Cuba

Depart Guardalavaca for the scenic drive through the Sierra Maestra Mountains, continuing to Santiago de Cuba.

Named the country’s ‘Heroic City’, Santiago de Cuba has many stories to tell about Cuba’s colourful history. It was here that Cuba’s fight for independence from the Spanish in the 19th century and the revolution in the 1950s were launched and this is evident in the city’s many monuments and buildings. The locals are an eclectic mix of African, American- Indian, French, Spanish and Chinese, which makes Santiago come alive at night! Latin American rhythms are the heartbeat of this city, and it is not unusual to see musicians and dancers performing in the main plaza. A city sightseeing tour is included during your stay, visiting Castillo del Morro, a magnificent castle at the entrance to the bay, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

This morning we have included visits to the National Park, the famous farmhouse of Granjita Siboney, where Fidel Castro launched his attack on the Moncada Barracks, and the José Marti Memorial.

During the late afternoon experience salsa music on an included visit to the popular Casa de la Trova. Here locals sing and play to passionate rhythms. You can join in too! Breakfast and dinner included.

Depart for Trinidad, travelling through the picturesque town of Sancti Spiritus. Upon arrival transfer to your beach resort hotel for a two night stay.

During the afternoon enjoy a sightseeing tour of Trinidad. The richness of its picturesque colonial architecture remains largely untouched by the trappings of the 20th century. The whole city is a National Monument and features on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. From the cobbled streets to the pretty Plaza Mayor, the centre is lovely and compact and there is so much to explore, including the fascinating side streets with a vast array of arts and crafts to buy. Breakfast and dinner included.

Havana, Cuba’s capital, is the biggest city in the Caribbean and one of the most amazing in the world. La Habana Vieja (Old Havana) is a wonderful place to explore. Old American Chevrolets and Cadillacs roll along Havana’s streets which are lined with faded elegant building facades, a reminder of its Spanish heritage. Over recent years many have been magnificently restored, reminding us Cuba was once known as “the pearl of the Caribbean”.

Indeed, the Spanish ran their entire Latin American empire from Havana, and the sheer wealth and magnificence of unspoilt colonial architecture has to been seen to be believed. Today we have included a full sightseeing programme including Old Havana where you will see the Plaza de Armas, the old Presidential Palace and Cathedral Square. Cuba is renowned for its cigars and after an included lunch you will visit a cigar factory. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included today.