Cuban Journeys: Exploring Havana & Las Terrazas | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Cuban Journeys: Exploring Havana & Las Terrazas

PRIVATE/GROUP TOUR - 6 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

Private/Group Tour Highlights

  • Explore Havana’s vibrant streets on a Coco-Taxi tour, a fun and local way to see the city.
  • Immerse in art and culture at the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a hub of creativity.
  • Experience the renowned Buena Vista Social Club music presentation for authentic Cuban sounds.
  • Visit Hemingway’s estate in a vintage car, connecting with Cuba's literary legacy.
  • Embark on a walking tour of Old Havana, focusing on its rich architecture and urban development.
  • Discover the lush landscapes and community spirit of Las Terrazas on a day trip.
  • Savor traditional Cuban dishes at renowned restaurants with reservation-only access.
  • Engage in insightful conversations about Cuba's political history and cultural dynamics.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Dive into the vibrant essence of Cuba on this captivating journey through Havana and the lush landscapes of Las Terrazas. Experience the rhythm of Cuban life firsthand, from the colorful streets of Old Havana to the serene beauty of nature. Savor delicious local cuisine, engage with passionate locals, and discover the rich history and culture that shape this enchanting island. This adventure offers a unique perspective on Cuba, making it more than just a destination—it’s an unforgettable experience. 

Note: This trip qualifies legally under the category: Support for the Cuban people. Yampu partners in Cuba are authorized and licensed by The Cuban Minister of Tourism to organize and operate legal travel to Cuba for American Travelers. 

Inclusions
- Required travel documents: OFAC Affidavits, Cuban Visa
- Accommodations: According to itinerary.
- Meals: According to itinerary. Lunches and dinners include 2 beverages.
- Personalized assistance (Cuban guide) throughout the program.
- Transportation: private group or individual transportation throughout program in air-conditioned transportation.
- Transportation will be provided
- Activities: guest speakers, visits, entrance fees covered as per itinerary.
- Personalized assistance throughout program.
- Bottle of water per person daily.
Exclusions

- Meals listed in the itinerary as [Not Included]
- Gratuities in Cuba
- Personal expenses

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Welcome to Havana

Arrive at Havana's José Martí International Airport and enjoy VIP service at the lounge. A Yampu Tours representative will meet you outside the terminal and introduce you to your Cuban guide, who will escort you to your private transport.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Havana, with brief stops at major landmarks. This vibrant city, the largest in the Caribbean, boasts a unique charm with vintage American cars, colonial palaces, and a lively atmosphere that blends history and revelry.

Located on the picturesque Fifth Avenue, Casa Italia is a cozy boutique hotel offering a peaceful retreat after a bustling day in Havana. Opened in 2019, it provides personalized service in a beautiful setting near the Karl Marx Theater and the Cuban Art Factory. The hotel is also a short drive from the stunning beaches and the historic center of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The iconic Hotel Nacional is a historic landmark in Havana, famous for its lush gardens overlooking the Malecon. Its glamorous atmosphere is a perfect introduction to the city’s enchanting beauty.

Tierra, located within the Fabrica de Arte compound, has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2017. With an industrial vibe and ever-changing menu crafted by different chefs each night, it attracts a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike.

Discover the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, Havana's cultural hotspot. Founded by X Alfonso, this innovative space blends art, music, and food, creating an immersive experience. It's a meeting place for the island's avant-garde arts, celebrating the creativity of the Cuban people.

Overnight in Havana. ...read less

Day
2

Havana

Start your day with a panoramic drive to Old Havana in a Coco-Taxi, a quirky tricycle resembling a coconut.

This fun mode of transport has been popular since the late 1990s, providing an entertaining way for tourists to navigate the city.

Next, visit Callejón de Hamel, a vibrant street known for its lively Sunday rumba sessions. Located in Cayo Hueso, this colorful cul-de-sac has hosted music jams for nearly a century, evolving into an outdoor gallery and cultural hub that celebrates Afro-Cuban rhythms and art.

Enjoy lunch at Restaurant 5 Sentidos, a culinary gem in Old Havana. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, it offers a sophisticated menu that blends traditional Cuban flavors with contemporary flair. Signature dishes include wok-cooked octopus and goyzas habaneras, complemented by an extensive wine list and live music.

After lunch, embark on a walking tour of Old Havana, focusing on its rich architecture and urban development. Founded in 1519, this UNESCO World Heritage site features plazas, the Cathedral, and various historic buildings that reflect its colonial past.

Then, take a private horse-drawn carriage tour of the Prado Promenade and Havana Bay area, enjoying the sights in a leisurely fashion.

Dinner is at San Cristobal Restaurant, an eclectic space filled with charm and Cuban authenticity. The menu features traditional dishes like roast pork and fresh seafood, along with creative desserts. The ambiance is lively, showcasing the owner's passion for Cuban culture.

Finally, experience the Buena Vista Social Club music presentation, where you can enjoy live performances of classic Cuban music. This celebration of the island’s musical heritage offers a delightful conclusion to your day.

Overnight in Havana. ...read less

Day
3

Havana - Cuban Culture and Culinary Delights

Start your day with a visit to the Partagas Cigar Factory, a historic establishment in a charming colonial building on Industria Street.

Founded in the mid-19th century, this factory became a leading producer of cigars before nationalization in 1962. Today, it serves as a museum with a store and a bar, offering insights into Cuba’s cigar heritage.

Next, experience Havana through the eyes of Ernest Hemingway in an open-top vintage car. Your journey includes a visit to Finca Vigía, Hemingway's well-preserved estate, where you can explore personal artifacts and learn about his life in Cuba. Continue to Cojímar, the picturesque fishing town that inspired “The Old Man and the Sea,” and enjoy a refreshing cocktail at La Terraza Bar, a favorite spot of Hemingway's.

Lunch is at La Guarida Restaurant, famously featured in the film *Strawberry and Chocolate*. Located on the third floor of a residential building, this cozy spot offers a unique dining experience surrounded by film memorabilia. Choose from a menu that includes fish tacos and tuna steak, all while enjoying panoramic views of central Havana.

After lunch, visit the Havana Club Rum Museum to discover the process of rum-making, from freshly cut sugar cane to aging warehouses. This immersive experience offers a taste of Cuba’s authentic culture and its beloved beverage.

Then, head to the National Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing Cuban art from the colonial period to the present. With a revamped facility, the museum features works by renowned artists like René Portocarrero and Wifredo Lam.

Pre-dinner cocktails await at El Floridita, a legendary bar known as the birthplace of the daiquiri and a favorite haunt of Hemingway. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, complete with live music and stunning murals, as you sip on cocktails.

Dinner is at Yarini's Restaurant, located in San Isidro, where modern cuisine meets traditional flavors. The menu offers a creative blend of tastes, complemented by signature cocktails that highlight the freshness and vibrancy of Cuban ingredients.

Overnight in Havana. ...read less

Day
4

Havana - Day Excursion to Las Terrazas Community

Start your day with a day trip to Las Terrazas, a UNESCO-awarded community dedicated to conservation and sustainable development through eco-tourism.

Located about 60 kilometers (40 miles) west of Havana, this biosphere reserve offers a range of activities including bathing, hiking, tree-top zip-lining, and bird watching. Your journey includes visits to a local clinic and school (if on a weekday), local artists’ studios, and a chance to enjoy a traditional cafecito with a local family.

As you arrive in Las Terrazas, explore the ecovillage that originated from a reforestation project in 1968. This vibrant community features the earliest coffee plantations in Cuba and attracts day-trippers eager to experience its natural beauty and engaging activities. Consider zip-lining for an additional $35.00 per person to get an adrenaline rush while enjoying the stunning landscape.

Lunch is at Cafetal Buenavista Restaurant, set in a historic manor house that was once the residence of a coffee estate. This dining experience offers local dishes and a glimpse into life on a coffee plantation during the era of slavery.

After lunch, visit the Baños de San Juan, one of Cuba's idyllic natural pools, perfect for a refreshing swim. Located just south of Hotel Moka, this spot is ideal for relaxation amidst lush surroundings.

In the evening, return to Havana and witness the traditional cannon shooting ceremony at the San Carlos de la Cabaña fortress. This historical reenactment, performed daily at 9 PM, dates back to 1774 and is considered a cultural patrimony of Cuba. Soldiers in 18th-century attire perform this colorful spectacle, marking the closing of the city walls for the night.

Dinner awaits at Chef Ivan Justo Restaurant, known for its curated menu of high-end Cuban cuisine. Chef Ivan emphasizes farm-to-table practices, sourcing organic ingredients from local farms. Each meal is a unique experience, featuring seasonal offerings and complemented by an ambiance rich in Cuban history and artifacts.

Overnight in Havana. ...read less

Day
5

Havana - Culture and Exploration

Today you will be engaging in a discussion about the Cuban political system and its relationship with the U.S.

This expert-led conversation will delve into the evolution of Cuba’s governance since the fall of the Soviet Union and explore policy options for addressing the island’s economic needs within the context of current international relations.

Next, visit Fusterlandia, the vibrant art studio and community created by artist José Fuster. Inspired by Antoni Gaudí, Fuster has transformed the neighborhood of Jaimanitas with his unique mixed-media style, featuring ceramics and surreal decorations. This community art project spans several blocks and showcases Fuster's colorful mosaic art.

For lunch, head to VistaMar Restaurant, where stunning ocean views complement a menu of traditional Cuban and international dishes. This family-run establishment has been offering memorable dining experiences for over twenty years, combining exceptional cuisine with a charming ambiance.

After lunch, explore Miramar, a lively area known for its elegant architecture and entrepreneurial spirit. As you stroll along Avenida 5ta, take in the scenic pedestrian walkway and admire the beautiful mansions, many of which now house embassies. Discover local attractions like Casa de las Tejas Verdes, a cultural center, and the Scale Model of the City for a fascinating overview of Havana's layout.

Later, continue your explorations in Vedado, a neighborhood characterized by its cosmopolitan charm and mid-20th century elegance. The area is rich in history, featuring a mix of architectural styles from neoclassical to Art Deco. Visit notable sites, including the Hotel Nacional and the expansive Plaza de la Revolución, as well as the impressive Cementerio Colón.

For dinner, enjoy the trendy atmosphere at El Cocinero, located beneath a distinctive brick chimney. This popular spot features a sunken roof terrace for dining and drinks, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and expatriates.

Conclude your day at leisure, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Havana.

Overnight in Havana. ...read less

Day
6

Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Havana airport for your flight home.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Havana airport for your flight home.

Havana, Cuba

Las Terrazas, Cuba

Places You'll See

  • Havana

    Havana, the vibrant capital of Cuba, is a city where history and culture blend seamlessly with lively rhythms and colorful architecture. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its colonial-era buildings, charming squares, and bustling markets. Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage through its world-famous music, art, and cuisine. From the iconic Malecón seaside promenade to the historic Capitolio and the vibrant arts scene in neighborhoods like Callejón de Hammel, Havana offers an immersive glimpse into Cuban life and a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. 

  • Las Terrazas

    Nestled in the lush Sierra del Rosario mountains, Las Terrazas is a vibrant eco-community and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known for its stunning landscapes and community-driven sustainability, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. Wander through scenic trails, interact with friendly locals, and explore community projects that include parks, schools, and environmental initiatives. The region’s rich biodiversity, including tropical birds and diverse flora, provides excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Relax in the tranquil atmosphere of La Moka Hotel, which perfectly complements the area’s serene surroundings.

Hotel Options

Testimonials

Eric R.

Traveled August, 2016

Added great great value! Shocking to me actually.

I am a very experienced traveler  –  I never use a ‘travel agent’. In general I will explore the area I’m traveling to and just go.  Maybe just maybe I book the first night. However, on this trip I’m taking my children and it was short and last minute and although frankly it isn’t even that exotic (vs Borneo, Cuba, Russia, the Amazon), somehow I found Yampu. I didn’t realize they were more than just a booking agency at first, and I started to talk to Wendy.

It was clear from our first conversation they were really knowledgeable and had a great style to accommodate even a difficult independent traveler like me. She spent a ton of time with me. Brought up activities and the pro’s and cons of activities, timing, everything that I had not found myself and didn’t find in any of the usual exploration tools like TripAdvisor, other big agencies like liberty or apple, Frommers or even Lonely Planet (my favorite).

She added great great value!  shocking to me actually. So in short  she and Yampu are an amazing place to make your trip better vs  any alternative I have found.

 

 

 

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