Cuba: Beyond Havana
a people to people travel program to Cuba

march 2024 

*Please note the this program is tentative. We started planning our return to Cuba in 2020, only to see plans paused first by Covid, then new Trump-era sanctions, Hurricane Ian, and economic upheaval within Cuba. “Tourism” is gradually returning to the island as of early 2023 and we are fairly confident of being able to operate a legal program in late March 2024. Following is a sample program similar to what we have offered in the past. We hope to have dates and rates in mid-2023 after some on-site inspections.

program overview...

Cuba is so much more than Havana. Experience the time-warp that is Cuba today, while exploring six distinctly different regions of the country. Along the south coast of Cuba we delve into the charming colonial towns of Cienfuegos and Trinidad de Cuba, plus one of the most remarkable wetlands in the Caribbean; the wildlife hotspot of the Zapata Peninsula. On the north coast we have Havana - once one of the Americas’ richest cities - with cobblestone streets, tree-filled plazas, grand mansions, museums and so much more. In the westernmost province of Cuba we explore the Sierra del Rosarios range, Piñar del Rio and the Viñales Valley (where the best tobacco, in the world’s best cigars, comes from).

This special program focuses on the wild and natural parts of Cuba, without ignoring the truly remarkable cities, villages and cultures. This program is ideal for nature enthusiasts and casual birders alike! We should also have an opportunity to get a glimpse below the surface with a bit of independent snorkeling on the south coast.

Along the way we will have the opportunity to meet with ordinary Cuban citizens to understand many of the political and social issues that will determine the course of Cuba’s future. Throughout our stay we aim to combine the best in culture, history, and nature, interspersed with insightful talks, wonderful food, and lively music.

This will be our 9th year traveling to Cuba, and we can’t wait to return. With space limited we encourage you to let us know right away if you would like to join this special program to Cuba in 2024! 

PROGRAM DATES: late March 2024

PROGRAM LENGTH:
roughly 13-days / 12-nights in Cuba.

GROUP SIZE:
Maximum group size is 16 participants, plus Mark Grantham from Galápagos Travel escorting the group. An expert local Cuban Guide will be with us throughout our stay, plus specialty guides in several locations. Minimum group size is 12 participants.

GATEWAY CITY:  
Our expedition begins and ends in Havana, Cuba.

possible DAY BY DAY ITINERARY:

Day 1: Miami to Havana: Las Terrazas
This morning we will meet in the Miami airport for our 60 minute flight direct to Havana, Cuba. 

Our Cuban guide will meet us on arrival.  This morning we head west, away from the big city.  As Havana’s outskirts quickly fade away we find ourselves in the rural countryside, sharing the road with tractors, classic old American cars, and horse carts, as we approach the Sierra del Rosarios mountain range. 

We will arrive in the heart of the Biosphere Reserve, at the Las Terrazas community, in time for an orientation and lunch. This afternoon a local guide will introduce us to the abandoned coffee plantations which have been reclaimed by secondary forests, as well as the community artists and programs. Overnight Hotel La Moka, Las Terrazas. [L,D] Independent breakfast.

Day 2: Las Terrazas to Viñales
Our day starts with an optional sunrise birding walk in the Las Terrazas forests. After breakfast we will continue westward, through the mountains, to the Viñales Valley (a roughly 2 hour drive).

The Viñales Valley - another of Cuba's remarkable UNESCO sites - is encircled by steep mountains. These surrounding mountains and valleys shelter as many as 800 plant species and 100 bird species (including over half of Cuba's 22 endemic birds). This rich biodiversity includes extremes like the Cork Palm - a "living fossil" at 250 million years of age, and the Bee Hummingbird - the smallest bird in the world.  The valley floor is interspersed with “mogotes;” dramatic 250-million year old eroded limestone karst formations rising heavenward.  In the shade of the mogotes fertile soil and a favorable climate have led to a rich agricultural tradition, including plantations of the world's best tobacco. In addition the valley is known for its multi-ethnic population, country architecture, crafts and music.

Lunch at the Murallas de Prehistoria (a colorful 120 meter long mural depicting evolution, painted in the early 1960’s on the side of a towering mogote).  This afternoon we will have some free time at the hotel.  Dinner this evening is at a rural organic farm; Finca Argoecologica El Paraiso.  Overnight Hotel Los Jazmines, Vinales. [B,L,D]

Day 3: Viñales
Whether you join our sunrise nature walk or not, we recommend getting up early.  From the hotel terraces watch as the first rays of the morning sun bathe the distant mogotes in warm light and begin to melt the surrounding valley mists away.  Following breakfast we will enjoy a walking tour in Viñales Valley, from the village center through the fields to visit a local farm.  In the heart of the valley horses and ox carts continue to share space with classic old American cars, all on streets lined with fine examples of colonial country architecture.  We will enjoy a bit of free time in the heart of the village; time for lunch, maybe some shopping, or taking in a bit of baseball at the community stadium. Dinner in town at La Casa de Don Thomas – the oldest home in the valley.  Overnight Hotel Los Jazmines, Viñales. [B,D] Independent lunch.

Day 4: Pinar del Rio, Saroa & Havana
Today we return to the heart of Cuba: Havana.  En route we will stop at the provincial capital of Piñar del Rio where we will experience another classic Cuban scene; a local cigar factory where men and women still sit side by side tenderly hand rolling cigars famous the world over.  Nearby a rum distillery and bottling plant boasts a uniquely Cuban flavor of rum.  Next we will stop at the Soroa Orchid gardens, where more than 650 rare types of orchids, both native and exotic, proliferate. 

On arrival in Havana will will make a stop at the Plaza del la Revolucion (one of the largest city squares in the world) where Fidel Castro traditionally addressed upwards of 1 million Cubans.

After checking into our centrally located hotel we will enjoy dinner at one of Havana’s leading paladars (private restaurants run out of homes – some quite lavish). Overnight Hotel Parque Central, Havana. [B,D] Independent lunch.

Day 5: Havana
This morning features a visit to the new Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes: Arte Cubano (Cuban Collection in the Museum of Fine Art).  One of Cuba’s leading art historians will give us a private tour through the galleries. Midday we leave Old Havana behind with a short drive through the prestigious Miramar neighborhood. Our destination is the charming fishing municipality of Jaimanitas, where we will visit the very eclectic home and workshop of ceramic artist José Fuster (nicknamed the "Picasso of Cuba"). Lunch is in his studio’s garden surrounded by his creations.  Returning to Havana we will visit a Farmer’s Market for additional perspective of the realities of Cuba today.  Remainder of afternoon and evening at leisure in Havana. Evenings in Havana present an opportunity to independently take in Cuban Jazz in a local club, visit the fabled Tropicana Night Club, or possibly a performance at the opulent National Theater.  Overnight, Havana. [B,L] Independent dinner.

Day 6: Cienfuegos
This morning after breakfast we will have a private lecture on Cuban Music. Following the talk we will check out of our hotel and turn out attention south, to the southern Caribbean coast and the port city of Cienfuegos.  Lunch this afternoon as the bay-side Villa Lagarto paladar. The city is recognized by UNESCO for the outstanding architecture, much of which reflects its French colonial roots and dates from the early and mid 19th century. We visit the Old Town Square and enjoy a private choral performance by the renowned Cienfuegos Choir. 

Dinner and overnight Hotel La Union, Cienfuegos.  [B,L,D]

Day 7: Cienfuegos & Trinidad de Cuba
Our first stop this morning will be the Cienfuegos Botanical Gardens for a guided walk.  Founded in 1901 this a tropical collection rather than formal garden, with an emphasis on palms and bamboos, while also being habitat for myriad birds. A roughly 1km walk along the entrance road features a wonderful variety of plants and more. From here we continue east roughly 2 hours, skirting along the turquoise Caribbean, to Trinidad de Cuba.

Founded in 1514 by Diego de Velasquez, Trinidad was a base for further Spanish expeditions to the New World.  During the sugar boom, between the late 18th century and late 19th century Trinidad prospered as Cuba prospered (Cuba was the world’s largest producer of sugar at that time).  The city was filled with grand mansions in neo-classical and baroque styles, with a subtle Moorish influence thrown in.  With the industrial revolution and alternate sources of sugar the town’s fortunes changed, building stopped, and the city was more or less frozen in time.  Today Trinidad is a living museum (both a national monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the richness of the colonial era, with a maze of cobblestone streets climbing the hills, soft pastel painted facades, and terracotta tiled roofs.  Music drifts from the doorways as children play in the streets and horse carts pass by.  With a walking tour we will explore the Old Town, shops, churches and plazas of this remarkable city.  This quarter is home to numerous restaurants and paladars. Nightly there are open-air concerts held on the city steps, with locals and visitors alike often dancing the night away.  Overnight Hotel Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad, Trinidad de Cuba.  [B,D] Independent lunch.

Day 8: Trinidad de Cuba
Today we travel to the nearby Valle de Los Ingenios – another UNESCO site – by old train.  The area is a series of 3 valleys, which together were home to more than 50 sugar mills and surrounding plantations during the peak years.  Best preserved today is the Manaca-Iznaga plantation where a bell/watch tower (once the tallest structure in Cuba) built in 1816 dominates the landscape.  We will be back in Trinidad mid-day. Free remainder of afternoon; visit the artisan’s craft market or explore the side streets and quiet neighborhoods of Trinidad as you choose. Overnight, Trinidad de Cuba.  [B,L] Independent dinner.

Day 9: Bay of Pigs / Zapata Peninsula
Today we retrace our route back to Cienfuegos, where we stop for lunch at the Palacio de Valle. Continuing west we are back in the quiet countryside, where our drive takes us through Playa Giron, best known as the site of the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion. 

Stretching to the west is the sparsely populated Ciénaga de Zapata (Zapata Peninsula).  A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the peninsula shelters one of the most important and intact wetlands in the Caribbean.  The varied terrain here includes swamps, mangroves, beaches and more, and is home to over 170 species of birds, and 31 species of reptile.  Local endemics include the Zapata Wren, Zapata Rail, and Zapata Sparrow. Other possible highlights include the Cuban Tody, Cuban Pygmy Owl, Cuban Screech-Owl, Cuban Emerald, and Cuban Trogon, and if we’re very lucky, the Bee Hummingbird.  The area is also a winter migration hotspot in the Caribbean.  This afternoon a local expert guide will join us as we search for wildlife in the national park and village gardens (the last couple of years we typically record over 50 species of birds here between two walks). 

Overnight Hotel Playa Larga, Zapata. [B,L] Independent dinner.

Day 10: Zapata Peninsula
Our day starts early with an optional sunrise birding walk. Back at the hotel there will be time for breakfast and maybe a swim in the Bay of Pigs. A short drive will bring us to a cenote (a natural pool caused by a collapse of the surrounding limestone).  You have the option of independent snorkeling here, either in the cool cenote or just 100 meters to the south in the warm Caribbean Sea.  This afternoon we will enjoy a birding drive - our bus will take us out to Las Salinas, where several elevated platforms might allow us to see the wetland birds.

Overnight Hotel Playa Larga, Zapata.  [B,D]  Independent lunch.

Day 11: Zapata to Havana
Today is a relaxed morning; maybe you’ll opt for some independent birding around the hotel, or another swim in the bay… Late morning we depart for Havana, stopping along the way for lunch in the country. As we approach the city we are greeted by the imposing Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro (El Moro) fortress. Originally built in 1589, El Morro is one of two fortifications located at the Havana harbor entrance.  

Back at the Hotel Parque Central we will have a private lecture on Old Havana; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the talk we will set out to explore the old city on foot. Strolling the cobbled streets and passageways, and taking in the city’s four main plazas.  Plaza Vieja is a beautiful old square surrounded by grand mansions, and so much more, and the gem of the current restoration efforts. Gradual restoration in the old part of the city has revealed many of the glories of the past, with many palatial homes converted to museums following the Revolution.  On Calle Obispo one is starting to see vendors or cuentapropistas (self employed) - an emerging group in Cuba and a symbol of change.  On our way to dinner in Old Havana this evening we will travel in style, in Classic American convertibles from the 1950’s. Overnight Havana. [B,D]  Independent lunch.

Day 12: Havana
Morning visit to Ernest Hemingway's country home, Finca Vigia (Lookout Farm), which has been carefully preserved by the Cuban government as a museum just as Hemingway left it.  We will also make a brief stop in Regla – one of the 15 municipalities of Havana.  This mostly blue-collar neighborhood is home to the Virgin of Regla; a Christian/Santeria shrine blending Catholic and West African beliefs.  Few places in Havana might offer a better place to see the layering and transference between Catholic beliefs and African traditions.  

Following lunch in central Havana we plan a visit to the former Presidential palace, which now houses the Revolutionary Museum.  In addition to the indoor exhibits the museum also has the Granma yacht – the ship that brought Fidel, Raul and Che to Cuba from Mexico in 1956.  We might also make a short stop at a craft market. Overnight Havana. [B,L] Independent dinner.

Day 13: Havana to Miami
Free morning.  Late morning we will be transferred to the airport for our flight to Miami.  We will be back in the Miami, and a world away, mid-afternoon.  [B] Independent lunch & dinner.

ACCOMMODATIONS:

Currently the U.S. has a nearly all-encompassing “black list” of hotels where Americans are not allowed to stay. Options and alternates are being researched. Following at the hotels we have utilized in the past.

Accommodations are in double rooms, with private bathrooms and air-conditioning.  Most hotels offer swimming pools, restaurants, a bar, and currency exchange.  Most offer WiFi, for a small fee.  It should be noted however that Cuban standards are different than those in the U.S. and under a challenging economy hotels do not undergo the constant renovations and updates we might have come to expect at home. Any inconveniences should more than be outweighed by excellent locations and authentic atmosphere however.

• Hotel La Moka, Las Terrazas: A boutique hotel set in the heart of the Sierra del Rosario biosphere reserve. Designed to take advantage of the forested hillside site, the Spanish-inspired architecture features an intimate connection with nature and spectacular views.

• Hotel Iberostar Parque Central, Havana: This grand hotel occupies a privileged location on the edge of historic Old Town Havana - the best the city has to offer is just steps away. A roof-top open-air roof top swimming pool offers commanding city views. 

• Hotel Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad, Trinidad: This 5-star hotel occupies a landmark building fronting Plaza Carillo. The whole of historic Trinidad is an easy walk from the hotel.

• Hotel Playa Larga, Zapata: A simple holiday hotel located on the beach.  The hotel is predominantly a base for birding and diving groups visiting the peninsula, with somewhat basic accommodations (but the best in the region). There is a pool, restaurant & bar.

• Hotel Los Jazmines, Viñales: A venerable old hotel overlooking the valley below.  The pool deck, restaurant, and many rooms feature amazing views.

• Hotel La Union, Cienfuegos: A grand Neo-classical styled hotel dating from the mid-1800’s, the La Union is located just a block off the central square of town.  Restored in 2000 the hotel features two courtyard patios, a swimming pool, and roof-top deck with lovely views over the city and nearby bay.

Please note that all hotels are subject to final confirmation based on availability – comparable hotels will be substituted as required.

ANTICIPATED PEOPLE TO PEOPLE PROGRAM COST:

in the neighborhood of $6,500 per person, shared double occupancy,
$7,000 guaranteed single rate.

If you are traveling alone and would like a roommate will we will attempt to arrange a roommate of the same gender for you.  

DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS:
We are currently not taking new deposits for this program, pending finalized details later in 2023. We are however compiling an “interested list” to notify once we are accepting new bookings. Let us know if you’d like to be on that list!

A deposit of $700 per person, paid to Galápagos Travel, is required to reserve space (payable by check - even though this is a legal program the credit card companies can still not process funds intended for Cuba). The balance of the Program Cost is due January 15, 2024, and paid directly to WorldGUEST (again payable by check).

FLIGHTS:
Roughly 6 months prior to departure we can work with a Cuban charter flight desk. The round trip fare from Miami to Havana and back is typically about $300. This fare includes the flights, Cuban tourist card/visa, and Cuban emergency medical insurance (not including pre-existing conditions). Also included in the airfare cost is the Cuban departure tax of roughly $30.

PROGRAM COST INCLUDES:
12 nights accommodations in Cuba; most Meals, as noted on the itinerary; Group airport transfers within Cuba; Private air conditioned motor coach for our group; All tours and entrance fees as anticipated in our itinerary; Baggage handling within Cuba; Gratuities at meals.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM COST:
Any Airfare; Cuban tourist/travel card and Cuban Medical Insurance (both included with the international flights), Cuba departure tax of 25CUC (roughly $30); Export fees (apply to art); items of a personal nature including WiFi, laundry, postage, optional snorkeling or diving excursions though a hotel or activity center; communications or room service; some meals as noted on the itinerary; excess baggage charges; travel insurance; Camera fees at a couple of locations; or supplementary gratuities to the Cuban guide and driver (discretionary, suggested at $5 per day per tour participant); accommodations in Miami.

CANCELLATIONS:
Any cancellations must be in writing. Cancellations for any reason will be subject to a $700 per person fee. Cancellations 60 - 31 days before the program start will result in a forfeiture of 50% of the Mission Cost, and any cancellation at or within 30 days of departure will result in forfeiture of the entire cost of the program. Terms are set by the Permit Holder based on the destination and their limited availability to operate. In this respect, you are strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Protection Insurance. A comprehensive insurance package is available through GALAPAGOS TRAVEL for all U.S. residents. You will receive a policy application along with your deposit receipt.

PRE-DEPARTURE NIGHT IN MIAMI:
We strongly suggest an overnight in Miami prior to the flight to Havana as flight times to Havana tend to be early and you don’t want to risk missing the flight. Our personal preference is a Courtyard Hotel near the airport (rates are usually around $200 per night, single or double). The hotel has a complimentary shuttle from the Miami Airport.

CURRENCY:
In 2021 Cuba did away with their long-standing two currency system, instead introducing the new Cuban Peso (CUP). Dollars are not officially accepted anywhere, although you can exchange Dollars for CUP at the banks, airports and hotels. Neither Credit Cards nor ATM cards issued by U.S. Banks are accepted in Cuba at this time. Traveler's checks are also not accepted.

SHOPPING:
As of mid-2015 U.S. residents may bring home up to $400 in Cuban goods, including rum and cigars.  Cuba will occasionally impose a small export tax on art.

COMMUNICATIONS:
Most U.S. cell phones now work in Cuba, although data rates can be high.  Most of the hotels we work with offer WiFi, usually for a fee.  If on WiFi it is also possible to use WhatsApp or iMessage to communicate with someone at home if they are on line at the same time.

SMOKING:
Please refrain from smoking on group excursions, during meals, on busses or in shared accommodations.

DOCUMENTATION:
You will need a current passport to travel to Cuba, valid for at least 6 months after the trip.  A Cuban Visa (Tourist Card) is required for travel – visas will be arranged for us and are included in the price of the group flights.

We will be traveling under a “Support of the Cuban People” permit. WorldGUEST, Inc is a U.S. company based in Florida, who will coordinate and operate this program. They will handle all paperwork, permits & travel logistics. Each participant will receive a “Letter of Authorization – General License” from the U.S. Department of Commerce allowing us to travel to Cuba. The WorldGUEST team has been bringing aid, and visitors, to Cuba for over 25 years.

No immunizations are require for travel to Cuba, although you may wish to consult your personal physician for recommendations regarding your individual health status. A current tetanus immunization is appropriate for all travel.

OBLIGATION:
As part of the Support of the Cuban People license to travel to Cuba we will have daily opportunities to interact with the Cuban people on many levels. During our program we will visit charity and community programs where donations may be given for the surrounding communities. Each program participant is requested to purchase and bring over-the-counter medical / food supplies to donate to independent charities in Cuba. More information will be provided pre-departure, but examples of supplies needed by the Cuban people include; Band-aids, adhesive tape, antibiotic cream, iodine and alcohol wipes, vitamins, flu and cold remedies, pain relievers, aspirin, Pepto-Bismol, laxatives, toothbrushes, toothpaste...

This itinerary is based on anticipated flight routes and fares, which are subject to change.  Our itinerary should be viewed as a guideline to our planned activities.  Due to the unique nature of this trip and the destination the program itinerary may be subject to change without notice.  

all photos on this page by Mark Grantham | Galapagos Travel