Family - Viva Cuba! Itinerary

Arrive in Havana, Cuba’s political, industrial and cultural centre. Take an orientation walk around the city to get a feel for its unique vibe, and admire colonial buildings in the old city. In free time, why not cruise across to the Cabana Hill fortress and absorb fantastic views back over the city or stroll along the seafront esplanade.

Head west through tobacco plantations, cane fields and roads lined with palm trees. Mingle with local farmers and artisans on a visit to Las Terrazas, located in the heart of the Sierra del Rosario Mountains. Enjoy a swim in natural springs and rock pools alongside San Juan River, stop by a cigar factory and travel on to Vinales. Embark on a guided walk through the surrounding countryside to glimpse rural life in action and see an impressive limestone cave.

Settle in for a day in the saddle, travelling along the badlands of the Zapata Peninsula to Playa Larga. Learn about the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion on a museum visit before spending the night in a stunning beachside location.

Spend a morning snorkelling off the coast at Caleta Buena, or swimming with colourful fish in the area’s natural rock pools. Then, travel to Cienfuegos where many of the city’s buildings bear evidence to early French settlers, and continue to Trinidad before the day is done.

Absorb the atmosphere of Cuba’s best-preserved colonial town, which is also a World Heritage-listed site. Amble along its cobblestone streets to the Plaza Mayor and enjoy a slice of local history at a museum. Take a day trip to Cayo Blanco for a relaxing day of snorkelling or simply floating atop the waters of the Caribbean Sea. In the evening, why not check out a local music or dance performance.

Jump into the back of a local pick up and head to the El Cubano Hacienda, the former property of a plantation owner. While here, hike along shady tracks and stop for a refreshing swim. Then, make tracks to a nearby town with a boisterous local market and traditional ration store. Before the sun sets, continue to the university city of Santa Clara.

Visit the train that was famously overpowered by Che Guevara in the last battle of the Cuban revolution and see his legendary beret and leather jacket. Make a beeline along the coast to Varadero, an idyllic beachside locale famous for its crystal-clear water and sparkling sand.

After enjoying a final morning by the beach, head back to the capital where the adventure wraps up.