CUBA‘S UNDER WATER TREASURES Diving Tour

Arrival in Havana and transfer to your casa particular, an authentic way to experience Cuban life. Spend the day immersing yourself in the lively rhythm of the capital. Stroll through the charming streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colonial architecture, vibrant colors, and the strains of traditional Cuban music create an unforgettable atmosphere. Take a break for a coffee in a local café and soak up the vibrant energy of this iconic city.

Services included: Accommodation in a casa particular in Havana.

Havana – Guided Tour of the Cuban Capital. Discover the magic of Havana with a guided tour that immerses you in its vibrant history, rich culture, and unparalleled energy. Begin your tour at Revolution Square, the epicenter of Cuba's contemporary history, where gigantic murals of Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos watch over the city from the facades of government ministries. Continue to the iconic Malecón, the long waterfront promenade where fishermen, street musicians, and families enjoying the Caribbean breeze mingle. Then, delve into the heart of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its cobblestone streets, colonial plazas, and colorful facades will transport you back in time. During the tour, you'll admire the classic American cars still circulating in the city, the vibrant murals, and the popular markets where you can truly feel the pulse of Havana. Your guide will share stories about the island's revolutionary past, its architectural gems, and the daily traditions of its people.

Accommodation: Enjoy Cuban hospitality in a Casa Particular in Havana, where you'll be welcomed like home.

Havana – Playa Larga. Travel from Havana to Playa Larga, located at the northern end of the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, one of Cuba's richest and most diverse ecosystems. This region is not only known for its incredible biodiversity but also for its historical significance, as one of the locations for the famous Bay of Pigs. Once settled into your private home in Playa Larga, take the rest of the day to relax. Weather permitting, you can explore the nearby beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoy a quiet evening in this peaceful and authentic natural setting.

Services included: Accommodation in a private home in Playa Larga

Punta Perdiz - Cienfuegos. Dive dive at Punta Perdiz, located approximately 15 km south of Playa Girón, on the coastal highway. Punta Perdiz has a dive center with equipment rental, showers, and a picnic area. The site's most notable feature is its direct shore dive entrance, with depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. The dive site features large coral formations, gorgonians, parrotfish, groupers, rays, and the occasional turtle. The site does not require a high level of experience and is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers, with instructors available. Practical tips: Bring a towel, eco-friendly sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Later, transfer to the city of Cienfuegos, approximately 90 km away (1h30-2h00 by bus). The city of Cienfuegos offers, among its main attractions, the Cienfuegos Malecón promenade, José Martí Central Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center), the Palacio de Valle, with its eclectic architecture, and the possibility of taking an optional excursion to Guanaroca Lagoon to watch pink flamingos. Additional recommendations: Take advantage of the afternoon to stroll along Cienfuegos' boulevard and dine at a local paladar (private restaurant).

Services: Accommodation in a private home in Cienfuegos. Personalized attention: Local hosts are willing to help with recommendations, reservations, or transportation. Location: Safe and peaceful surroundings, ideal for experiencing real Cuban life, usually close to the historic center, the Malecón, or quiet residential areas.

Cienfuegos – Trinidad. Start the day exploring the waters off the Cienfuegos coast, ideal for diving and snorkeling. The underwater landscapes include coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, and ancient shipwrecks (sunken ships) that provide refuge for marine life. Areas like Rancho Luna and Pasacaballos are perfect for a morning dive. After this marine experience, in the afternoon you'll travel to Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is a colonial gem, with cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and a charming bohemian atmosphere. Upon arrival, enjoy a sunset stroll through the historic center, stopping at the Plaza Mayor, lined with pastel-colored houses, churches, and museums. End the day settling into your casa particular.

Services: Accommodation in a Casa Particular in Trinidad, a family-run home adapted for tourists. Recommended location: Near the historic center, a few minutes' walk from the Plaza Mayor, the Casa de la Música, and restaurants like La Redacción or San José.

Our recommendations for enjoying an optional night out in Trinidad:

• Enjoy evening performances of traditional music (often on open-air steps).
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets.
• If you're interested in art, visit a local gallery or the pottery workshop at Casa del Alfarero.

Trinidad. Spend the day exploring this colonial gem, frozen in time. Trinidad, with its cobblestone streets, cobblestone plazas, and colorful houses with red-tiled roofs, offers an authentic Cuban experience. In the morning, explore the historic center: the Plaza Mayor, the Romantic Museum, the Church of the Holy Trinity, art workshops, and local craft shops. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Valle de los Ingenios, a group of old sugar mills surrounded by rural landscapes. Visit the Manaca Iznaga Tower, with panoramic views over the cane fields. Learn about the history of sugar and slavery in the region. Weather permitting, you can combine this with an optional stop at Ancón Beach for a relaxing swim at sunset.

Services: Accommodation in a Casa Particular in Trinidad. Recommended location: near the historic center, for easy access to the main attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

Trinidad – Free day / Optional excursion to Cayo Iguana. Today you have free time to continue exploring Trinidad at your own pace: Stroll leisurely through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, visit more museums, or simply relax on a terrace with live music. Take the opportunity to buy handicrafts or enjoy a coffee at places like Café Don Pepe. Optional excursion: Cayo Iguana by sailboat (with Marinas Gaviota) for a full day, departing from Marina Trinidad in Playa Ancón. The excursion includes: Catamaran sailing, free time on the pristine beaches of the key, lunch on board and open bar, and a snorkeling stop at a nearby reef, with equipment included. On Cayo Iguana, you can find: white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, wild iguanas, and abundant marine life, ideal for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature.

Services: Accommodation in a Casa Particular in Trinidad.

Helpful Tips:

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit if you're visiting the Cayo.
• If you're staying on land, consider visiting the Museum of Colonial Architecture or hiking in Topes de Collantes.
• At night, enjoy live music at the Casa de la Trova or on the Escalinata.

Trinidad – Cayo Guillermo. Say goodbye to the colonial charm of Trinidad and head north to Cayo Guillermo, one of the quietest and most idyllic cays on Cuba's Atlantic coast. The trip from Trinidad to Cayo Guillermo is approximately 400 km (about 6–7 hours by road). The journey passes through rural areas and cities in the center of the country, ending at an isthmus that connects to the cay via a causeway over the sea. Once on the cay, check into your hotel and relax. The rest of the day is yours: enjoy the sun on the beach, swim in the turquoise waters of the Atlantic, or relax by the pool with a tropical drink in hand.

Services: Accommodation at the Starfish Cayo Guillermo Hotel (All-inclusive). 3-4 star beach hotel with a prime location near the famous Pilar Beach, considered one of Cuba's most beautiful beaches. All-inclusive accommodation in a standard room: Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner; unlimited snacks and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic); daytime activities (volleyball, dance classes, non-motorized water sports); evening entertainment; swimming pool, themed restaurants, bars, direct beach access; kids' club, play area, live shows at night.

Helpful tips:

• Bring light clothing, a swimsuit, and sunscreen (personal hygiene products may be limited in local stores).
• If you have the time and energy, ask the hotel about catamaran excursions or horseback riding on the beach.
• During high season, book dinners at à la carte restaurants in advance.

Cayo Guillermo – A day of nature and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the warm, crystal-clear waters of Cayo Guillermo, a Caribbean paradise ideal for those who love the sea and tranquility. In the morning, enjoy a snorkeling or scuba diving session: Nearby coral reefs will allow you to observe schools of tropical fish, fan corals, sponges, rays, and even sea turtles. Underwater visibility, which often exceeds 30 meters, makes this one of Cuba's best spots for marine exploration. For the more active, non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or dinghy sailing, are available, organized directly from the hotel.

In the afternoon, relax on a sun lounger under an umbrella, enjoy a tropical cocktail by the pool, or continue exploring the island at your own pace. If you're feeling adventurous, you can visit nearby Playa Pilar, famous for its white dunes and shallow turquoise waters, perfect for swimming.

Services: Accommodation at the Starfish Cayo Guillermo Hotel (All-inclusive)

Helpful Suggestions:

• Playa Pilar is just a 10-minute drive or taxi ride away and is worth a visit at least once.

Cayo Guillermo – Relaxation or speedboat adventure. Today you can take the day at your own pace, enjoying the tranquility of the resort, relaxing on the beach or by the pool with all the hotel's amenities. But if you're looking for a dose of adrenaline, an exciting experience awaits you: an optional speedboat excursion. The route runs through mangrove channels, open sea areas, and protected coastal ecosystems, lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. The highlight of this excursion is piloting your own boat (guided by an expert instructor), observing seabirds, flying fish, and unique landscapes from the water, giving you a sense of freedom and speed amidst this natural paradise. This activity is suitable for all ages, with no prior experience necessary. It can be booked directly from the hotel or at the nearby water sports center.

In the afternoon, continue relaxing. We recommend booking an optional massage at the spa (if the hotel offers it) or enjoying the included evening entertainment.

Services: Accommodation at the Starfish Cayo Guillermo Hotel (all-inclusive)

Recommendations:

• Reserve the boat in advance at reception, especially during high season.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
• Don't forget your waterproof camera to capture the best moments from the water.

Cayo Guillermo – Santa Lucía. Say goodbye to the turquoise beaches of Cayo Guillermo and embark on your journey to Santa Lucía, a hidden gem on Cuba's northern coast, famous for its extensive stretch of beach and access to the second largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. The estimated travel distance between Cayo Guillermo and Playa Santa Lucía is approximately 300 km (about 5–6 hours by bus). The trip passes through rural areas and small towns in the interior of the island. Upon arrival, check in to Hotel Brisas Santa Lucía, an all-inclusive resort with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. During the afternoon, you can relax in a hammock under the palm trees, explore the resort's facilities, walk along the tranquil, white-sand beach, or simply enjoy a cocktail by the sea.

Services: Accommodation at Hotel Brisas Santa Lucía on an all-inclusive basis, which includes: Accommodation in a private room with air conditioning, all meals (buffet and/or specialty restaurants), unlimited snacks and drinks (national and international), daytime activities and evening entertainment, access to the pool, beach, and non-motorized water sports, recreational activities for adults and children, and direct access to a beach ideal for snorkeling.

Useful tips for your stay in Playa Santa Lucia:

• Ask our specialists about excursions to the nearby coral reef, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
• If you are interested in wildlife, we recommend tours to the Río Máximo Wildlife Refuge (pink flamingos can be seen in season).
• Shopping in the area may be limited, so be sure to bring only the essentials.

Playa Santa Lucía – Diving with Bull Sharks. Today, an adrenaline-pumping experience awaits you: diving with sharks in Santa Lucía. This unique destination offers one of the most exciting marine wildlife encounters in all of Cuba. Accompanied by certified instructors, you'll dive into deep waters where you can observe bull sharks up close, one of the most impressive species in the Caribbean. Recommended level: Licensed and experienced divers (Open Water minimum). What to expect on this excursion: Guided dive in areas where sharks have been regularly documented. The opportunity to observe not only sharks but also barracudas, groupers, and coral gardens. A prior briefing on safety and behavior in the presence of sharks is offered. This activity is carried out in collaboration with authorized local dive centers, such as the Shark's Friends International Diving Center, known for its professionalism and experience in diving with large marine species. An experience not suitable for the faint-hearted, but unforgettable for true ocean lovers. Very important note: Bull sharks are natural species in their wild habitat. Based on their behavior, their presence at the dive site cannot be guaranteed.

Services: Accommodation at Hotel Brisas Santa Lucía (all-inclusive)

Helpful tips:

• Be sure to bring your diving certification and logbook to the dive center.
• Check availability in advance, as this excursion is subject to weather conditions and limited capacity.
• If you prefer to stay on land, you can also enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, snorkeling, or walking around the area.

Playa Santa Lucía – Optional excursion to Cayo Sabinal. Today you can enjoy a day at your own pace at the resort or choose a different experience: an optional safari to Cayo Sabinal, a semi-wild island in the Cuban archipelago that offers remote landscapes and a deep connection with nature. The excursion takes you through varied natural environments: dense forests and rural roads, secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters, areas where you can spot deer, pink flamingos, hutias, and a wide variety of native birds. One of the highlights is a visit to Los Pinos Beach, considered one of the most pristine and spectacular beaches in the country, where you'll have free time to swim, sunbathe, or simply contemplate the natural surroundings without the crowds. Duration: Full-day excursion (lunch included, usually picnic-style) by jeep, all-terrain vehicle, or adapted tractor, subject to availability. Ideal for: Photography, wildlife, and unspoiled landscape lovers.

Services: Accommodation at Hotel Brisas Santa Lucía (All-inclusive).

Practical recommendations: If you take the excursion to Cayo Sabinal:

• Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes.
• Bring a fully charged camera (there are areas without signal or electricity).
• Respect park regulations and avoid feeding wild animals.

Santa Lucía Beach – Santiago de Cuba. Today you bid farewell to the tranquil northern beaches to delve into the cultural soul of eastern Cuba: Santiago de Cuba, the country's second-largest city and a historical, musical, and revolutionary epicenter. From Santa Lucía Beach to Santiago de Cuba, the distance is approximately 480 km (about 8–9 hours by bus), with optional stops in Camagüey or Bayamo for a rest or lunch. The journey is long but fascinating, crossing the heart of Cuba from the north coast to the southeast. Upon arrival, check into the Meliá Santiago Hotel, a modern and comfortable accommodation, ideal as a starting point to discover all this vibrant city has to offer.

In the afternoon or evening, depending on your arrival time, we recommend the following options:

• Take a walk through Céspedes Park
• Listen to live music at the Casa de la Trova
• Try local cuisine at a traditional paladar

Services: Accommodation at the Meliá Santiago Hotel (breakfast included). 4–5-star hotel in the downtown area

Useful tips for discovering the beautiful city of Santiago de Cuba:

• Santiago has a warmer and more humid climate: always bring light clothing and water.
• At night, the Casa de la Música and Tropicana Santiago are options for shows and dancing.
• We can offer guided tours to the San Pedro de la Roca del Morro Castle, the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, or the Gran Piedra.

Santiago de Cuba – Diving between history and nature. Today, a unique diving experience awaits you: diving into the waters of the eastern Caribbean, where, in addition to vibrant marine life, lie the remains of historic shipwrecks dating from the colonial era to the Wars of Independence and the Spanish-Cuban-American conflict. Among the most notable dive sites are some of the wrecks of Admiral Pascual Cervera's fleet: the remains of the Spanish armored cruisers Almirante Oquendo and Vizcaya, sunk in 1898 during the Naval Battle of Santiago de Cuba; and also the beautiful and impressive coral reefs and underwater walls inhabited by colorful tropical species, moray eels, lobsters, and gorgonians. The diving area combines ecological richness with profound historical value, offering a dive that is both contemplative and educational. Requirements: diving certification (minimum Open Water Diver). Duration: Half-day dive, organized by authorized centers in the city or the coastal area of Siboney

Services: Accommodation at the Meliá Santiago Hotel (breakfast included)

Practical Recommendations

• Bring your diving certification and logbook
• If you prefer not to dive, consider a visit to the San Pedro de la Roca Morro Castle, a World Heritage Site, with spectacular views and a naval museum.

Santiago de Cuba – Cultural Tour & Transfer to Guardalavaca. Start the day with a guided tour of Santiago de Cuba, a vibrant city deeply connected to national history. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll discover the most emblematic sites in the city center and its outskirts: the Moncada Barracks, a former military barracks and the scene of the 1953 assault led by Fidel Castro. Today, it's a museum displaying documents, weapons, and photographs of the revolutionary struggle. Morro Castle (Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca), a 17th-century colonial fortress declared a World Heritage Site, offers spectacular views over Santiago Bay and houses a small naval museum. Céspedes Park and the historic center, a tour of squares, churches, and streets filled with music, history, and culture. After lunch (optional at a local restaurant or suggested by your guide), you will embark on the transfer to the northern coast of Cuba, heading to Guardalavaca. The journey from Santiago de Cuba to Guardalavaca is approximately 230 km (about 4–5 hours by bus). This is an ideal place to rest and conclude your trip by the sea. The transfer crosses mountainous and rural areas of eastern Cuba.

Services: Accommodation at the Sol Río de Luna y Mares Hotel, all-inclusive package, which includes: Accommodation in an air-conditioned room with garden, pool, or ocean views, buffet meals and meals in themed restaurants, unlimited snacks and drinks (national and international), access to pools, beach, gym, and recreational activities, daytime entertainment and evening shows, all in a privileged location facing the tranquil and beautiful Guardalavaca beach, with white sand and warm waters, ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

Helpful Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for the guided tour of Santiago (heat and slopes).
• Bring a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the beach when you arrive in Guardalavaca.
• Ask us about optional activities: scuba diving, catamaran rides, or visits to nearby towns like Bariay or Gibara.

Guardalavaca Beach – Free day at your own pace. Today you have complete freedom to experience Guardalavaca your way. This coastal paradise in eastern Cuba offers an ideal blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and adventure. Start the day with a stroll along the beach, where the white sand and the gentle sound of the waves create the perfect setting for relaxation. You can take a dip in the warm, crystal-clear sea, or simply lie under a palm tree and enjoy the tropical scenery. In the afternoon, if you're up for a little more activity, the hotel and its surroundings offer several options, such as snorkeling in shallow waters to observe tropical fish and coral formations; kayaking or pedal boats to explore the coast from the water; dance or aerobics classes on the beach, organized by the hotel's entertainment team; and for the more curious, you can visit the small nearby craft market or explore ecological trails.

If you prefer something special, ask us about optional excursions, such as:

• Catamaran ride
• Cultural visit to Gibara or the Bahía de Naranjo National Park

Services: Accommodation at Hotel Sol Río de Luna y Mares (All-inclusive), which includes: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at buffets or in themed restaurants; unlimited snacks and drinks (Cuban and international cocktails); sports and recreational activities organized by the hotel; live shows every night with music and dance; and free access to the beach, pools, gym, and non-motorized water sports.

Practical tips and recommendations for your stay at Guardalavaca Beach:

• Use biodegradable sunscreen if you're snorkeling
• Wear water sandals if you're exploring rocky areas
• Ask about a massage or treatment at the hotel spa for a perfect end to the day.

Guardalavaca Beach – Nature, culture, and a peaceful farewell. Today, you're once again free to plan your day as you wish. If you've already enjoyed the sea, this time you can choose to explore beyond the beach and connect with the natural and cultural richness surrounding Guardalavaca. In the morning, you can take an optional excursion to a nearby nature reserve, such as the Bahía de Naranjo Natural Park, where you can see native birds, reptiles, and endemic vegetation, walk along ecological trails through mangroves and tropical forests, and visit the Dolphinarium Aquarium, located on an island in the middle of the bay (accessible by boat).

Another activity you can enjoy is a visit to the local Guardalavaca market, where you'll find Cuban handicrafts: wood carvings, textiles, ceramics, and handmade jewelry, unique souvenirs, and local products such as coffee, honey, and tobacco, in a friendly atmosphere where you can chat with the artisans. It's an ideal place to take home an authentic souvenir of your trip.

At dusk, enjoy a quiet dinner in one of the hotel's restaurants, overlooking the sea and the sunset, while you pause to reflect on all the moments experienced throughout your trip to Cuba: its cities steeped in history, its natural landscapes, and the warmth of its people.

Services: Accommodation at Hotel Sol Río de Luna y Mares (All-inclusive)

Recommendations for your final day at Guardalavaca Beach:

• Wear comfortable shoes and use insect repellent if visiting natural areas.
• If you want a special ending, ask about a romantic à la carte dinner on the beach (advance reservation required and additional charge applies).
• Take a moment to write or photograph your trip summary: Guardalavaca is the perfect place for this.

Guardalavaca Beach – Holguín | Return Home. After a few unforgettable days exploring Cuba's natural and cultural beauty, it's time to say goodbye. After breakfast at the hotel, you can book an optional transfer from Guardalavaca Beach to Holguín Airport for your return flight. The distance is approximately 70–75 km (about an hour and a half by car). Take advantage of the journey to reflect on your experiences: from the colorful colonial towns to the vibrant underwater reefs, from the cozy private homes to the idyllic beaches. Cuba will have left you with indelible memories, intense landscapes, and the warmth of its people.

See you soon, Cuba!

Included services: Breakfast at the Sol Río de Luna y Mares Hotel.

End of program.