Holidays
Highlights of Cuba

Highlights of Cuba

Worldwide holidays in Cuba

15 nights

Grades 2

3147kg CO2

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Groups of 10+

020 3974 8865

From the vibrant and salsa-loving capital of Havana to the tobacco fields and rainforest of the Viñales Valley, Cuba packs in a glorious variety of natural wonders and cultural thrills. Highlights include following in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway, learning how to roll a tobacco criollo, exploring the Caribbean coast in the Northern Cays, and discovering the historic heart of Trinidad – the UNESCO-listed city famed for its incredible architecture and laid-back Cuban vibe.

What You’ll Love

Taking a walking tour of Habana Vieja (Old Havana)
Walking among the tobacco fields of Viňales
Learning how to roll the perfect cigar
Debating the legacy of Che Guevara
Staying in in a casa particular (private home)
Cocktails at El Floridita, Hemingway’s favourite bar

What's Included

Return flights from London Gatwick including baggage and transfers
Guided walks and sightseeing with local leaders
14 nights’ touring accommodation across Cuba
14 breakfasts, 14 lunches & 14 dinners
All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
A walking tour of Old Havana
All in-destination transport

Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

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On arrival in Havana you’ll meet your local guide and driver who, depending on your arrival time, will take you to your hotel for a welcome drink and, later, a typical Cuban dinner at La Barraca in the gardens of the Hotel Nacional. If your flight arrives late, a snack dinner will be arranged upon arrival.

We take a walking tour to the historic heart of Havana. Granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982, the old town, or ‘Habana Vieja’, has been handsomely restored and features unique Baroque neoclassical architecture. Our tour will take in many of Havana’s sights, including a visit to Plaza de Cathedral, Plaza Vieja and the old City Walls. Lunch will be in a local paladar restaurant.

You will also visit the Hotel Ambos Mundos where Ernest Hemingway lived for more than 2 years, and you’ll see the room where he lived and wrote “For Whom the Bell Tolls”.

This evening we’ll have dinner in a local paladar restaurant.

Today we drive west into the heart of Cuban tobacco country. We’ll head to the provincial capital, Pinar del Rio, for a visit to a traditional tobacco factory.

From here, we travel to the beautiful Viñales valley, a picturesque region of small farms and old tobacco plantations. We’ll enjoy lunch on arrival followed by a tobacco rolling demonstration with local farmers. Using tobacco leaves they have grown and cured themselves, the farmers roll cigars known as “tabaco criollo”.

In the evening, after checking into our hotel in Viñales, we set out for a walk along the Sendero Valle del Silencio. Exploring this enchanting countryside will prepare your appetite for dinner at Wilfredo’s Organic Farm, set in a beautiful hilltop location overlooking the town. With luck, we will witness a marvellous sunset as we enjoy our meal.

Distance: approx. 2.5 miles (4km)

Driving distance – approx. 210km

This morning, we rise early and set off with packed breakfasts on the Acuaticos trail which takes us up into the hills for a spectacular sunrise over Viñales Valley. After lunch in a local ‘paladar’ - a small Cuban family-run restaurant - we carry on along the Palmarito trail, which leads through small villages that still have a traditional way of life, before returning to our hotel.

Dinner will be in a local paladar

Distance: approx. 4.5 miles (7km)

Today is mostly a travel day (approx. 6 hours over approx. 500km) as we head towards central Cuba. We’ll visit Las Terrazas Biosphere Reserve to learn about the reforestation programme started in the 1970s and take a short trail, La Serafina, in the hopes of spotting local birdlife.

Distance: approx. 4 miles (6km).

After lunch on an old coffee plantation, we continue to Santa Clara. If time allows today, we’ll visit the Che Guevara memorial, resting place for Che and sixteen of his men who were killed in action in 1967 in Bolivia, and have dinner at the hotel.

If we didn’t have time to visit the Che Guevara memorial yesterday, we’ll do this today before departing for the city of Remedios, located about an hour to the northwest of Santa Clara.

Well off the beaten path and forgotten by most tour operators, Remedios is one of the oldest towns in Cuba – now a National Monument town – and the 17th century colonial architecture dominates this peaceful town. We’ll take in the city and its historic centre on a relaxed tour. The key attraction is the main square with its colonial church, ‘Iglesia Mayor’ of San Juan Bautista, which possesses thirteen beautifully decorated gold altars.

We continue to the beautiful Northern Cays of Cuba and our all-inclusive hotel, where we’ll have lunch and the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Today, take some time to relax in the resort. Enjoy the hotel’s facilities or explore the nearby area – perhaps a swim in the sea or a short walk along the white sand beaches or through the nearby tropical woodland.

Today we travel towards Trinidad to visit the Valley of the Sugar Mills (‘Valle de los Ingenios’). This fertile plain, with the Sierra del Escambay in the distance, is carpeted in the green hues of sugar cane. The valley is dotted with ruins of 19th century sugar mills.

We also take a walking tour of the historic heart of Trinidad and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Founded in 1514 by Diego Velazquez, Trinidad has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 thanks to its past as the centre for the sugar trade. The city’s cobbled streets and lovely architecture bear witness to its former glories.

This evening we will have dinner at Alberto’s House.

After breakfast we travel to the Escambray Mountains to visit Topes de Collantes, a natural park above Trinidad de Cuba dotted with magical waterfalls and cool pools. Here we’ll walk the Guanayara trail, often lauded as the most rewarding hike in the park. We travel to the start of the hike by truck and descend to the El Rocio waterfall. This section is steep, and we recommend walking poles if you usually use them.

Distance: 3.7 miles (6km).

Today is a free day. There are many options including taking a visit to Playa Ancon, joining a catamaran trip to the offshore cayes, or exploring the charming streets of Trinidad a little further. A picnic lunch is provided today, and dinner will be together as a group at a local paladar.

Driving distance approx. 90km

After breakfast, we’ll walk around Hanabanilla Reservoir along the La Atalaya trail. During the walk you will see typical country houses of the area, before finishing at Lago Hanabanilla from where we will be taken by boat to Rio Negro for lunch. Distance approx. 4.5 miles (7km), with some rough sections of ascent and descent.

After lunch, a 1½ hour transfer takes us to Cienfuegos Bay, where we check into our hotel.

Dinner will be in a local paladar.

After breakfast we set off for a visit to the Cienfuegos Botanical Garden, with its impressive array of orchids and tropical palms. We explore the garden and have lunch in the gardens themselves before returning to Cienfuegos for a tour of this beautiful town.

Cienfuegos is one of Cuba’s most charming cities. Set on the shores of a huge natural bay, the city was originally one of Cuba’s most important harbours. It was settled by French immigrants fleeing the slave uprisings of Haiti, the city has elegant boulevards and classical homes, as well as spacious squares and one Cuba’s most famous theatres (Teatro Terry).

We will explore the city with a sightseeing tour, including visits to the theatre and the main square. This evening we enjoy dinner in a local paladar on the waterfront.

Driving distance approx. 260km

Today we return to Havana via the Zapata National Park.

We stop at Playa Giron, or the Bay of Pigs, the site of the final battle between Fidel Castro’s forces and the counterrevolutionary army and visit its museum to learn about the US/CIA involvement in the anti-Castro movement. We stop for lunch on the coast with the option of swimming in waters full of tropical fish.

This evening we’ll enjoy a guided walk on Havana's atmospheric waterfront promenade, the Malecon, and enjoy a cocktail at El Floridita, one of Hemingway’s old hangouts, and round off the evening with a special lobster dinner in Old Havana.

This morning, we’ll visit the Havana Rum Museum where you will have the chance to try some of Cuba’s finest rums. We then depart for a visit to Finca Vigia, which is lovingly kept as it was when Ernest Hemingway lived here. After the visit, we continue by bus to Cojimar, where the author moored his boat, The Pilar. The fishing village is full of memories of the great American novelist and its setting was the inspiration for his novel “The Old Man and the Sea”. To round off, we’ll enjoy an ice-cold daiquiri at one of his favourite restaurants – Las Terrazas – which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

We’ll return to Havana for lunch and a classic American cars tour. Enjoy some free time before sharing our last group meal in local paladar.

Our final morning is at leisure. After lunch, our with-flight guests transfer to Havana airport to begin our return journey back to the UK.

With-flight guests arrive back in the UK.

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Daily Walk Options

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Accommodation

Hotel Nacional de Cuba, Havana - Cuba

Located on Havana’s stunning seafront promenade, the Malecon, the historic Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a true icon of the city. Once a hangout for famous stars like Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner, powerful heads of state, and American mob bosses, it’s now a UNESCO-listed National Monument. A symbol of Cuban identity, this imposing hotel offers commanding views of the sea and the city from Taganana Hill. Featuring eclectic 1930s architecture, the Nacional boasts 457 rooms, three restaurants, a café, four bars, and a snack bar. Enjoy a drink in the Hall of Fame bar, where you can spot photos of the famous faces that have visited over the years.

Los Jazmines, Viñales Valley - Cuba

Our accommodation in the beautiful Viñales Valley; its comfortable rooms and pool make it the perfect place to relax after our walks. If we are not in Los Jazmines, then we'll be staying at Casas Particulares (bed & breakfast) with evening meals in local Paladars.

Hotel Iberostar Cayo Los Ensenachos, Cayo Santa Maria - Cuba

This is a all-inclusive 5* hotel resort on the northern coast of Cuba. Within a short distance of some of the island's finest beaches, you're sure to enjoy spending time here relaxing before your journey continues.

Hotel Los Caneyes - Cuba

Less than two miles from the Che Guevara memorial, this hotel offers a great location for a one-night stay. The hotel benefits from an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, snack bar and small shop. Dotted around the hotel’s large gardens, the rooms are cabana style and come with ensuite facilities, air conditioning and a television.

Casa particulares Alberto y Osmary - Cuba

A popular casa in a central, quiet location, Casa Osmary and Alberto is ideal for small groups. Rooms are simply furnished but comfortable, each with its own theme, all with air conditioning and ensuite facilities.

Casa particulares Don Pepe - Cuba

Putting you in the heart of vibrant Cienfuegos, this casa is a true Cuban experience. Each room enjoys ensuite facilities and air conditioning.

More Information

Please contact us as far in advance as possible if you have any specific dietary requirements; we will do our best to accommodate you.

Provision in Cuba may be quite basic and repetitive, so you may wish to consider bringing some snacks with you.

If you require a specific meal on the flight, please let us know as soon as possible, and no later than 96 hours before travel.

This information is subject to change. We highly recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. For further information on country specific advice, visit www.travelhealthpro.org.uk

Hepatitis A and Tetanus vaccinations are recommended. Diphtheria, Rabies and Typhoid vaccines are sometimes recommended too.
Dengue fever, Zika virus, meningitis and Chikungunya may also occur in-country. Please take suitable measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Please note: the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is banned in some countries. If you will be carrying medication, please check with the country’s embassy/consulate prior to travel. As an extra precaution, it is recommended to:

Keep medication in its original packet
Take a copy of your prescription

If possible, ask your chemist to write the name of your medication in the language of the country you’re visiting.

Any medication you may require during your trip should be taken with you. It may not be possible to obtain medication such as paracatemol or antihistamine on the island due to national shortages.

General standards of health and health services in Cuba are of a high standard. However, there is no reciprocal agreement with the UK. As with all international travel, medical insurance is essential.

Cuban authorities have strengthened their health screening at entry ports; if you show symptoms of a temperature or infectious disease you may be subjected to a medical examination. The Cuban authorities are carrying out chemical fumigation across the island to control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases; the chemicals used may cause some discomfort if you come into contact with them.

Passports

British nationals require a full valid passport with six months validity from the date of departure from Cuba, and a visa or tourist card to enter Cuba. Other passport holders please check with your nearest Cuban embassy or consulate for entry requirements.

Visas

From December 31st 2024, visitors from the UK will need an e-Visa to enter Cuba. The cost of the e-Visa is included in your holiday and provided by our local partner. We will provide your e-Visa details via email prior to departure, and your details for how to fill in a D’Viajeros Form (a Health Declaration and Advanced Passenger information form). You much complete your D’Viajeros Form no more than 1 week before departure, and remember to bring the QR code you receive with you to travel into Cuba, either on your phone or printed.

For more details on e-Visas and the D’Viajeros form, please click here.

US citizens should check the current legislation controlling travel to Cuba for the purposes of tourism, what entry requirements are needed.

Those who do not have British passports, or British passports with full right of residence in the UK (‘British Citizen’) should check entry requirements with a Cuban Embassy or Consulate.

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.  

Essentials 

Walking boots
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof trousers
Insulated jacket/top
Walking clothing
Walking socks (plus spares)
Sunhat
Gloves/mitts and warm hat
Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)
Headtorch
High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)
Sunglasses with a dark lens
Rucksack (15-30 litres)
Mobile phone
Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.)
Passport
Visa (if applicable)
Copy of your travel insurance policy
UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC)

Recommended

Collapsible walking poles
Swimwear and travel towel
Snacks
Dry bags
Rubbish bags
Insect repellent

Optional extras

Camera
Sit mat
Flask for hot drinks
Durable lunch box
Gaiters
GPS device (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from a range of UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.

If you prefer to book the holiday without flights and make your own travel arrangements you will still be able to make use of the return group transfers between the airport and hotel, which are included in the cost of your holiday. You must contact us on +44 (0)20 3974 8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk at least 8 weeks before your holiday start date to provide your flight details if you wish to join the transfers. If you do not contact us, we will assume you are making independent travel arrangements.

If you are arriving ahead of the group, and are meeting them at the first hotel, please leave a message at the hotel reception for the HF Holidays’ leader or local leader, detailing your room number, and a mobile telephone number if possible. The leader will contact you once the group arrives. If you are arriving after the group, a message will be left for you at the hotel reception, welcoming you and giving details of the time and place to meet the group.

Luggage allowance

1 piece checked-in luggage (max 23kg).

Please check details of your airline’s baggage allowance, as shown on your e-ticket. Remember to also check any connecting flights you may have booked.

Lost/damaged luggage

If your bag or its contents are damaged or lost while in the airline’s care, this should be reported to the baggage service agents at the airport on arrival. They will assess the damage; in some cases, the airline may decide to settle your claim immediately.

You will be given a reference to quote to your insurance company if an immediate settlement is not possible - in many cases, baggage claims can only be accepted in writing. A baggage claim form must be obtained from the airport.

The legal currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP) and prices are now displayed in this currency. Though in spite of the new official currency, Cubans still want USD/EUR cash, so we recommend for your holiday bring USD or EUR in cash and bring them in small, useful denominations (£5 or £10 are best). You’ll be able to buy food and drinks not included in your package in USD or EUR.

Restaurants and cafes in Cuba often display prices in CUP but will be happy to give you the bill in USD/EUR.

We recommend you exchange a small amount (say USD or EUR50) into CUPs for emergencies, your local guide will be able to assist with this as we recommend you exchange only at official exchange bureaux. Do not exchange money at the airport as the rate is poor.

Bring your bank card just in case. A few Government-owned establishments will accept bank card payments, and more ATMs will appear, but for now assume your bank cards won’t work in Cuba. Before heading to Cuba, check that your bank card can be used in the country (if your bank is US owned, then your card won’t work in Cuba due to the US Embargo on Cuba ).

You can use bank cards in government-owned shops throughout the island (to buy rum, coffee, souvenirs, and cigars) and you can use them in most large hotels and some restaurants too. Your bank card will also be accepted in the Duty-Free Shops to stock up on cigars and rum as you leave Cuba too.

Find more information on currency in Cuba here.

Selected tips are included in the price of your holiday. Included are tips for site-specific local walking guides, porters, musicians, and restaurants. Your local leader can therefore allocate the appropriate tip as per Cuban culture and expectations.

Not included in your package are tips to local staff accompanying group throughout your trip (for example your local leader and driver). We recommend budgeting £50- £60 to spend on tipping. Please note that any tips for your local leader are entirely at your own discretion.

Cuba is on GMT-5

110V, 2 pin flat or round blade plugs. 220V may be achieved in more built up areas.

ATMs are more common but not everywhere

Suggested reading

Lonely Planet, Cuba (2017)
Sasha Korniak, Cuba Wanderer (2015)
James Kavanagh, Cuba Birds (2016)
Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara, The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)

Maps

Although you won’t need them, if you’d like any maps of the destination, you can obtain some in advance from The Map Shop: www.themapshop.co.uk

Carbon Footprint - 3147kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: CUB14-WHW10

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Highlights of Cuba

What You’ll Love

What's Included

Itinerary

Daily Walk Options