roads ideal for quiet cycle touring. After lunch at La Fonda de Mercedes we continue to Pinar del Rio, the capital of the province- a bustling town with many historical buildings.
Overnight: Villa Aguas Claras (or similar) – a quiet resort about 20kms from the Viñales valley.
Cycle: approx 39km. Ascent +445m / Descent -280m. 100% Paved
Day 4 : Cycling In The Viñales Valley
Depart for the Viñales Valley (18 km) in the Sierra de los Organos- one of the prettiest natural areas in Cuba and the country’s oldest geological formation. The mogotes, (eroded limestone mountains) are the main attraction and date back 160 million years. Throughout the Viñales valley there are small villages, mostly self-sufficient farming communities and traders, plus a vast cave network. Exploring this friendly and somewhat sleepy area by bike is ideal, giving us plenty of time to witness the farming techniques and to enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people, as well as exploring caves and the generally beautiful scenes at a leisurely pace. The cycling is moderately graded with some small hills. After a traditional lunch at Palenque de los Cimarrones Restaurant we’ll continue on to our evening accommodation.
Overnight: Casa Particulares Viñales.
Cycle: approx 26km. Ascent +276m / Descent -276m. 100% Paved
Day 5 : Boat To Cayo Levisa
This morning we travel by bus to Palma Rubia before taking the 10am boat to Cayo Levisa (50mins). The island of Cayo Levisa is a small coral key off the north side of Pinar del Río and is part of the Archipiélago de los Colorados in the Gulf of Mexico. It is best known for its white coral beaches, thick mangroves, abundant seabirds and seas rich in red snapper, sea bass, lobster and marlin. Here the group has an opportunity to swim, snorkel, play beach volleyball and enjoy other beach related activities. Lunch at Villa Cayo Levisa. We return to the mainland in the late afternoon (approx 5.30pm) and have dinner at a local Paladar.
Overnight: Casa Particulares or similar.
Day 6 : In The Viñales Valley, Continue To Soroa
After an early breakfast we’ll cycle 18 kms to the impressive Santo Tomas Cave after which we’ll head to the historic village of El Moncada were the first revolutionary militia was formed in honour of the local hero Leandro Malagones. Viñales town, a village of 4000 inhabitants that was founded in 1607 will be next on the agenda, before lunch at Mural de la Prehistoria Restaurant (or similar). After lunch we will continue by bus to Soroa.
Overnight: Hotel La Moka or Soroa (or similar).
Cycle: approx 21km. Ascent +229m / Descent -248m. 100% Paved
Day 7 : Cycle In Soroa, To Playa Larga
Morning cycling in & around Soroa - the closest mountain resort area to the capital, known as the rainbow of Cuba. Here we will visit the Salto de Soroa, a waterfall in the Arroyo Manantiales, where it is novel to swim at the foot of the falls. Horseback riding along forest trails is another option. We take a packed lunch for our long transfer (4 hours approx) to Playa Larga, where we’ll stay the night. Playa Larga is on the Bay of Pigs, scene to the 1961 CIA backed invasion of Cuba. The hotel is set on the beach in a small rural village so expect basic accommodation in a wonderful setting. This evening we’ll enjoy a seafood dinner in a local Paladar.
Overnight: Casa Particulares in Playa Larga.
Cycle: approx 18km. Ascent +343m / Descent -306m. 100% Paved.
Day 8 : To Cienfuegos, Bay Of Pigs. Cycle To Caleta Buena
This morning we set off by bike from our hotel and enjoy and easy ride along the Bay of Pigs coastal road, the Caribbean sea glistening to the right and very little traffic. We reach Playa Giron and there’s the chance to visit the small museum dedicated to the Bay of Pigs Invasion in April 1961. From there it’s a short ride to our lunch stop. We’ll enjoy lunch at Caleta Buena, a huge flooded tectonic fault, or cenote, where you can swim in crystal waters. Buffet style lunch is served here and you can also rent snorkeling equipment and pedalos. Continue to Cienfuegos to discover the charm of the old city with its grand structures surrounding the central square. We’ll spend the night in Cienfuegos and enjoy dinner in our hotel tonight. Overnight: Jagua or Melia San Carlos Hotel or similar in Cienfuegos.
Note: There is such high demand for travel to Cuba that hotel rooms are selling out months in advance. In some instances it may be necessary to use a Casa Particular (Homestay).
Cycle: approx 46km. Ascent +119m / Descent -119m. 93% Paved
Day 9 : Cienfuegos To Trinidad
Setting off from Cienfuegos we cycle past mango groves and then through pasture land along the nippy hills towards the Escambray mountains. The first part of today’s ride is challenging but you’re rewarded with spectacular view all the way. After 50km ( and plenty of undulations! ) we stop for a country lunch in Hacienda La Vega. From here it’s about a 20-minute drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trinidad. Facing the Caribbean Sea, Trinidad is a metropolis of beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Much of the city’s fortune came about through the sugar boom that saw great wealth translate into elegant mansions, which till this day form the nucleus of the city. Trinidad is best explored on foot, along cobble stone streets that wind to open market places where old churches contrast with the culture of outdoor café entertainment. Like Havana, Trinidad is a great place to listen to some of the live music for which Cuba is world renowned. Another appealing feature is the artistic flare of the town, and as you wander you’ll see merchants crafting their wares such as weaving, pottery, musical instruments, flower decorations, painting and the like. After check in to our casas, we’ll have an orientation tour to explore this wonderful city. Here we will spend two nights.
Overnight: Casas Particulares in Trinidad.
Cycle: approx 50km. Ascent +476m / Descent -351m. 95% Paved
Day Trip To Topes De Collantes
After an early start we drive up the steep windy hillsides to Topes de Collantes (850m) in the Guamuhaya Mountain Massif. Depending on conditions, we’ll take a 4WD to our trek start point ( Guanayara ) and undertake a 2-3 hour walk in the morning. Our walk through beautiful forest encounters waterfalls, birds, Butterfly Lilies, Royal Palms & Giant Reeds that are over 100 years old. A further highlight of the walk is the visit to isolated rural communities. The final stage of the walk winds up to Rocio Falls and the Venado (deer) pool, where the brave can take a dip in the fresh springs. Lunch will be at the La Gallega Restaurant that specializes in Creole food. We return to our vehicle and descend the steep mountainsides back to Trinidad and our hotel. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Casas Particulares in Trinidad.
Day 11 : Trinidad – Santa Clara – Havana
After breakfast we set off early and drive to Santa Clara, a city founded in 1689 by settlers who fled the coast fearing the ongoing pirate insurgencies. Today Santa Clara is an important university town but best known for the historic events that surround the great revolutionist Che Guevara. Che led the rebels in the battle of Santa Clara, a decisive victory over Batista’s army that resulted in the triumph of the revolution. In the centre of town, the statue of Che Guevara stands in front of the provincial PCC, the Communist Party of Cuba building. After lunch we return to Havana and enjoy a farewell dinner at the Bodeguita del Medio.
Overnight: Ambos Mundos or similar.
Day 12 : Trip Concludes In Havana
Tour ends after breakfast. Make your way to the airport for departure or remain in Cuba.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
7 nights hotels -
11 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 11 dinners
-
Bike hire
-
Support vehicle while cycling on all roads
-
Private vehicles throughout
-
Comfortable hotel or casas particulares accommodation
-
Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary
-
Arrival and departure airport transfers
-
Tips for tour staff
-
Cycling gear (helmets are mandatory)
-
Most beverages
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc.
Accommodation
6 nights hotels
Guaranteed hotel reservations are the biggest issue at the moment and it’s wise to expect your accommodation to change at the last minute as the rickety reservations system buckles under the sheer weight of numbers wanting to stay in Cuba.
Note: There is such high demand for travel to Cuba that hotel rooms are selling out months in advance. For this reason, it is necessary to use Casas Particulares (homestays) in some areas.
During the trip you will be accommodated in Casas Particulares or comfortable hotels/cabins, however please expect the hotel standard to be different from your home country.
Grading
The Cuba by Bike trip is graded introductory to moderate as the cycling days will certainly be quite demanding.
*Suggested preparation: Two to three months prior to departure you should spend thirty minutes to one hour exercising, three or five times per week eg. Hard walking, jogging or cycling. To prepare for a walking holiday we recommend you take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs and/or hills, for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Please remember the fitter you are the more you will enjoy your holiday.
Check out our Q&As
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
-
What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
-
What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
-
Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
-
Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
-
Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Saturday
Nov 05, 2024 - Nov 16, 2024Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 03, 2024 - Dec 14, 2024Wednesday - Sunday
Feb 05, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025Wednesday - Sunday
Mar 12, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025Wednesday - Sunday
Nov 05, 2025 - Nov 16, 2025Wednesday - Sunday
Dec 03, 2025 - Dec 14, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.