Buena Vista Cuba

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

17 Days

Cuba

Begin in Vibrant Havana

Start your journey in Havana, a city brimming with eclectic architecture, classic cars, and a vibrant cultural scene. Stroll through the historic plazas, savour a mojito in a lively café, and get your first taste of Cuba’s rich history and charm.

Explore the West: Viñales and Cienfuegos

Travel west to the lush Viñales Valley, where tobacco fields stretch beneath dramatic limestone cliffs. Continue to Cienfuegos, the “Pearl of the South,” known for its French-inspired architecture and picturesque bay.

Step Back in Time in Trinidad de Cuba

In Trinidad de Cuba, cobblestone streets and colourful colonial buildings transport you back in time. Visit local museums, explore the artisan markets, or take a trip to the nearby Valle de los Ingenios to discover Cuba’s sugar cane history.

Uncover Eastern Cuba’s Hidden Treasures

Venture further east to Camaguey, with its maze-like streets designed to confound pirates, and Bayamo, the birthplace of Cuba’s national anthem. In Santiago de Cuba, immerse yourself in Afro-Cuban culture, explore historic fortresses, and enjoy the vibrant music scene.

End in Tranquil Baracoa

Your journey concludes in Baracoa, Cuba’s oldest city and a hidden paradise. With its unspoiled beaches, lush mountains, and rivers, Baracoa offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Savour unique dishes featuring coconut, cacao, and fresh seafood—some of the island’s best cuisine.

Customise Your Journey with Contours Travel

Contours Travel offers the flexibility to tailor every aspect of your tour. Extend your stay, adjust your route, or upgrade your accommodations to suit your preferences and budget. Discover Cuba’s hidden gems and create memories that will last a lifetime.

HIGHLIGHTS

Get acquainted with Cuban life, politics, history and rhythm on an introductory walking tour.
Hop into a classic car and cruise the streets of Greater Havana – a must-have Cuban experience.
Slow down in bucolic Viñales Valley and enjoy the pace of rural Cuba.
Admire the Neo-Classical buildings surrounding Cienfuegos’ main plaza.
Step back in time in gorgeous Trinidad de Cuba.
Tour in a Cuban Bici-Taxi and see Camaguey’s labyrinthine streets.
Santiago de Cuba is the cultural capital of Cuba and boasts some of the island’s best live music venues.
Sleepy Baracoa is a tiny fishing village with a huge culinary presence – you’ll eat your best Cuban cuisine here!

ITINERARY

Day 1 Havana

Arrive at Havana airport and transfer to your accommodation in Old Havana.

Day 2 Havana

A morning walking tour of Old Havana, offers fascinating views of this city’s historical and cultural highlights. After lunch, tour modern Havana, including the impressive Revolution Square, by classic car. Continue along the famous Malecon.

Day 3 Havana

A day at leisure to relax and explore.

Day 4 Havana/Vinales Valley

This full-day tour includes a visit to a cigar factory to see the manufacturing process. Continue to Viñales with time to admire prehistoric mural before reaching Cueva del Indio and taking a boat ride along the underground river. Arrive at your homestay, where dinner is included.

Day 5 Vinales Valley

Explore the lovely Viñales Valley with your guide on today’s walking tour. You’ll cross the countryside, meet farmers from the region and learn about the local crops of tobacco, tropical fruits and maize.

Day 6 Vinales Valley/Cienfuegos

Transfer to the plaza for the bus service to Cienfuegos. Transfer to your accommodation on arrival.

Day 7 Cienfuegos/Trinidad de Cuba

A half-day tour of this architectural jewel, known as the ‘Pearl of the South’. After lunch you’ll travel to Trinidad.

Day 8 Trinidad de Cuba

Depart this morning for the lovely Valle de Ingenios (Sugar Mill Valley) and visit to the Manaca-Iznaga Plantation House and tower for stunning views. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant then return to Trinidad for a tour of the colonial centre.

Day 9 Trinidad de Cuba

A day at leisure to relax and explore. Ask us about optional excursions to Topes de Collante or historic Sancti Spiritus.

Day 10 Trinidad de Cuba/Camaguey

Transfer to the bus station for the service to Camaguey. Discover this beautiful city from a Cuban Bici Taxi – a man-powered tricycle in the afternoon. Sit back while your guide takes you on a tour of some of Camaguey’s most unique streets. Discover the architectural diversity of this UNESCO World Heritage city – neo-classical, eclectic, art deco, neo-colonial and art nouveau buildings combine to create one of the most picturesque cities in Cuba.

Day 11 Camaguey/Bayamo

Transfer to the bus station for the service to Bayamo. Transfer to your hotel on arrival.

Day 12 Bayamo/Santiago de Cuba

This morning, explore the city of Bayamo in a horse-drawn carriage, touring the most important streets and sights. Afterwards, transfer to the bus station for the service to Santiago de Cuba. Transfer to your hotel on arrival.

Day 13 Santiago de Cuba

A full-day tour of this sultry city includes the Moncada Barracks, Revolution Square,
the Caney Rum Bar, the colonial fortress of San Pedro de la Roca and the House
of Habanos. Lunch is included at Marina Marlin, overlooking the bay.

Day 14 Santiago de Cuba/Baracoa

Transfer to the bus station for the service to Baracoa. Enjoy an afternoon walking tour of this charming village. Admire the town’s iconic fortress, visible as you wander the quiet streets of the historic centre, and, on clear days, fantastic views of El Yunque.

Day 15 Baracoa

Follow the cocoa route to discover the secrets of processing this important plant. You’ll have the opportunity to learn step by-step how chocolate is obtained and marketed, including planting, harvesting, processing, storage and actual selling. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.