A stunning and jazzy mix of old world socialism, decadent rat-pack and colonial charm wrapped into one magical island
Las Terrazas > Vinales > Trinidad > Cayo Santa Maria > Havana
This wonderful comprehensive itinerary gives you plenty of time to explore each location and Includes your own personal chauffeur guide and private vehicle as well as local tours and entrance fees – exc. international flights
This fascinating Caribbean island offers one of the most eclectic mixes of political and social culture, creating a unique character that can’t fail to intrigue as you travel through its stunning landscapes or chill with a Mohito on its white sand beaches.
Our representative will meet you at Havana airport and you’ll be transferred by private vehicle to Las Terrazas – the famous, artists’ colony.
The rest of your day is at leisure.
Your day is free to explore this fascinating area. Activities here include exploring the nearby ruins of 19th century coffee plantations, relaxing by the lake and visiting locally-owned restaurants and artist’s studios.
Active travellers will enjoy trekking, hiking, bird-watching, canopy (zip line tours) and horseback riding.
Transfer to the Valley of Vinales – one of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever experience – almost like a scene from Lord of the Rings with its unique verdant landscape with monoliths standing like petrified giants amidst the furrows of oxen-ploughed fields.
Explore Viñales – a small town consisting mostly of one-story wooden houses with porches. The municipality is dominated by low mountain ranges of the Cordillera de Guaniguanico. Typical outcrops known as mogotes complete the karstic character of the landscape. Why not take a horse and ride through this majestic landscape or walk through its verdant fields?
This is an agricultural area farmed as they have for many years using oxen to work the tobacco fields. Visit a farmer and participate in cigar rolling after he’s given you some basic tuition. Its his livelihood but he’ll sit with you and smoke if you’ve a mind.
Transfer from Vinales to Trinidad – one of the best preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture. Known for its colonial old town and cobblestone streets and neo-baroque main square, Plaza Mayor, which is surrounded by grand colonial buildings.
Your day at leisure to explore Trinidad. Visit the Museo Romántico, in the restored Palacio Brunet mansion and Museo de Arquitectura – both are well worth a visit, as is Iglesia de la Santísima, a 19th-century cathedral with a vaulted ceiling and carved altars. Marvel over the old American cars that vye for space with farmers on donkey back.
A last day at leisure to explore the lovely town of Trinidad or to go further afield into the surrounding area. Perhaps visit La Boca beach, Ancon or wile away some time at the railway yard where you might still see steam locos huff and puff as in times of old.
Transfer by your own private car from Trinidad to your beach resort to chill for the next few days on beautiful white sand beaches
Your day at leisure. Cayo Santa Maria is part of the Jardines Del Rey Archipelago which is joined to the mainland by a 30 mile long causeway. It has eight miles of stunning, white sandy beach perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a dip in its warm Caribbean waters.
Your last day at leisure to enjoy just chilling near the surf. Alternatively, if you’re feeling active why not try snorkeling and scuba diving, which is also available.
This morning take your private transfer from Cayo Santa Maria to the capital city, Havana. This is where the party starts! From jazz to Mohitos, bustling markets to Rat-pack haunts, Daiquiris at La Floridita and walks along the Prado – Havana awaits!
The sights and sounds of Havana are intoxicating. From buskers along the Malecón, with surf crashing against the breakwater, to jazz notes wafting through the streets, as you amble through the cobbled roads watching traditionally dressed locals rub shoulders with spontaneous actor mannequins – and you’ll wonder what comes next in this eclectic city.
You’re not done yet. Take a tour in a classic American limo. Cruise the streets visiting a complete cross section of sights – from Revolution Square to the downtown, where walls still bear the image of Che Guevara, past the imposing Russian embassy and the backstreets where people still queue for rice as Cuba restores itself; before heading to a ritzy jazz club for dinner and cabaret. A world of contrasts in one city.
After a leisurely breakfast you’ll take a reluctant private transfer to the airport, where you’ll now wish you’d bought your cigars and Panama hat while you were travelling this wonderful country.
