But for something different, the plantation country of central Cuba is a raw delight. Rides last around 6.5 hours and begin from 8.30am. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) Its mansions and lavish interiors were fuelled by the cash the sugar boom brought to the island, but theyre no secret. How long: Five days to complete Scuba en Cubas ACUC Open Water Diver course; one day minimum for wreck diving (some wrecks for advanced divers only). Be aware of this practice and keep in mind that some locals who approach you may do so to take advantage of your presence. Call for details. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. Some airlines do not provide this card, so it is best to call your airline and ask about it prior to travel. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/. Today you can zip-line through the forests around Las Terrazas, bathe in the pools of the San Juan River, wander ruined coffee plantations and stay with the community in lakeside bungalows, or at the hotel that started it all. So locals opened up an eco-hotel (Hotel Moka), drawing visitors to their UNESCO-listed biosphere. Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. I usually don't go on orginized tours .It is recommended by Lonely Planet but I didn't find much reviews on trip advisor. MAKING FRIENDS WITH LOCALS Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. The promotional price is subject to change. Pricing - The melody of horns floating through the air, classic cars parked in colonial squares, revolutionary statues get over the resort wall and discover the real Cuba! Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. Every corner of the city is a painting waiting to be imagined. This undeveloped island (The Isle of Youth) off the southern coast of Cuba once housed both Fidel and Ral Castro, back when it was little more than a prison. Rubber gloves, Warm Weather: jQuery('body').append(''); Viva la Revolucin! 25 Cuba adventures, from coast and islands to colonial cities However, if you felt your CEO did an especially outstanding job, any additional amount will always be welcome. There is no obligation to do this though. Contact our travel experts for more details. Learn more. Don't sweat the logistics travel providers plan for you. Steam train in Valley de los Ingenios (Dreamstime). Local Living tours grant access that even locals don't have. A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. Get started: For an eight-day trip to the above locations, contact Cuba Adventure Company; prices start from 1,729 (1,507), excluding flights. The train goes three times a day; be sure to turn up at least 30 minutes before departure. More information can be found in the U.S. Department of the Treasurys Cuba FAQs. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. Every February 5, Cubas quirkiest festival unravels in the small town of Santiago de las Vegas on the outskirts of Havana. We recommend that you check your governments advice for their latest travel information before departure. When it comes to the western coast, most travellers will visit Cayo Jutas or skip offshore to the idyllic Cayo Levisa, but few explore the western peninsulas backroads and coastal routes. We urge you to check with your insurance provider to ensure your policy is on the list of approved providers. The traveller is responsible for qualifying under one of these travel categories. Got a group of eight or more and want to keep the fun to yourselves? Enjoy a final evening with the group in Cuba's vibrant capital. Vazul buses also go to Holgun (11 hours). If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Enjoy free time to explore this Afro-Cuban city by visiting important revolutionary sites, like the Moncada Barracks. The road rises, falls, flatlines and has even broken off into the sea in places. "Active":Why just see the world when you could bike, hike, kayak, and multi-sport it? The Cuban Convertible Peso is at a similar value to the US Dollar, and can be acquired at any change house or bank. jQuery('.active-accommodation').removeClass('active-accommodation'); Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. jQuery('[data-content-id="' + id + '"]').show(); Amid a necklace of coral keys, dive among scores of silky, reef and nurse sharks, and goggle at mammoth giant groupers, turtles and colourful coral. Make the most of it with Yolo tours, fun-filled and fast-moving adventures designed just for travellers aged 18 to 39. Hotels/casas particulares (homestays) (14 nts). All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Or the tour operator might not be part of our Trip Finder any more. Low Price Guarantee, jQuery(document).ready(function() { Answer 1 of 2: Hi, did anyone use G Avantures company for Cuba? Your feedback information is so important to us that well give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. Travel along the coast to colonial Cienfuegos. You need to be fairly fit to cycle in shadeless Cuba; Nov-Feb is the coolest time. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Travel east to Santiago de Cuba and Baracoa and encounter the birthplace of Cuban rhythms and revolutionary fervour. The area offers everything from beaches to waterfalls to hiking opportunities and museums. Detour along the way through Santa Clara to visit the Che Mausoleum. G Adventures reserves the right to cancel any reservations made by U.S. citizens, residents or other persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction. All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Savour a local dinner as a group hosted by one of the homestay families. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think its the best of both worlds. Beach time in Baracoa. Travel east to Santiago de Cuba and Baracoa and encounter the birthplace of Cuban rhythms and revolutionary fervour. IMPORTANT NOTE FOR ALL PASSPORT HOLDERS: How long: Trips last 12 days. Why, indeed. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. The closest you will get to it, however, is Caimanera, a remote fishing community on the western shore of the bay. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. To speak with G Adventure Travel Specialist, See all activities, themes, and interests >, Gain insight on cuban life at casa particular stays, Your G for Good Moment: Baracoa Community Experience, BaracoaYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and GroupYour Local Living Moment: Havana Homestay, All transport between destinations and to/from included activities, You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type, Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics. Arrive at any time. We recommend that you avoid flying to Cuba via the US airports. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. How long? Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation Planeterra. Allow USD485-630 for meals not included. Important Notes Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) Enjoy free time for swimming and snorkelling before returning to Havana. Utilizing the local accommodation puts you closer to the Cuban people and lifestyle and often provides a higher standard of service and comfort than in a hotel. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Cuba Travel with G Adventures: Dance to local music and - YouTube A salary average of $12-25 USD per month doesn't stop Cubans from embracing a few rum drinks, or a cigar smoked long and quietly at the end of a long day's work. will be happy to answer any questions you many have! Sign into see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (its free). These local accommodation options allow you to participate in a typical Cuban living experience by staying with a family in their home. The family rents a bedroom or two (twin or single) with private bathroom shared amongst guests. Bring snacks. Just because you settled down and had kids doesnt mean your adventuring days are through. As well as the lively street parties that accompany its annual film festivals one of which screens movies in the nearby Panderos caves its culinary reputation is also growing. Cubans rarely uses spices for cooking, so its recommended to bring some of your favourite spices or hot sauce for a bit of added punch. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Free time in Bayamo, Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad, Bay of Pigs, and Havana. You dont have to smoke to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of tobacco farming in western Cuba. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. Tree on the shore at Playa Girn (Dreamstime). Tourist cards are also available from a Cuban consulate or embassy and cost approximately $20-$25CUC. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. Right now is an exciting time in Cuba with rapidly changing legislation and local conditions. Join an insider on a guided tour of its famed plantations. Havana city tour in vintage car. Windproof rain jacket, Health & Safety: Dive into the ocean for incredible snorkelling, learn to whip up some of the finest mojitos from the local experts of Playa Larga, and find your rhythm as you salsa dance in the cradle of the Cuban Revolution. MEDICAL TRAVEL INSURANCE Why, indeed. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Arrive at any time. We advise this not expecting trouble, but rather erring on the side of caution. Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary. A welcome note will be left for you at the main house so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. The Ripple Score is an honest evaluation of how often we use local businesses and services to create each tour. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. Get started: Reiniers Trinidad Travels runs horseriding trips throughout the valley that begin in Trinidad; from CUC60 (46) per person. Baracoa, Cubas eastern capital of adventure, is arguably also its most scenic spot. CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. Eating is a big part of traveling. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Compare similar trips and tour companies to find your perfect vacation at the perfect price. We advise this not expecting trouble, but rather erring on the side of caution. Since late 2010, however, this has relaxed a lot as has government control of farming meaning the sudden availability and variety of fresh produce has seen a surge in creative new restaurants, and nowhere more so than in Havana. Tour the city by vintage car before a walking tour of Old Havana with the CEO. The area offers everything from beaches to waterfalls to hiking opportunities and museums. Your G for Good Moment: Baracoa Community Experience, Baracoa When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Explore UNESCO-listed Alejandro de Humboldt Park and stay next to the wild bay. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. The area is hinged to the Zapata swamp, a protected wetland cut with forests rivers and crocs. Several things were different from advertised, which makes a big difference when you think y Egypt was my second trip with G Adventures. How long? Gibara, a once neglected fishing port in eastern Cuba, is having a renaissance. But as a front-row view on a piece of modern history, its compelling. Resorts, hotels, and government-run restaurants are notorious for mediocre buffets and subpar food quality, but at casas and locally run restaurants you get the chance to taste real Cuban cuisine. Seventeen Great Adventure Holidays In Cuba Last Updated: January 2023 Author: Robert We have taken a look at the adventure holiday scene and have put together 17 great adventure type holiday ideas experiences for people interested in adventure holidays with a difference in Cuba that are that little bit special, or once in a lifetime. Offers of this service are very common in Havana. It is prohibited to enter or leave Cuba carrying Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) currency. Salsa dance with the locals, walk in Che Guevaras footsteps, gain insight on Cuban life at casa particular stays, explore breathtaking beaches. Ear plugs Soak up Cuban culture in an immersive homestay experience, learn about the country's resilience at the Bay of Pigs Museum in Playa Girn, and visit Che Guevara sites in . Cuba Colonial is one of the best Cuba tours by G Adventures, and that's saying a lot. Farmer harvesting sugarcane near Varadero (Dreamstime). Drive along the picture-perfect Bay of Pigs, and learn more about the Cuban victory in 1961 at the Giron Museum. With free time, opt to hike near El Yunque or explore the breathtaking beaches for which this area of Cuba is famous. Explore Cubas rural communities and small businesses in Baracoa, a G Adventures-supported project. Swimming with reef sharks in Jardines de la Reina (Dreamstime). To reach the resort of MontECOrales, walk the 30-minute journey from the station. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number. Laundry facilities are offered by the homestays and some of our hotels for a charge. // Full size, please: Drive along the picture-perfect Bay of Pigs, and learn more about the Cuban victory in 1961 at the Giron Museum. we went on G adventure's "cuba colonial" tour recently, and had a wonderful time. G Adventures tours are a good option for a variety of travelers. Private vehicle, walking.. CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides. 2021 season departures. Many airlines to Cuba include the cost of this card in the flight cost and distribute the card during the flight. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each others company. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Cuba Colonial - G Adventures In Baracoa, please do not buy any product involving snail shells. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. Comandancia de la Plata hike. How long? How long? While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. Get started: Combine with a trip onboard the Hershey train and get off at Canasi (2.5 hours from Havana). Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. U.S. citizens and residents: If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Tourism is not one of these 12 categories. Your Hands-On Moment: Salsa Lesson, Trinidad. Answer 1 of 2: Hi, did anyone use G Avantures company for Cuba? +53 5216-0592, ALTERNATIVE NUMBERS in CUBA: If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. The railway and Marcelo Salado Sugar Museum, near Remedios, are particularly worth a visit for their engaging exhibits and daily rides. The bicycle-shy can hire a car (about eight hours drive from Piln to Santiago de Cuba; 185km); take advice on road hazards before setting off. How long? The origin of this party lies, unusually, with the towns priest, who in 1820 noticed his parishioners dwindling as the weather got colder. Cuba Colonial | G Adventures | Wanderlust Trip Finder If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. This faux funeral was launched in 1984 and has been entertaining the locals with a great party ever since. Cuba Colonial G Adventures No Comments June 9, 2014 The melody of horns floating through the air, classic cars parked in colonial squares, revolutionary statuesget over the resort wall and discover the real Cuba! Highlights of Cuba in Cuba, Central America - G Adventures - Departure date, was Cuba Far and Wide Become immersed in the vibrant Cuban culture and experience everything from the bustling and historic city of Havana to the rural and luscious countryside of Viales. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program Make Every Day Count Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Adventure travel is more than a vacation. Enjoy free time for hikes or relaxing in nature. Cuba Explorer by G Adventures [reviews_count] - Travelstride Cuba Colonial. from, Orientation walks in Sancti Spritus, Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Camagey, Cienfuegos, and Trinidad, Free time in Bayamo, Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad, Bay of Pigs, and Havana, All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time.