Beautiful Cuba

Intrepid Travel · 8 days
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
Beautiful Cuba
8 Days
From AUD $2385
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (20 reviews)

Beautiful Cuba

Beautiful Cuba

Intrepid Travel · 8 days
4.6
20 Reviews
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Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

From vintage cars to fragrant cigars, salsa your way from the colourful capital of Havana through the beautiful island of Cuba and surround yourself with history, music and mojitos in one of the world’s most unique places.

Highlights

  • Walk around Old Havana, which sheds lights on the difference between the lifestyle of city and rural life in Cuba.
  • Take in all the colours and aromas of Soroa, the stunning valley area known as the 'rainbow of Cuba' and immerse yourself in local culture.
  • Stroll along the rural dirt roads of Vinales as tractors, vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages pass you by.
  • Step back in time in Trinidad – a real Cuban treat. Explore its old-world streets, then hit some fine palm-flanked beaches for a bit of rest and relaxation.
  • Marvel at the unique architecture of Palacio del Valle in Cienfuegos and ask your local leader for all the best local (and secret) spots.

Trip Details

Duration

8 days

Transportation

Private vehicle

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Havana, Cuba

Finishes

Havana, Cuba

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Havana
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Cuba. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Havana. If you arrive early, the day is yours to explore. Consider a stroll through Old Havana to acquaint yourself with its colourful mix of 50s Americana, colonial architecture and budding modernity. There are plenty of good museums to check out, such as the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts). Perhaps line up with the locals for a taste of the legendary Coppelia ice cream, or wander along the Malecon, the sea wall that skirts the coastline.

Included Activities:

  • Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Optional Activities:

  • Havana - Camera Obscura by Leonardo da Vinci (entrance fee and guide included) (12 CUP)
  • Havana - National Museum of Fine Arts (entrance fee) (250 CUP)

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Soroa to Vinales
Spend the morning enjoying a short tour around Old Havana with your local guide. Founded in 1519 by the Spanish and designated a World Heritage Site in 1982, this well-preserved area within Cuba’s capital remains virtually unchanged which makes it one of the Caribbean’s most impressive historical cities. Wander through Havana’s oldest square, Plaza de Armas, stroll around the architecturally eclectic buildings that line the 16th century Plaza Veija, admire the basilica of San Francisco de Asis and visit the Cathedral with its elaborate baroque facade. After, drive to Soroa, a lush enclave nestled in a picturesque valley and aptly known as the ‘rainbow of Cuba’. Stop for lunch and tour a beautiful orchid garden where you’ll learn the medicinal secrets behind wild Cuban herbs, before continuing your journey to Vinales. Located in the province of Pinar del Rio – Vinales is a landscape of tobacco and agricultural fields dotted with limestone outcrops. The scenery here is some of the most picturesque in Cuba and there are many ways to take it all in, ask your leader about the optional activities available including cycling, walking through tobacco fields and hiking to the mountains to explore the vast cave system of Gran Caverna de Santo Tomas.

Included Activities:

  • Havana - Leader-led walking tour of Old Havana
  • Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
  • Soroa - Orchid Garden (entrance fee and guide included)
  • Vinales - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Standard guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Vinales
This morning, enjoy a walking tour through farms, tobacco plantations and lush cultivated lands for an insight into rural life in Vinales. Learn more about the simple lifestyle here and see first-hand the farmers who grow tobacco for some of the world’s most expensive cigars. For dinner this evening, relish a real garden-to-plate experience with an included dinner at an organic eco-farm. Indulge in a variety of fresh produce – from numerous vegetables and salads to meats, seafood and salsas – all while gazing across sweeping views of the verdant valley. After, why not head out to a quaint bar and get to know some of Vinales’ residents. This small and charming rural village is one of the easiest places to mingle with locals in Cuba, who are very sociable, and many of them love nothing better than to drink rum and dance the night away!

Included Activities:

  • Vinales - Half-day Valley tour on foot including Tobacco Farmhouse
  • Vinales - Farm-to-table dinner at an eco-friendly ranch

Accommodation:

  • Standard guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Bay of Pigs to Cienfuegos
Begin the day by travelling to a peaceful sandy arc on Cuba’s southern coast, commonly known as the Bay of Pigs. Learn about the Bay of Pigs Invasion – the battle between the US and the Cuban revolutionaries which resulted in the first defeat of a US-backed takeover in Latin America. Then, stop for a dip in its tranquil waters, with an outstanding variety of coral and fish, it just might be Cuba’s best-kept secret. Then continue along the picturesque coast to Cienfuegos, a slice of Paris in the Caribbean. This is the gem of the south, a seaside town of relaxing streets and dazzling buildings that strike a beautiful pose by the water. Founded in 1819 by pioneering French immigrants, the elegant architectural influence that these settlers brought with them earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing in 2005. Enjoy a photo stop at Palacio del Valle, which is Cienfuegos' architectural pride and joy. Learn more about its history as you take in the beauty of its intricate carvings of Venetian alabaster and if you’re up for it, why not head to the rooftop for a sunset drink.

Included Activities:

  • Bay of Pigs - Coastal swim stop
  • Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Cienfuegos - Palacio de Valle (from entrance fee)

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Trinidad
Perhaps kick-start your morning with some Cuban coffee (it's served black, strong and super sweet) then bid farewell to Cienfuegos and board the bus for a short drive to Trinidad – a beautifully preserved colonial down that sits on the scenic Caribbean coast. There's no doubt it's one of Cuba's alluring destinations, a great place to wander around, with almost every scene offering a photo opportunity. Watch as locals casually smoke their huge cigars on the doorsteps of their homes, and hear the old Chevrolets rumbling by. Begin by strolling along the cobbled streets and marvelling at some of the colourful colonial architecture on display (this town was put on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988 for good reason), then feel the Cuban rhythms during a casual salsa class – a sure-fire way to boost your confidence in preparation for Trinidad’s nightlife!

Included Activities:

  • Trinidad - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Trinidad - Salsa Dance Lesson (1 hour)

Optional Activities:

  • Trinidad - Romantic Museum (entrance fee) (120 CUP)
  • Trinidad - Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra los Bandidos (entrance fee) (70 CUP)

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Trinidad
Trinidad’s old-fashioned feel and friendly folk make it a standout destination for many visitors to Cuba, and the Santeria religion (a voodoo-like Afro-Cuban tradition) which is practiced here makes the town even more intriguing. Enjoy a free day to check-out Trinidad at your own pace. There are some great Spanish-style churches to see, and nearby is the Valle de los Ingenios, where sugar plantations stretch out as far as the eye can see. Why not go for a dip at nearby Playa Ancon and loll about on the long stretches of white sand or hire a bike of the vintage variety and cycle along Trinidad’s colourful (and cobblestone) streets. If you’re feeling energetic, then hiking in the Sierra del Escambray (the local mountains) is a great option – just ask your leader to help you decide! This evening, a folklore dance and music show in one of the open-air venues is highly recommended – a great chance to immerse yourself in Cuba's African, French and Spanish-influenced music and dance culture.

Optional Activities:

  • Trinidad - Live Music Venues (entrance fee) from (2 EUR)
  • Trinidad - Ancon beach shuttle bus (4 EUR)
  • Trinidad - Massage - from (24 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Havana
On your way back to Havana, you'll stop in at Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara mausoleum and memorial where you can get a rare insight into the legacy of the revolutionary leader. Che's remains were brought to rest here after they were found in a remote corner of Bolivia in 1997, where he was assassinated by the CIA-backed Bolivian army. The memorial is home to an impressive bronze statue of Che bearing his rifle and inside the museum, you can learn about his amazing life and see photos and exhibits such as letters, firearms, medical devices and other interesting artefacts – including his famous black beret. Upon arrival in Havana, stop by Revolution square then prepare for a final night of celebrations where you can toast to an incredible adventure across beautiful Cuba!

Included Activities:

  • Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
  • Havana - Revolution Square

Optional Activities:

  • Havana - Jose Marti Memorial tower entrance fee (200 CUP)
  • Havana - Buena Vista Social Club Performance (entrance fee & dinner) (35 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Comfortable guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Havana
Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast, check-out time is 10 am. If you wish to stay on in this colourful capital, just speak to your booking agent.

Optional Activities:

  • Havana - Cigar Factory Tour (entrance fee and guide) (10 USD)
  • Havana - Half-day Ernest Hemingway Tour (guide and transport included 2 clients min required) (68 USD)
  • Havana - Morro Castle (entrance fee, no guide, no transport)10 am-9 pm (200 CUP)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $2,385
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 8 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

From vintage cars to fragrant cigars, salsa your way from the colourful capital of Havana through the beautiful island of Cuba and surround yourself with history, music and mojitos in one of the world’s most unique places.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 17 Jan 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Clare
Traveled, April 2024

04/17/2024

Beautiful Cuba was a fantastic trip with a great leader (Estefan), driver (Osmani) and a wonderful group. Accommodation was clean and comfortable, food simple but enjoyable. Activities fun and informative. If you are expecting luxury and culinary variety, then this isn't the trip for you. Cuba is a fascinating but complicated country - so you need to go in with an open mind and easygoing attitude. You will learn lots and have tons of fun. I will definitely be returning to Cuba :)

4.0
Elizabeth
Traveled, March 2024

04/15/2024

Great trip. Learnt such a lot about this unique country and it's long suffering peoples. Had wonderful experiences, saw beautiful scenery and wildlife. Would definitely recommend.

Tour Operator

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

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