Email: arilevitt@hotmail.com with "Cuba Dance Trip" in the heading.
Please include
1) your NAME
2) your LEAD or FOLLOW status
3) the CITY/STATE you are from
4) whether you want a SHARED or a SOLO room, and
5) if you are registering with another person
About this trip:
Experience the splendor of Cuba, a culture-rich Caribbean gem where the rum is plentiful, the smiles infectious, and dancing is essential. Join our "Explore Cuba Dance Adventure" and wind your way from sultry Havana and its crumbling churches, through the valleys and farms of Pinar del Rio, and on to Trinidad where you be immersed in the culture of Afro-Cuban music. Along the way we’ve assembled a cast of Cuban characters to give you a proper welcome – tobacco farmers, expert chefs, local artists, historians, and salsa dancers that understand where Cuba came from, where the country sits now and, more importantly, where it’s going.
**PLEASE NOTE: The trip begins January 5th with 2 nights in Miami where we will tour Little Havana and the Art Deco district, enjoy an Ari-curated fusion dance class, and dance ‘til we can’t dance any more! A fitting beginning to an epic trip! Room and breakfast is included in your trip package. Our time in Miami will assure that no one has any issues with our travel or connections to Cuba. We will all depart together on the same flight from Miami to Havana (see details below).
**THIS TRIP IS FOR US CITIZENS ONLY. This trip is for United States passport holders only. If you are traveling to Cuba on a passport of any other nationality you will need to book a different trip
Why You'll Love This Trip:
Travel with a fabulous group of fellow dance aficionados and immerse yourself in the culture where Salsa and Rumba were born. Engage with local dancers and instructors in special dance sessions we have planned.
Enjoy a very special dinner and show in Havana with the Buena Vista Social Club!
Learn the local customs, folklore and beliefs behind Afro-Cuban religion as you’re welcomed into the homes of devoted residents on a colorful and unconventional urban adventure in Havana.
Relish a real garden-to-plate dining experience at a privately-owned organic eco-farm in picturesque Vinales.
Receive fascinating insight into the rise and fall of the charismatic and highly celebrated Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara at his mausoleum and museum in Santa Clara.
Experience Cuban hospitality and old-world charm in the coastal town of Trinidad. Wander through cobblestone streets among colorful colonial buildings and relax on the picturesque Playa Ancon.
Support the Cuban community by staying at privately-owned guesthouses, dining at home-grown restaurants, and gaining insider knowledge into Cuba’s history, thanks to the expertise of local guides.
Dance Classes & Group Activities:
Since we are in Cuba, the focus of our classes will be on Salsa, garnished with a healthy sprinkle of other Latin dance styles (Rumba, Cha Cha, Bachata, etc). Daily classes will include a mix of morning and/or afternoon sessions, with a strong emphasis on both partnering & connection, as well as introducing fun new step patterns and stylings.
Other group activities will include afternoon & evening dances, plenty of socializing, and many other fun "non-dancing" activities. So many options, so little time!
CLASS LEVEL: Our classes are exciting, informative, relatively fast-paced, and as such are geared much more toward the intermediate and above level social dancer. Unless we are introducing a brand new dance, we do not gear any of our classes towards beginning dancers. Participants should have a solid, broad-based dance background.
Pricing:
$2,975 per person for double accommodation
$3,995 for private accommodation (*see below)
A $600 downpayment is required to hold your spot
*A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip (Miami & Cuba) and is subject to availability.
In order to keep balanced lead & follow numbers, and due to the fact that we typically have more follows registering early-on, any single leads and lead-follow pairs will be able to get in right away. Any single follows will be automatically put on the waiting list* until we can match you with a lead. For this reason, we HIGHLY encourage single follows to recruit a lead with whom you can register!
*To hold your place on the wait-list, a deposit is required. The deposit is fully refundable if we can't get you in. We will do our best to clear the waitlist as soon as we can.
**Spaces are limited to 11 leads and 11 follows
=> PRICING INCLUDES:
Miami:
2 nights lodging in Miami at the Circa 39 Hotel, Miami Beach
2 Breakfasts
Jan 7th Shuttle from hotel to Airport (for Havana flight)
Cuba:
8 nights Individual Guesthouse Accommodations, Jan 7-15
8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Private vehicle transportation throughout
Private guide provided for most activities (see below)
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Near-daily dance classes
Activities Include:
Havana - Afro-Cuban Religion Tour (guide and transport included)
Havana - Leader led City Tour of Old Havana
Havana - American Vintage Car Tour (No guide and transport included)
Havana - Jaimanitas (Mosaic-laden Neighbourhood) including Fusterlandia (Entrance fee)
Las Terrazas - Sustainable Rural Economy Project (Entrance fee and Guide included)
Vinales - Leader-led orientation walk
Vinales - Farm-to-table dinner at an eco-friendly ranch
Vinales - Half-day Valley tour on foot including Tobacco Farmhouse
Vinales - Salsa dance lesson (1 hour)
Vinales - Cooking Demonstration by Local Chef
Cienaga de Zapata - Korimakao Cultural Project (entrance fee, guide and transport included)
Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
Trinidad - Leader-led City Tour including Museums (entrance fees, guide and transport included)
Trinidad - Pottery Centre
Trinidad - Sunset Picnic at Playa Ancon (Weather Dependent)
Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
Havana - Buena Vista Social Club Performance (entrance fee & dinner)
=> NOT INCLUDED:
Airfare
Shuttle from airport to Miami hotel
Cuban Tourist Card ($50) purchased at the airport before boarding your flight
Travel Insurance
Tips
Alcohol/specialty drinks not included with meals
Any extra meals/drinks not included in the itinerary
Any extra sundries/purchases
Any extra amenities/excursions beyond those already provided
=> ADD-ON ACTIVITES (for nominal fee)
Trinidad - Afro-Cuban folklore show (entrance fee) from - EUR3
Trinidad - Trek to El Nicho Waterfall (entrance fee, guide and transport included) - EUR 257
TO REGISTER
Email: arilevitt@hotmail.com with "Cuba Dance Trip" in the heading
Please include:
1) your NAME
2) your LEAD or FOLLOW status
3) the CITY/STATE you are from
4) whether you want a SHARED or a SOLO room, and
5) if you are registering with another person
Miami Segment:
Plan to fly into Miami on January 5th and join us for a special 3 day/2 night pre-trip segment in this fabulous city. This is required to ensure that we are all together in Miami for our group flight to Cuba on Jan 7th. Your Miami hotel cost is included in your trip package. Please plan to arrive by 5pm on Jan 5th.
The Hotel is: Circa 39 Hotel - Miami Beach, 3900 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
You can get there by cab, shuttle, or Uber from whichever airport you fly into. The hotel reservation will be under your name.
Flight to Havana:
=> GOING TO HAVANA:
We will all plan to fly to Havana from Miami on the same flight departing Jan 7, Miami (MIA) to Havana (HAV) on American Airlines AA837 (1 hr 23 min) approximately $175 o/w
LEAVES: 12:22 PM MIA (Miami International Airport)
ARRIVES: 1:45 PM HAV (Havana) Since there are no charters or group specials for flights to Havana, you will have to purchase that ticket yourself. We will provide the shuttle from the hotel to the airport
=> RETURNING FROM HAVANA:
Jan 15, 2025: You can book whichever flight you like for your return flight to Miami. Please give yourself enough time for breakfast in the morning and at least 3 hours for check-in and security at the airport. We will provide shuttle service from your residence to the airport. Please let us know your flight information as soon as you have it so we can arrange the pick-up.
Passport & Visa:
QUICK SUMMARY:
Getting our travel visa and papers to fly to Havana will be coordinated by our travel agency and is relatively simple to do. Prior to the trip, Intrepid (our travel company) will provide a signed affidavit attesting that we will be traveling on a special "Support for Cuban People" category visa. 48 hours before departing for Cuba, you will need to fill out the online customs, immigration, and health declaration form on the D'Viajeros website (this generates a QR code that you will need for the airport check in process). The airlines will facilitate our payment of the obligatory $50 Cuban Tourist Card while we are in the airport. It's pretty much that simple. We will walk you through the process in more detail as the date nears.
TECHNICAL DETAILS:
Our tour company, Intrepid, provides legal tours to Cuba for Americans under the ‘Support for the Cuban People” (one of eleven permitted categories for travel to Cuba). United States law specifies that to comply with this category, travelers must engage in the full-time schedule of activities provided in the program Intrepid has set up for us. The responsibility of tracking and recording activities and interactions with Cuba people is on the onus of the traveler which will be encouraged and facilitated by your tour leader. The US government is allowed to ask you for receipts and records from your trip to Cuba for up to five years.
When assisting with obtaining an international travel Visa to Cuba, Intrepid will assume that you have a valid passport good for at least six months past the travel dates. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.
DETAILS:
THIS TRIP IS FOR US CITIZENS ONLY. This trip is for United States passport holders only. If you are traveling to Cuba on a passport of any other nationality you will need to book a different trip
If you are a US citizen, US permanent resident, or hold any type of US visa, and are traveling to Cuba, please refer to the US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website HERE, and the U.S. Department of the Treasury HERE for the latest advice.
Cuba requires a signed and countersigned travel affidavit for this trip. This form will be provided to you by Intrepid when your place on the trip is confirmed.
48 hours before departing for Cuba, you will need to fill out the customs, immigration, and health declaration form on the D'Viajeros website. This generates a QR code that you will need for the airport check in process.
A Cuban Tourist Card must be purchased from the airport before boarding your flight to Cuba ($50). This should be obtained by presenting your boarding pass at the check-in counter, or for some airports, at the gate. Details HERE
To enter the country, visitors are required to have evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay, proof of travel medical insurance, as well as a return travel ticket.
The US government is allowed to ask you for receipts and records from your trip to Cuba for up to five years.
PROHIBITED ITEMS WHEN TRAVELING FROM CUBA TO THE US
Travelers cannot bring alcohol or tobacco products from Cuba into the US for personal use. More information can be found HERE
US Department of State Information about Passport/VISA requirements for Cuba can be found HERE
COVID Vaccination:
Proof of COVID Vaccination is NOT currently required for this trip.No other special vaccinations are required for this trip either.Hepatitis A & B vaccinations are recommended (not required) for travel to any Caribbean countries.
Medical Assistance (from the US Embassy):
Please note the following warning from the US Embassy regarding medical assistance in Cuba. As a reminder, all travelers are required to have travel insurance to participate in the trip (please see the travel insurance section below). The easiest way to get this is through your American Airlines ticket purchase.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance is required for all of our trips and will help protect both your investment and our vendors should you need to cancel. Unfortunately, however, many of the mainstream insurance companies do NOT include Cuba in their coverage. Be sure to check with yours if you have a regular insurance policy through them. Luckily, American Airlines does offer travel insurance coverage that includes medical. You can purchase this as an option when you buy your American Airline tickets from Miami to Havana.
There are also a number of other insurance companies you can consider:
CLICK HERE to see which companies offer travel insurance to Cuba.
Once you have purchased your travel insurance, please let us know the company name and policy number you have with them.
Changing Money, Spending, & Tipping:
=> CUBA CURRENCY & CASH
The official currency of Cuba is the National Peso (CUP, also known as Moneda Nacional M.N.). This is the only official currency currently used in Cuba. Cuban law states that it is illegal to remove any bills from Cuba so ensure that you use as much of your CUP cash as possible before departing the country.
EUR and USD are now widely accepted as payment in Cuba. However, the exchange rates vary significantly between banks and what is charged in private businesses. We recommended you bring cash in EUR/USD to pay for most services and do not exchange any money into CUP until you have met with your tour leader. They can advise where and when to exchange to get the best rate.
We recommend bringing small denominations with you - 5, 10, 20 USD notes.
CADECAs are the official government exchange houses that can be found in most cities and large hotels, but they are unreliable and offer unfavourable exchange rates. For this reason, we advise you exchange money upon the advice of your leader.
There are often changes to the regulations around foreign currency in Cuba. As such, we recommend reviewing this information again, closer to your date of departure.
=> ACCESSING FUNDS IN CUBA
We recommend you bring enough cash to last your whole time in Cuba. This is currently the best option and will provide you with the best value for money.
We advise against relying on ATMs to withdraw money in Cuba, as ATMs often don’t work for foreign bank cards. There is also a 3% fee charged on cash withdrawals from ATMs. Cards issued by US banks or banks affiliated with US banks are not accepted in Cuba at all; among others, this includes Travelex, Westpac and Citibank. Contact your bank prior to travel about using your bank card in Cuba.
You should still bring your debit/credit cards as you may need them for large expenses, eg: a medical emergency, at which time it may be possible to use them, but do not rely on them for day-to-day expenses.
=> SPENDING MONEY
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.
=> MEALS NOT INCLUDED
For this trip we recommend between $40 to $60 per day for meals not included.
=> TIPPING
If you're happy with the service you receive, providing a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. Due to the low government-set wages in Cuba, tipping is relied upon heavily so expect to tip for just about everything. We recommend that any tips are given directly to the intended recipient by a member of your group, rather than collected and passed on by the group leader.
Hold on to your smaller notes and coins to make tipping easier. You can expect to tip restaurants, guesthouses, toilet attendants, local guides and drivers. Your leader will be able to advise on this.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5-7 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
In total, we recommend you budget approx. $10 to $15 per day of your trip to cover tipping.
=> CONTINGENCY FUNDS
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra $500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travelers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. You should bring U.S. dollars or Euros to Cuba and exchange them for Cuban Pesos (CUP) at authorized banks, CADECA offices, airports or hotels. Travelers should confirm alternative payment options before traveling, as policies concerning the use of U.S. dollars in Cuba are subject to change. The Cuban government requires that travelers declare cash amounts over the equivalent of 5,000 USD.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:
When departing Cuba, we advise U.S. travelers to spend or exchange CUP to a foreign currency well before reaching airport security checkpoints. Currency exchange houses in the departure area at airports are currently closed and Cuban pesos are not internationally convertible outside of Cuba.. International airlines flying to the United States include departure fees and taxes in the price of airline tickets. U.S. dollars are not accepted for payment of any additional products purchased at the airport. Under Cuban law, travelers may export up to the equivalent of 5,000 USD out of the country. Anyone wishing to depart Cuba with more than this amount of cash must demonstrate evidence that the currency was acquired legitimately from a Cuban bank.
Packing List & Travel Tips:
Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Our travellers usually find the smaller their luggage is, the more they enjoy the trip not having to worry about carrying heavy bags! Aim to keep your main luggage under 15kg.
Many travelers carry their luggage in a compact smaller suitcase or backpack with wheels. We recommend your bag has carry straps or handles so it is easy to lift and carry for the times you are unable to wheel it (ie. on rough surfaces or up steps).
You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, swimming suit, waterproof pouch/bag for phone, hiking shoes and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day.
Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.
=> LAUNDRY:
A laundry service is offered at some guesthouses in Cuba. You might need to wait for a two-night stop to make sure you get it back in time. While laundry is usually charged by the item, laundromats which are also an option, usually charge by the kilo, which is generally inexpensive (approximately EUR5 per kilo).
=> WWDA PACKING LIST:
Please refer to our Worldwide Dance Adventure TRAVEL TIPSpage for valuable suggestions on such things as how & what to pack, how & when to book flights, power cord adapters, international phone coverage, what to include in your traveler's first aid kit, etc.
Is This Trip Right For You?
The guesthouses (casas) we use are much nicer than your average Cuban dwelling and each room is unique. Regardless of where you stay, power cuts and breaks in hot water supply are sometimes unavoidable, as in any developing country, but we believe that this is all a part of the local experience. Cuban guesthouses are similar in style to B&Bs, where families do not necessarily live in the residence. While some guesthouse managers and owners speak English, interaction mostly consists of gestures, smiles and ‘Spanglish’. Just like the residences in your own neighborhood, each casa is unique; expect there to be differences between the rooms you and your travelling companions stay in. Generally, there will be 1-4 group members in each guesthouse. Each room has a private bathroom with towels, and some basic toiletries may be provided. Occasionally two rooms will share one bathroom.
Part of Cuba’s appeal is its old-fashioned style – this includes the banking systems. Funds in Cuba can be difficult to access. Please read our Essential Trip Information to be fully prepared.
Luxuries such as air conditioning, plush pillows, and fly screens, are often scarce. Part of the experience here is learning to appreciate everyday Cuban resourcefulness.
Internet access can be hard to come by, and when it's available it's often unreliable and expensive. Treat this as a great opportunity to take a break from modern devices and have a true holiday.
Cuba is different, and that's a big part of its allure. Things don't always go according to plan, and many things don't work the same way as back home. Patience and good humor will go a long way in this beautiful destination.
Due to licensing restrictions, post-tour accommodation cannot be offered in Cuba.
Physical Activity Rating: 3/5 None of the activities featured in this trip require special training or skills, just a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to participate. Stairs are prevalent in Cuban homes, and cobblestones and uneven roads are common. If you are in any doubt, please share these concerns or issues with us so we can be aware prior to the trip and can pre-empt your needs.
=> DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
More restrictive diet requirements (vegans, celiac, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can be accommodated along this trip but you should expect a lesser variety than what you can expect at home. We recommend bringing your own supply of snacks with you.
Vegetarians should be aware that while you can get vegetarian meals in Cuba, you generally won't find much variety and you may get tired of being offered the same every day (i.e. - rice, beans, omelette and salad). Vegetarians are often surprised that their meals are no cheaper than those containing meat, and this is because vegetables on the free market in Cuba are of similar prices to those of meat. Please let us know your diet requirements before your trip starts.
=> FOOD IN CUBA:
Food in Cuba has a reputation for being bland and lacking variety, however it has improved dramatically over the last two years. There are very limited snacks available in Cuba; convenience stores exist but are certainly not as prevalent nor sell the quantity or variety of snacks or junk food you may be used to at home. You may wish to bring your favourite chocolates, candy or healthy snacks like muesli bars.
Beans and rice are the staples, with cucumber, tomato and cabbage being the conventional ingredients for a Cuban salad. Chicken and pork are the most common meats served in Cuba, however fish and a variety of seafood is also frequently on offer. Please be aware that it is a cultural trait to serve meals larger than you are expected to finish, but be assured nothing will go to waste.
It can be hard to find a suitable place to eat while travelling in Cuba, as roadside restaurants tend to cater for large tour groups and either offer a fixed meal or a very limited selection of snacks. In the cities and towns small privately-owned restaurants, paladares, offer a little more choice but can often only seat a maximum of twelve people (the number for which they are officially licensed).
Group Leader:
All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative.
Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. Intrepid aims to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location, your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.
Gifting:
Given the difficulty of securing basic goods in Cuba, surplus items that you have at home such as soap, shampoo, perfumes, sewing kits, toothbrushes and pens or pencils are warmly accepted. We do encourage you to discuss gift giving with your tour leader so that items can be distributed to organizations in need.
If you decide to hand out gifts without the leader’s guidance, we suggest you distribute as a sign of appreciation after a genuine interaction, whether that be a conversation or offered help, rather than a means to create engagement.
Please always refrain from handing items directly to children.
It is not necessary to bring gifts for the guesthouse owners in Cuba; these are not a homestay experience and as they are a business they are most-likely run by some of the more well-off families who will be happy enough with just your good-natured presence.
Phone & Internet Access:
=> INTERNET IN CUBA
There are Wi-Fi hotspots located at larger hotels and at major public squares in most cities. You will need to purchase an ETECSA internet card from the ETECSA shop or larger hotel. Usually these come in 1-hour blocks at a price of $1-$2 per hour. After partial use, ensure you log out correctly or turn your Wi-Fi off so that your time is not used up. If the login page does not open when you select the Wi-Fi, type this into your browser: http://www.portal-wifi-temas.nauta.cu
Many websites and apps will not work in Cuba, so we recommend using WhatsApp to communicate with friends and family.
=> SIM CARDS
Cuba's only mobile phone operator, Cubacel, provides a tourist SIM package that you can purchase online prior to arrival for pickup at Jose Marti Airport in Terminal 3. The SIM costs around $30 and includes 6GB mobile data, 100 min of calls, and 100 SMS messages, top ups are only for mobile data, not calls or SMS. It is good for 30 days after activation. Purchase the card on THIS SITE.
You can pick up the SIM from the kiosk before passing through passport control or at any ETECSA office.
To rent a handset costs $6 per day.
=> PHONES:
If you are using your own handset, for this to work in Cuba it needs to be unlocked, and function on the 900MHz band.
You can get data on some foreign lines (including US) using global roaming although the costs are very expensive.
Sending SMS from Cuba to another country depends on the receiver’s operator so you will need to check with yours.
Most major US mobile phone providers allow texting to/from US numbers.
Safety:
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips HERE
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your tour itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines
=> PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
=> SEAT BELTS:
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.
=> ACCOMODATIONS:
The laws around health and safety in Cuba are very different than in more developed countries, even for government licenced accommodation. While we endeavour to source accommodation that is compliant to our own health and safety standards there will be occasions where the accommodation will not have a marked fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms. Please ask your guesthouse owner to explain the fire evacuation plan to you when you check in.
=> WATER SAFETY:
Please take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water, where waves and currents can be unpredictable. It's expected that anyone taking part in water activities is able to swim and have experience in open water. All swimmers should seek local advice before entering the water.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's):
=> What is the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and what does it do?
According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s website, OFAC “administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals against targeted foreign policies and regimes and other threats to the national security, foreign policy or economy of the United States.” As of June 6, 2019, Intrepid US is authorized to provide ‘Support for the Cuban People’ trips pursuant to a general license under 31 C.F.R. § 515.574 rather than needing a specific license.
=> What does ‘Support for the Cuban People’ mean?
‘Support for the Cuban People’ general license aims to encourage Individuals and non-governmental organizations to promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba. Intrepid US's itinerary has been carefully planned to provide engaging, intimate experiences with Cuba’s dynamic residents, immersing you in everyday life, and allowing you to interact with locals and foster a better understanding of what makes Cuba such a fascinating place. ‘Hola Cuba – for US citizens’ allows for very little, if any, free time, as your time will be spent experiencing Cuba at its most authentic by interacting with the community directly; staying in rented accommodation in private Cuban guesthouses (casa particular), eat at privately-owned Cuban restaurants (paladares), and shop at privately-owned stores run by self-employed Cubans (cuentapropista).
=> Do I have to participate in all the scheduled activities?
Under the requirements set forth by OFAC, you must participate in all scheduled activities on your itinerary. You are travelling to Cuba under OFAC’s ‘Support for the Cuban People’ general license, and the U.S. government requires you to engaged in a full-time schedule of activities resulting in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba. Hence, unlike other Intrepid US trips, you cannot opt out of activities. By not participating in any scheduled activities, you may be individually liable for criminal or civil penalties.
=> Am I allowed to explore my surroundings before or after the day’s itinerary?
While full participation in our scheduled program is required during the day, you are able to explore on your own before or after your scheduled itinerary is complete.
=> May I purchase items in Cuba and bring them back with me to the U.S.?
You may acquire in Cuba and import as accompanied baggage into the United States merchandise with a value not to exceed $400 per person, provided that the merchandise is imported for personal use only.
Currently, there are no monetary limits on acquisition in Cuba and import into the U.S. of informational materials, such as books, paintings, posters, photographs, films and music CDs.
You cannot bring alcohol or tobacco products from Cuba into the US for personal use. More information can be found HERE
=> Are there any limitations with respect to personal consumption spending while in Cuba?
There is no limit on personal consumption spending (e.g., food, beverage, etc.) while in Cuba.
=> Will my phone work in Cuba?
Probably not; generally, your U.S. cell phone, texting and smart phone-based Internet will not work in Cuba. Satellite phones are not allowed in Cuba.
For more information, we strongly encourage you to visit OFAC's website HERE
Cancellation Policy:
Should you cancel less than 14 days of booking and greater than 180 days before the trip, you get a 100% refund of total cost minus a $150 admin fee.
Should you cancel after 14 days of booking and up to 180 days before the trip you will get a 50% refund of total cost minus the $150 admin fee.
Once we are within 180 days of the trip starting there are no refunds.
Note: should you find someone to fill your spot, we can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee. Should you become sick or have other health or family-related issues, it’s highly likely the required travel insurance would kick in and reimburse you so be sure and check with your provider.
It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and make their payments on time. We reserve the right to hold payments according to the cancellation policy above to pay our vendors to make this trip happen.
By making a deposit you agree to above terms of service and cancellation policy.
Small Print:
Liability:
We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.
In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.
Risks of Travel and Release:
We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19.
YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.
Please note – due to Cuba travel restrictions from the US, we are spending 2 nights in Miami JANUARY 5 – 7 pre-trip to assure no one has any issues with travel or connections. Our tour provider will arrange for a smooth and collective charter flight for us together on Jan 7th all from Miami to Havana. Cost of the 2-night Miami stay is included in your complete package pricing.
Jan 7, 2025: Day 1 - Havana
Bienvenido a Cuba! (Welcome to Cuba!) Upon arrival, soak in the historic beauty of Havana and the surreal feeling that you have entered a bygone era. This is a very historic time to visit Cuba, as the gates finally creak open to a country so long forbidden, an opportunity has arisen to support the Cuban people and explore their incredible country.
As there are no activities planned until your important welcome meeting at 6 pm – why not take a stroll to get acquainted with Cuba’s capital, where vintage cars, plumes of cigar smoke, Neo-Gothic churches and Art Deco theaters come together in a unique mesh of histories.
After your welcome meeting, enjoy dinner at a local paladar, a privately-owned restaurant and a great example of Cuba’s incremental shift to a more free-market economy. Paladar means ‘palate’ but the popular usage of the word to describe this kind of restaurant references a Brazilian soap opera popular in Cuba in the 1990s.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Dinner
Included activities: Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Special information: It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time.
Jan 8, 2025: Day 2 - Havana
This morning, find out more about the local customs, folklore and beliefs of Cuba’s Afro-Cuban religion from an insider on a colourful and unconventional tour with Urban Adventures. Be welcomed into private homes and take the opportunity to learn from the devoted residents as you explore one of Havana’s sub-cultures at a grassroots level, something not often experienced by tourists.
Next, you’ll get to see outer Havana in a convoy of classic American vintage cars. Cruise via points of interest – such as the Malecon, Revolution Square, Avenida de los presidentes and ending in Old Havana.
Next, your leader will take you on a walking tour around the charming neighbourhood of Old Havana (approximately 2.5 hours). The best place to start any Havana experience is in the Old City, which is one of the best-preserved towns and in 1982 was designated a World Heritage Site. The streets are lined with colonial architecture, 16th-century fortresses and countless churches. Visit La Catedral San Cristobal de la Habana, the Palacio de los Marqueses de Aguas Claras and the Plaza de Armas. After a full day of exploration, enjoy an evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included activities
Havana - Afro-Cuban Religion Tour (guide and transport included)
Havana - Leader led City Tour of Old Havana
Havana - American Vintage Car Tour (No guide and transport included)
Jan 9, 2025: Day 3 - Terrazas/Vinales
This morning, head east to Vinales. En route stop by an outer-Havana suburb to see the passion project of Jose Fuster, an artist who has turned an entire neighbourhood into a lively and colourful series of mosaics. Known as 'Fusterlandia', the inspiring and whimsical scenery is a perfect spot for pictures.
Continue your journey to a local community in Las Terrazas (approximately 2 hours). The village was built as part of a government reforestation project and has since received a UNESCO biosphere listing. Meet up with local community leaders who will share insights into Las Terrazas and how the society works. You’ll also visit the ecological research centre and take a guided walk around the complex.
After lunch take a 2 hour drive to Vinales – situated in one of the most picturesque parts of Cuba, it’s a small and culturally rich village, with friendly and welcoming residents. On your way into the village, you may pass by the vibrant Mural de la Prehistoria at the foot of the verdant Sierra de Vinales. Take the short journey into the centre of town and arrive in time for a brief orientation walk before heading to a privately-owned organic farm to learn about sustainable farming in Cuba. Hopefully meet local farmer Wilfredo Garcia Correa or at least his family who will show us around the farm and explain the methods used to cultivate crops without the use of pesticides, then enjoy a deliciously fresh and diverse meal prepared by the family, a truly authentic farm-to-fork experience!
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities
Havana - Jaimanitas (Mosaic-laden Neighbourhood) including Fusterlandia (Entrance fee)
Las Terrazas - Sustainable Rural Economy Project (Entrance fee and Guide included)
Vinales - Leader-led orientation walk
Vinales - Farm-to-table dinner at an eco-friendly ranch
Jan 10, 2025: Day 4 - Vinales
Today at 9 am, spend the morning (approximately 3 hours) finding out more about Cuban agriculture with a visit to a local tobacco farm to learn about the tradition of Cuban cigars. Get an insight as to how the communist system works, how much tobacco they keep, how much produce they give back to the government and how they make ends meet. Learn about the process of tobacco planting to rolling the final cigar. Share in the secret recipe of how they cure their leaves, which originated from one family and has been passed down through three generations – then drink some freshly roasted coffee from the farm while watching an expert roll a cigar.
In the afternoon, get involved in a 1-hour salsa dance lesson, followed by a cooking demonstration from a local chef.
Vinales is one of the more agriculturally productive areas of Cuba, so an abundance of homegrown seasonal fruit and vegetables are always on offer such as avocados, mangoes, pineapples, papaya, guava, and several varieties of sweet potatoes. Sit back, relax and enjoy the well-prepared meal while overlooking the lush scenery of Vinales.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities
Vinales - Half-day Valley tour on foot including Tobacco Farmhouse
Vinales - Salsa dance lesson (1 hour)
Vinales - Cooking Demonstration by Local Chef
Jan 11, 2025: Day 5 - Cienfuegos
Depart Vinales at 8 am and head to Cienfuegos – drive for approximately 4.5 hours before stopping for lunch. This afternoon you’ll visit the Korimakao Cultural Project in Ciénega de Zapata, an area famous for its wetlands. Founded in 1992, Korimakao is a project to bring theatre, music, and dancing to remote areas of Cuba. You’ll have the opportunity to meet a director of the project, who will talk to you about the importance of this venture and the number of students that have benefited from it.
Continue along to the picturesque town of Cienfuegos (1.5 hours), a slice of Paris in the Caribbean. Founded in 1819 by pioneering French immigrants – the elegant architectural influence that these settlers brought with them, earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing in 2005.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities
Cienaga de Zapata - Korimakao Cultural Project (entrance fee, guide and transport included)
Cienfuegos - Leader-led orientation walk
Jan 12, 2025: Day 6 - Trinidad
This morning at approximately 8.30 am, your leader will show you around the charming streets of Cienfuegos before getting back on the road around 10 am, heading towards the National Park of Topes de Collantes (approximately 2 hours). Here there is a stop for a swim in a waterfall and to have lunch at a small privately-owned family farm.
Travel onwards to the beautiful city of Trinidad (approximately 1.5 hours). Located near the lovely Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of Sugar Mills) and Playa Ancón, Trinidad enjoys long stretches of unspoiled, white sand beaches and is home to numerous churches and well-preserved colonial buildings.
After lunch, begin with a guided cultural tour of the city (approximately 3 hours) – this includes an opportunity to visit two museums such as Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos, Museo Romantico or the History museum. Later, visit the privately-owned pottery workshop of the Santander family. This family are well known in the Cuban cultural landscape for having produced pottery for generations as well as assisting in the restoration of sculptures that once existed in this UNESCO world heritage site. Support the Cuban economy by taking the chance to purchase your own pottery as a reminder of your time in Cuba.
In the evening, perhaps seek out the dance scene in Cuba. You may wish to see the local Afro Cuban Folkloric dance group that perform shows at the club Palenque, which has cultural and social importance in this region. Nightlife in Trinidad is probably the most accessible and intense in all of Cuba, with numerous live music venues and many dance performances every day of the week.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities
Trinidad - Leader-led City Tour including Museums (entrance fees, guide and transport included)
Trinidad - Pottery Centre
Add on activities
Trinidad - Afro-Cuban folklore show (entrance fee) from - EUR3
Trinidad - Cave Disco (entrance fee) - EUR14
Jan 13, 2025: Day 7 - Trinidad
This morning is yours to explore Trinidad by selecting one of the many optional activities on offer. Perhaps you’d like to hire a bike and cycle along the city’s colorful streets, past once-grand mansions, pastel buildings and wrought iron features – or instead you might choose to explore one of the excellent walking trails in the nearby Sierra del Escambray mountains. Your leader can suggest a lunch place at a local paladar.
In the afternoon head to Playa Ancon for some beach time fun and maybe a little snorkeling, followed by a sunset picnic prepared for you by one of the privately-owned guesthouses.
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included activities
Trinidad - Sunset Picnic at Playa Ancon (Weather Dependent)
Trinidad - Trek to El Nicho Waterfall (entrance fee, guide and transport included) - EUR257
Jan 14, 2025: Day 8 - Havana
Leave Trinidad around 9 am, heading to Santa Clara (approximately 2 hours), a key city in the Cuban Revolution to see the iconic statue of Ernesto Ché Guevara, built to commemorate his death and that of the revolutionaries. There will be time to explore the museum which honours Che's life.
Drive back to Havana (approximately 3 hours) where there will be some time to freshen up before a final fun-filled night of music, dinner and dancing at Rosalia de Castro – where you’ll enjoy an ensemble of Cuban classics performed live by Buena Vista Social Club!
Accommodation: Comfortable guesthouse (1 night)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included activities
Santa Clara - Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum (entrance fee)
Havana - Buena Vista Social Club Performance (entrance fee & dinner)
Jan 15, 2025: Day 9 - Havana
Your adventure ends today after breakfast. There are no activities planned for the final day so remember to say good-bye to your leader before you head back to the U.S.
Meals: Breakfast
Special information
Due to licensing restrictions, post-tour accommodation cannot be offered.
