Private Cuba Cultural Tour: Havana to Viñales

Upon arriving in Havana, our local expert guide will warmly welcome you. Following lunch, venture to the Jaimanitas neighborhood on the outskirts of Havana to explore the home of Jose Fuster, a prominent Cuban artist renowned for drawing inspiration from Gaudi and Picasso. A glimpse at his house reveals the neighborhood’s transformation into a masterpiece. Engage with a successful ceramist, gaining insight into her inspirational work. Later, check into your hotel, attend an orientation meeting, and enjoy a welcome dinner at a private paladar. Nestled in Vedado, this intimate paladar stands out for its fusion of Cuban cuisine, classic glamour architecture, and interior design. Situated amidst the mansions of Cuba’s pre-revolution aristocracy, it offers an immersive experience. The evening presents opportunities to immerse yourself in Afro-Cuban jazz or live salsa music after dinner.  Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

Embark on a culinary journey in Cuba, witnessing a resurgence of traditional flavors influenced by global cuisines. Explore community life as you visit the local farmer’s market with a Cuban chef, selecting ingredients for a hands-on cooking lesson a lo Cubano! Learn to prepare classic dishes like ropa vieja, tostones, ajiaco, and master the art of mixing a mojito.  After a stroll through Old Havana, gather for a private jazz concert and engage in a conversation with the musicians about Cuban music. Enjoy a casual meeting with a distinguished sociologist from the University of Havana, providing valuable insights into Cuba’s evolving economic class structure with a focus on the changing roles of race and gender in defining success amidst rapid socio-economic shifts.  Conclude the day with dinner at one of Old Havana’s premier paladares, where Afro-Cuban style meets international flavors for a fusion dining experience.    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel.

Begin your day at the Antonio Jimenez Foundation, delving into Cuba’s conservation initiatives and the inspiring journey of its founder, Antonio Nuñez Jimenez. Walk through the enchanting streets of Old Havana, absorbing its sights, sounds, and flavors, then continue the exploration via bici-taxis through residential neighborhoods and iconic city landmarks.  Pause for street food tastings, savor fresh cane juice, coconut water, or gelato, and explore unique spots like Clandestina, a print-making shop, or the Dador fashion store. Visit Arte Corte, a vibrant community project centered around a barber shop, notably visited by Obama two years ago.  As the night falls over Havana, choose from various entertainment options, including performances at the Bertolt Brecht Theater, live Afro-Cuban jazz, or the chance to catch local legend Ray Fernandez in action.    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

 Explore the cultural and adventure heartland of Cuba in Piñar Del Rio, renowned for its cowboy culture and the production of the world’s finest cigars. Visit a local tobacco and coffee farmer’s house to witness the craftsmanship behind Cuban cigars. Wander through the fields, step into the farmer’s studio where cigars are hand-rolled, and savor a cup of coffee from their crops.  Viñales National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases breathtaking views of karst outcrops surrounded by tropical forests, farms, and diverse villages with Spanish, Portuguese, French, and West African influences. Enjoy an organic lunch at Cueva De La Vaca Organic Restaurant, featuring traditional Cuban recipes infused with the unique farm flavors from guajiros’ traditional charbroil methods. Stroll through the rural town, interacting with cuentapropistas (private entrepreneurs), primarily engaged in farming and ecotourism. Opt for a leisurely bike ride on meandering roads, allowing you to immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of Viñales. Pedal through the tranquil countryside, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley. This relaxed cycling experience provides an intimate connection with the surroundings, offering glimpses of local life, vibrant tobacco fields, and the unique charm of Viñales Valley.    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

Today join a hiking adventure deep within the enchanting Viñales Valley, commencing just beyond the Cueva de los Indios cave. Guided through verdant vegetation, you’ll ascend gradually, allowing for  a manageable pace and a gradual increase in altitude. Approximately thirty minutes into the hike, you’ll encounter a secluded, unassuming structure that has served as a farmer’s home for the past 15 years. Welcomed by the farmer, take a moment to rest and savor a refreshing coconut or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Revel in the stunning panoramic view as you engage in conversation with the farmer, gaining insights into his life.  Continuing your ascent, still at a comfortable pace and elevation, you’ll eventually reach a point on the trail where the vastness of the ocean unfolds before you. Follow this trail for another 45 minutes, descending slowly to capture a breathtaking view of Viñales Valley. Traverse through local farms until you arrive at Antonio’s farm, where a warm greeting awaits. Indulge in a delightful lunch at this remote farm, offering you the opportunity to witness various crops, including tobacco if in season. Experience a hands-on demonstration of cigar rolling and, should you choose, partake in smoking a freshly rolled cigar. Concluding your journey, depart either on foot or by oxen cart, returning to the road where your driver will meet you for a comfortable return to your accommodation.    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

On your return to Havana, pause to explore an orchid farm before heading to the ecotourism rural development project, Las Terrazas. Initiated in 1968 as a “Green Revolution” project by Fidel Castro, it has evolved into a tight-knit community of 250 members nestled in the Sierra del Rosario Mountains. A local guide offers insights into the community’s history, challenges, and successes. Visit the home of a renowned artist residing in this inspiring landscape, discovering the creative inspiration it imparts. Additionally, seize the opportunity for a canopy tour with a zip-line adventure through the community (at an additional cost).    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

Learn about the various rhythms that make Cuban music through a private drumming class with a master drummer. You can try your hand at such instruments as the claves, bongos, maracas, guiros, and many other instruments. Visit Aldaba Recording Studio and take a tour of the facility. If we are lucky, we may see artists recording. Lunch will be served at Cojimar, a locals’ favorite. It’s a short drive to Finca Vigia, Ernest Hemingway’s home while he lived in Cuba. Later, delve into the world of creativity with a visit to a successful jewelry maker or local artist. Explore their studio, gaining firsthand insight into their artistic process, techniques, and the inspirations behind their unique creations. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the best paladares in Havana, then for anyone up for a night in Havana, celebrate your journey with a digestif and local music.    Overnight at Casa Particular or Authorized Hotel. 

Explore the Plaza de la Revolución, one of the largest city squares in the world and serves as a significant site in the country’s political and cultural history.  Continue to the international airport for your departure flight. Alternatively, consider extending your stay for further exploration and enjoyment.