Travel to Cuba and experience the enthralling history of this seductive Caribbean island for solo-travellers-only.

From vintage cars to fragrant cigars, salsa your way from the colourful capital of Havana through the beautiful island of Cuba and surround yourself with history, music and mojitos in one of the world’s most unique places. Roll a cigar and sip rum with locals in the rural village of Vinales, feel the seaside breeze along the French-infused waterfront of Cienfuegos, surrender to the sultry salsa rhythms in perfectly preserved Trinidad and look behind the legend of Che Guevara on a visit to his memorial in Santa Clara. From the fresh mountain air that fills the streets of Soroa, to the crystal-clear waters that lap the shores of Playa Larga – experience a nation as endearing and diverse as its people on this 8-day adventure that immerses you in the colour, culture and natural beauty of this seductive Caribbean island.

Highlights

• A guided walking tour of Old Havana sheds lights on the difference between the lives of city and rural life in Cuba
• Take in all the colours and aromas of Soroa, the stunning valley area known as the ‘rainbow of Cuba’
• Stroll along the rural dirt roads of Vinales as tractors, vintage cars and horse-drawn carriages pass you by
• A visit to the Che Guevara mausoleum and museum allows you to learn about the iconic Cuban revolutionary in the right context
• Trinidad is a real Cuban treat – step back in time on its old-world streets, then hit some fine palm-flanked beaches
• Marvel at the unique architecture of Palacio del Valle in Cienfuegos
• Try your hand at traditional dance moves with an informal salsa lesson

Itinerary

Day 1: Havana
Bienvenido a Cuba! Welcome to Cuba! A complimentary arrival transfer is included with your trip. There will be a welcome meeting this evening.  As there’s a great deal to do in Havana, we recommend staying a few extra days to make the most of this exciting city.

Day 2: Soroa / Vinales
Enjoy a walking tour of Old Havana, a perfect first taste of the city. Your local guide will show you the cathedral, Plaza de Armas, San Francisco de Asis, Plaza Vieja and Central Park. Later you’ll make the drive to Soroa, a lush enclave nestled in a beautiful valley. You’ll stop in for lunch and tour the orchid garden there. Continue to lovely Vinales, where tobacco and agricultural fields lie side by side and limestone outcrops dot the landscape. The scenery here is some of the most picturesque in Cuba. (B, L)

Day 3: Vinales
A walking tour of the farmlands and crops is included today. Learn more about the simple lifestyle here and see first-hand the farmers who grow tabacco for some of the most expensive cigars. Vinales is a small and charming rural village. It’s probably the easiest place to mingle with locals in Cuba, who are very sociable. Many of them love nothing better than to drink rum and dance the night away. Later head to an ecological farm for an included dinner. (B, D)

Day 4: Bay of Pigs / Cienfuegos
Head towards Cienfuegos today, it is a long travel day. You will be stopping via the Bay of Pigs not only to enjoy the stunning surrounding but to learn more about the botched US Military counter-revolutionary invasion, and you could even opt for a swim in the crystal clear water.

Then the short drive to your destination for the night, Cienfuegos. This is the gem of the south, a seaside town of relaxing streets and dazzling buildings that strike a beautiful pose by the water. You will enjoy a photo stop at Palacio del Valle, which is Cienfuegos’ architectural pride and joy. Learn more about its history as you take in the beauty of its intricate carvings of Venetian alabaster. If you haven’t done so already, perhaps try some Cuban coffee while you’re here – it’s served black, strong and super sweet. (B, L)

Day 5: Trinidad
Today you will board the bus for a short drive to Trinidad. There’s no doubt it’s one of Cuba’s alluring destinations, a great place to wander around, with almost every scene offering a photo opportunity. Watch as locals casually smoke their huge cigars on the doorsteps of their homes, and hear the old Chevrolets rumbling by. Kick things off by strolling along the cobbled streets and marvelling at some of the colourful colonial architecture on display (this town was put on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988 for good reason). An informal salsa lesson is included so you are confident to be involved in the nightlife scene. (B)

Day 6: Trinidad
Enjoy a day of free time. (B, D)

Day 7: Santa Clara / Havana
On your way back to Havana, you’ll stop in at Santa Clara to visit the Che Guevara mausoleum and memorial. In the museum you can get a rare insight into the legacy of the revolutionary leader, with some interesting ephemera and artefacts on display – letters, firearms, even medical devices. Upon arrival in Havana, stop by Revolution square then prepare for a final night of celebrations.  (B, L)

Day 8: Havana
Your trip comes to an end this morning after breakfast. (B)

Inclusions

• Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
• Transport: Private vehicle
• Accommodation: Premium Guesthouse (7 nights)

Prefer your own room? Single supplement is from an extra $570

TIN-STQUKA

Images courtesy of IntrepidGroup