Cuba · City Tours

15-Hour Private Tour of Santa Clara, Trinidad and Cienfuegos from Varadero

15 Hours Round trip from Varadero Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Travel through Cuba's picturesque countryside between Varadero, Santa Clara, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos
  • 02 Visit Che Guevara's Mausoleum and Revolution Square in Santa Clara
  • 03 Explore Trinidad's UNESCO-listed historic center, colonial streets, and lively plazas
  • 04 Discover Cienfuegos' French colonial character in the "Pearl of the South"
  • 05 Visit Punta Gorda, Palacio del Valle, and Hotel Jagua along Cienfuegos' waterfront
  • 06 Add an optional visit to the stunning El Nicho waterfall in the Escambray Mountains

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Varadero to the enchanting cities of Santa Clara, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos. Travel through Cuba's lush countryside to explore the mausoleum of Ernesto Che Guevara and Revolution Square in Santa Clara, then continue to Trinidad to admire its colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and quaint shops. Discover Cienfuegos, the "Pearl of the South," with visits to Punta Gorda, Palacio del Valle, and Hotel Jagua. This private tour offers a rich blend of Cuban history, architecture, culture, and local charm, with an optional stop at the breathtaking El Nicho waterfall for added adventure.

Discover Cienfuegos, the "Pearl of the South," with visits to Punta Gorda, Palacio del Valle, and Hotel Jagua.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 15 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Santa Clara, Varadero
Languages English, Russian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Pick-up from Varadero, Santa Marta, or Boca de Camarioca

Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Varadero, Santa Marta, or Boca de Camarioca. Whether you're staying at a hotel or a Casa Particular, we ensure a smooth and timely start to your journey.

2
Day 02

Scenic Drive to Santa Clara Through Cuba's Heartland

  • Enjoy a scenic three-hour journey through Cuba's picturesque countryside on the way to Santa Clara.
  • As we pass through vibrant rural landscapes, you'll get a glimpse of authentic Cuban life, with rolling hills, sugarcane fields, and local villages along the route.
  • Relax and take in the beauty of the island on this peaceful drive.
3
Day 03

Che Guevara Mausoleum and Revolution Square

  • Stop at the famous mausoleum of Ernesto Che Guevara, a revered figure in Cuban history. Located in the heart of Revolution Square, this solemn site houses Che's remains and those of his fellow revolutionaries.
  • Explore the museum to learn about his extraordinary life, the Cuban Revolution, and his enduring legacy. A must-see for history enthusiasts, this stop offers a profound glimpse into Cuba's revolutionary past.
4
Day 04

Vidal Park and Santa Clara City Discovery

  • Explore the vibrant heart of Santa Clara with a visit to Vidal Park, a lively public square surrounded by colonial buildings and local life.
  • Stroll through the park and take in the rich culture of the city. This city tour will guide you through the key landmarks of Santa Clara, offering a deeper connection to its history, architecture, and the everyday life of its residents.
5
Day 05

Tren Blindado Memorial Visit

  • Stop at the Tren Blindado Memorial, a historic site commemorating the derailment of an armoured train during the Cuban Revolution led by Che Guevara. This pivotal moment played a crucial role in the fall of the Batista regime.
  • Explore the train carriages, preserved as a symbol of the revolutionary victory, and learn more about this significant event in Cuban history.
6
Day 06

Optional El Nicho Waterfall Excursion

  • For an additional $50, take a scenic drive up the mountain to the stunning El Nicho Waterfall. Nestled in the Escambray Mountains, this natural paradise features crystal-clear cascades, lush greenery, and refreshing swimming pools.
  • Enjoy a short hike through the tropical forest, where you can spot native flora and fauna, before cooling off in the serene waters. This stop offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking views. Note: opting for El Nicho may shorten the time spent in other areas. Please note that this optional stop requires extra travel time, which may reduce the time spent in other areas. Due to its location, this stop is not available on a day trip.
7
Day 07

Journey to Trinidad with Caribbean Sea Views

  • Enjoy a scenic journey to the charming town of Trinidad, where you'll be greeted with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. With its well-preserved architecture and colourful streets, this colonial city offers a stunning backdrop of turquoise waters, providing the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the city and the sea.
8
Day 08

Free Time to Enjoy Trinidad

  • After exploring the historic center, enjoy some leisurely free time to immerse yourself in Trinidad's charm further.
  • Stroll along the picturesque cobblestone streets, discover hidden gems, or relax and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. If time permits, visit the local craft market to browse unique handmade souvenirs, art, and traditional Cuban crafts. This is a perfect opportunity to interact with local artisans and take home a piece of Trinidad's culture.
  • Enjoy this unhurried moment before continuing your journey.
9
Day 09

Scenic Drive to Cienfuegos

  • Set off on a picturesque drive to Cienfuegos, often called the "Pearl of the South." The journey takes around three hours, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Cuban countryside. As you travel, take in the lush greenery, charming rural communities, and the vibrant colours of nature that paint the scenery. This scenic route is an excellent opportunity to capture photos and appreciate the authentic Cuban lifestyle that unfolds along the way, setting the stage for exploring the beautiful coastal city ahead.
10
Day 10

Cienfuegos City Excursion

  • Once you arrive in Cienfuegos, immerse yourself in the city's unique blend of French colonial architecture and vibrant Cuban culture. Known for its stunning coastal views and elegant boulevards, Cienfuegos offers a delightful exploration of its historical sites.
  • Stroll through the charming streets, admire the well-preserved buildings, and visit key landmarks that showcase the city's rich heritage.
  • Discover the welcoming atmosphere of this coastal gem, where you can appreciate local art, music, and the lively spirit of the Cuban people as you embark on your city excursion.
11
Day 11

Punta Gorda, Palacio del Valle, and Hotel Jagua

  • Your tour continues to the picturesque Punta Gorda area, renowned for its stunning waterfront views and elegant architecture.
  • Here, you'll explore the Palacio del Valle, a magnificent example of eclectic architectural styles blending Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance elements. This historical palace, adorned with intricate tile work and ornate details, offers insight into the opulent lifestyle of Cienfuegos' past.
  • Next, visit the iconic Hotel Jagua, a landmark hotel that captures the region's charm.
  • Enjoy the beautiful surroundings as you take in the tranquil ambience of this coastal paradise, perfect for photo opportunities and leisurely exploration.
12
Day 12

Return Journey to Varadero

  • After a day of exploration and discovery, we will begin our journey back to Varadero.
  • As we travel, take a moment to reflect on the vibrant culture and stunning sights of Cienfuegos and Trinidad.
  • Arriving in Varadero around 7 PM, you'll be dropped off at your original pick-up location, concluding a memorable day of adventure and immersion in the beauty of Cuba.
Che Guevara Mausoleum, Trinidad colonial streets, Punta Gorda waterfront, El Nicho waterfall

Where this trip takes you

Che Guevara Mausoleum, Trinidad colonial streets, Punta Gorda waterfront, El Nicho waterfall

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Varadero 4 cities · 15 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Specialized tour guide: English, Russian, or Spanish
  • Private transport

What's Not Included

  • Entry or admission fee

Know before you go

  • The optional stop at El Nicho Waterfall is available for an additional $50.
  • Choosing the El Nicho stop may shorten the time spent in other areas due to the extra travel time required.
  • Due to its location, the El Nicho stop is not available on a day trip.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Varadero, Cuba
Tour start
Varadero, Cuba
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 15 hours finish where they began, in Varadero.

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