Trip Inclusions
Meals 13 Breakfasts |
Accommodation Standard Guesthouse (13 nights) |
Transport Private Vehicle |
Included Activities
|
||
Cuba Diving Tour
A$4,300.00
AUD: Australian dollar (A$)
Cuban reefs are little explored and undisturbed which gives a unique experience as sea life. Pristine, warm, balmy waters with great visibility provide the perfect underwater playground awaiting you to discover it.
Our motto to all our tours, especially the diving tours is ‘Safety first’. Which is why we have chosen diving centers that are certified by the American Canadian Underwater Association (ACUC) as well as Underwater Activities World Federation (CMAS) to international standards. Providing certified diving gear, so you don’t have to bring your own.
Their qualified and well experienced diving instructors provide for a safe and pleasant dive, as not only they know their area well, they also adjust the diving excursion to the skill levels of the divers on the tour to ensure you get an unforgettable experience.
-
ActivitiesDiving, Walking Tours, Che Guevara Mausoleum
-
Group sizemin 2 pax
max 8 pax
-
Trip duration14 Day(s) 13 Night(s)
Trip Summary
Our motto to all our tours, especially the diving tours is 'Safety first'. Which is why we have chosen diving centers that are certified by the American Canadian Underwater Association (ACUC) as well as Underwater Activities World Federation (CMAS) to international standards. Providing certified diving gear, so you don't have to bring your own.
Their qualified and well experienced diving instructors provide for a safe and pleasant dive, as not only they know their area well, they also adjust the diving excursion to the skill levels of the divers on the tour to ensure you get an unforgettable experience.
Cuban underwater world is absolutely stunning!
Cuban reefs are little explored and undisturbed which gives a unique experience as sea life, in particular, grouper, snapper, angelfish, and many others are curious and will interact closely with divers. The Caribbean's largest island is home to the second largest reef in the world behind the Australian Great Barrier and, what's more, is that Cuban diving features long drop-offs or the Grand Canyon promises that dives are eventful and unforgettable.
Pristine, warm waters with great visibility provide the perfect underwater playground awaiting you to discover it. Each spot will allow you to go between 15 to 30 metres, some areas offer deeper dives for the more experienced. This is a photographer’s heaven, where at every turn there is a near-perfect shot to be taken. The exotic marine life in Cuba is lively and colorful. Parrotfish, balloonfish, and green moray are sighted amidst anemones, untouched sponges and mollusks. On the seafloor you may see shrimps, Caribbean spiny lobster, batwing and channel clinging crabs crawling. And let's not leave out the cushion star, red heart urchin and sea cucumbers either!
Cuba are amongst the most intact marine ecosystems in the region. It will not disappoint
Start your exploration of this wonderful country in Havana, picture pastel-colored buildings fronting wide, gracious squares; vintage American autos rolling through streets lined with iron lampposts; and street musicians singing and strumming guitars. Wonder through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, UNESCO World Heritage Site to take in the sights. From Havana we make our way to Trinidad, where the time has stopped in 1850, and hasn’t yet restarted. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, it is Cuba’s oldest and most enchanting ‘outdoor museum’. We will spend 3 days here, each morning, we will head out to the International Diving Centre at Peninsula Ancon, about a 15 minute drive from Trinidad, where you get to collect your diving gear and head out to sea on a boat for your diving spot. There are about 20 sites to choose from, so each plunge will have something new on offer for you. There is an impressive cliff with corals, sponges, crabs, octopus, and various fish species to see. You may even get to discover some wrecks along the way. For your surface time between the plunges you will return to the centre for snacks, toilets, rehydration and a little break. Having the afternoons off, will allow you to wonder the cobblestone streets, of this well-kept colonial town and soak in its romantic atmosphere with ornate buildings and enjoy its nightlife dancing up a storm at various night venues.
From Trinidad we head to the French colonist Cienfuegos, settled in 1819 around the most spectacular and natural bay. On the way through we will stop for a quick dive at the Hotel Guajimico. Guajimico is an ecological village and the halfway point between Trinidad and Cienfuegos and is an undisputed diving paradise. This area has been declared a national park in 1996. Its shallow waters are beautifully decorated with sponges and corals giving refuge to colorful reef fish.
Whilst in Cienfuegos, you can spend the afternoons wondering the elegant streets, enjoying the classical architecture, enjoy the markets, art galleries or may be even make your way to the Botanical Gardens. We will spend the days diving at Faro Luna International Diving Centre. Each morning we head out by bus, which is about a 25 minute drive down the South coast of Central Cuba to the entrance of Cienfuegos Bay. This place offers some of the most exciting diving spots, which is why it is the home of a yearly International Foto Sub Contest. The pristine waters offer an exotic underwater scenery of exuberant corals and fish species in vibrant colors.
The last diving destination is Playa Giron, a small fishing village on the southern Cuban coast, is part of the Cienaga de Zapata National Park. It is located at the southern part of Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs). It was one of two beaches invaded by US-backed exiles on April 17, 1961. The invasion is famous because it culminated in a victory for the army and Cuban militias. This area is also Cuba's largest wilderness area, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with varied ecosystem of wetlands, mangrove forests, coral reefs and underwater canyons, it’s home to a massive variety of colourful birds and tropical fish, which makes it a perfect diving spot!
It is also the perfect spot for a night dive, that we can arrange as an optional activity on day 11.
On day 13 we head back to Havana to give you enough time to recover from all the diving prior to your flight day. We have not planned any activity for you for that day so you can rest and relax, however as an optional activity, you could visit San Carlos de la Cabana Castle for the nightly canon ceremony.
What you will love about this trip
- Old Havana Walking Tour
- Trinidad the best preserved colonial city
- Diving at Trinidad's exuberant coral reefs
- Diving at Hotel Guajimico
- Cienfuegos the Paris of the Caribbean
- Diving at Faro Luna, enjoy the scenery like no other
- Discover the Che Guevara Mausoleum and Memorial
- Diving at Bay of Pigs, discover sunken shipwrecks
- Visit the Playa Giron Museum to grasp the history of the botched CIA Invasion
Is This Trip Right For You?
- Be aware! We NEVER use hotels! Our aim is to give back to the community, as such we always use Casas as our accommodation option. Of course we are aware of western comfort requirements, so as a standard, we ensure pillows, air conditioning and private bathrooms.
- In saying that... Do remember that you are in a country with lower infrastructure standards. As such, power cuts, especially in cyclone season are expected. Water pressure may be low and hot water in short supply. This really just adds to the adventure.
- Previously Cash was king! Some service providers now insist on the use of credit cards to reduce cash handling, but be aware that some cards may not work in Cuba. So have several options available.
- Internet access is available, but is limited. Why not choose this time to switch off and relax? If it is not entirely possible, we will assist you to get connected.
- Come without expectations, as things don’t always go to plan. And bring your sense of humour, in case you need to deal with things in 'Cuban time'!
- The roads can be a challenge, whilst we ensure we get you there safely, it may take longer than you would expect in any other part of the world. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
Places You’ll See
Further Information About Our Tours
Want more info in preparation of your trip? Our Trip Information page provides further information regarding things you need to know, accommodation transfers, emergencies, passport & visa info, what to pack and more, that you may need to know about this adventure. Click here to read We also provide you with detailed joining instructions prior to your travel. 😎Trip Outline
Day 1 – Havana
Welcome to Cuba!
A complimentary transfer from the airport to the guesthouse is included with your trip to ease you into the life in Cuba. You can check in at any time, your casa hosts will be waiting for you. If you arrive early, enjoy your free time till your welcome meeting at 6pm. Depending on your arrival into the country and how you feel there are some options for you to discover Havana. Maybe even get your supply of Wi-fi cards sorted for your stay…
Special Information A complimentary arrival transfer is included with your trip. Please ensure you provide your flight details at least 14 days prior to travel so the transfer can be organised.
Please see ‘Joining instructions’ for more information about exiting the arrivals hall and connecting with your arrival transfer driver who will take you to your guesthouse.
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let us know.
Day 2 – Havana
Today you'll have the opportunity to capture the lively street theatre of Havana Vieja (Old Havana), a World Heritage site since 1982. See the glorious grandeur of this dynamic area, one of the Caribbean’s most impressive historical cities. Wonder through the narrow streets and spacious plazas, admiring the Spanish architecture as you discover the birthplace of Havana - Plaza de Armas, and other iconic sites like Plaza San Francisco de Asis, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catedral. Through this part of the day, you will have the opportunity to photograph colorful street markets, courtyards, and terraces.
In the afternoon you have a choice whether to visit the Morro Castle - The Morro was constructed to guard the entrance to Havana against pirates and other colonists eager to gain control of this strategic transit hub between Europe and the rest of the Americas. The castle’s unusual shape hugs the rocky cliffs of the bay, with thick, imposing walls, a moat, and a stoic lighthouse that can be seen from the city. It provides the perfect photo opportunity.
Alternately enjoy the sunset with the roof down in a 1950's classic car! Visit revolution square and Lenon Park among other things, and finish the day with a well deserved cocktail at the Hotel National, the most iconic Hotel in Havana.
Included activities • Old Havana Walking Tour
Day 3 - 6 – Trinidad
Today we set out to Trinidad, about 6 hours south of Havana on the glittering Caribbean coastline. It is one of a kind, a perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement where the clocks stopped in 1850 and haven’t yet started. The cobblestone streets, horsing carts, well-kept colonial atmosphere with ornate buildings and garden terraces give this gorgeous city a romantic, old charm that is hard to beat. Once we settle in our casas in Trinidad you will receive a guided city tour to get your bearings before you have the evening off to discover the buzzing nightlife in Trinidad.
Get ready for your first dive! Each day here, we will head out to the International Diving Centre at Peninsula Ancon, about a 15 minute drive from Trinidad, where you get to collect your diving gear and head out to sea on a boat for your diving spot. There are about 20 sites to choose from, so each plunge will have something new on offer for you. There is an impressive cliff with corals, sponges, crabs, octopus, and various fish species to see. You may even get to discover some wrecks along the way. For your surface time between the plunges you will return to the centre for snacks, toilets, rehydration and a little break. Once your dive is over, we head back to our casas where you can have a nice afternoon siesta before enjoying the afternoon and evening off to discover what Trinidad has to offer. There's plenty to do! We can help you arrange anything from salsa lessons, to rum tasting, to a visit to the various museums or even the Cave Discoto dance the night away at Trinidad’s night spots with the local residents who are more than willing participants in dancing to the local live music.. Feel free to ask your guide to help you create an itinerary for your free time.Included activities
- Trinidad Orientation Tour
- Diving at Playa Ancon International Diving Centre (3 days - 6 plunges)
Day 7 - 9 – Cienfuegos
This morning we will set out to Cienfuegos, a French colonist town. If Cuba had a Paris this place would be it. The elegance of the place combined with a feisty Caribbean spirit and lingering Spanish influence, earnt it not only the nickname ‘Pearl of the South’ but also a UNESCO Heritage Listing in 2005. On the way, we will stop at Hotel Guajimico for a dive. Guajimico is an ecological village and the halfway point between Trinidad and Cienfuegos and is an undisputed diving paradise. This area has been declared a national park in 1996. Its shallow waters are beautifully decorated with sponges and corals giving refuge to colorful reef fish. The area is perfect for wall diving. We'll have a couple of plunges here after which we make our way to Cienfuegos.
Upon arrival we will settle into our casas before we embark on our Cienfuegos city walk. You will find plenty to look at around here, like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and the Tomas Terry theater, where you can watch live plays. Your guide can take you on a city tour, to help your discovery of this magic place, with amazing architecture, craft markets and art galleries.
We will spend the days diving at Faro Luna International Diving Centre. Each morning we head out by bus, which is about a 25 minute drive down the South coast of Central Cuba to the entrance of Cienfuegos Bay. This place offers some of the most exciting diving spots, which is why it is the home of a yearly International Foto Sub Contest. The pristine waters offer an exotic underwater scenery of exuberant corals and fish species in vibrant colors. This world class facility offer world class gear and facilities as well as the most experienced dive masters in Cuba. Again your surface time between plunges will be back at the diving center. Diving will be in the morning, so you can rest and relax in the afternoon. Remember your guide can offer you and help you arrange optional activities to create an amazing holiday! Feel free to ask...Included activities
- Diving at Hotel Guajimico
- Leader Lead Orientation Walk
- Diving at Faro Luna International Dive Center
Day 10 - 12 – Bay of Pigs
From Cienfuegos we head to Santa Clara. It is Cuba’s 5th biggest city, that holds a special place in Cuba's revolutionary history. Famous for the Battle of Santa Clara, when it was taken over by a revolutionary battalion led by Che Guevara by the afternoon on New Years Eve 1958. It is seen as a decisive chapter in the revolution as President Batista escaped Cuba within 12 hours afterwards. As such this city is a mini pilgrimage destination for Che Guevara worshippers. You cannot miss the Plaza de la Revolucion. The is the open space that is overlooked by a huge bronze statue of Che Guevara that sits atop the museum and he Che Guevara mausoleum that we will visit. It is nothing short of a big, bold reminder to every local and visitor of Che’s importance here.
Today’s final destination is Playa Giron, a small fishing village on the southern Cuban coast, is part of the Cienaga de Zapata National Park. It is located at the southern part of Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs). It was one of two beaches invaded by US-backed exiles on April 17, 1961. The invasion is famous because it culminated in a victory for the army and Cuban militias. This area is also Cuba's largest wilderness area, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with varied ecosystem of wetlands, mangrove forests, coral reefs and underwater canyons, it’s home to a massive variety of colourful birds and tropical fish, which makes it a perfect diving spot!
Few more fun days to come in the water! There are a couple of International Dive Centers here 15-30 minutes drive from our base offering highly experienced Dive Masters making your experience all that better. Here, you won't have to take a boat to head out to the diving spots as the center has a 200m platform leading you to an amazing coral reef - perfect paradise under water. It is also the perfect spot for a night dive, that we can arrange as an optional activity on day 11. On day 12, after the water fun we can visit the Museo de Playa Giron to learn more about the 1961 Invasion. This exceedingly well-kept museum with its gleaming display cases evokes a tangible sense of the history of the famous Cold War episode that unfolded within rifle firing distance of this spot in 1961. There is also a British Hawker Sea Fury aircraft used by the Cuban Air Force is parked outside the museum along with a couple of Russian tanks used in the battle.Included activities
- Che Guevara Mausoleum and Museum
- Diving at Playa Giron
Day 13 & 14 – Havana
It’s time to say good bye to this amazing island. We will head back to Havana on day 13. We have not planned any activity for you today so you can rest and relax. As an optional activity, you could visit San Carlos de la Cabana Castle for the nightly canon ceremony.
Your check-out time is 12pm on day 14. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we loved showing it to you!
This is where we depart, yet would strongly recommend that you stay a few more days to explore this unique city. If you would like to take this opportunity, please let us know and we can arrange extended accommodation for you for an additional fee
Additional information
| Select Tour Dates | Wednesday 9 March 2022, Wednesday 11 May 2022, Wednesday 13 July 2022 |
|---|
