Viñales, Cuba
Viñales is a picturesque town in western Cuba known for its stunning natural surroundings, including tobacco fields, limestone cliffs, and caves. It is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the country's rural countryside and experience authentic Cuban culture.
Trip To Viñales, Cuba
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Upon arrival in Viñales, you will check into your hotel or Airbnb. After resting for a while, head to the town center and take a relaxing stroll through the town’s charming streets. As you walk, you’ll see the beautiful colonial architecture and colorful houses that still dot the city. The town’s centrepiece is the Church of Saint Mary of the Rosary, a charming 19th-century church with a stunning façade that is open to visitors. Take a moment to admire the architecture and the serene atmosphere, then find a nearby café to enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee.
Day 2: Tour of Viñales Valley
Today, you’ll embark on a full-day tour of Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone formations, tobacco fields, and traditional farmhouses. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area’s lush landscape by horseback, hiking to some of the best view spots, and even trying your hand at some tobacco picking with local farmers. You’ll also visit one of Cuba’s finest cigar factories which has produced some of the world’s most exclusive cigars over the generations. This tour will provide you with an intimate look at traditional Cuban culture and agriculture.
Day 3: Beach Day in Cayo Levisa
For today’s adventure, you’ll head to Cayo Levisa to enjoy a day of sun, swimming, and relaxation. The beach is located on an island and can be reached by a ferry ride (tickets included in the price of tour). Once you reach the secluded beach, find the perfect spot to soak up the sun, swim, and snorkel in crystal clear waters as you enjoy the stunning scenery. When you start to get hungry, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch from one of the many vendors located on the beach.
Day 4: Cultural Excursion in Pinar del Rio
Today, we’ll take a day trip to the nearby city of Pinar del Rio, the capital of the province of the same name. Here, we’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic cultural sights, such as the Catedral de San Rosendo, a grand Gothic church that dates back to the late 17th century. We’ll also visit the Museo de Ciencias Naturales, which features an incredible collection of fossils, mollusks, and other artifacts from Cuba’s rich natural history. After a full day of exploration, we’ll return to Viñales in the late afternoon.
Day 5: Cooking in Viñales
Today, you’ll participate in a fun and informative cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Cuban dishes using local, fresh ingredients. You’ll start the day by visiting the local market to buy fresh produce, and then head to a nearby farm to learn more about the methods and ingredients used in Cuban cuisine. After learning the techniques, you’ll have the opportunity to cook a delicious Cuban meal, sampling it in a courtyard or garden with a delicious glass of Cuban rum.
Day 6: Rum Tasting and Cigar Rolling
Today, we’ll visit some of the local rum and tobacco factories to learn more about these iconic Cuban products. You’ll get a chance to visit one of the many Rum factories and sample their most popular varieties, some aged for more than 20 years. Afterward, you will visit one of the many cigar making shops in town, where you’ll learn the art of cigar rolling as well getting a feel for the rich history of tobacco production in the area. You can purchase your own cigars made to your custom specifications.
Day 7: Departure Day
Today marks the end of your time in Viñales, Cuba. After breakfast, you’ll check out of your accommodation and if time permits, you can stroll around the town’s shops and markets to find the perfect souvenirs made by local craftsmen. Then, you will make your way to the airport for your departure flight or onward journey.
