Cuba is a unique country steeped in history, shrouded in mystery and rich in culture. This Atlantic gem is a harmonious blend of fascinating heritage, beautiful beaches, delectable cuisine and colonial charm. In short, it is the most unique Caribbean destination that abounds in numerous natural as well as historical attractions.
Plan your perfect holiday to Cuba with Flying Squirrel Holidays’ tailormade Cuba tour packages from India!
Over the centuries, Cuba has been the seat of various notable political and historical developments. Beginning with the arrival of the Spanish in 1492 until recent times, Cuba has often fallen victim to international restrictions and embargoes on trade, commerce and travel. Hence cut off from the rest of the world and untouched by tourism, Cuba exists in a time and space of its own.
Cuba, the largest of the Caribbean Islands, boasts a 5000-kms shoreline dotted with dazzling beaches, happening beach towns, glorious islands, magical coral reefs and sublime natural beauty. Miles of white sandy beach with turquoise blue waves breaking at the shore provide for awesome travelling experiences.
Explore urban Cuba by spending some time in Havana or Trinidad. Stroll through Havana’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed OLD Town to experience a journey back in time. With cobbled streets lined with Spanish style ancient colonial buildings and European cars from the 1950s Havana seems to be caught in a time warp.
Cuba is the home to some of the most warm and friendly people in the world. It is also of the safest countries to travel. You will always find police patrolling in Old Town Havana making it a safe place to venture out at any time at night as well. People are always ready to help with any kind of assistance needed.
Hence don’t be astonished if you receive a random meal invitation to a Cuban home. Feel free to dine and stay at local homestays known as Casa Particular to get a closer look at Cuban culture.
Old Havana or Habana Vieja is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so. The city exudes an aura of a carefully preserved old-world charm with its cobbled street, Neoclassical and Baroque style buildings, vintage cars and much more. There are innumerable walking streets lined with restaurants, the Plaza de la Catedral, a book market and Plaza de Armas that provide excellent photo opportunities and create lasting memories.
Once again a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cuba, Trinidad is a well-maintained colonial city that is vibrant and comfortable. Tourists can walk around carelessly and enjoy the Spanish style architecture as cars are not allowed in the town centre. Trinidad is also the gateway to the mesmerizing Valley of the Sugar Mills. Back in the day, the sugar plantation flourished under the colonial rule and formed the basis to livelihood and international trade.
A quiet town located in the Villa Clara province of Cuba, Santa Clara is primarily known for the historical landmarks and as the seat of the Cuban Revolution. Santa Clara is often referred to as ‘Che’s City’ as this is where the revolutionary guerrilla leader was put to rest. As you walk down the streets you cannot miss the colourful wall murals dedicated to the great leader and a colossal bronze statue of the man himself.
Located in the eastern province of Guantanamo, Baracoa is the oldest city of Cuba. Baracoa was set apart from mainland Cuba until the 1960s when the La Farola highway was constructed. Hence the city provides a remote feel that is both authentic and relaxing for the visitors. One can soak up its beauty in the colonial architecture, lush greenery, pretty waterfalls and powdery beaches. The best way to reach Baracoa is by driving down the 49 kms La Farola highway across the mountains and forests that connects the city with mainland Santiago.
Founded by Spanish invaders in 1515, Santiago is a leading administrative centre and the second-largest city in Cuba. Located in southern Cuba, the region is characterised by vibrant Afro-Cuban culture, lively music, spectacular architecture and warm people. One of the most attractive features of the city is the July Carnival that celebrates the Spanish patron St. James and African slaves’ religion Yoruba.
Snorkelling – Enjoy a wide variety on marine creatures and mangroves along the coral reefs of Guardalavaca or at Playa Giron by the Bay of Pigs.
Scuba Diving & Swimming in a Cenote – Take a quick dive into the cool waters of Saturn Cave or Cueva de Saturno in the cenote cave near Varadero.
Smoke a Cigar – Take a puff of the world-famous Cuban cigar while strolling down the streets of Havana.
Deep Sea Fishing – Rent a boat and sail deep into the Atlantic for a once in a lifetime fishing experience at Cayo Coco.
Sky Diving – Go skydiving with professional jumpers in Matanzas.
Varadero is undoubtedly the best beach destination in both Cuba and the whole of the Caribbean. Turquoise blue waters, white sandy beaches lined with palm trees, a plethora of beach activities like deep-sea fishing, sky diving and swimming along with some mouthwatering cuisine and mojitos make this an unforgettable destination.
Stretching along the Peninsula de Hicacos, Varadero is home to some beautiful nature reserves that include Parque Natural Punta Hicacos , Cueva de Ambrosio and Cueva de Musulmanes.
Located in the Holguin province, the beaches of Guardalavaca is quiet, isolated and provides visitors with a perfectly relaxing mood. The lush greenery along the beaches provide for a cool shade for all those looking for a respite from the scorching tropical sun.
Located in the western part of the country, Vinales is a 150-square km landscape of rolling green valley nestled in the Sierra de los Organos. Steep limestone hills known as mogotes abounds the valley thereby lending the area with an almost magical effect.
Parque Nacional Viñales is extremely popular amongst tourists for the countless outdoor activities it has on offer. The limestone hills attract rock-climbers, hikers and even horseback riding opportunities in the surrounding areas.
Situated in the heart of Cuba’s capital city Havana, the Malecon is a 7-km-long sea-facing promenade buzzing with life and activity. Strolling down the promenade one can enjoy the 20th century Art Deco and Neo Moorish style buildings, watch classic cars pacing up and down the streets or simply sit back and relax.
The pastel-coloured pink and yellow buildings along the seashore are a delight to watch during sunset especially if you are a shutterbug.
Beyond beautiful beaches, verdant valleys and art deco architecture, Cuba also has an extremely illustrious and eventful political history. Che Guevara is undoubtedly the most prominent figure of Cuba’s guerrilla battle.
Hence a visit to the Che Guevara memorial and the adjacent Museo Historico de la Revolucion is a must-visit for a deep understanding of Cuba’s history.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Castillo del Morro is a majestic 17th-century Spanish fortress located at the Bay of Santiago. Over the centuries the fortress has served as a watchtower to protect against pirate attacks, as a prison in the 1700s and finally converted into a prison.
In the present day, the fortress houses a small museum where visitors may learn about pirates, history of the fort or ascend the fortress for some impressive views of the bay.
Bird watchers and wildlife photographers are spoilt for choices in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Peninsula de Zapata.
Located in southern Cuba, the Zapata swamp is a massive wetland that is home to more 150 species of birds including hens, parrots and waterhens. The area also a refuge for Cuban crocodiles at a crocodile farm known as Criadero de Cocodrilos.
Note: This is just a SAMPLE Itinerary. Our Cuba tour package can be customized according to your preferences.
Day 1
Arrive at Havana, the capital city of Cuba. Post breakfast take time to stroll around Havana Vieja or Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at your own pace. Spend some time soaking the beauty of the grand Neoclassical building, stop by at the Plaza de la Catedral and take some pictures with the colourful stain glass windows Casa del Conde Jaruco. Learn about the Cuban Revolution at Plaza de la Revolucion. From the old town head to the Malecon sea promenade to catch a glimpse the golden sunset. Walk around the promenade while watching people. At nightfall head to Club Tropicana in western Havana to enjoy some happening nightlife scene.Day 2
After breakfast head to Varadero, the most happening beach destination in all of Cuba. Enjoy 7kms of white sandy beach and astonishingly deep blue waters of the Atlantic. Sip on some authentic mojitos and take a puff at a Cuban cigar by the seaside. One may also enjoy various water sports like diving or swimming at Varadero.Day 3
Next up head to the town of Santa Clara to get a deeper understanding of the Cuban Revolution. Pay homage to the national hero Che Guevara at the Che Guevara Mausoleum. Visit the Museo Historico de la Revolucion to view some of Che Guevaras personal belongings that is sure to give you goosebumps.Day 4
Start day 4 with a hearty Cuban sandwich and cafe Cubano or Cuban coffee. Head out to explore Santiago, the second most populated city of Cuba. Wander around Parque CZspedes and enjoy the live musical performances by roadside musicians. Mount to the top of Castillo del Morro for some incredible views of the Bay.Day 5
Drive to Baracoa via La Farola highway. Stop at various viewpoints for some awesome pictures. Enjoy some quiet time on the beaches of Playa Maguana. For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to El Yunque is recommended. Remember to look at the giant colourful murals of Fidel Castro and Che Guevara that adorn the dilapidated buildings.Day 6
Next morning drive back to Santiago followed by a flight to Trinidad. Step back in time and soak in the old-world charm of Trinidad. Explore the city on foot to get the colonial feel. You may roam around Plaza Mayor, stop by at Church and Monastery of Saint Francis or simply sit back with a cup of coffee and enjoy the busy town.Day 7
Spend the last day of your Cuba trip in the laps of nature at the Peninsula de Zapata, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that provide excellent photo opportunities to bird watchers. Next up, take a boat trip to the quaint Indian village of Horizontes Villa Guama. Later at night return to Havana.Please email me a copy of the sample itinerary
Cost of a trip depends on places you plan to visit, the duration of the stay, the class of travel and accommodation and the inclusions you seek. We have years of experience in conducting the American tours. Let us at Flying Squirrel Holidays get the best deal for you.
What is the best time to visit Cuba?
October to April are the best months to visit Cuba.
Which are the best places to visit in Cuba?
Havana, Baracoa, and the National Parks are some of the best places to visit in Cuba.
Which language is preferred in Cuba?
While Spanish and French are the most spoken languages in Cuba, many Cubans also speak English very well.
Cuba is a fascinating country dripping in history, nature, culture and much more. Over the last few years, Cuba has seen a steady increase in the number of tourists for reasons more than one.
Hence, it is the perfect time to start planning your Cuba holiday package with Flying Squirrel Holidays' customised Cuba tour packages from India!
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