"HAVANA BAY" Bike Tour

"HAVANA BAY" Bike Tour

Today’s journey on our electric bikes will take us—quite literally across the water—to a lesser-known side of vibrant Havana, a place shaped by Afro-Cuban traditions, Santería, and the legacy of the former slave trade. The eastern side of Havana Bay has a charm and authenticity of its own, rarely explored by tourists simply because most people don’t even know how to get there. Get ready for an adventure with unusual routes and unforgettable encounters!

This tour will immerse you in real Cuban daily life, introduce you to the world of Santería brought from Africa by enslaved people, and show you how the city once defended itself from foreign attacks. On this side of Havana, history remains remarkably well preserved.

Our itinerary includes visits to several iconic landmarks as well as lesser-known corners that reveal the true spirit of the city.

Start of the tour

Your guide will meet you at 9:00 am with the electric bicycles at Calle 21 #507A, between D and E, Vedado. For private groups, we can arrange an alternative meeting point upon request.

Before departing, you’ll receive a brief explanation on using the bikes, the proper height adjustment, and basic information about Cuban road conditions and traffic rules. You’ll soon notice that transportation methods in Cuba differ greatly from what you may be used to—something you’ll experience firsthand as we make our way toward the Bay of Havana.

Toward the Malecón and the Bay

We’ll cycle along La Rampa, past the former Habana Hilton (renamed Habana Libre after the Revolution), and by the legendary Hotel Nacional, a favorite among the American mafia in the 1940s and 50s. Soon we’ll reach the iconic Malecón, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful seaside boulevards in the world.

From there, we’ll ride to Havana’s ferry terminal and board a small local ferry—a “Lanchita de Regla”, as Cubans lovingly call it—almost exclusively used by locals. This short trip across the bay is an experience in itself.

Regla, Guanabacoa, and Afro-Cuban spirituality

Our first stop will be the Church of Our Lady of Regla, deeply connected to the Afro-Cuban deity Yemayá. We then continue to Guanabacoa, one of the most important centers of Afro-Cuban religion and culture. Here you’ll see the oldest preserved car in Cuba and learn more about Santería and religious syncretism.

Scenic viewpoints, military history, and Hemingway

As we ride toward the Christ of Havana, we’ll enjoy spectacular views and excellent photo opportunities. We will also visit Cojímar, a charming fishing village frequently visited by Ernest Hemingway and inspiration for The Old Man and the Sea.

From the base of the Christ statue, you’ll get one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Havana.

We’ll also explore the area of Casablanca, where you’ll see the San Carlos de la Cabaña Fortress, Che Guevara’s Command Headquarters—preserved exactly as it was—and the historic Morro Castle.

Lunch and return

At some point, we’ll make a stop for lunch. The location will depend on our pace and the time spent at each attraction. On the eastern side of the bay, you may choose between classic Cuban dishes or even a surprising German-style currywurst. If we return earlier to the city center, other culinary options await to help us recharge.

After crossing the bay again by ferry, we’ll bike through Old Havana, seeing several historic sites, before heading back along the Malecón to our starting point in Vedado.

This tour is packed with history, culture, stunning views, and authentic experiences that show a side of Havana few visitors ever get to see.

Included

• Guide (English, German, Spanish- other languages, on request)
• E-bike
• Helmet
• 1 bottle of water 500ml
• Lunch (with 2 soft drinks)
• Entrance: Local Museum of Guanabacoa
• Ferry

Degree of difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Approximate duration of the excursion: 8 hours approximately

Group size: + 15 pax.

Meeting Point: Calle 21 #507A, between D and E, Vedado

Special notes:

• Please, show up in the meeting point 15 minutes before the time to begin the tour.
• The program is subject to change. Visits to the museums depending on the opening hours. Modifications/changes possible, according to the opening hours of the museums. Lunch: Location and time may vary according to the availability.
• All participants must travel with their own personal insurance.
• The guest must have good urban cycling experience. There are no bicycle lanes in Cuba.
• Attenders should can to ride a bicycle comfortably up to 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).
• It is recommended to wear ligh clothing. Sneaker, closed shoes or tennis shoes, comfortable and appropriate for walking outdoors. Sun glasses, sun protection. Rain can be expected at any time.
• At the meeting point, we will provide a short introduction to the e-bikes, client’s bike adjustments to each individual height and some general information about the roads and rules of Cuban traffic.