Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Buen Viaje… Municipal market

Cuba on Foot

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15 days (Havana)

Destinations visited: Cuba, Havana, World

Grading:

Introductory level

Grading Definitions

Discovery & Cruising

These are our least demanding trips. These journeys of discovery and cruises involve little or no extended activity and are suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. The itinerary may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and may involve long travel days on various types of transport. Sightseeing may be conducted on foot and all participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. These adventures do not go above 2500m and rarely involve camping.
Suggested preparation: Once or twice a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour, for at least 2 -3 months prior to departure.

Adventure Touring

Suggested preparation: Two or three times a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour or more, for at least 3 months prior to departure.

Introductory

These trips involve trekking or walking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to five or six hours a day at a slow but steady pace and should never be misinterpreted to mean they are easy trips. These trips do not spend time at altitudes above 4000m and are usually a week in duration. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health.
Suggested preparation: 30 minutes of aerobic type exercise, (either cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trek. For trekking, hill walking with a daypack in variable weather conditions is also recommended. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week for three months prior to departure is recommended.

Introductory to Moderate

These trips involve a combination of what is described in our INTRODUCTORY and MODERATE levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity with several moderate stages

Moderate

These adventures involve trekking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. These trips may spend successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m and are usually between 10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health.
Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling is also recommended depending upon the activity you plan to undertake.

Moderate to Challenging

These adventures involve trekking, cycling, rafting or sea kayaking for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. These trips may spend successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m and are usually between 10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of aerobic type exercise, three to five times a week for the three months leading up to your trek. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling is also recommended depending upon the activity you plan to undertake.

Challenging

These adventures involve trekking, cycling or rafting in remote areas in variable weather conditions for up to 8 to 10 hours a day (possibly more subject to weather conditions and altitude). This may include spending successive days at altitudes not generally exceeding 6000m. These trips may often be over three weeks in duration. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8kgs (and in some cases a full pack) and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions.
Suggested preparation: One hour of aerobic type exercise, four to five times a week for three to six months prior to departure. Hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or on/off road cycling is also recommended.

Entry Mtn/Exploratory Treks

These adventures are classed as expeditions. They involve either extreme trekking and or basic mountaineering. Expect remote and poorly defined trails in variable weather conditions for up to 12 hours a day (possibly more subject to weather conditions and altitude). This may include a number of demanding high pass crossings and evacuation may be difficult from remote areas. Suitable for first time mountaineers wishing to take the step from trekking into the realm of mountaineering. Prior experience trekking at altitude is preferable but not essential and you should be comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Prior technical mountaineering experience is not necessary. Terrain will involve low angle snow slopes. Ropes may be used during treks for glacier travel and steeper sections of ice and snow. When mountaineering, basic mountaineering instruction is given by our mountaineering guides.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

Intermediate Mtn Expedition

Participants should be competent and self sufficient in the outdoors and have experience in multi day trekking at altitude. Prior experience on an entry level mountaineering expedition is highly recommended. The terrain will involve low to moderate angle snow slopes and traveling on crevassed glaciers. Experience using ice axe and crampons is preferred but not essential.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

Advanced Mtn Expedition

These are our most challenging expeditions. Clients must have prior mountaineering experience. Most are participatory expeditions & involve load carrying, setting up of camps, cooking and campcraft. Altitude is generally greater than 6500m. Some of these expeditions also involve “technical” climbing and are for experienced alpine climbers / mountaineers only. Technical expeditions involve steep climbing at high altitude (including rock climbing). Participation on one of these expeditions is subject to acceptance by one of our high altitude mountaineering guides.
Suggested preparation: For grade 8-10 mountaineering expeditions you will need to be very fit and healthy. A minimum of 1 hour of aerobic exercise per session, four to five times a week is essential. Running and cycling in hilly areas is particularly beneficial as are multi day walks on the weekends. This is the ideal time to try out your boots and other gear to make sure you are prepared and ready for your expedition. If you are considering Intermediate or advanced level trips, you will need to discuss your preparation leading up to the trip with our expert staff.

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Combine Cuba's stunning heritage and spectacular scenery on a series of hikes

Explore Cuba from Vinales in the west to Sierra Maestra in the east is a natural paradise for walkers. Add a rich cultural heritage and extraordinarily welcoming people and you have got a truly exotic recipe for a fabulous adventure holiday. From the vibrant Havana, we head to Viñales, home to the Mogotes limestone karst scenery and to the hill station of Soroa for wonderfully varied walking through a diverse environment. We hope to spot hummingbirds, as we amble through Topes de Collantes with its exuberant flora, caves, waterfalls, grottos and cool off in crystal clear natural pools. In the Sierra Maestra National Park we visit Castro's revolutionary base, La Comandancia, and climb Cuba's highest peak. The enchanting colonial towns of Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and Santiago break up our walks where we can indulge in a Cuba Libre and hearty local cuisine. Cuba really has it all! It is essential to be aware that Cuban infrastructure is basic and to enjoy Cuba it is important to have a relaxed and flexible attitude.

Highlights

Walking amongst the limestone karsts in the Viñales Valley
Sightseeing in the World Heritage sites of vibrant Havana & colonial Trinidad
Visit Castro's revolutionary headquarters and climb Pico Turquino (Cuba's highest peak) in the Sierra Maestra mountains
Walking in the Topes de Collantes forest
Relaxing on the Caribbean coast

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Havana

Upon arrival into José Marti International Airport in Havana please make your way through customs and to the baggage claim area. You will be met and transferred to the group hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Havana.

Day 2 Havana walking tour and drive to Vinales

After breakfast, we will have a short group briefing where you will meet with your group leader and other members of the group. There will be an informal guided walking tour of Old Havana visiting the Plaza de Armas and other squares, memorial gardens, churches, and haunts of the legendary Ernest Hemingway. After lunch, we will be transferred to Viñales. Free leisure time before dinner. Overnight hotel in Viñales.

Day 3 Follow 'Campesinas Trail' in the stunning Viñales Valley

Today we will walk to the east of the Viñales Valley to see Cococ Solo, Palmarito and the Tradiciones Campesinas Trails (2 trails in one). Along the trail you can admire the country’s oldest geological formations. The mogotes (eroded limestone mountains) are the main attraction and date back 160 million years, and constitute the centre of the high endemism of flora and fauna in the region. You will also be able to appreciate how the local farmers live; as well as their cultivation techniques for tobacco, fruits, and root vegetables. After lunch, we will return to the hotel on foot. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Viñales. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 10 - 15 kms; 6 hours.

Day 4 Hike 'El Brujito Trail' and drive to Soroa hill station

After breakfast and check out from the hotel, you can store your luggage at the hotel to be collected after our day's walk. The group will depart on foot from the hotel to commence the El Brujito walk. Along the trail you will be able to see some of the about 76 different species that inhabit the area. You will also have the opportunity to interact with the locals in the surrounding area and learn about their traditions and history. Return to the hotel on foot and transfer by bus to Soroa, where we will visit the Orchid Garden and the Soroa Waterfall. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Soroa. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 14 kms; 8 hours.

Day 5 Drive to Cienfuegos and visit the infamous Bay of Pigs

Transfer to Cienfuegos. Along the way we will visit to the Bay of Pigs Museum, which documents the unsuccessful CIA-sponsored landing in April 1961. After checking into our hotel, you will then be taken on a walking tour of colonial Cienfuegos. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Cienfuegos.

Day 6 To Topes de Collantes Nature Reserve for day walk (Codina)

Transfer to Topes de Collantes. Today we will walk from Topes to La Batata, and then onto Codina. Along the way, we will admire the landscape and amazing flora of the area, including coffee plantations and caves. Opportunity to stop for a refreshing swim in the river, before a delicious roast pork lunch is served. Afterwards, we will be transferred by lorry truck to our hotel. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Topes. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 7 kms; 3 hours.

Day 7 Day walk in Topes de Collantes (Guanayara)

We will depart from the hotel to Guanayara park on foot, passing by La Gallega. The walk will continue to the Rocío Waterfall and then return by a different path to Casa de la Gallega, which will be our lunch destination. Afterwards, we will be transferred by lorry truck back to our hotel. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Topes. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 6 kms; 4 hours.

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Day 8 Day walk in Topes de Collantes (El Cubano). Transfer to Trinidad.

After breakfast and check out from the hotel, we will transfer by bus to El Cubano park. We will commence with a walk to the Javira waterfall, where you will be able to observe several types of birds and a large variety of plants. The walk will include a visit to a local farmer's house to rehydrate with a medicinal tea. Opportunity to take a swim in the Javira waterfall. After lunch, we will be transferred to our hotel near the Caribbean Sea. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Trinidad. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 5 kms; 3 hours.

Day 9 Trinidad walking tour. Transfer to Camaguey and afternoon walking tour.

This morning we will undertake a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trinidad. Facing the Caribbean Sea, Trinidad is a metropolis of beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Much of the city’s fortune came about through the sugar boom that saw great wealth translate into elegant mansions, which till this day form the nucleus of the city. Trinidad is best explored on foot, along cobble stone streets that wind to open market places, where old churches contrast with the culture of outdoor café entertainment. Another appealing feature is the artistic flare of the town, and as you wander you’ll see merchants crafting their wares such as weaving, pottery, musical instruments, flower decorations, painting and the like. After lunch, we will be transferred to Camagüey. The day will conclude with an afternoon walking tour of this wonderful colonial city. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Camagüey.

Day 10 To Sierra Maestra (Villa Santo Domingo)

Drive from Camagüey to Villa Santo Domingo, with a lunch stop in Bayamo. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Villa Santo Domingo.

Day 11 To Aguada de Joaquín

Transfer by jeeps to Alto del Naranjo. We will commence our 3-day trek of the Sierra Maestra mountains with a hike to Aguada de Joaquín. Dinner and overnight at mountain refuge in Aguada de Joaquín. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Moderate; 12 kms; 5-6 hours.

Day 12 Climb Pico Turquino (1975m). Walk to La Platica.

This morning we will climb Pico Turquino, which is the highest peak in Cuba. Afterwards we will hike to La Platica. Dinner and overnight at mountain refuge in La Platica. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Challenging; 15 kms; 9-10 hours.

Day 13 Visit La Comandancia de la Plata. Walk to Alto del Naranjo. Transfer to Santiago de Cuba.

Today we will walk to La Comandancia de la Plata, and visit Fidel Castro's headquarters during the Cuban Revolution. After lunch, we will continue hiking to Alto del Naranjo. Transfer back to Villa Santo Domingo by jeeps. Onward transfer by private coach to Santiago de Cuba. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Santiago de Cuba. Approx Walking grade, distance & time: Challenging; 7 kms; 7-8 hours.

Day 14 Domestic flight to Havana

Transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Havana (at own expense). Upon arrival you will be transferred to the group hotel in Havana. Lunch at your own expense. Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Early evening short stroll with your tour guide to the waterfront promenade "The Malecón", in the direction of the harbour entrance by the Point Fortress, across from the Morro Castle, to enjoy the sunset. Then we will walk along the Prado Promenade for our celebratory dinner at the world famous Floridita Bar Restaurant, one of Ernest Hemingway's favourite hide-outs. After dinner, we will be transferred to the National Hotel in classic American cars, and enjoy the Tropicana Show. Return transfer to the group hotel.

Day 15 Trip concludes in Havana

Morning at leisure to relax or do some last minute souvenir shopping. Lunch at your own expense. In the afternoon you will be transferred to Havana International Airport, where trip services conclude.

Additional Information

Inclusions

14 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 14 dinners
English speaking Cuban guide/leader
Arrival and departure transfers
2 litres of bottled water each day
Private vehicles throughout
Medical kit
Comfortable hotel/cabin accommodation of a 3 star standard (Topes Hotel is very basic and the only hotel available)
2 nights in very basic mountain huts with shared facilities in Sierra Maestra
Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in itinerary

Summary

10 nights hotel
4 nights hostal/mountain refuge

Trip Main Activities

3 day trek
6 day walks
Adventure Touring
Family Adventures

Group Size Min

Group Size Max

Accommodation Summary

Equipment Required

Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre-departure information provided on booking).

What You Carry

In your daypack you will need to carry a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc. Mules carry all group gear and your small trek pack during the 3-day trek in the Sierra Maestra.

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Pioneers in responsible travel.
No local payments.
True adventures in every sense.
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Quality facilities and transport.

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