Value Cuba: Cuba at a glance
11 days from £1,450
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Transfer to your accommodation, a superior guesthouse in the historic centre.
Madero Bed and Breakfast is one of a new generation of small Cuban properties which are considerably more upmarket, contemporary and stylish than the traditional homestay.
This popular and well-regarded choice is in the heart of historic Havana, just a quick stroll from the city’s principal squares. The six guest rooms and one larger suite with a balcony are distributed over three floors, all tastefully furnished in modern muted colours and pale wood with up-to-date private bathrooms.
You are welcome to make use of a spacious living room and kitchen on the ground floor and there is a rooftop terrace with comfy armchairs. The property is also known as Hostal Madero, but it is certainly much better appointed than what we would normally expect from a hostel, with excellent service from helpful, mainly English-speaking staff.
Soak up the atmosphere on a guided walking tour through the cobbled streets of one of the world’s most vibrant capitals. The streets of La Habana Vieja were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, and the subsequent restoration of this part of town has transformed it into arguably Latin America’s finest colonial quarter, in marked contrast to the rambling, potholed streets and crumbling façades around it.
Stroll along the cobbles, between grand, pastel-hued mansions and bustling street life; music seeps out of every doorway and the narrow streets are clogged with gargantuan, crumbling 1950s American cars, which you will have the option of hopping into and cruising down the Malecón. You’ll have trouble keeping your camera by your side as iconic images flash before you round each and every corner.
Madero Bed and Breakfast is one of a new generation of small Cuban properties which are considerably more upmarket, contemporary and stylish than the traditional homestay.
This popular and well-regarded choice is in the heart of historic Havana, just a quick stroll from the city’s principal squares. The six guest rooms and one larger suite with a balcony are distributed over three floors, all tastefully furnished in modern muted colours and pale wood with up-to-date private bathrooms.
You are welcome to make use of a spacious living room and kitchen on the ground floor and there is a rooftop terrace with comfy armchairs. The property is also known as Hostal Madero, but it is certainly much better appointed than what we would normally expect from a hostel, with excellent service from helpful, mainly English-speaking staff.
Drive to the bus station for the tourist service to Viñales, a small town set in a stunning, Jurassic landscape of serene valleys and weirdly shaped rock monoliths. This sumptuous landscape makes a good base for horse-riding, mountain-biking or day walks. Overnight in a genuine Cuban home allowing you to experience a more authentic setting where the welcome is always warm and invariably there’s lobster on the menu! (Your popular host operates several properties along with members of his family, you’ll stay in one of them.).
The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.
But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.
The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.
There’s a guided tour by bike through this lovely countryside. Cycling really is the best pace at which to enjoy the tranquillity and beautiful scenery. Tobacco and other cash crops are cultivated in the rich soils of the valley floor and you’ll stop at a plantation to learn about the techniques involved in the production of the crop, most of which are traditional.
There’s a brief stop at El Palenque, a tourist spot and restaurant reached through a narrow cave which bisects one of the area’s limestone mogotes. At the end of the path there’s a re-construction of one of the nomadic homes set up by runaway slaves who lived and hid in the many subterranean caves and tunnels which are characteristic of limestone scenery and riddle the valley. You’ll take a boat trip down one of these rivers, which issues from a cave called the Cueva del Indio.
The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.
But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.
The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.
Transfer to Trinidad, a beautifully preserved colonial town with numerous eateries and live music venues set in some of Cuba’s loveliest scenery. Trinidad was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Its popularity has not affected its colonial charm and unhurried atmosphere.
Low-rise, brightly painted houses with vast shutters open out onto cobbled streets, palm trees dot the main plaza and evening entertainment continues into the early hours with dancing and music each night.
The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.
But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.
The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.
At leisure. You could use your leisure time to take part in an excursion to walk in the cool, lush forests of the lake-dotted Escambray mountains at Topes de Collantes in the hinterland of the city or head in the other direction to the beach at Ancón, which is only a short taxi ride away.
The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.
But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.
The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.
You’ll be driven out from Trinidad to the striking UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valle de los Ingenios. The sleepy valley was once one of the most prosperous areas on the island, having built its affluence from its many sugar plantations, worked by African slaves. Climb to the top of the Manaca-Iznaga tower and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Next, return to Trinidad for lunch at a local restaurant and then wander the picturesque streets of this surprisingly vibrant colonial treasure. You’ll pass the Plaza Mayor, visit Museo Romántico and sample a traditional cocktail in an authentic bar before heading to a beautiful ceramics workshop, La Casa del Alfarero.
The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.
But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.
The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.
Travel by car through the heart of the Cuba to your next accommodation, set on tightly forested coastal hills. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer, with tennis courts, a gym with sauna, spa, water sports, a huge open-air swimming pool with poolside grill. Entertainment is not lacking either, with concerts and other shows a regular feature. There are four restaurants and five bars to choose from.
This all-inclusive resort is located on Arroyo Bermejo Beach, with a backdrop of forested hills. It has 250 bright and airy guest rooms in 18 two-storey blocks, with either a balcony or terrace, one king-size bed or two single beds, air-conditioning, private bathroom and cable TV. It’s an adults-only place, but that doesn’t mean you are left to your own devices: there is a mind-bogglingly huge range of activities and entertainment from water-sports to salsa and Spanish classes, as well as yoga, piano bars, dance troupes, aqua-ballet and more.
There’s a huge outdoor pool with loungers, a fully equipped gym, tennis courts with tuition, golf, and table tennis. The four restaurants include a buffet, an à la carte restaurant and a beach grill, all very informal and if you are just after a drink you can choose between five bars. But this isn’t a huge hotel complex with tower blocks; the design is low-rise, and the staff are consistently praised for their welcome and willingness to help.
These days are left free for you to get the best out of your time – whether that’s time relaxing on the beach or enjoying the range of activities on offer.
This all-inclusive resort is located on Arroyo Bermejo Beach, with a backdrop of forested hills. It has 250 bright and airy guest rooms in 18 two-storey blocks, with either a balcony or terrace, one king-size bed or two single beds, air-conditioning, private bathroom and cable TV. It’s an adults-only place, but that doesn’t mean you are left to your own devices: there is a mind-bogglingly huge range of activities and entertainment from water-sports to salsa and Spanish classes, as well as yoga, piano bars, dance troupes, aqua-ballet and more.
There’s a huge outdoor pool with loungers, a fully equipped gym, tennis courts with tuition, golf, and table tennis. The four restaurants include a buffet, an à la carte restaurant and a beach grill, all very informal and if you are just after a drink you can choose between five bars. But this isn’t a huge hotel complex with tower blocks; the design is low-rise, and the staff are consistently praised for their welcome and willingness to help.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Cuba - Havana
Havana holidays showcase one of the world’s most captivating cities, where grand colonial squares, colourful classic cars and faded mansions create an unforgettable atmosphere. As Cuba’s cultural and historic heart, Havana blends architecture, music and everyday life in a way few destinations can match.
Cuba - Trinidad and the Escambray Mountains
Trinidad holidays offer a captivating mix of colonial history, music and natural beauty. Wander UNESCO-listed cobbled streets, soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere and explore the waterfalls, forests and jade-green pools of nearby Topes de Collantes.
Cuba - Viñales and the Sierra de los Organos
Viñales holidays reveal a slower, more rural side of Cuba, where tobacco plantations stretch beneath dramatic limestone mogotes and pine-covered hills. Explore the UNESCO-listed Viñales Valley, visit family-run tobacco farms and discover a landscape far removed from Havana’s bustle.
Cuba - Caribbean cayes and coast
Cuba’s Caribbean coast is renowned for its sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters and excellent opportunities for swimming and water sports. From secluded coves and coral cayes to the remote western and eastern tips of the island, this diverse coastline combines pristine beaches, colonial charm and some of Cuba’s most beautiful coastal scenery.
It doesn’t cost a fortune to experience the hospitality of the Cuban people, their extraordinary history, living culture, music and dance. We’ve devised a good-value holiday where you will explore old Havana’s evocative historic quarters, the fairyland valley landscapes of the fertile Viñales region and Trinidad’s elegant colonial streets.
Cuba’s unique Latin American beat sets it apart from all the other islands of the Caribbean. After these adventures, you’ll soak up the sun on the chalky white sand beach at the fully inclusive beach resort Memories Jibacoa. There’s plenty of time at leisure to choose optional excursions and activities when you are there, or just wander around according to your own whims. The tour uses coaches designed for tourists and the accommodation is in friendly guest houses and homestays.
Lina Fuller
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
4 road journeys (longest 6.5hrs).
- Accommodation
Accommodation on this trip is in simple but characterful guest houses and homestays. In Cuba standards of amenities and service can be erratic, but are constantly improving. You’ll find reasonably well-equipped rooms, private bathroom and air-conditioning and some local detail in the décor and furnishings.
- Meals
Breakfast daily. Lunch days 4 & 7. Full board days 8-10.
- Guides
We carefully select our local partners; their English-speaking guides understand the expectations of our clients very well, and are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return.
- Summary Of Nights
11 days, 10 nights: Havana 2; Viñales 2; Trinidad 3; Jibacoa 3.
- How To Take It
The unit of currency in Cuba is the Cuban peso.
- Currency
The Cuban National Peso (CUP) is the only official cash currency in Cuba, however many outlets will accept US dollars and some may also accept Euros. We recommend you bring your funds in US$ cash and exchange a small amount into CUPs when in Cuba. You can also exchange Euros but we don’t recommend Sterling. Your bank notes should not be damaged in any way. As a foreign tourist you should receive a considerably better exchange rate than the ‘official’ rate used for commercial transactions.
A limited number of ATM’s are available around Cuba, but queues can be large, charges can be high, and the official rate of exchange is given which makes them much less attractive.
Changing small amounts at a time into CUPs will help to avoid having leftover currency when you leave Cuba (it is not always easy to exchange CUPs back to other currencies). It is worth noting that CUPs are not accepted at Havana Airport.
Private hotels, bars and restaurants often accept payments directly in US$ cash. For these transactions, bring small denominations if possible, and note that coins will not be accepted. Change may sometimes be given in CUPs.
Euros may also be accepted, but locals often see them as interchangeable with US$, meaning you will pay the same amount in Euros that you would in US$.
You’ll generally need to use a credit/debit card to cover transactions in government shops and hotels, as well as car-rental extras such as petrol and local fees. However, some clients have issues using cards in Cuba so don’t rely on them as your only source of funding. Be sure to check with your bank that your cards are accepted in Cuba (cards linked to US banks are not accepted locally). At Cadeca exchange offices it is now possible to purchase a prepaid card (Tarjeta Clasica) which can be bought in cash with US Dollars/Euros. These can be used to obtain petrol. Clasica credit cannot be applied to any other purchases.
Using money changers in the street is not recommended as it is illegal and you are more likely to receive forgeries.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around £25 per day should cover the cost of meals not included in the holiday itinerary, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the best restaurants and you will pay considerably more.
- Tipping
Tips are expected and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
- Insurance
Travel insurance is essential. Cuban authorities require visitors to have travel insurance, and specifically for the medical and repatriation element of cover to be from an approved provider. For example, Journey Latin America’s recommended insurance company is Campbell Irvine, and their medical and repatriation cover is handled by International Medical Assistance, who are approved by Cuba. Please check with your insurance company that their provider is similarly approved.
Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.
- Airport TaxesIf you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
Departure tax from Cuba is now (as of May 2015) included in the price of your ticket.
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. A completed Cuban tourist card is essential for all UK citizens travelling to Cuba, we can organise this for you Clients with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the Cuban consulate.
- Trip Suitability
Generally this holiday is suitable for all able, reasonably fit visitors, including families.
Bear in mind that there are some walking tours on this trip, though nothing especially demanding.
This journey uses a combination of tourist bus services and private transport. Be aware that although there are timetables for buses in Cuba, there are often delays and occasionally cancellations – patience and a flexible attitude will be a virtue in these situations. - Climate
As Cuba lies in the Caribbean Sea, it has a tropical climate that is split into two seasons, one wet and one dry.
However, Cuba is generally hot throughout the year (18-32°C) with regular rainfall and high humidity. The rainy season runs from May to October and from July to September, humidity can be very high. The east of the island is hotter and more humid that the west. Hurricanes and tropical storms are possible from July to October.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
No special clothing or equipment is required although comfortable walking shoes or trainers, and sandals would be useful. Light, summer clothing will be adequate for these hot temperatures, and the dress code is very casual everywhere. Thin, long-sleeved garments may be useful for evenings, and a lightweight raincoat is the best protection against tropical downpours. We also recommend that you pack a torch as lighting can be poor at night.
Protection against the sun (sunblock, sun hat) and mosquito repellant are essential and you should bring swimwear. A daypack is useful for carrying sunblock, guidebook, water and any extra layers.
Helmets for the biking tour in Viñales can be hired from our partners in Havana, where they have to be returned at the end of the holiday.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following; typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. For specific requirements you must consult your GP.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- When is the best time to visit Cuba?
The high season for visitors is Dec – Apr when the weather is usually sunny, mostly dry and not too humid, though there can be cool days. Hurricane and tropical storms are possible Aug – Nov.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What's the official language of Cuba?
The official language of Cuba is Spanish.
- What is the official currency in Cuba?
The Cuban National Peso (CUP) is the only official cash currency in Cuba, however many outlets will accept US dollars and some may also accept Euros. We recommend you bring your funds in US$ cash and exchange a small amount into CUPs when in Cuba. You can also exchange Euros but we don’t recommend Sterling. Your bank notes should not be damaged in any way. As a foreign tourist you should receive a considerably better exchange rate than the ‘official’ rate used for commercial transactions.
A limited number of ATM’s are available around Cuba, but queues can be large, charges can be high, and the official rate of exchange is given which makes them much less attractive.
Changing small amounts at a time into CUPs will help to avoid having leftover currency when you leave Cuba (it is not always easy to exchange CUPs back to other currencies).
Private hotels, bars and restaurants often accept payments directly in US$ (or Euros) cash. For these transactions bring small denominations if possible, and note that coins will not be accepted. Change may sometimes be given in CUPs.
You’ll generally need to use a credit/debit card to cover transactions in government shops and hotels, as well as car-rental extras such as petrol and local fees. However, some clients have issues using cards in Cuba so don’t rely on them as your only source of funding. Be sure to check with your bank that your cards are accepted in Cuba (cards linked to US banks are not accepted locally). At Cadeca exchange offices it is now possible to purchase a prepaid card (Tarjeta Clasica) which can be bought in cash with US Dollars/Euros. These can be used to obtain petrol.
Using money changers in the street is not recommended as it is illegal and you are more likely to receive forgeries.
- What is the time difference between Cuba and UK?
Cuba operates daylight saving hours, so is generally 5 hours behind the UK year round, but as the dates of their time changes are slightly different, there are short periods around March and October/November when this will vary.
- Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. A completed Cuban tourist card is essential for all UK citizens travelling to Cuba, we will organise this for you. Clients with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the Cuban consulate.
APIS – Many countries now oblige airlines to provide additional information about passengers prior to the flight departure. This Advance Passenger Information (APIS) must be supplied to us promptly in order to issue tickets and avoid fare increases. We will provide the airlines with the relevant details if we are booking your international flights. If the information is not provided you may be denied boarding. - What vaccinations are recommended for visiting Cuba?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What places combine well with Cuba?
Mexico’s Yucatán is a great place to combine with Cuba. Flights from Cancún to Havana take approximately 1hr 15mins.
- What are the festivals and cultural events in Cuba?
There are carnivals throughout the country on different dates. Havana’s carnival moves around date-wise year upon year, but is always accompanied by parades, music, drumming and dancing. Santiago’s carnival in July is probably the biggest and the best.
International Jazz Festival takes place in Havana in December. This is one of the world’s best, and there are workshops and concerts to enjoy.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Take a bike tour around Viñales and the spectacular surrounding area, visiting a tobacco plantation and the eerie Cueva del Indio.
Explore the cobbled streets of colonial Trinidad. You might extend the trip with an optional tour of the old sugar mills in the surrounding Valle de los Ingenios.
Hike in the glorious, fertile landscapes around Trinidad to reach waterfalls cascading into jade pools.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
A unique way to get to know the real Cuba: stay in one of these atmospheric and often historic family homes, offering a similar type of accommodation to a Bed & Breakfast.
Madero Bed and Breakfast is a smart guesthouse in the historic centre of Havana.
Memories Jibacoa is a cheerful adult-only all-inclusive in a natural forest setting with a glorious beach and many activities and varieties of entertainment.
Papagaio
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