¡Bienvenidos a la Habana! Cuba’s cosmopolitan capital, Havana is a colourful distillation of Cuba’s complex blend of cultures, with an enigmatic timelessness that makes this island paradise a bucket-list stop for travellers the world over.
On arrival at Jose Marti International Airport (HAV), you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, the rest of the day is at your leisure.
Tonight, meet the rest of the group and enjoy a delicious Cuban feast at a local restaurant.
After breakfast, you'll head out to discover Old Havana by foot, visiting Plaza San Francisco de Asis and Plaza de la Cathedral, along with many of the city’s other historical squares. Marvel at the magnificent Gran Teatro de La Habana – a Neo-Baroque masterpiece renowned for artistic heritage and intricate marble sculptures.
This afternoon, indulge in a fragrant Cuban cooking class and whip up a plate of delicious tostones rellenos (stuffed plantain) and hearty ropa vieja (shredded beef). While you simmer and season your moreish lunch, learn how to prepare beloved Cuban cocktails from the sweet and sour daiquiri to the refreshing mojito.
Later, join a classic Havana experience with a panoramic tour through the streets in an vintage American car. Pass through Havana’s most cherished sites, such as Revolution Square, the Colon Cemetery – one of the most historically important cemeteries in the world – and cruise along Paseo del Prado, taking in the beautiful old mansions of the Vedado. End your tour at the famed Hotel Nacional de Cuba, where you'll visit the 'Hall of Fame' to see the who’s who of past guests. Keep your eyes peeled for the proud peacock roaming its sprawling gardens.
After breakfast, depart for the breathtaking Vinales Valley, located in the western province of Pinar del Rio. Visit the Francisco Donatien Cigar Factory to see firsthand how Habano cigars are made through the age-old methods of hand-rolling, then continue to a local tobacco farm to unravel the fascinating story of this plant's cultivation and harvest procedures.
Sit down for a ‘crop-to-table’ lunch at a local Vinales eco-farm, then travel onward to the resplendent Mural de la Prehistoria, painted onto the exposed rock of Mogote Pita hill.
Take a guided tour of the town followed by a drink in one of the bars with a local Cuban entrepreneur – a fantastic opportunity to uncover the impact tourism has had on the economic development of this countryside town.
Later, return to Havana for an evening at leisure.
This morning, depart for Trinidad by way of the Peninsula de Zapata neighbour to the Bay of Pigs, where the landing of the counter-revolutionary exile army occurred in 1961. Named for the wild pigs that once inhabited the area, you will travel through the densely vegetated swamplands along the beautiful bay, stopping at the small beaches and natural sinkholes, known as cenotes, that line the route. Spend the rest of the morning snorkelling the stunning Caribbean coast, spotting vibrant marine life through crystalline waters.
Afterwards, visit the Bay of Pigs' Battle Museum at Playa Giron, recounting the events of the conflict that resulted in the first defeat of a US-backed force in Latin America. Contemplate the fighter jets and tanks sitting outside the entrance, then step inside to view exhibits dedicated to the events surrounding the invasion.
Later, transfer to Trinidad to check in at your next hotel, full of colourful Cuban heritage.
This morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Cienfuegos. Founded in 1819 by French colonists, it boasts a beautiful setting on a sweeping bay, anchored by two long pedestrian promenades with neoclassical architecture. A morning walking tour will lead you past Jose Marti Park and the Tomas Terry Theater, along San Fernando Boulevard and Santa Isabel Boulevard. Visit the Alameda (Central Park) and picturesque boardwalk running along Cienfuegos Bay.
Later, enjoy a panoramic drive past the historic buildings of Punta Gorda, then stop at local project Trazos Libres (Free Strokes). Here, learn of this community cultural project that supports and collaborates with local artists to ensure that Cuba’s artistic traditions continue through interactive installations reflecting Cuban culture.
Pay a visit to the jaw-dropping Palacio del Valle, an historic villa designed to look like a Moroccan kasbah, now an ornate restaurant. Toast to tropical paradise with a drink at the bar, then make your way to a local restaurant for a well-earned lunch. Return to Trinidad for an afternoon spent freely.
Gather your energy over breakfast, then set out to explore the city of Trinidad. Established by the Spaniards in 1514, Trinidad is a photogenic town of cobbled streets and colourful houses. Visit Santa Ana Church, the charming Plaza Mayor and the impressive 19th-century Cantero Palace, then stop for a drink at a local bar.
Continue to the Casa del Alfarero, a family-run workshop with a rich history of pottery dating back to the 19th century. Unearth the traditional work of the Santander family and admire the beautiful work to which they dedicate their efforts.
Later, learn to move like the locals with a traditional salsa class at Casa de la Trova – one of Trinidad’s favourite bars. The rest of the day is at your leisure to make your own discoveries.
Tonight, enjoy dinner served at one of the best restaurants in town, then return to dance the night away with the locals over the Afro-Cuban rhythms at Casa de la Trova.
This morning, depart Trinidad and make your way to Sugar Mills Valley and Manaca Iznaga. In 1750, the estate's notable watchtower was erected to observe and control the enslaved people working in the sugar cane fields around the plantation. At seven stories high and 136 steps to the top, it’s worth the climb for the view of the valley. Refresh yourself with fresh sugar cane juice as you take a moment to reflect on the site’s troubling history.
Continue on your way to Santa Clara and visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum, honouring one of Cuba’s most notable revolutionary figures. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, follow your guide on a tour of Santa Clara’s most important sites, including the green heart of Vidal Park. Arrive later this afternoon in familiar Havana and spend your final evening celebrating as you please, whether dancing with the locals or reclining in lofty comfort at your hotel.
Savour one last Cuban breakfast, then take your private transfer to Havana Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in time for your departing flight.