CUBAN DANCE AND CULTURE TRIP Group Tour

Welcome to Havana and the heart of authentic Cuba! Arrival and Accommodation in a Casa Particular. Upon arrival at José Martí International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your casa particular, a cozy and very Cuban form of accommodation. Here, you will live with a local family or private host, allowing you to enjoy a genuine, family-like atmosphere, sample homemade Cuban breakfasts, and receive firsthand advice on what to see, eat, and explore.

Free afternoon in Havana. After settling in, you have the afternoon to immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere. You can explore your neighborhood on foot, stroll through streets steeped in history and everyday life, sit in a plaza with live music, and visit a traditional bar, such as El Floridita or La Bodeguita del Medio. Or simply enjoy the Havana atmosphere, listen to Cuban music on a street corner, sip a mojito or a strong coffee, or chat with the neighbors: Havana residents are friendly and curious.

Services included: Accommodation in a Casa Particular and Airport transfer.

Today you'll fully immerse yourself in Havana's living history! From the colonial alleyways to the wide-open spaces steeped in political symbolism, this day is designed to connect you with the soul of the city. Explore Havana – Complete Guided Tour. Suggested Itinerary: Old Havana (Historic Center – World Heritage Site) with Obispo Street, its bustle and everyday life; Plaza de Armas: the oldest square in Havana; Plaza de la Catedral: with the impressive San Cristóbal Cathedral; and Plaza Vieja: restored colonial architecture, art, and cafes. Your guide will explain how this area reflects Spanish and Andalusian influences, as well as the transformations following the Revolution. Your tour will continue to Plaza de la Revolución, an emblematic place in the country's history, with the opportunity to better understand Cuba's political and ideological context. Havana's Malecón, an 8-km waterfront promenade where the city meets the Caribbean Sea, is an ideal spot for photos, observing daily life, and understanding Havana's resilient, open, and vibrant spirit. Your local guide will share not only historical facts but also personal anecdotes, customs, and everyday details not covered in guidebooks. You'll be able to ask questions and discuss Cuba's current situation.

Accommodation and Services: Casa Particular in Havana, breakfast included, and a full-day guided tour.

Today, Cuban music takes center stage! It's time to feel the rhythm, move your feet, and immerse yourself in one of the most authentic expressions of Cuban culture: dance. Havana – Cuban Dance Class Day. Intensive Double Course at a Local Dance School. Duration: 2 intensive sessions (usually 2 x 45-60 minutes with a break in between). Location: Academy specializing in traditional Cuban rhythms, usually in downtown Havana or Vedado. Possible styles: Cuban Salsa (Casino) – the most popular; Cuban Son – elegant and rhythmic, the basis of salsa; Rumba; and Afro-Cuban – more traditional and expressive. Included: Experienced, warm, and patient Cuban instructors; Classes tailored to your level: beginner, intermediate, or advanced; Practice partners available upon request; Live music or original tracks. Suggestion: Wear comfortable clothing, slip-on shoes (no high heels if you're not used to them), and plenty of energy!

Free afternoon in Havana. After moving to the Cuban beat, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Some ideas to keep you in the mood: Relax with a cocktail and live music with afternoon/evening options at:

• Practice your moves at a local club:
• Casa de la Música de Miramar or Casa de la Música de Centro Habana
• El Diablo Tun Tun (next to Jazz Café)
• Café Cantante (under the National Theater, near Plaza de la Revolución)
• La Zorra y el Cuervo (jazz)
• El Gato Tuerto (boleros and trova)
• Bar Los Dos Hermanos, overlooking the harbor

Or simply enjoy walking along the Malecón and absorbing the magic of Havana.

Day Services: Accommodation in a Casa Particular in Havana and a double course in traditional Cuban dance

Another day to dance to the rhythm of the Cuban soul! Today, the focus is on refining your movements, deepening your connection with the music, and continuing to explore Havana's cultural universe. Advanced Dance Session – Technical Improvement. Class at the Dance School. Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours. Objective of the day: Improve technique, body expression, and musical interpretation. Personalized attention: Teachers work with you individually or in small groups. Common topics: Turns, movements, partner coordination, Musicality: how to respond to rhythm changes, Posture, fluidity, improvisation. Ideal for gaining confidence and expressiveness if you want to go out dancing at night.

Free Afternoon: Culture at Your Own Pace. After your class, it's time to continue nourishing your soul with art, history, and daily Havana life. Here are some suggestions based on your interests:

• Recommended museums: Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (Cuban Art) – An impressive collection of Cuban art from colonial times to the present day; the Museum of the Revolution – Located in the former presidential palace, it's ideal for understanding Cuba's political context; or the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) – an avant-garde gallery, bar, and cultural space (ideal for the evening).
• Contemporary art galleries: Galería Taller Gorría in San Isidro; Galería El Ojo del Ciclón (experimental art); or Fototeca de Cuba, if you're interested in documentary photography.
• Charming cafes for lunch or a relaxing break: El Café (Amargura Street, Old Havana) – minimalist, quiet, ideal for brunch; Café Dulce Habana – a pastry shop and local café; La Antigua Casa del Té (East Havana) – if you're looking for something more classic.

Daytime services: Casa Particular in Havana and an intensive dance class (intermediate or advanced level).

Today is the time to swap the city pace for the rural serenity of Viñales, without forgetting the rhythm of the dance. Transfer from Havana to Viñales takes approximately 3-3.5 hours. You will travel through western Cuba, passing through sugarcane fields, rolling hills, and tobacco plantations. Upon arrival in Viñales, you will be welcomed by a more relaxed community, surrounded by mogotes (unique rock formations) and lush vegetation.

Accommodation: Casa Particular in Viñales. Your new casa particular will offer: A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, possibly valley views or a backyard garden with rocking chairs, and a homemade breakfast with tropical fruits, natural juice, and strong coffee.

Afternoon Dance Session. In this more intimate and tranquil setting, you will continue your dance training, either in: A local studio partnering with music and dance schools, or in an outdoor space (subject to availability). Class Focus: Review of steps learned in Havana, work on technique, fluidity, and body language, and improvisation with traditional Cuban music and country sounds. Viñales has its own musical tradition, so you can even learn new local rhythms like punto guajiro.

Optional free afternoon (if you have energy left):

• Sunset walk to the Los Jazmines viewpoint
• Visit to a tobacco farm or rustic café overlooking the valley
• Dinner at a local paladar with live music (I can recommend one if you like)

Day Services: Private transfer to Viñales, Accommodation in a private home and Dance session in Viñales.

Today you'll enjoy one of the most authentic and complete days of your trip: nature, peasant traditions, and Cuban rhythms intertwine in a single day. In the morning, you'll take a guided tour of the Viñales Valley. This tour will take place on foot (or on horseback, if you prefer). Accompanied by a local guide, you'll explore the heart of the Viñales Valley, declared a World Heritage Site for its unique natural and cultural landscape. During the visit, you'll discover the tobacco fields, where farmers (guajiros) will show you how they grow, dry, and ferment the leaves; the palm-thatched drying houses (casas de tabaco); the history behind artisanal cigar production; the typical mogotes (limestone hills unique to the area); and local tropical fruits, organic crops, and rural life. Many guides also share family stories and customs that reflect true life in the Cuban countryside. Suggestion: Enjoy a Creole coffee with the farmers or try a natural juice at a local ranch while enjoying the scenery.

Afternoon – Dance Class in Viñales. A continuation and expression session, after a break for rest and lunch, you'll return to dancing with another class in Viñales: coordination and musicality exercises, partner technique improvement (turns, leading, style), and practice with traditional music in a relaxed atmosphere. Viñales offers a more intimate and less touristy setting so you can let loose and enjoy dancing as a form of expression, not just as a technique.

At the end of the day, you can optionally hike to the Viñales Valley viewpoint to watch the sunset or dine at a family-run paladar, perhaps accompanied by a local trova or son group.

Included services: Private house in Viñales, guided tour of the valley, and afternoon dance class.

Today, you'll leave the mogotes and tobacco plantations of Viñales behind and head for a new setting: the historic and natural shores of Playa Larga, on the famous Bay of Pigs. The drive from Viñales to Playa Larga, in the southern part of Matanzas province, takes approximately 6–7 hours. Although it's a long journey, it crosses various regions of western Cuba, allowing you to experience the diversity of the rural and coastal landscape. You can make a pit stop for lunch along the way, for example, in Jagüey Grande or at a country-style restaurant.

Casa Particular - Playa Larga Accommodation. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed into a casa particular near the sea. These homes are usually just steps from the beach and are perfect for relaxing. What you can expect at these accommodations: Simple, clean rooms, many with a terrace or patio, and a homemade coastal-style breakfast (fruit, juice, strong coffee, and sometimes fish). An optional dinner of fresh fish or seafood prepared by the host family is available.

Free afternoon – Relaxation in Playa Larga. The town of Playa Larga is part of the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, Cuba's largest nature reserve. It is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, and is also a site steeped in history: the Bay of Pigs landing took place here (1961). After several days of physical and cultural activity, Playa Larga invites you to breathe, walk barefoot, and simply enjoy. What you can do in the afternoon in the area:

• Walk along the beach and watch the sunset over the bay
• Swim in calm, warm waters
• Relax in a hammock with a good book or Cuban music in the background
• Try a homemade mojito on a beachfront terrace
• Free time for rest and coastal exploration

Day Services: Private transfer from Viñales to Playa Larga, Accommodation in a Casa Particular

Today, a colonial gem awaits you: Trinidad, a city that seems frozen in time and where music flows through the cobblestone streets. Prepare to reconnect with dance in an environment that vibrates with history and rhythm. Transfer from Playa Larga to Trinidad for approximately 3-4 hours. The trip crosses coastal and rural areas of Cienfuegos province before entering the historic heart of Sancti Spíritus, where Trinidad is located. Accommodation: Casa Particular in Trinidad. Upon arrival, you'll settle into a casa particular in the historic center, likely within walking distance of the Plaza Mayor and other key points of the city. What to expect? Restored colonial rooms, many with plant-filled courtyards, a Cuban breakfast with natural juice, tropical fruits, bread, and coffee, and attentive hosts who often have excellent local recommendations.

Afternoon Dance Class – To the Colonial Rhythm. In Trinidad, dance and music are on every corner. Your class will be held in a local studio or lounge, where instructors will teach you surrounded by the bohemian and traditional atmosphere that characterizes this city. In this class, you can consolidate steps learned in Havana and Viñales, integrate more fluid and expressive movements, and practice with traditional Trinidadian music, such as salsa or even cha-cha-chá.

Free Night – Live Music and Lively Plazas. Trinidad comes alive at sunset; even if you don't go out dancing, observing the atmosphere is a spectacle in itself. We suggest: Options for enjoying the night:

• Casa de la Música (open-air): Staircases with live bands, ideal for dancing with locals
• Casa de la Trova: More intimate, ideal for enjoying traditional music
• La Canchánchara: Bar famous for its namesake cocktail made with honey, lemon, and aguardiente

Services included: Private transfer from Playa Larga to Trinidad, Casa Particular in Trinidad and dance class in the afternoon.

Today you'll experience a perfect fusion of history and rhythm: you'll learn about Trinidad's colonial and economic roots in the morning, and in the afternoon you'll continue connecting with Cuban music and dance from the heart of this charming city. Morning Tour: Historical Tour of Trinidad and the Valle de los Ingenios (Sugar Mill Valley). Guided tour of the city. You'll walk along cobblestone streets flanked by colonial mansions with red roofs, solid wooden doors, and wrought-iron balconies. Highlights of the tour include the Plaza Mayor (the historic heart of Trinidad); the Romantic Museum or Museum of Colonial Architecture (depending on the guide); churches, plazas, artisan workshops, and shops selling traditional embroidery and pottery. Later, we'll take an excursion to the Valle de los Ingenios (by car or tourist train). This beautiful green valley was the center of sugar cane production during the 18th and 19th centuries and is a World Heritage Site along with Trinidad. The visit includes the Loma del Puerto viewpoint, with a panoramic view of the valley, the Manaca Iznaga estate: a slave watchtower (which can be climbed) and a historic hacienda, as well as a detailed explanation of the impact of the sugar trade and slavery in the region. Many local residents sell textiles and handicrafts in the area.

In the afternoon – Advanced Dance Class. Back in Trinidad, you will attend a new Cuban dance class. In this class, you can work on partner coordination (leading and following), individual style and musicality, emotional interpretation of music, integration of what you learned during the trip, and enjoy the music. The colonial surroundings and energy of Trinidad will be felt more alive through movement.

As evening falls...in Trinidad, if you still have energy left, you could optionally visit:

• Climb the bell tower of the San Francisco Convent to watch the sunset
• Visit a gallery or café with live trova music
• Return to the Casa de la Música to practice what you've learned with locals and travelers

Services included: Accommodation in a private home in Trinidad, guided tour of the city and the Valle de los Ingenios, and an afternoon dance class.

Today is your free day in Trinidad, and you can customize it to your liking: from a seaside adventure to a relaxing day in the city. Options to make the most of your day:

• Sailing trip to Cayo Iguana (optional with Marinas Gaviota). An ideal experience if you're looking for nature, relaxation, and a turquoise sea. Typical inclusions: Sailing from the Casilda Marina (about 15 minutes from Trinidad), Open bar and lunch on board (fresh fish, seafood, or pork), Free time to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach, and occasional iguana and bird watching. Approximate duration: 6–7 hours. Advance reservation required. I can help you check availability if you'd like.

Other alternatives in Trinidad (if you decide to stay in the city):

• Explore the artisan markets. Hand-embroidered textiles, pottery, and yarey hats. Ideal for taking home authentic souvenirs.
• Cultural visit. Visit the Museum of the Fight Against Bandits or the Romantic Museum, or visit artists' workshops or ceramic studios.
• Coffee and atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Café Don Pepe or on a terrace overlooking the Plaza Mayor.
• Dance again? You can request an extra dance lesson or find a bar with live music for an informal practice session.

Day Services: Accommodation in a Casa Particular in Trinidad, Free day (optional activities of your choice).

Today you begin the final stretch of your trip in style: you're heading to Varadero, a sun-and-beach destination that offers all the comfort, music, and relaxation you could wish for to close out your Cuban adventure. Transfer from Trinidad to Varadero takes approximately 4.5-5 hours. The trip passes through countryside and villages, eventually bringing you to Hicacos, the narrow white-sand peninsula where Varadero is located. We recommend bringing water, music, or light reading material for the journey. There are usually pit stops halfway through. Accommodation: Hotel Memories Varadero Beach Resort (All Inclusive) What's included in the resort? Spacious rooms with air conditioning and a balcony or terrace, Direct access to a white-sand beach with turquoise waters, Buffets, bars, and à la carte restaurants included, Daily activities: yoga on the beach, salsa classes, live shows, non-motorized water sports, Pools, jacuzzis, and beachfront loungers. The resort has a special focus on live Cuban music and tropical rhythms that fill all common areas.

Free afternoon – Enjoy however you wish. You can: Relax on the beach with a mojito in hand, take an informal dance class or join in on pool entertainment, snorkel or kayak (subject to resort availability), or book a massage or spa treatment (optional).

Included services: Transfer from Trinidad to Varadero, Accommodation at Hotel Memories Varadero, All-Inclusive (meals, drinks, snacks, activities).

Today you can choose between two very different—but equally memorable—ways to close out your Cuban experience: rest like a king on the beach or immerse yourself (literally) in an underwater paradise.

• Option 1: Relaxing Day at the Resort. If you prefer to take it easy, the Memories Varadero Beach Resort has everything you need: You can enjoy the pools, jacuzzis, and swim-up bars, relax on a beachfront lounger with drink service, participate in aquagym, yoga, bachata, or salsa classes organized by the entertainment team, visit the hotel spa (optional service), or sip a Cuban cocktail in one of the themed bars while the Cuban music plays in the background.
• Option 2: Marine Safari to Cayo Piedra (optional excursion). Cayo Piedra is a small marine reserve off Varadero, famous for its coral reef, shipwrecks, and abundant marine life. This excursion includes transfer from your hotel to the marina, catamaran or speedboat sailing to the key, snorkeling equipment provided, stops at dive sites with tropical fish, coral, and shipwrecks, a light lunch on board (depending on the operator), and free time for swimming, sunbathing, or even fishing. This excursion is ideal if you enjoy marine nature, snorkeling, underwater photography, or simply exploring less touristy spots and connecting with the biodiversity of the Caribbean. Approximate duration: 4–6 hours. It is recommended to book in advance at the hotel desk or directly with Marinas Gaviota Varadero.

Services included today: Accommodation at Memories Varadero Beach Resort on an all-inclusive basis. Optional excursion to Cayo Piedra.

Today is the last day of your trip to Cuba, and it's time to say goodbye with a heart full of memories, a new rhythm in your feet, and probably a couple of unforgettable friendships. Transfer from Varadero to Havana (Airport or City) with an estimated duration of 2.5–3 hours. The transfer usually takes place in the morning, depending on your flight schedule or your subsequent plans in Havana. It is recommended to be at José Martí International Airport at least 3 hours before your international flight. During your time in Cuba, you have heard and felt music in every corner, explored colonial cities like Trinidad and Havana, and explored valleys, beaches, nature reserves, and crystalline seas. Your trip has been a combination of culture, nature, dance, and excitement.

Services included today: Breakfast at the hotel (depending on departure time), private or shared transfer to Havana (airport or other agreed-upon point).

End of the program.