Cycle Cuba!

Cuba - Trip code CCC Cycling
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667Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
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Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Explore the scenic and cultural highlights of Cuba on two wheels. Pedal your way along the Caribbean coast, past the limestone landscapes of Vinales and through tropical forests in Topes de Collantes. Along the way, step back in time in Trinidad, explore the colourful, crumbling streets of Havana and witness monuments to the Revolution in Santa Clara.

Why we love this trip
  • Cycle Cuba - Hop in the saddle to explore Cuba's unforgettable landscapes and iconic cities and towns.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites - From Havana to Trinidad, discover why these bucket-listed destinations have gained UNESCO status.
  • Casa Particulares - Get to grips with Cuban life, staying in private homestays with locals.

  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 14

    Dinner: 1

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Driver(s)

  • Transport

    Bus

    Bicycle

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    Accommodation

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    Cycling grade:

    Moderate

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    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 16
    Explore Average 11

Itinerary

Trip information

Climate and country information

Cuba

Climate

The dry season is from November to April. Average temperatures are 22-26C. Though the sky is often cloudless during the dry season, cold wet snaps do come in from North America especially in Dec and Jan, when the temperatures can drop to as low as 5C at night. From May to October there are normally fine mornings and clear evenings, afternoon rains tend to be short & heavy. Temperatures are hot and humid.

Time difference to GMT

-5

Plugs

2 Pin Flat and 2 Pin Round

Religion

60% Catholic

Language

Spanish

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Havana

Bellas Artes Museum (Fine Arts Museum) Entrance Cost 125 CUP
Rum Museum Entrance Cost 240 CUP
Revolution Museum Entrance Cost 250 CUP
Vintage Car Ride per car USD75


Viñales

Cayo Levisa Excursion 55 USD
Zip Lining in Viñales 700 CUP
Cueva del Indio Entrance Cost 150 CUP
Soroa - Entrance fee to Orchids garden 400CUP

Trinidad

Playa Ancon beach taxi cost each way 15 USD each way
Finca La Lima Cuban Cowboy day cost per person: USD50
Salsa Classes with local dance partner for each participant 20 USD
Introductory Salsa Class (one teacher for the group) 10 usd

Clothing

Pack for warm and hot conditions. Bring cycling gear such as padded shorts, cycle gloves and quick drying cycle shirts. Remember weather is changeable in the mountains and it can be cool and wet in the high altitude of the Sierra Escambray or even on some evenings in Havana, so bring some warmer clothing too. Wet weather gear is essential at all times in case of rain. Don't forget your swimming costume.

Footwear

If you are not bringing cycle shoes then try to bring stiff-soled shoes as these are better for cycling - transmitting your energy into the pedals more efficiently. This becomes more relevant and recommended the more demanding the grade and distances to cover. SPD cycle shoes are not well suited to tours that combine sightseeing with cycling.
Comfortable shoes, trainers, sandals or flip flops are useful when not on the bike.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

We recommend you bring a daypack and one main piece of luggage (total allowance: 44lb/20kg) which will be transported between hotels while you cycle. Check the bike details section to see if a pannier or handlebar bag is provided on the bike.

Equipment

It is compulsory to wear a cycling helmet on all Explore cycling holidays. As we cannot guarantee the quality or structural integrity of locally hired cycling helmets, it is a requirement that you bring your own helmet with you. Most insurance providers require helmets to be worn whilst cycling, so in the event of an accident, it is likely that any insurance claim will be invalidated if you are not wearing a helmet.

Cycle glasses to protect against dust, pollen and the sun, padded cycle gloves and a water bottle or water delivery system (e.g. camelback or platypus) are also useful. You may choose to bring your own gel seat cover for added comfort. If a handle bar bag or pannier is not provided (check bike details) then you may like to bring a small rucksack to wear while cycling. Other items to consider bringing are a sunhat and sun cream, torch, earplugs and insect repellent. Please carry some or all of your cycling equipment e.g. helmet as part of your hand luggage.

It's also worth noting that it's almost impossible to find any isotonic or sports drinks in Cuba, so if this is something that you like while riding then we'd recommend you bring your own tablets along with you.

It's very difficult to buy goods in Cuba, so it's important to come prepared with everything you'll need. Filter water bottle, travel pillow, towel, sunblock, pocket knife, sunglasses, sun hat and swim gear are all useful items. Remember to bring all toiletries you think you may need- remember, it's very difficult to buy goods in Cuba, including toothpaste, toothbrushes or even paracetamol.

Tipping

Explore leader

Tipping, though completely voluntary, is a recognized and essential part of life in this region. In Cuba, a communist state, the government sets its citizens' wages.

We're often asked about the recommended amount. While it ultimately depends on personal preference, a guideline would be £5 per person per day.
Local crew
Tipping, though completely voluntary, is an acknowledged and vital aspect of life in this region. As Cuba is a communist state, the government directly determines citizens' wages.

In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group tip kitty for included activities, your driver, and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.

Accordingly, you should allow 45 US/EUR for group tipping.

For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.

Please note tipping is also customary for musicians and for public conveniences so small notes and coins

Cuba

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Breakfast price
£10
Lunch price
£18
Dinner price
£25
Beer price
£3
Water price
£2
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Cuban National Peso (CUP)
Recommended Currency For Exchange
The CUP is a closed currency so you will not be able to change your money in advance. The money situation in Cuba is complex and we will send you more detailed information on this in your Final Documents. Cards are not widely accepted and ATMs are not always available or in use, so it is worth taking enough cash for the entire duration of your trip. We recommend taking Euros or US Dollars to Cuba. Ideally you would have a selection of small notes, as many places will not be able to accept the bigger notes. British Pounds are also often accepted; however we discourage this as you will not get a favourable rate. We do not recommend exchanging money at the airport as you will not get a favourable rate.
Where To Exchange
Your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
Please note ATMs are not widely available- we recommend taking enough cash for the entire duration of your trip.
Credit Card Acceptance
Please note credit and debit cards associated with American Banks are not accepted. Credit cards can be used in some places, but may be subject to a service charge. We recommend taking enough cash for the entire duration of your trip.
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Bus, Bicycle

Accommodation notes

Accommodation in Cuba is a curious mix of run-down colonial hotels, slightly past-their-best resorts and local guesthouses, but they all add to the country's unique charm. We choose accommodation based on comfort, authenticity, and location. It's a great opportunity to witness the real Cuba, but you should be prepared for dated décor and varying levels of service.

It's worth noting that water and electricity supplies can be unreliable. Also, in state-run hotels in particular, service can be slow. Most of our hotels offer air conditioning and en-suite facilities.

During this trip, we'll use 'casas particulares' (local guesthouses). The private homestays are unique to Cuba and often comprise of rooms within a family home or a B&B-style stay. Staying in a casa gives you the opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality in local accommodation adapted for tourism. The number of rooms, quality, facilities, and access to other areas of the house such as the living room varies massively but as a general rule, the majority of casas are clean, basic, centrally located and can host only a handful of guests. The tour leader will coordinate accommodation arrangements on tour.

Cuba

Food and drink

Food supplies to Cuba are generally in short supply as a result of their economic situation, as well as the restrictions due to the US embargo. For this reason it is not uncommon for some restaurants and hotels to run short of ingredients - when you're out and about at cafes and restaurants, don't expect a great variety and be prepared to be flexible in your choices. This includes at hotel breakfasts, which vary considerably in the amount on offer. Of course, local produce is usually very fresh and often organic, but choices are limited and can be quite bland in taste.

In Cuba, catering to clients with dietary requirements is limited and can vary significantly depending on the location and type of accommodation. Typically, meat and other restricted items are simply replaced with extra vegetables, potatoes, and rice. Vegans and individuals with other food intolerances such as dairy or gluten free should bring non-perishable food supplements, as interesting and creative dishes are generally lacking.

Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip- unless it is filtered through a reusable filtration bottle (such as Water-to-Go​)

 

 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information


Cuba: Visas or Tourist cards are required by all nationalities travelling to Cuba. These are obtained directly through the Cuban e-visa service at https://evisacuba.cu/en/inicio

For UK nationals payment is made online either through bank transfer or in person at the embassy. A simple online form needs to be completed along with uploaded proof of payment. The e-visa is then issued and emailed to you within 72 hours. Once issued the e-visa is valid for entry into Cuban within one year. We would recommend printing the e-visa email, along with the attachment, and carrying this with you for arrival into Cuba.

In the visa email confirmation you will also receive a link to the health declaration which must be completed before your arrival into Cuba. Once completed you will receive a QR code to show to the authorities on arrival.

Due to US Treasury Department Regulations we are unable to accept bookings from US passport holders. These Regulations set out different categories under which it is possible for US citizens to travel to Cuba; our trips do not fall under any of the permissible categories. As a tour operator we have an obligation to follow legal procedures, and as such we are unable to sell our trips to US passport holders.

Travelling for tourism reasons directly from the USA to Cuba isn't allowed under US law. The law applies to US nationals and all foreign nationals who are either resident in the USA, or travelling through the USA en route to Cuba. Those travelling on direct flights between the UK and Cuba, or via other countries excluding the USA, are unaffected by this US legislation.

Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Ability to swim

An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of the water based activities on this trip. If you wish to participate in these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.

Cuba

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, TB, infectious hepatitis and polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

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Airport Transfers
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