Cuba
Catch the magic and rhythms of Cuba before it all changes
| 13 Day Itinerary | ||
| Departure: | 9th April 2012 | (Monday to Saturday) |
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| Price: | AUD$2700 | |
Day 1 - Havana - Arrival day This evening we will have a group meeting and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant Day 2 - Havana to Cienfuegos (via Bay of Pigs) After breakfast we head south east to Cienfuegos known as the “Pearl of the South”. Once we arrive at the Jaguey Grande turnoff we drop our bikes down and pedal along the coast of the infamous Bay of Pigs. This is the scene of the failed US lead invasion in April 1961. We stop for a cooling swim in the turquoise waters before calling in at the historic museum. We stay in Cienfuegos which is a charming town with interesting art and colonial architecture on show (Total ride of 150 kms) Day 3 - Cienfuegos to Trinidad (via Santa Clara) We ride today to nearby Santa Clara (82 kms) which is the main city of Villa Clara province. We are here to visit the monuments to “Mi Amigo”, Che Guevara. We tour the sites which include the museum, mausoleum and memorial. In the afternoon we head south to our stunning city of Trinidad (107 kms) which was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1988. There is a definite feeling of cycling through an outdoor museum. We stay at the all inclusive resorts on the Trinidad del Mar very close to lovely Ancon Beach Day 4 - Trinidad We tour the city by bike today. An insight into the colonial housing is found at the ‘Museo Romantico’. We pop into the ‘Canchanchara’ and enjoy a cocktail to break up the day. This evening we can delight in a dish of fresh lobster in a local residence before heading to the steps of Casa de la Musica for an outdoor musical feast of ‘salsa and dance’ Day 5 - Trinidad to Camagüey A leisurely journey today to the provincial capital of Camagüey. We start out by cycling to the Sugar Mill Valley, and have time to climb the quirky and interesting Manaca Iznaga Tower. We also visit the town of Sancti Spiritus and enjoy a walk through the centre of this undiscovered and unassuming location. We arrive into Camagüey late afternoon (Trinidad to Sancti Spiritus 68 kms - Sancti Spiritus to Camagüey 189 kms) Day 6 - Camagüey to Bayamo This morning we jump on our bicycle taxis for a tour of the narrow and winding streets. The are many picturesque churches and squares to explore including the Plaza San Juan de Dios and the Plaza del Carmen with its Rubenesque statues of local residents strategically placed around the square. We then hit the road for our journey on to the lovely town of Bayamo, capital of Granma province. This town was the second Spanish settlement in Cuba, which Diego Velázquez founded in 1513. We can ride part of the way today, (Total ride of 205 kms) Day 7 - Bayamo (day trip Sierra Maestra) A day off the bike as we head into the Sierra Maestra Mountains. Long a location for guerrilla warfare these mountains were the base for the remnants of Castro’s 26th July movement which failed in its attack on Santiago’s Moncada Barracks. We drive along remote roads and tackle a short trek into the rebel headquarters at Comandancia la Plata. Here Castro hid out, regrouped and was able to reignite the revolution which eventually overthrew Batista’s regime. A fascinating and unforgettable day Day 8 - Bayamo to Santiago de Cuba We cycle on to Santiago de Cuba the second most important city in Cuba. There is a clear road ahead for a pedal (125 kms). Exuding both music and history, it is considered the capital of the eastern part of the island and birthplace of ‘son’ music and of the Cuban Revolution Day 9 - Santiago de Cuba Our cycle tour of Santiago includes a visit to Cespedes Park and the Moncadas Garrison. There is so much to see in this vibrant city. In the evening we will seek out some local clubs to enjoy the musical flavours of the traditional Cuban sound. Bring your dancing shoes or just sit back and enjoy a 'Cuba Libre' Day 10 - Santiago de Cuba to Havana We board our short flight to Havana. We are back in time for an afternoon cycle city tour of this stunning capital. We begin with a visit to the historic colonial centre stopping at the 'Capitolo Nacional' and on to a cigar factory to savour the industry that puts Cuba on the world map daily. There is also the interesting Museum of the Revolution which is worth a stop. Soak up the atmosphere of the cobbled streets and avenues of the Old Havana Day 11 - Havana (Viñales Option) There is an option today (not included) for a full day trip to the rural Viñales Valley west of Havana. It is a one way pedal of 190 kms. Heading out to Pinar del Río in the westernmost province of Cuba this is where the best tobacco trees are to be found. You stop for the grand vista at the lookout point of “Los Jazmines”. Then you will view a prehistoric mural and enjoy a Creole lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon you will visit the ‘Indian’s Cave’ taking a boat journey through the underground cavern. Our recommendation if selecting this option is that you cycle out and catch the bus back at the end of the day. For those choosing to stay in Havana you will have a totally free day to explore this vibrant city Day 12 - Havana This morning we tour a different side to the city cycling ‘under’ the harbour to resurface at the Fortress La Cabaña. You will enjoy sweeping harbour views from this structure which was built by the Spaniards between the 16th and 19th centuries. Your last afternoon in Havana is free to enjoy the sights. There is time for a final pedal along ‘El Malecón’, the broad boulevard running along the city coast. Dinner in Old Habana tonight is a fitting finale to your journey through Cuba BEACH ADD-ON OPTION - Day 13 - Havana to Varadero We head north on a cycle to the coastal resort of Varadero (150 kms). We are here to relax and soak up the sun. A fantastic blend of local and foreign travellers. The atmosphere here is very relaxed but you can explore the region if you are so inclined. You can choose to be transported to Varadero if you are in need of a break from the bike Day 14 - Varadero A day to savour. You have earned a day’s relaxation to rejuvenate. You can spend it in the sun with a good book or be as active as you like in this lovely north coast beach resort. If you are feeling adventurous there is an opportunity to explore many of the smaller beach side villages by bike Day 15 - Varadero to Havana depart We head back to Havana for your international flight connection. Finish your journey in the cafes and bars of this Caribbean gem |
Trip Options
| Single Travellers: | (Click here to inquire) | Details |
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| Extra Accommodation: | (Click here to inquire) Single | Details |
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