The journey
Explore the vibrant island nation of Cuba, learning about its rich history, architecture, religion and present-day initiatives alongside local residents. Pay impactful, enriching visits to diverse projects and destinations, discovering Cuba’s creative spirit from a firsthand perspective. Delving into the past and present, gain insight into the history of — and current relations between — the U.S. and Cuba.
Day 1
Arrive Camagüey, Cuba
Arrive and transfer to your hotel in this city that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site lauded for its exceptional architecture. Following a welcome cocktail, set out for a tour of a family-owned working ranch that dates to 1930 and meet the modern cowboys who work it. Then, learn about agrarian reform before indulging in a feast of Cuban food accompanied by live music.
Day 2
Camagüey – Music, Art and Ballet
Begin your day with a visit to the Camagüey Ballet, where you explore the costume warehouse, meet this world-travelled company’s director and attend a private rehearsal. Hop on a bicitaxi for a tour of the city’s hallmark sights, including Mayor Ignacio Agramonte Park and the historic area near the Plaza de los Trabajadores, ending at the Plaza del Carmen — a picturesque pedestrian square. Stop fo
Day 3
Trinidad – Colonial Charms
Depart for Trinidad, arriving in time for lunch at a privately owned restaurant. Historic Trinidad features a wealth of Spanish colonial architecture — along with cobblestone streets and graceful palaces and plazas — within its few square blocks. Take in the sights on a walking tour, visiting a rationing bodega and stopping at La Canchanchara to sample a refreshing signature cocktail, while a trad
Day 4
Trinidad – Rural Cuba
Located in the central province of Sancti Spíritus, Trinidad was founded in the early 16th century. Explore the town’s connection to the sugar industry, which flourished in the nearby Valley de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills). Visit a former sugar plantation for an in-depth view. Continue to a traditional finca in the forested Escambray Mountains, where you stop at a farm. Meet its owners
Day 5
Cienfuegos and Santa Clara – Key Landmarks
Depart Trinidad for Cienfuegos on the southern coast, a French-settled city that grew into an important hub for the sugar cane, tobacco and coffee trades. In 2005, UNESCO recognized the Urban Historic Centre of Cienfuegos as the best example of early 19th-century Spanish Enlightenment urban planning. Start your visit here with a guided walk through its historic center to view landmarks that includ
Day 6
Havana – Colonial Heritage and Cuban History
Meet a veteran Cuban diplomat and educator, who offers deep firsthand insight into Cuba’s economy, the dynamics of U.S.-Cuba relations and the ongoing effect of the U.S. embargo on the country. Learn about the role played by radio stations such Radio Rebelde and Radio Habana Cuba in achieving independence. Afterward, a local architect joins you for a walking tour of pedestrian-only Old Havana, des
Day 7
Viñales – Tobacco and Organic Farming
After breakfast, drive through Pinar del Río Province, taking in the scenic Cuban countryside en route to one of Cuba’s premier tobacco farms for an in-depth look at this country’s most famous cash crop. Eat lunch at the home of a local farmer, meet his family and learn about organic farming practices, sustainability and Cuba's Green revolution. Afterward, return to Havana with time for dinner on
Day 8
Havana – Community Arts
Head outside the bustling capital to visit Fusterlandia, a colorful mosaic studio in the Jaimanitas neighborhood. Alongside its artist, José Fuster, see how the collaborative project transformed the area into a creative canvas. Continue to a local development project before indulging in a mojito-making class before sitting down to a traditional lunch. At dance-and-percussion company Habana Compas,
Day 9
Havana – Hemingway in Cuba
Start your day at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana, touring its collection with a local specialist. Then visit to Finca La Vigía (“lookout house”), the former residence of Ernest Hemingway. Now a museum, the building was constructed in 1886. Engage with the museum’s caretakers and learn about the author’s life and work in Cuba before breaking for lunch at a paladar. This afternoon, stop
Day 10
Depart Havana
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
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