Cuba

Welcome in the City of Columns as Havana is also called the largest colonial city in Latin America and since 1982 a UNESCO World Heritage. Upon your arrival at Havana International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Rahhalah representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and exploring the city at your own pace, until the group re-assembles for welcome dinner. 19:00 Welcome drink at El Floridita. Ernest Hemingway chose this place as his favorite bar. He visited the bar frequently to enjoy a daiquiri. It is said that the restaurant is one of the seven most famous in the world. 20:00 Welcome Dinner at Paladar La Guarida.You might recognize this place from the Cuban movie Strawberry and Chocolate. This is the most famous private restaurant in Havana and still one of the best. After climbing up the staircase of a once glamorous 18th-century townhouse you will enjoy very creative and exquisite Cuban food. As this place is also known as the hardest table to get in Havana, it is recommendable to reserve a table. The Queen of Spain, Sting, Gerald Depardieu and a lot more international celebrities have visited and enjoyed this popular paladar. After dinner Stop and evening visit to the Revolution square Huge square where legendary speeches have been delivered. The building located behind this square houses the seat of the government. The portraits of Che and Camilo guard the entire place. Afterward transfer back to the hotel. Accommodation: 5-star Hotel Old Havana- Hotel Royalton Paseo del Prado or similar.

Breakfast at the Hotel. Today you will spend the day exploring Old Havana. The City of Columns, as it has been nicknamed, is the biggest colonial old town of Latin America. Nearly 500 years after its founding Havana has just been officially declared one of the Seven Wonders Cities of the modern era in 2016. Coco taxi ride around the old town Ride in the funny Coco-taxi along the Prado Street with the Capitol and other emblematic building of the neocolonial time in Cuba, until the port avenue. Walking tour through Old Havana Walk along Havana's most visited pedestrian street Calle Obispo stopping by Johnson drugstore, Ambos Mundos Hotel (where Ernest Hemingway used to stay) as well as Taquechel pharmacy with its beautiful ceramic containers; all these places located in the heart of the historic old town. Musicians and street performers give a colorful contrast to the baroque-style cathedral with their traditional costumes, and to the square that carries its name -Plaza de la Catedral. Only to a few streets away, ancient books are sold by Cubans in the Plaza de Armas under the shade of the palms. Some of the attractions of this area are: the former seat of the Cuban government Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, Castillo de la Real Fuerza (Royal Force Castle) and the charming Templete. The cobblestone Plaza San Francisco de Asís is adorned with the Fuente de los Leones (Lion's Fountain) and the neo-classical building Lonja del Comercio. At a few blocks find the recently renovated Plaza Vieja surrounded by a lot of nice restaurants to freshen up with a typical Cuban cocktail or just to enjoy the joie de vivre. Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes - Arte Cubano Entrance to the 'Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes'. Visit the building which houses the Cuban collection with over 30,000 plus pieces divided into six basic sections: Colonial Art / Turn of the Century / Emergence of Modern Art / Consolidation of Modern Art / Other Perspectives of Modern and Contemporary Art. Stop at La Bodeguita del Medio Stop for a drink at the worldwide famous Bodeguita del Medio. Its walls are covered by thousands of slogans and signatures of people that have visited the place. At the beginning of the 40's, this was a meeting point for intelectuals, including Ernest Hemingway, who was a regular customer in the bar. Time for Lunch (suggested not, included Paladar Chacon 162 +30 USD pP). In the heart of the old town in the romantic corner around Loma de Angel. The restaurant, decorated with many motorcycle motifs and memorabilia from the 1950s, was obviously inspired by Route 66. The inviting outdoor tables on the corner of Chacon Street are the perfect backdrop for a fruity mojito or daiquiri. Visit the Revolution Museum (closed – visit from outside) The former presidents residence, this building offers an insight into Cuban revolutionary history. It is considered one of Cuba's most important museums, not only for the number and quality of the cultural heritage, but also because of its extensive historical and political collection. Its more than 30 rooms are visited annually for more than 300 000 visitors. Approximately, 9 000 exhibits are part of the collection of the institution, about 700 of them are shown in the permanent exhibition. Afternoon Vintage Car Panorama Tour Ride in a vintage car from the 1940s and 1950s. An elegant and unforgettable way to explore the city and indulge in nostalgia. Enjoy a mocktail Hotel Nacional Bar de la Fama Enjoy a mocktail while strolling along the wonderful hotel gardens that overlooks the sea. The nostalgic Bar de la Fama is also a must-see, with portraits of the Mafia boss Meyer Lansky, of Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner and other celebrities, who are part of the legend of the hotel. Afterward transfer back to the hotel. Accommodation: 5-star Hotel Old Havana – Hotel Royalton Paseo del Prado or similar.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast Depart to the charming town of Vinales. (Havana – Viñales:2.5-3hrs) Drive along the tobacco route to the west of the island as far as Viñales, where time seems to have stood still. Stop at the Los Jazmines lookout point - A spectacular panoramic view over the Valle de Viñales awaits visitors at the Los Jazmines viewpoint. Surrounded by majestic vegetation and unique rock formations, this place is ideal for capturing the natural beauty of Cuba in all its glory. Hiking tour from Coco Solo to Palmarito - This unforgettable hike takes through the almost surreal landscape of the Viñales Valley: vivid red clay soil, lush tropical vegetation, and the iconic limestone mogotes create a breathtaking setting. The route is around 9 kilometers long, easy to walk, and perfect for beginners – yet it ranks among the most beautiful hikes in the region. Along the way, encounter with local farmers at work and visit of a traditional Casa del Veguero, the home of a tobacco farmer complete with a rustic drying house (Secadero). Scenic stops at the Cueva de la Vaca and Cueva del Palmarito, two caves that invite a brief exploration. Difficulty level: easy / approx. 9 km on foot / duration: approx. 4 hours Stop at a tobacco farmer's house (Casa del Veguero) - Visit a tobacco house on the region, known by locals as tobacco drying house. Late lunch (recommended , not included- Paladar El Cuajani) After lunch visit of the Prehistoric Mural Painting (Mural de la Prehistoria) created by the Cuban artist Leovigildo González Morillo. The artist was a student of Frida Kahlo's husband, the Mexican painter Diego Rivera 16:00 Depart from Viñales to Havana. (Viñales – Havana:2.5-3hrs) Return along the almost empty highway, which is used more often by bicycles, horses and pedestrians than by motor vehicles. Arrival in Havana around 19:00 pm. Free time and dinner. Accommodation: 5-star Hotel Old Havana – Hotel Royalton Paseo del Prado or similar.

Breakfast at the hotel. Check out and start the day with visit of Finca Vigia - Hemingway's former country residence currently houses the Ernest Hemingway Museum, also known as Finca Vigía. This property is situated approximately 15 km outside Havana city centre in San Francisco de Paula. This was the home of the popular novelist for 22 years. Every single detail is carefully preserved so that you might have the impression that Papa just left for a moment to have a drink. Later Depart to Cienfuegos ( approx. 3 hrs drive Cienfuegos) Then you will head towards the central regions of Cuba until the city of Cienfuegos with its French colonial architecture. Continuation along the panorama ocean road towards Trinidad (classified as Cultural World Heritage by UNESCO). Lunch - recommended not included Paladar Ache One of the only two surviving private restaurants from the austere 1990s. Interesting decor includes caged birds, the seven dwarfs recreated as garden gnomes and a wall relief map of Cienfuegos cultural icons. After lunch, start the city tour of Cienfuegos (approx. 1.5 hrs.) Cienfuegos city is also known as the pearl of the south. With it’s mix of French architecture, markets, boutique shops, beautiful sea-side Malecon and location on the bay makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Cuba. Enjoy French colonial flair of the 19th century during a city tour along the Parque Martí with the renowned Teatro Terry, where once Caruso performed and the moorish style Palacio del Valle on the peninsula Punta Gorda. Visit Tomas Terry Theater - The sugar magnate Tomas Terry founded this theater to honour his father. It was inaugurated in 1895 with a sumptuous presentation. Later, this auditorium built with precious woods and golden details would be the stage for celebrities such as Enrico Caruso, Sarah Bernhardt, Ana Pavlova and many others. Entrance Palacio del Valle - A wealthy Asturian transformed the old creole house into a palace as a wedding present for his beloved daughter, with the idea to bring to Cienfuegos the moorish splendour of the Alhambra. Later, dictator Batista's brother bought the building and turned it into an elegant gambling casino. After the tour, proceed to Trinidad. (approx. 2 hrs. drive) Check in at the hotel. Walking Tour of Trinidad ( approx.1,5 hrs) Your guide will take you on a great interpretive walk around the oldest part of this 500-year-old city. Trinidad has so much character and is the 3rd most visited city in all of Cuba. It’s cobble stone streets, live music, art galleries, open markets and rich history have adventure seekers drawn to this City to experience ‘real’ Cuba. Trinidad has its roots in the ‘Sugar Boom’ movement that exploded onto this area hundreds of years ago. Free time for dinner. Evening wander in Old Trinidad. Get yourself acquainted with the area and sights to see and do. You will have more free time in this unique and amazing city over the next few days. Accommodation: Hotel Mystique or similar.

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast depart at around 09:00 am. This is the most original trail of all and it leads to a cavern with a 12-meter-high waterfall. Time for bath and great opportunity to watch birds. Jeep ride to Sendero de Nengoa, located 8 km from Topes de Collantes on the Cabagán River, the Nengoa Grotto, a karst space of relevant importance, attracts the visitor for its impressive waterfall inside with a fall of 12 m after having carved the roof and cavernous walls forming a natural pool that complement the captivating beauty of the place. During the tour the client will have the opportunity to interact with the natural values of the area, within them you can find a natural forest dominated by original mountain vegetation, coffee cultivation and forest species of importance. Time to swim in the natural pools and waterfalls. Difficulty level: moderate / approx. 3 km walking / duration: approx. 2 hours. Rustic Lunch on the way-Enjoy a meal in a authentic location on the way. Transfer back to the hotel. Free time in the evening to enjoy the live music, dance and buzz of Old Trinidad at night. Accommodation: Hotel Mystique or similar.

Enjoy a free day in Trinidad, strolling through the streets, connecting with the locals, shopping, and taking in the vibe of the city. OPTIONAL: Catamaran excursion from Trinidad to Cayo Blanco incl. Lunch.( extra cost applies) Catamaran trip with Caribbean charm. Departure in the port of Trinidad and past the small fishing village of Casilda. On the way, snorkel stop to discover the underwater treasures and later lunch like a sailor. After a walk on the beach accompanied by the native fauna (iguanas) back to the main island. Free time. Evening Salsa Lesson with Professional Dancer (1 hour) Cuba is popular for its music and its hot rhythms. Salsa dance is a synonym of joie de vivre or maybe an escape valve. The dance is a mixture between mambo, cha cha cha and rumba, The Cuban people is also a melting pot of cultures with African, European and Asian roots. Salsa lessons workshop with Cuban experts on body movements. Accommodation: Hotel Mystique or similar.

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart around 09:00 am to Finca La Lima ( 1 hour drive ). Finca La Lima welcomes guests with a refreshing drink. Then it’s time to dive into authentic Cuban farm life: milking cows and goats, making traditional cheese, collecting eggs, and tasting freshly roasted coffee. Afterwards, a light hike (40 min from the start point) leads to scenic waterfalls and natural swimming pools where you can swim. The day concludes with a delicious lunch featuring typical grilled dishes, fresh sides, and homemade desserts. Those who wish can unwind in a hammock, play a round of dominoes, or enjoy a cocktail with mountain views. Afternoon Visit the Sugar Mill Valley and the Iznaga Tower Trip to the Sugar Mill Valley, where the ancient mansion of sugar baron Iznaga is, as well as its legendary tower for overseeing slaves. The trip will take 1.5 hours. In the late afternoon (16:00h) back to the hotel. Free time for dinner. Accommodation: Hotel Mystique or similar.

After breakfast, you will drive back to Havana (a 4-hour drive) for your departure flight back home. Alternatively, you may extend your trip to visit Varadero. Notes:

• It is recommended that you book afternoon flights.
• One group airport transfer is included. Additional can be arranged at an extra cost.