Cycling Cuba with Exodus Tours
Being Canadian, we have had opportunities to visit Cuba before this trip and we were prepared for a good deal of inconveniences, from limited food choices to travel itself being a daily challenge.
My wife and I are also accomplished tour cyclists, having enjoyed this form of travel as our main choice of holiday for many years.
We encourage people to combine active, human powered modes of transportation with their holidays. The ability to see, smell, hear, experience the location you are travelling to in real time, at a humanly accessible pace, enhances your ability to fully experience the country you are travelling to.
Havana Holidays
Five of the Best Things to Do on Havana Holidays
Havana Tours
From the faded charm of the colonial architecture to the classic cars and rhythms of the Cuban salsa bars, Havana holidays are full of vibrant contrasts. This lively capital is the best place to begin or end your holiday to Cuba.
Havana’s colonial history casts light and shade over the city with its communist presence, and everywhere you look you’re greeted with revolutionary slogans, murals of Fidel and Che Guevara, and monuments to the heroic worker. In the Plaza de la Revolución, there is a famous ironwork mural of Che on the Ministry of the Interior along with his famous motto – “hasta la victoria siempre” (towards victory always) – as well as a large memorial to Jose Martí, the 19th-century independence hero revered by Fidel Castro.
In the evenings, Havana comes alive with music, and the locals hang out on the Malecón, the seafront road near the city centre, to enjoy an evening sipping mojitos in one of Hemingway’s old haunts, or living it up at one of the all-singing all-dancing salsa shows such as the legendary Tropicana Club.
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Habana Vieja, a heady concoction of striking architecture and bustling street life or visit one of the main squares in the evening and experience the magical nightlife in the bars, restaurants and cafes that rub shoulders with Art Nouveau and faded colonial buildings.
Whether you choose to explore Havana on foot or by bike on our Cuban Highlights Ride, among colourful colonial buildings or along the pristine coastline, you’ll experience its charismatic soul and no doubt fall in love with the city on our Havana tours.
Havana Holidays
Glen Marko Cycling Cuba
Kaylee Lin Cycling CubaThis trip was a fantastic way to explore more of Cuba and learn about it’s history and culture from locals! The cycling was great overall, there were some hills that were tougher – especially with the humidity and being directly under the sun, but very rewarding. There were lots of long stretches on the trip where we could all cycle at our own pace and so many locals coming out of their homes and shops to wave while we cycled by. I especially loved the views on day 11 cycling along the coast to Cienfuegos! Lunch at the farm on day 13 was definitely the best meal we had while on the trip, but in general, I was surprised with the food options we had for many of our meals. The itinerary was also jam packed with different activities, I absolutely loved our beach day in Trinidad and the classic car tour of Havana was so much fun!
Ann Livesley Cuba: La Isla GrandeA very well planned, well managed, varied, exciting, tour of a fascinating island
When is the best time for Havana holidays?
The best time to visit Havana, the vibrant capital city of Cuba, is during the winter months from November to April. This period boasts pleasant temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F, making it ideal for exploring the city’s rich culture and historical sites. The dry season during these months ensures a more enjoyable experience without the interruption of heavy rainfall. Also, there are often various festivals and events during this time in Havana, so you can immerse yourself in the local culture.
What is the nightlife like in Havana?
The nightlife in Havana is vibrant, diverse and full of Cuban energy, reflecting the city’s culture and passion for music and dancing. In the evenings, the streets come alive with a mix of traditional Cuban sounds like salsa, rumba and son, alongside more contemporary music genres. Some of the best places to visit at nighttime include famous venues such as the Buena Vista Social Club or Fabrica de Arte Cubano where you can enjoy live performances and dance to the hip-jiggling beats. The lively atmosphere, striking buildings and warm hospitality of the Cuban people make the nightlife in Havana intoxicating.
FAQs on Havana Tours
Do I need a visa to travel to Havana?
Yes, most visitors to Havana will need a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card. This can usually be obtained through the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country or purchased through airlines and travel agencies. However, when you travel with Exodus and have a passport from the EU, Canada, Australia, the UK, New Zealand or Japan and live in the UK or Ireland, our Cuba trips include a green tourist card that allows you entry. This will be posted out to you several weeks prior to your travel date. Make sure to check the specific visa requirements for your destination based on your nationality before your trip.
What are the best things to do on Havana holidays?
Havana is home to many exciting attractions as well as boasting a rich cultural heritage. One of the best things to do in Havana is to stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admire the beautiful architecture and experience first-hand the city’s diverse culture. Don’t miss visiting the iconic Malecón waterfront promenade at sunset for dreamy sea views. Explore the lively markets, taste Cuba’s traditional cuisine at local paladares, and dance the night away at a salsa club. And if you really want to fit in with the locals, enjoy a classic Cuban cigar and rum pairing experience.
What should I pack for my trip to Havana?
When packing for a trip to Havana, there are several essentials to consider that will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the warm and humid climate of Cuba. Don’t forget to include swimwear, as Havana boasts some beautiful beaches. Suncream, insect repellent and a hat are crucial for protection from the sun and bugs. Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the winding streets of the city and pack a camera to capture the iconic sights of Havana, as well as a Spanish phrase book to help you communicate with the locals. Lastly, remember to bring some cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted in the less-touristy areas of Cuba.
Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of in Havana?
Cultural etiquette in Havana is deeply rooted in hospitality and respect. Greetings are important, with a handshake and a warm smile being common. It is also customary to use respectful titles like “senor” or “senora” when addressing someone you don’t know well. Cubans value their personal space, so try to respect boundaries and avoid being overly familiar. When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal. Also, tipping is appreciated but not always expected.
Do I need vaccinations to visit Havana?
Travelling to Havana, like any destination, may require specific vaccinations to protect your health and wellbeing during your trip. Although there aren’t any compulsory requirements at present, it’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider or visit a travel clinic to receive up-to-date information on recommended vaccines for Havana. Common vaccinations that are often recommended include hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. While there is no risk of malaria, dengue fever, a disease spread from mosquito bites, is a risk in some parts of Cuba. To prevent mosquito bites, we advise taking necessary precautions such as a good quality insect repellent and wearing clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible.
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