Sights and Sounds of Cuba Excursion Packages

VINALES VALLEY

Viñales Valley covers an area of 132 km² (51 sq. mi.) is located in the Sierra de los Organos, just north of Vinales, in the Pinar del Rio Province designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999 because of its natural beauty and the traditional agricultural techniques which continue to be used in the cultivation of tobacco and other crops there, the valley is a popular hiking and rock climbing location. Many of the valley’s surrounding hills are dotted with caves which may be explored by visitors. A particularly interesting cave is the Cueva de los Portales, beside the Río Caiguanabo, where Che Guevara set up his staff headquarters and dormitory as commander of the Western Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

GUANAHACABIBES – NATIONAL PARK

The Guanahacabibes National Park is located on the Guanahacabibes Peninsula, in the westernmost part of Cuba. Because of its geographic isolation, its ecosystems have been well preserved. There are around 180 species of birds, and the peninsula is on one of the most important flight corridors for birds that migrate in October and November. At certain times of the year, sea turtles come ashore here to lay their eggs. UNESCO has declared the Guanahacabibes Peninsula a world biosphere preserve.

Its plains have many caves of great biospeleological interest and places where freshwater gushes into the sea. Its cliffs defy the pounding waves and seas, but these have gradually undercut them in the course of thousands of years, forming marine balconies that overhang hidden beaches, such as El Resguardo. The seabed near the southern part of the peninsula is outstanding for its beautiful coral and abundant marine life. This peninsula was the last refuge of the Indians in western Cuba when they fled from the Spanish conquistadors, and it served the same purpose for the pirates and corsairs who roamed the Caribbean in past centuries. Legends abound that some of their treasure is still buried in its sandy coasts.

PLAYA GIRON – Bay of Pigs – Tour to Guama

We will board a vessel, which takes visitors across Treasure Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Cuba, to the Indian village.  After about 15 minutes we dock by the museum-Indian town full of statues reflecting Taíno life – a reminder of the totally eliminated non-violent people. After a visit of a crocodile raising farm we will also be given free time for swim in a beach of a Caribbean sea.

CIENFUEGOS

Cienfuegos City is called “The Pearl of the South” because of the impressive beauty of its bay; because of its seductive city which provokes the wonder of all who know it, and because of that innate nobility which characterizes those born in Cienfuegos. The history of Cienfuegos possesses interesting antecedents and is rich in aborigine and Hispanic legends. Our tour includes visits to Jose Marti Square, the Cathedral, Tomas Terry Theatre, the Cienfuegos Seawall “Maleron” and the Valle’s Palace. After sightseeing we return to the boat.

CASILDA – City Tour

Casilda is a small fishing town, located on the northwestern shore of Ana Maria’s Gulf, Cuba. It is the loading port of Trinidad city which is 5km inland. Trinidad is considered the best-preserved colonial town on the island of Cuba. The city became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988. The historic centre of Trinidad is the Plaza Mayor. Many small museums and historic buildings dot the square and surrounding area. We visit the Museum Cantero’s Palace or Brunett’s Palace, the Holy Trinity Church and the Pottery House. Free time will be given for shopping, taking pictures or visit the flea market. When the tour ends we return to the boat.

CASILDA – El Cubano Park

Only 5 km from the city of Trinidad, nature and history become partners to offer visitors more than just a memory. Trips along paths, waterfalls and pool baths, horseback riding, meetings with the reality of the colonial past and a gourmet service where the catfish reigns can ensure an unforgettable experience. Oriented north to south, covering an area of 2 km in length, this park is located on the banks of the river Guaurabo. This area is the Ranchón “Los Almendros” with bar and restaurant, and the path “Cimmarrones de Javira”, gives the chance to learn about the life of slaves in what was the “Ingenito,” one of the first sugar mills built in Trinidad. Here you have the opportunity to live an unforgettable moment when you meet the home of Cuban peasants, learn about their life and customs. Visit the Javira Waterfall and swim at Javira natural pool. After a typical lunch at Los Almendros woods return to the boat.