Experience Overview
This Premium adventure through Cuba takes you through colourful architecture, vast beaches and lush countryside. The colourful local history still dominates most aspects of daily life, and you’ll explore Havana in all its faded glory. See the beauty of rural Vinales, wander the cobblestoned streets of Trinidad and soak up the coastal vibe of Cienfuegos. Visit the home of a local family for dinner, learn some salsa moves and hop in a classic American car for a real Cuban experience.
Highlights
- Visit the home of a local family in Trinidad for an Exclusive Experience where you’ll enjoy a festive home-cooked dinner paired with the local drink, Canchanchara, made from 'fire water' (local honey and lime juice).
- Admire the colours of Soroa during an Exclusive Experience. Visit a vibrant orchid garden with a local expert and take a private tour to learn about the region’s diverse array of flora and fauna.
- Discover the cobblestone streets of Trinidad, learn some salsa steps in slow-paced Vinales, and take in the colours of Soroa – the valley known as the 'Rainbow of Cuba'.
- Explore Havana’s main sights during a tour in a classic American car – a nod to the city’s colourful vintage past.
- Your local leader will help you learn the story of the Cuban Revolution, as well as a visit to the memorials dedicated to revolutionary hero Ernesto Che Guevara in Santa Clara.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2467
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: QUPC
Starts: Havana, Cuba
Finishes: Havana , Cuba
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8), Lunch (3), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel (1 nights),Premium Guesthouse (4 nights),Feature Stay (3 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3416 (CAD 380 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cuba. Your Premium adventure begins in Havana, the country’s capital. You’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your Feature Stay hotel for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, there are plenty of excellent museums to check out, including the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. After your meeting, head to a local restaurant for dinner. Tonight, your leader will introduce you to some classic dishes such as picadillo (a beef and tomato stew) and ropa vieja (pulled beef with vegetables).
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Havana - Welcome Dinner
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Cigar Factory Tour (entrance fee and guide) (10 USD)
- Havana - National Museum of Fine Arts (entrance fee) (250 CUP)
Accommodation:
- Grand Aston (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day in style as you tour the city in a convoy of classic American vintage cars. Cruise down Havana’s grand old streets as your leader points out significant sights like the Malecon, Revolucion Square and Vedado. Finish your ride in Old Havana where you’ll continue your explorations on foot during a walking tour with your leader. Learn the history of the Havana cathedral and discover the city’s old-world charm when you stop by Plaza de Armas, San Francisco de Asis, Plaza Vieja and Central Park. You then have a free afternoon – maybe head to a rooftop bar for a cocktail or stroll around the colourful streets.
Included Activities:
- Havana - Revolution Square
- Havana - Leader-led walking tour of Old Havana
- Havana - American Vintage Car Tour (No guide and transport included)
- Havana – Granma Memorial (entrance fee)
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Museum of the Revolution (entrance fee) (8 EUR)
- Havana - Jose Marti Memorial tower entrance fee (200 CUP)
Accommodation:
- Grand Aston (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Before departing Havana, visit Deshidratados Havana – a local dehydrated fruit workshop founded during the pandemic to help with food scarcity. Learn about how the natural preserves are made without any sugar or preservatives, and try out some samples. Next, drive west to Soroa, where you’ll tour a beautiful orchid garden. Meet with a local guide for a private tour of the gardens and learn about the vibrant array of plant and bird species – it’s not hard to see why this valley is known as the rainbow of Cuba. Make a stop at the Castle in the Clouds, a mountain-top property with wonderful views, take some time out for lunch and then continue to Vinales, where tobacco and sugarcane fields lie side by side and limestone outcrops dot the landscape. Use this travel time to take part in an informal Spanish lesson so you can converse with the friendly locals throughout the rest of your trip. Check in to your guesthouses, then take a short orientation walk with your leader to get acquainted with the town.
Included Activities:
- Soroa – Orchid Garden Tour (entrance and guide fee)
- Vinales - Leader-led orientation walk
- Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
- Havana - Deshidratados Havana Visit
Optional Activities:
- Vinales - Live music venues (entrance fee) - Free
Accommodation:
- Premium Guesthouse or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin your day with a guided walk through the farmlands of Vinales, where your leader will talk to you about the geography that makes up the area’s spectacular scenery. Vinales is known for its tobacco farms which still use traditional growing methods – learn more about the longstanding tobacco industry and watch a farmer whip up a world class cigar in seconds. Take some time to find a local place for lunch, then regroup in the late afternoon for a salsa dancing lesson. Find your feet and learn a few steps while embracing the electrifying rhythm of Cuba. After working up an appetite, head to the top of the valley for dinner at an eco-farm. Here you’ll enjoy an exceptional farm-to-table meal made entirely from organic produce grown on site.
Included Activities:
- Vinales - Half-day Valley tour on foot including Tobacco Farmhouse
- Vinales - Salsa dance lesson (1 hour)
- Vinales - Farm-to-table dinner at an eco-friendly ranch
Accommodation:
- Premium Guesthouse or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Prepare for a long travel day as you make your way to Cienfuegos. Drive back through Havana before stopping in the Bay of Pigs for lunch. After lunch, you may like to take a dip in the crystal clear water, or unroll your beach towel and sit back as your leader shares stories of the botched USA Military counter-revolutionary invasion in the Bay of Pigs. Now a tranquil spot for relaxing, it’s hard to imagine the chaotic battle that took place here in 1961. Then it’s just a short drive to Cienfuegos, one of Cuba's prettiest coastal spots. Arrive in the early evening and join your leader on a short orientation walk before visiting the Palacio del Valle – Cienfuegos' architectural pride and joy.
Included Activities:
- Bay of Pigs - Coastal swim stop
- Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
- Cienfuegos - Palacio de Valle (from entrance fee)
Accommodation:
- Hotel Union or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a free morning in Cienfuegos – maybe stop by a local cafe for a cup of Cuban coffee. Then make the journey to Trinidad. When you arrive, your leader will introduce you to the town’s history and architecture during a walking tour. Take in Trinidad’s eye-catching combination of cobblestone streets, colourful houses and old-fashioned locals. It's a great town to explore on foot, and almost every scene offers great photo opportunities – from residents relaxing with huge cigars on their doorsteps to old Chevrolets cruising by. In the evening take a trip out of town to a local house for a homely and festive dinner. Be welcomed with the local drink, Canchanchara, made from 'fire water' (local honey and lime juice). There will even be a musician or two serenading you and your fellow travellers as you dine.
Included Activities:
- Trinidad - Leader-led orientation walk
- Trinidad - Dinner at a local farmhouse
Accommodation:
- Premium Guesthouse or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
The day is yours to explore all that Trinidad has to offer. For some beachside fun and maybe a little snorkelling, head down to Playa Ancon (just be careful you don't stand on a sea urchin!). The town is dotted with open-air venues where you can check out a folklore show that nods to Cuba’s rich and varied music and dance tradition. With roots in Spain, Africa and France the show displays Cuba’s history.
Optional Activities:
- Trinidad - Massage - from (24 EUR)
- Trinidad - Bicycle rental (full day) (5 EUR)
- Trinidad - Musical Instrument Lesson (guitar, double bass, tres, percussion) per hour (10 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Premium Guesthouse or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Head inland with a stop at the Valle De Los Ingenios Scenic Viewpoint, where you'll have a drink while soaking in the views of sugar cane plantations. Continue to the beautiful city of Santa Clara, where you’ll enjoy an included lunch followed by a visit to the Che Guevara mausoleum. Here, you’ll see the imposing statue of the iconic revolutionary leader. In the museum that accompanies the mausoleum, you'll find a spread of photos and other ephemera related to Che – letters, medical devices and firearms. Return to Havana and arrive at your hotel, one of the newest in Havana. Perhaps soak in the amazing views from the rooftop pool or indulge in a mojito at the bar.
Included Activities:
- Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
- Trinidad - Valle De Los Ingenios Scenic Viewpoint and Drink
Optional Activities:
- Havana - Buena Vista Social Club Performance (entrance fee & dinner) (35 USD)
Accommodation:
- Grand Aston (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Cuban adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. As there's a great deal to do in Havana, it’s recommended that you stay a few extra days to make the most of this exciting city. If you need help booking extra accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Marian - Traveled, April 2024
The Premium Cuba trip was a fascinating experience. Our guide, Emilio, was incredibly knowledgeable of all the history. He was enthusiastic, funny, organized, attentive, and everything you would want in a guide. I highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Angie - Traveled, March 2024
We took the premium Cuba trip with Barbara as our guide. Intrepid and Barbara did a great job. I wish I had been more prepared for the multiple power outages in the lodgings we had. It was way too hot to sleep at times or get comfortable. Pillows, towels and mattresses were terrible, but this would have been true with any tour company in Cuba. I do wish I had known how primitive the experience would be. Overall, I am glad I went, but I am definitely glad to be home.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/29/2024
Glenn - Traveled, March 2024
Absolutely amazing trip, local insight and Barbara our tour leaders perspective only added to the trip, and helped us catch a better glimpse of what Cuba is really like. Recommend this trip to anyone
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/15/2024
Randall - Traveled, February 2024
Recently booked an Intrepid tour to Cuba. Our guide Ivan was incredible. He has been in Cuba his whole life and is very passionate about his country. His local knowledge is so complete. He was able to answer questions we asked and always provided answers that helped us all understand Cuba. If I were booking again I would definitely request Ivan.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/26/2024
Anna - Traveled, April 2023
Absolutely fantastic trip thanks to Barbara’s energy, knowledge, insight, and patience. Salsa, sea, sun, fast&furious classic car drive, cigars, architecture, nature and history - delicious “ropa vieja”, fabulous rum and son. Thank you Barbara and Intrepid for a fun itinerary that gave us insight into a fascinating country and people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/29/2023
Jessica - Traveled, April 2023
Our trip was amazing! Our guide was wonderful! She was so lovely, caring, knowledgeable and eloquent! She pushed us to try everything Cuban, even if it was slightly out of our comfort zone! By the end she felt like a friend. It was so so lovely, I can’t wait to go back!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Glenys - Traveled, March 2023
Barbara, our tour leader, gave us a wonderful insight into life in Cuba. She shared her knowledge and passion for Cuba, providing us a really interesting insight into daily life, the diversity of the country and its complex history. The itinerary was great, loved Trinidad and Vinales, also all the included activities. Our driver was also outstanding.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2023
Christine - Traveled, March 2023
Adita our guide turned this excellent trip into an amazing one. She was an outstanding guide and we had a wonderful experience in Cuba. We learned so much about this impoverished country, the people deserve so much better, they were lovely. Havana lived up to expectations and the rest of tour was equally interesting and different.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Alissa - Traveled, February 2023
What a great trip! Cannot recommend it enough. Ada (Barbara) was a brilliant guide, her knowledge and enthusiasm to share her experiences really made this trip for me. Ada went above and beyond and really showcased what a diverse and interesting country Cuba is. We had a great group and the itinerary was just right. This should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2023
Beverley - Traveled, February 2023
Premium Cuba was more than I expected, saw so much in 8 days. I loved Vinales & Trinadad, warm Caribbean sea to swim in and the best tour guide I have ever had on a holiday. A wonderful experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/03/2023
Les - Traveled, February 2023
Premium Cuba was an excellent trip. It gave a great insight into life in Cuba. We got to meet and interact with the local people. Our guide, Adita was outstanding. Highly recommended
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/08/2023
John - Traveled, February 2023
Excellent, well organised experience with an insight into the Cuban lifestyle
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2023
Martin - Traveled, February 2023
Previously we have travelled on our own or with friends but our travel agent advised us to do Cuba as a small group tour. We selected Intrepid Travel and what an amazing experience this turned out to be. So well organised and our guide, travel arrangements accommodation, meals and activities were all fantastic, will definitely do it again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/21/2023
John - Traveled, February 2023
We were unsure of what to expect on our travels to Cuba, but after this trip I would recommend Trailfinders and Intrepid, excellent companies
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/23/2023
Cindy - Traveled, February 2023
This trip to Cuba was truly a cultural experience. So much to see, learn and do! I am confident when I share I am eternally grateful we did not do this activity outside of a group! Language and "Cuban time" - scheduling ... would have been a huge challenge! Although different, was very interesting and politically complicated, without Intrepid we would have had the experiences we did.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2023
Alison - Traveled, January 2023
A fantastic trip to a beautiful country with a fascinating history. Brilliant ubiquitous music, friendly people and a wide variety of experiences from the old city of Havana to the limestone rock formations of Viñuales and the cobbled streets and white beaches of Trinidad. I will always remember Cuba and Barbara, our expert and brilliant tour leader.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/05/2023
Anthony - Traveled, January 2023
Cuba is a special country to visit, very nice places to explore, different culture and cubans are very nice. Will probably visit again in the future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/28/2023
Denise - Traveled, December 2022
Fantastic trip! This was our third Intrepid tour and again the quality of tour leaders are second to none, we were pleased to be assigned Barbara following a read of previous reviews and she did not disappoint, knowledgeable, organised and nothing too much trouble, we came away wiser and richer in the understanding of the country and its politics both past and present- totally recommend this tour
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/14/2023
Andrea - Traveled, December 2023
Our Premium Cuba Trip in Dec 22 was brilliant and exceeded our expectations. Thanks to our tour leaders extensive knowledge and commitment to ensure we all got the best out of the trip and to make it such a memorable holiday. We can’t praise Barbara highly enough.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/12/2023
Jean - Traveled, March 2024
Our trip was fantastic? We got to experience different facets of Cuban history and culture in a very comfortable way. Our guide Barbara (Adita) was phenomenal. Her approachability, organization, knowledge and enthusiasm were more than I ever expected. I definitely recommend this tour or anyone who is interested in Cuba.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/16/2024
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