Cuba: Salsa & Snorkelling - 16 Days

Arrive at any time. Tonight take the opportunity to connect with your fellow travellers. Seek out some live music and break the ice in one of the city's iconic hideouts while toasting with mojitos to the beginning of an amazing holiday.

Viñales is in the Pinar del Rio province and located in a fertile valley surrounded by the unusual mogotes, or limestone pincushion hills. Arguably one of the prettiest natural areas in Cuba, we have many opportunities here to enjoy the area, whether it be hiking or simply sitting back and enjoying the view.

Arguably one of the prettiest natural areas in Cuba, take the chance to explore the area, or simply sit back and enjoying the view.

Set off for laid-back Playa Larga, stopping along the way to enjoy beach time and snorkel in the Bay of Pigs. On arrival in Playa Larga, learn how to make a mojito from a local expert, and be sure to sample the goods!

Set off through the countryside to Santa Clara. Step into Cuban history, and visit the Che Guevara mausoleum and museum. Continue on to colonial Remedios, and soak up the culture in this town that is often overlooked.

Setting off early, we head for Bayamo, the capital of Granma Province. It is the second of the seven towns founded in Cuba; nowadays it is a beautiful colonial town with a pleasant, relaxed, and friendly atmosphere. We'll make a stop in the city of Camaguey to break up the journey.

The area offers everything from beaches, to hiking opportunities and museums. The best way to get around the town, situated on the bay with mountains towering in the background, is on foot, and there is plenty of time to see it all. Wander the Malecon coastal path and visit the fort built to defend the city from pirates.

Take some time to visit the city then head further afield to the mountains or visit the striking black sand beaches. Playa Maguana and the smaller Playa Nava are both nearby and accessible by bike or taxi. Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt is approximately 40 km outside of town and well worth a visit.

Drive along the rugged coast towards Santiago de Cuba, the cradle of the Cuban revolution and home of son rhythms. Santiago has a vibrant traditional music scene that will entice even the shyest dancer out to experiment with some salsa moves.

Enjoy a free day in Santiago. Explore this Afro-Cuban city by visiting important revolutionary sites, like the Moncada Barracks.

Transfer to Bayamo and take an orientation walk. This afternoon, travel to Sierra Maestra.

Embark on a hike through the Sierra Maestra mountains in the footsteps of Che Guevarra and Fidel Castro and learn more about Cuba's history. Transfer west across the island to Camagüey.

This morning, take an orientation walk to Camagúey's markets and plazas. Later, travel to beautiful colonial Trinidad, and get a feel for the city's energy on an orientation walk. Enjoy an included salsa lesson, then try out some new moves on the town.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Trinidad is a haven for activities. If a beach is in the cards, try snorkelling or diving in nearby Playa Ancón. Enjoy a local meal together with one of the host families.

Return to the bustling capital, stopping off at Cienfuegos along the way.

Depart at any time.