Cycle the Pearl of the Caribbean, experiencing the best bits and discovering a nation forged under unique circumstances
Explore Cuba by bike, the ideal way to immerse yourself in a beautiful island shaped by revolution and resilience. Cycling through lush countryside, vibrant colonial towns and quiet coastal roads, we enjoy countless interactions with the welcoming local people: dancing salsa, riding with cycling club members and cruising through Havana in a classic car. Of course, there’s revolutionary history to discover, the UNESCO-listed towns of Cienfuegos and Trinidad to explore, and the chance to enjoy a fresh mojito at the end of a day’s cycling.
Highlights
Cycle through a Caribbean island like no other
Ride with members of the Cuban Masters Road Cycling Club
Enjoy a bici-taxi tour through Cienfuegos
Relax on the white sands of Playa Ancón
Cruise through the streets of Havana in a classic car
Discover the UNESCO-listed towns of Havana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos
Key Information
Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Cuban guesthouses known as Casa Particulares)
Six days of cycling with full vehicle support
90 percent paved roads, 10 percent unpaved tracks
Tour enables legal travel to Cuba for US citizens under the Support for Cuban People program
Cuban Tourist Cards included for most UK residents
Countries visited: Cuba
What's Included
2024: Seven breakfasts, six lunches, four dinners
2025: Seven breakfasts, six lunches, three dinners
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
Fly to Havana, the lively capital of Cuba. Meet your tour leader and fellow passengers today at the start accommodation.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Day
1
Start Havana
Welcome to Havana, the lively capital of Cuba. Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, it is now a soulful mix of colonial architecture, street troubadours and classic cars. Meet your tour leader and fellow passengers today at the start accommodation.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Day
2
Havana cycle tour; to Playa Larga and the Bay of Pigs
After a bike fitting, we have a cycling tour of Havana with members of the Cuban Masters Road Cycling Club. This club is made of veteran Cuban cyclists who regularly compete in races in their respective age groups. Arriving into the Old Town, we stop for a cafecito (Cuban-style coffee) at a privately owned café, which also offers snacks and drinks.
Later, we transfer to Playa Larga and stay overnight at the Bay of Pigs. During dinner at a small beachfront restaurant specialising in freshly-caught fish, we are joined by a local nature expert who introduces us to the natural landscape and characteristics of the area.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 15mi (24km)
Ascent: 535ft (163m);
Descent: 554ft (169m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
3
Coastal cycle ride; to Cienfuegos
Our day begins with a coastal cycle ride from Playa Larga to Playa Giron, where we visit a museum to learn about the Bay of Pigs Invasion and the historical significance of the region. After, we cycle to the coast and a place called Caleta Buena for lunch and a swim, before transferring to Cienfuegos.
The city of Cienfuegos is full of architectural delights, with a beautiful main square and restored buildings. One of the best ways to get around is by bici-taxi, a fun tour using the typical city transport. Each bici-taxi can accommodate two people and is pedalled by a local resident (most of whom like to introduce their guests to reggaeton music!). The bici-taxi tour is a great time to talk to Cienfuegos residents and try out your Spanish. After, we check into our casas for the night. They are close to the town centre and some great paladares (traditional restaurants). The malecon coastal road is usually a lively place to soak up the atmosphere with locals.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 29mi (46km)
Ascent: 390ft (119m);
Descent: 387ft (118m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day
4
Ride from Cienfuegos to Cumanayagua; to El Nicho Waterfall
On today’s ride, we are joined by members of the Cienfuegos cycling team; there is plenty of time to chat before and during the ride at the various pitstops. This morning, we cycle from Cienfuegos to Cumanayagua before transferring to El Nicho Waterfall. We have a short walk to the waterfall, where we can relax and enjoy a swim in the natural pools. Lunch is at a paladar next to El Nicho. In the afternoon, we return to Cienfuegos by bus.
For those interested, there is the option to do a more challenging ride and cycle all the way to El Nicho Waterfall (additional distance of 14mi/22km, ascent 2,238ft/682m, descent 1,053ft/321m).
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 19mi (30km)
Ascent: 866ft (264m);
Descent: 692ft (211m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
5
Cycle to Rancho La Vega Farm; to Trinidad
Our friends from the Cienfuegos cycling club join us again today to ride from Cienfuegos to Rancho La Vega, an interesting farm where we have lunch.
We transfer by bus to Trinidad, declared a World Heritage site in 1988 and perhaps the best-preserved colonial town on the island. Exploring Trinidad can feel like entering a time warp, the cobbled streets and horse-drawn transportation whisking us back. There are many interesting museums housed in old colonial buildings and music drifts through the streets and plazas, bringing the town to life.
In Trinidad, we have a walking orientation of the town and dinner at a paladar.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 31mi (50km)
Ascent: 1,562ft (476m);
Descent: 1,152ft (351m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
6
Cycle to Playa Ancón and back; salsa class
We cycle to the fishing village of La Boca, a popular spot with fishermen going about their daily business, before continuing our ride to Playa Ancón, a classic white-sand Caribbean beach where we have time to relax, eat lunch in a beach paladar, and enjoy the sea.
We have a short cycle back to Trinidad, where we take part in a salsa class this evening with Cuban dance partners. Trinidad is known for its nightlife, so after we’ve learnt the salsa basics, we go to Casa de la Trova, a legendary live music venue, to listen to local musicians playing authentic Cuban music. This venue is always lively and sociable, with plenty of Cubans keen to let us practise our dancing with them!
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 16mi (25km)
Ascent: 420ft (128m);
Descent: 417ft (127m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day
7
To Havana via Santa Clara
This morning, we have short ride from Trinidad to Rio Seibabo in the heart of the Sierra del Escambray mountain range. En route, we stop at the Manaca Iznaga textiles market to meet traditional textile makers and sellers. Our next stop is at a farm where we are introduced to a local farmer and his family who make delicious honey.
We then transfer to Santa Clara, the first major city to be liberated by Castro’s army in December 1958. Today, several monuments commemorate this important period, including the mausoleum of Che Guevara, where we stop for a short visit. Afterwards, we transfer back to Havana. This evening, we have dinner at a private paladar in Havana.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 23mi (37km)
Ascent: 1,785ft (544m);
Descent: 1,293ft (394m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
8
Classic car tour and sightseeing in Havana; transfer to the airport
This morning, we see Havana in style – by classic car. Havana is one of the finest colonial cities in the Americas with narrow streets, spacious plazas and glorious architecture, and there is an air of faded grandeur about the place. Visiting both the old and new areas, we discover the distinct areas of the capital, stopping at points of interest. Feel free to ask why the streets of Cuba are filled with classic American cars manufactured in the 1950s and how the owners manage to maintain them!
Afterwards, we have a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Old Havana, the heart of the capital. Old Havana is often described as a living museum, with magnificent monuments, cathedrals and palaces. During our tour, we visit a ration store, food market and artisan market for a chance to buy souvenirs.
It’s then time to bid your group and leader a fond farewell as this marks the end of our Cuban two-wheeled adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Arrive London
Arrive London.
Itinerary
Havana
Havana
Fly to Havana
Fly to Havana, the lively capital of Cuba. Meet your tour leader and fellow passengers today at the start accommodation.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Day
1
Start Havana
Welcome to Havana, the lively capital of Cuba. Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, it is now a soulful mix of colonial architecture, street troubadours and classic cars. Meet your tour leader and fellow passengers today at the start accommodation.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Day
2
Havana cycle tour; to Playa Larga and the Bay of Pigs
After a bike fitting, we have a cycling tour of Havana with members of the Cuban Masters Road Cycling Club. This club is made of veteran Cuban cyclists who regularly compete in races in their respective age groups. Arriving into the Old Town, we stop for a cafecito (Cuban-style coffee) at a privately owned café, which also offers snacks and drinks.
Later, we transfer to Playa Larga and stay overnight at the Bay of Pigs. During dinner at a small beachfront restaurant specialising in freshly-caught fish, we are joined by a local nature expert who introduces us to the natural landscape and characteristics of the area. We round the evening off in a classically Cuban manner, with rum and a few rounds of dominoes.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 15mi (24km)
Ascent: 535ft (163m);
Descent: 554ft (169m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
3
Coastal cycle ride; to Cienfuegos
Our day begins with a coastal cycle ride from Playa Larga to Playa Girón, where we stop for a breather and an explanation of the US’ failed Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961. We continue the ride to Caleta Buena on the coast for lunch and a swim, before transferring to Cienfuegos.
The city of Cienfuegos is full of architectural delights, with a beautiful main square and restored buildings. One of the best ways to get around is by bici-taxi, a fun tour using the typical city transport. Each bici-taxi can accommodate two people and is pedalled by a local resident (most of whom like to introduce their guests to reggaeton music!). The bici-taxi tour is a great time to talk to Cienfuegos residents and try out your Spanish. After, we check into our casas for the night. They are close to the town centre and some great paladares (traditional restaurants). The malecon coastal road is usually a lively place to soak up the atmosphere with locals.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 29mi (46km)
Ascent: 390ft (119m);
Descent: 387ft (118m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day
4
Ride from Cienfuegos to Cumanayagua; to El Nicho Waterfall
On today’s ride, we are joined by members of the Cienfuegos cycling team; there is plenty of time to chat before and during the ride at the various pitstops. This morning, we cycle from Cienfuegos to Cumanayagua before transferring to El Nicho Waterfall. We have a short walk to the waterfall, where we can relax and enjoy a swim in the natural pools. Lunch is at a paladar next to El Nicho. In the afternoon, we return to Cienfuegos by bus.
For those interested, there is the option to do a more challenging ride and cycle all the way to El Nicho Waterfall (additional distance of 14mi/22km, ascent 2,238ft/682m, descent 1,053ft/321m).
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 19mi (30km)
Ascent: 866ft (264m);
Descent: 692ft (211m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day
5
Cycle to Rancho La Vega Farm; to Trinidad
Our friends from the Cienfuegos cycling club join us again today to ride from Cienfuegos to Rancho La Vega, an interesting farm where we have lunch.
We transfer by bus to Trinidad, declared a World Heritage site in 1988 and perhaps the best-preserved colonial town on the island. Exploring Trinidad can feel like entering a time warp, the cobbled streets and horse-drawn transportation whisking us back. There are many interesting museums housed in old colonial buildings and music drifts through the streets and plazas, bringing the town to life.
In Trinidad, we have a walking orientation of the town and dinner at a paladar.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 31mi (50km)
Ascent: 1,562ft (476m);
Descent: 1,152ft (351m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
6
Cycle to Playa Ancón and back; optional salsa class in Trinidad; Casa de la Trova
This morning, we cycle to Playa Ancón, a classic white-sand Caribbean beach where we have time to relax, eat lunch in a beach paladar, and enjoy the sea. We have a short cycle back to Trinidad where there is time to rest or explore the cobbled streets and visit local businesses.
In the evening, there is the option to take part in a salsa class with Cuban dance partners. Trinidad is known for its nightlife, so after we’ve learnt the salsa basics, we head to Casa de la Trova, a legendary live music venue, to listen to local musicians playing authentic Cuban music. This venue is always lively and sociable, with plenty of Cubans keen to let us practise our dancing with them!
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 16mi (25km)
Ascent: 420ft (128m);
Descent: 417ft (127m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day
7
To Havana via Valle de los Ingenios and Santa Clara
This morning, we have short ride from Trinidad to Rio Seibabo in the heart of the Sierra del Escambray mountain range. En route, we stop at Manaca Iznaga market in the Valle de los Ingenios to meet textile makers and sellers, and we also speak with lace makers at Proyecto Manacú, a female-led initiative that aims to keep traditional textile-making methods alive. Our next stop is at a farm where we are introduced to a local farmer and his family who make delicious honey.
We then transfer to Santa Clara, the first major city to be liberated by Castro’s army in December 1958. Today, several monuments commemorate this important period, including the mausoleum of Che Guevara, where we stop for a short visit. Afterwards, we transfer back to Havana. This evening, we have dinner at a private paladar in Havana.
Accommodation: Casas particulares
Distance covered: 23mi (37km)
Ascent: 1,785ft (544m);
Descent: 1,293ft (394m)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day
8
Classic car tour and sightseeing in Havana; transfer to the airport
This morning, we see Havana in style – by classic car. Havana is one of the finest colonial cities in the Americas with narrow streets, spacious plazas and glorious architecture, and there is an air of faded grandeur about the place. Visiting both the old and new areas, we discover the distinct areas of the capital, stopping at points of interest. Feel free to ask why the streets of Cuba are filled with classic American cars manufactured in the 1950s and how the owners manage to maintain them!
Afterwards, we have a walking tour of UNESCO-listed Old Havana, the heart of the capital. Old Havana is often described as a living museum, with magnificent monuments, cathedrals and palaces. During our tour, we visit a ration store and food market for a glimpse into daily life in the capital.
It’s then time to bid your group and leader a fond farewell as this marks the end of our Cuban two-wheeled adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
Arrive London
Arrive London.
Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Average daily distance: 25mi (40km)
Number of days cycling: Six
Vehicle support: 100 percent
Terrain and route: 90 percent paved, 10 percent dirt roads; some hills
Understanding Cuba: Cuba’s famously turbulent history and economic stagnation has resulted in daily difficulties: supermarket shelves can be bare, finding a working ATM is often tricky and wifi is unreliable. However, our tour leader helps to unravel the nuances and red tape of island life, allowing you to truly absorb this fascinating destination. We strongly recommend reading the Trip Notes carefully, there’s plenty of information in there that will enhance your experience!
The cycling: The trip is not too strenuous, but a reasonable level of fitness is required. Many of the roads are in good condition but expect potholes and poor road conditions in some sections. The roads are almost always free of heavy traffic, except in the towns. Mountain bikes with hybrid tyres are ideal for this trip and flat bars are preferable, but a good strong tourer will suffice (though make sure you have suitably low gearing).
Staying hydrated: When cycling, please drink lots of water as the heat and humidity can be high (especially June to August). Some may prefer to ride a slightly reduced distance each day to avoid cycling in the middle of the day. If this is the case, our back-up vehicle is available. The rest of the group can continue the itinerary as planned.
Phone signal: Phone networks don’t make or receive calls particularly well in Cuba, and coverage may not be available in many locations. There is 4G but not all phone networks work here, so please check with your service provider before travel. Data roaming from your home network can be incredibly expensive – we recommend switching this off. There are several ways to connect to the internet using a mobile device, but it’s best not to expect a reliable internet connection. Most casas particulares have free wifi which, while much slower than your usual connection, is adequate for keeping in touch with friends and family via WhatsApp or email. If you have time, you could buy a Cuban sim card to access roaming; however, service is slow and it may take a couple of hours to buy and register your sim card.
Following a review of all our trips we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start accommodation: Casas particulares in Havana Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. The welcome briefing often takes place in the morning of Day 2, due to the evening arrival of many flights Airport: Havana Airport (HAV)
Getting to the start accommodation
The start accommodation is approximately 35 minutes from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start accommodation from the airport for all customers arriving on the start date of the trip (customers arriving earlier than the start date may take a taxi or book a private transfer). If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers departing on the last day of the group trip to Havana Airport (HAV) from the end accommodation.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start accommodation and from the end accommodation and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Havana Location end: Havana
Vaccinations and Health
Cuba
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Tetanus, Hepatitis A. We are advised that there is no risk of malaria. Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available, we therefore strongly recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we recommend that you confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Passport
Check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return, and to have at least two clear pages for entry stamps.
Visa
Cuba
UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Japan passport holders residing in the UK/Ireland
If you hold a passport from the UK, an EU country, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Japan AND reside in the UK/Ireland, Exodus includes a green tourist card that you can use to enter Cuba. We will post the tourist card to you approximately three to four weeks before travel. We will send instructions on how to fill it in but please be careful when completing it as any mistakes may result in you having to purchase a new card at a cost of £25 per person.
Please note, tourist cards supplied by Exodus will not be valid if you are travelling via the USA as you will then be subject to comply with the same regulations as an American citizen. You cannot use a green tourist card purchased outside the USA and will have to buy a pink tourist card sold only in the USA. For this reason, we do not recommend travelling to Cuba via the USA.
Other passport holders residing in the UK/Ireland
If you reside in the UK or Ireland but do not hold one of the above passports, please contact your nearest Cuban consulate to check which visa is required – Exodus is unable to provide a tourist card for you.
Customers residing outside the UK/Ireland
If you do not reside in the UK or Ireland, you must contact your nearest Cuban consulate to check which visa is required – Exodus is unable to provide a tourist card for you.
USA passport holders and residents
Any USA passport holder wishing to travel to Cuba should be fully aware of current legislation before committing to a trip to Cuba. As an American-owned company, Exodus programs to Cuba are fully compliant with the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) general license under the Support for the Cuban People category of travel.
Travellers from the USA are required to obtain an e-visa for travel to Cuba. Please first check with your airline if the e-visa is included as some airlines include it in the airfare. If it is not included, you can apply for an e-visa at www.cubavisaservices.com. The cost as of November 2024 is $50 for the e-visa plus a $35 processing fee.
You must keep a copy of your itinerary and any correspondence/transactions relating to the trip for a minimum of five years after the trip takes place to comply with OFAC requirements. For more information about the Support for Cuban People and OFAC requirements, visit: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html.
IMPORTANT FOR ALL CUSTOMERS:
Cuba now requires all passengers to fill in a locator form prior to travel – this form is mandatory. You can access the form here: www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio Make sure to keep a photo of the QR code generated so you can easily present it on arrival. You can only fill in the D’Viajeros form seven days prior to entry into Cuba. For advice on how to complete it, consult our Help Sheet.
The Cuban entry immigration is time consuming, and most visitors encounter delays: it may take up to two hours to clear immigration and collect your bags. All tourists visiting Cuba must have travel insurance to cover medical costs. You may be asked to provide proof of your travel insurance policy when you arrive at Havana Airport. Ensure your documents are easily accessible.
Visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to organise this element of your trip. We recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Food & Drink
In 2024, seven breakfasts, six lunches and four dinners are included. In 2025, seven breakfasts, six lunches and three dinners are included, allowing the option to try local restaurants on the other evenings.
The paladares are likely to be a highlight of any visit to Cuba – they are one of the few types of private enterprise allowed (although still heavily regulated). Think soul food – rice, black beans, slow-roast pork or chicken, fresh fish, lobster and plenty of tropical fruit. The atmosphere in private paladares and the opportunity to integrate with Cubans will absolutely enhance your stay!
In general, Cuba is not renowned for its culinary excellence (although it is improving) and some ingredients are just not possible to acquire. Food tends to be simple and relatively expensive – in no small part due to the long trade embargo imposed by the US. Dishes are relatively simple, with most mealtimes consisting of meat or fish accompanied by rice and salad or vegetables. Seafood is widely available on the coast, including cheap and abundant lobster! Vegetarians will find that choices are limited, but it’s still possible to eat well. Snacks are not freely available in Cuba so you may wish to bring some with you – particularly energy snacks, as food shops, cafes and restaurants are scarce in many of the rural areas we visit. It can be difficult to find quick lunches on the go as Cubans typically eat two meals a day – we provide packed lunches during the day and there are plenty of water and fruit refreshment stops. While food choice can be basic, on the plus side there is absolutely no shortage of rum! Havana Club, Black Tears, Ron Santiago, Caney… after your visit, you will be an expert.
Drinking water is provided on cycling days – we allow for 100floz (3 litres) per person. On non-cycling days, water is not provided. We ask that you bring a filter water bottle to fill with provided water on cycling days and at public fountains and taps on non-cycling days. This helps to cut down on plastic and the need to buy water.
Weather
The dry season runs from November to April (with December to March being the peak months for traditional tourism). It is very humid between May and October, with heavy rains at times and the possibility of hurricanes. July and August are some of the most popular months to visit but are extremely hot (average 28C/82F) and wet. Cuba has an average of six hours of sunshine per day with a more or less constant humidity of 62 percent. Water temperature is normally 24C-28C (75F-82F).
Casas particulares: a uniquely Cuban experience
We stay in casas particulares, guesthouse-style accommodation that provides a unique insight into local life – an experience you just wouldn’t get in a traditional hotel!
Understanding casas
Casas are privately owned homes with rooms to rent. Some call them Cuba’s answer to the B&B, but the truth is they offer a far more personal experience. Typically, the owner (and often family) will live at the property, meaning you have meaningful interactions with them as soon as you wake. The hosts are warm, welcoming and gracious – expect generous breakfasts, plenty of smiles and friendly conversations in Spanglish. Who knows, you may make a friend or two!
The properties we use have been handpicked by our local team and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, reflecting the personality and lifestyle of the owners. As family homes, they tend to have a maximum of three or four bedrooms each, so we often use several different properties in close vicinity to accommodate our group. We do our best to ensure those in single-room accommodation are within a house where other group members are staying.
The rooms are often vibrant, simply furnished and with tiled floors, sometimes with wooden shutters in place of windows. All have air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Worth knowing
Power cuts are part of daily life in Cuba, so please prepare for blackouts that may last several hours. Torches (flashlights) are readily available for evening/night-time occurrences. Also pack mosquito repellent for these periods – you’ll want to open your window, too.
Internet connections can be unreliable.
Hot water supplies are not always guaranteed and water pressure can be temperamental.
Casas do not have lifts (elevators) so you should be able and prepared to carry your luggage up stairs.
Many casa owners can help with laundry for a small fee.
Most casas do not have hairdryers.
There are often pets (a cat or dog) at the casas – please advise at the time of booking if this is problematic.
What an amazing way to see Cuba! I loved every second & Freddy, our guide, was so knowledgeable & clearly passionate about Cuba, that it really added to the experience. The group was great fun too. All in all a brilliant holiday.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the lake at the top after a gruelling 7km uphill on the final day 40km cycle - such an achievement
Thoughts on Group Leader
Fantastic - highly knowledgeable & alwys ready to help
Advice for Potential Travellers
Go!
Karen Gill
Reviewed March 2017
Cuban Highlights Tour
Fantastic trip with great cycling, cultural and historical aspects. The entire trip exceeded my expectations for the quality of bikes to accommodation and food. The cycling was relaxed and, although mostly on main roads, traffic was not heavy (unlike the headwinds!) and there was always full back up with the support bus. The food was simple but tasty and the casa’s were comfortable and far more interesting than staying in a hotel. Cuba was fantastic and everything we needed was available, just be prepared for some unreliability such as lack of hot water, toilet paper etc
Most Inspirational Moment
The entire trip!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Freddy was excellent. Very knowledgeable about Cuba and it's history and patiently dealing with all our questions and ability to miss the (almost) unmissable cycling stops
Advice for Potential Travellers
Extend your trip, one week just isn't enough
Hok Shuen Wong
Reviewed February 2017
Cuban Highlights
Very enjoyable and well organised. Lovely rides through varied countryside and interesting towns which transported us back in time and gave fascinating insights into the country’s history. Routes were good and the bikes ideal for the various challenges – hills, road surface etc. Pleasant helpful supportive staff always ready with water, snacks and repairs if needed.
Most Inspirational Moment
Happy Cubans! Despite its troubled history and obvious deprivation it is a land full of fun and welcome. Whether cycling through rural villages or in towns we were always greeted with cheerful "Holas!" and waves from smiling adults and children.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Lenay was an excellent group leader and tour guide. She speaks very good English, has an extensive knowledge of her country's history and culture and is thoughtful, witty and helpful.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Just go and embrace their vibrant world of sun and salsa and have plenty of Cuban currency. Although it is not the land of plenty and the food is bland the facilities are very clean!
Moira Hookham
Reviewed January 2017
Cuban Highlights Trip
Wonderful holiday!
Most Inspirational Moment
Completing the cycle without using the bus!
Learning about Cuban history and feeling sad that the West has misunderstood Cuba all these years. They have done a great job of surviving and thriving despite all the difficulties.
Our guide, Alex, who was full of surprises, knowledge, variety and went out of his way to organise every detail for individuals in the group ensuring we all had the best holiday.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Alex was great. He easily interacted with all members of the group. He was our interpreter for language and events. He worked hard behind the scenes, cultivating good relationships with Casa owners etc, organising travel details for group members coming and leaving at different times, dealing with all the tipping, giving clear instructions and direction and just generally making sure everything was hassle free for us. He worked patriotically and with sincerity - very catching! There was never any pressure. A great holiday because of him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
A universal plug ( for sinks, baths etc) would be useful.
Tariq Arafa
Reviewed January 2017
Historical, Hot and Colourful Cuba - on Christmas Day!
Take what you imagine to find in Cuba – this is most likely what you will get. I did anyway. Marinade yourself in Cuban culture with salsa, cigars and mojitos. Get lost in the myriad of cobbled streets in Trinidad. Combine some great sightseeing with some challenging but not impossible cycling. From Ernest Hemingway’s bar to a tour of the city in a Cadillac, Havana is rich and diverse in both its history and landscapes and even how the country is in a little bit of a technological time warp adds to its charm.
Most Inspirational Moment
Learning about the history of Castro and Che Guevara before seeing the sights in Revolution Square was fascinating. The most thrilling moments were in the American cars tour of Havana - one hour of exhilaration, a must-do!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Alex was informative and humorous while always putting our needs first.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take toilet paper for the casas. Not always available - the standard of the casas within our group was variable. I was very lucky with Alfonso and his lovely family. Also take plenty of money - its not cheap.
Nancy Reed
Reviewed December 2016
Cuban Highlights Ride
What a lovely trip – we had lots of laughs, learned a great deal about Cuban history and enjoyed a wonderful Cuban crew.
Most Inspirational Moment
Inspiration took many forms - our group discussions about Cuba, world politics and kindness to others inspired me each day.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Have to say that both our guide and mechanic took significant efforts to ensure we were keen to ride and well supported - from cold drinks and sweet snacks to gentle nudges up big hills to an unwavering love of their country that was shared each day. Our guide (Alex) was incredibly well informed, engaged in all he did and had a great sense of humour - as he might say, quite 'cheeky'!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take lots of time to engage with the communities you travel through - the people are very fun, kind and interesting. Tried to leave toiletries behind as tips in each place we stayed - these are crazy expensive in Cuba and so easy for travelers to share. Take the time before or after this trip to spend an additional day or two in Havana - really great city. We also spent time on our own in Mantanzas and found many wonderful surprises including a great art studio, fab little bar and paper making gallery.
Tamara Common
Reviewed December 2016
Wonderful country, beautiful and vibrant.
I throughly enjoyed the trip, a true holiday of a lifetime! I LOVED Cuba, it was so colourful, sunny and full of music and dance. A great tour group, everyone was lovely and happy to join in!
Cycling was fine, I am active person but not a cyclist except for cycling tours in the Netherlands, but the cycling was steady and I was tired at the end of the day, but manageable.
Cycling was on tarmac roads, and mostly fairly straight, but there was little traffic, just a 1950s car passing regularly to add to the atmosphere. There were regular breaks, and water was provided by the guides, and the bus was behind us all of the way.
Was glad to have cycling shorts with padding and also a gel saddle cover. Ended up leaving my bag on the bus which was always with us, and just cycling. It was hot and found a bag too annoying to be carting around.
Accommodation was clean and comfortable, though lacked soft furnishings, but personally for me clean is the important bit! Staying in the Casa’s were my favourite, gave a more authentic feel, and while simple still had air con, and I think more comfortable beds than the hotels in my case (we broke into smaller groups for the nights in the Casa’s).
Food was simple, a yummy meat (grilled chicken, pork that fell apart), with rice and plantain chips. I thought it was tasty, even if less varied! Fizzy drinks and fruit juice with meals that you bought separately.
Group tour leader, Alex was excellent. He organised on the tour excellently, looked after us, and also taught us so much about Cuba’s history and way of life. He was full of tips and ideas.
Non cycling time was just as fascinating, we learnt to salsa, drank mojitos, had walking tours around and went swimming in the sea. Really liked Trinidad and staying there two nights, and Havana town was charming.
Think that doing a tour was a really good way to see Cuba, afterwards stayed on 4 days at the memories hotel in Jibacoa, but after the fun of the group and wandering around and being able to mingle it felt a bit fake at the resort – wish I had done it before the tour rather than after. Other people in the hotel who did organised trips out weren’t that enamoured and felt alone it was a bit complicated doing a trip to a neighbouring town or Habana.
Most Inspirational Moment
Loved the whole Cuban experience and the friendliness of the country. The tour itself was really well structured, and the cycling was very well organised - good bikes, safe cycling, and good resources with snacks and water.
Cuba is a wonderful mix of carribean, spanish language, sun, fun and music.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Group tour leader, Alex was excellent. He organised on the tour excellently, looked after us, and also taught us so much about Cuba's history and way of life. He was full of tips and ideas.
Was clear with instructions and to also give some free time, but also ideas with what to do in that free time.
Perfect balance of information and helpfulness without being intrusive.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take a saddle cover - bikes are excellent quality but the saddles are narrow. I wish id taken a actual sports bottle rather than using a normal water bottle which i couldn't undo the screw top while cycling.
Take little and cycle light!
Stop and take photos etc if you want, its not a race and everyone has to wait at the end, however fast you cycle.
Don't need to be a cyclist, but you do need a certain amount of fitness, and the sun can be intense, but be reassured that the bus is behind you if you need it.
Mary Fenelon Bourke
Reviewed December 2016
Fantastic Cuban Adventure
We have just returned from Cuba having done the Cuban highlights cycle & a beach extension in Cayo Levisa. This is a fantastic trip with very pleasant cycling, trips to places of cultural & historical importance & some down time.
The bikes were much better than we expected, the cycling was relaxed & not too demanding & the motorists very mannerly. The roads were quiet. Full backup with the bus is there at all times which is great. It was nice to be able to leave all our things on the bus while cycling.
Most Inspirational Moment
Trinidad is a beautiful city & cycling out of the city towards Playa Ancon was lovely.
Staying in Casas Particulares in Trinidad & Cienfuegos was a highlight.
Cycling with a great group & an inspiring leader made this an unforgettable holiday.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Freddy was simply amazing. Kind, courteous, really interesting & generous with his time.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you want to really see Havana, spend an extra day or two there as time there on this trip is limited.
Internet etc very limited so warn friends & family that you may not be in contact & then relax & enjoy the freedom from technology.
If you have time, the beach extension to Cayo Levisa is very relaxing.
Gel saddle pads are useful for the bikes & bring a water bottle.
adrian Tyrrell
Reviewed November 2016
Cuban highlights ride
Excellent trip, (I was in Jane’s group, see review below) Freddy was indeed excellent, in addition to being a great cycle guide his knowledge and passion for Cuba knew no bounds, I came away refreshed and more knowledgeable after a most enjoyable holiday
Most Inspirational Moment
The whole trip!
Thoughts on Group Leader
excellent, difficult to see how he could have been any better
Advice for Potential Travellers
cash points available in Havana and Trinidad
Jane Simpson
Reviewed November 2016
Cuban Highlights
This was a very well organised trip lead by Freddy, who was a brilliant guide. His knowledge of Cuba and its history was exceptional. He made the trip so interesting and his attention to detail was second to none.
Most Inspirational Moment
Difficult to pick just one as the whole trip was fascinating.
Thoughts on Group Leader
He was excellent.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The food is uninspiring, so don't go with high expectations. Wi-Fi is very limited so warn family/friends that communication will not be easy!
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Land Only Trip Price£ 1799£ 2949
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Book with £ 737 deposit
Optional Single Supplement+£ 265
Availability
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Optional Single Supplement+£ 265
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