Ciego de Ávila Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Ciego de Ávila

Ciego de Ávila is a central province in Cuba, a country located in the Caribbean and North America. The province covers an area of over 4,000 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 400,000 people. The capital of the province, also called Ciego de Ávila, is a bustling city with colorful colonial architecture, a vibrant culture and plenty to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in Ciego de Ávila

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jardín Botánico de Ciego de Ávila: A botanical garden located just west of the city.
  • Iglesia de San Eugenio de la Palma: A 19th-century Catholic church located in the city center.
  • Museo Provincial Simón Reyes: A museum that showcases the history of the province from prehistoric times to modern-day.

Natural Attractions of Ciego de Ávila: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Laguna de La Leche: A large freshwater lake located within reach of the city.
  • Parque Natural El Baga: A protected park located about 10km west of the city center. It has trails for hiking and areas for picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ciego de Ávila

  • Cycling from Ciego de Ávila to Morón: This trail goes through villages and farmers’ fields. It’s about 22km long one way and fairly flat.
  • Guayabal to Las Cotorras: This 15km trail takes visitors through the pine-covered hills in the southern part of the province.

Best Things to Do in Ciego de Ávila: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback riding: Explore the countryside in a unique way with a horseback ride either in a tour or by renting a horse.
  • Visit the local markets: Browse the colorful and lively markets for handmade goods, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
  • Swim with dolphins: At the Dolphinarium, visitors can watch dolphin shows, interact with the dolphins and even swim with them.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ciego de Ávila

  • Day 1: Explore the city center, including the cathedral and the Parque de la Ciudad.
  • Day 2: Visit the Jardín Botánico de Ciego de Ávila and have a picnic in the gardens.
  • Day 3: Head to Parque Natural El Baga and enjoy a hike or picnic in the park.
  • Day 4: Spend the day at Laguna de la Leche, swimming and relaxing.
  • Day 5: Go horseback riding and explore nearby villages.
  • Day 6: Visit the Museo Provincial Simón Reyes and learn about the province’s history and culture.
  • Day 7: Spend the day enjoying a dolphin show and swimming with the dolphins.

Food and Drink Scene of Ciego de Ávila

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ropa vieja: A classic Cuban dish made with shredded beef that’s cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and peppers.

Local Beverages

  • Cuba Libre: A cocktail made with rum, cola and lime juice.
  • Mojito: A refreshing drink made with rum, lime juice, mint, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Ciego de Ávila: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Ciego de Ávila
  • Hostal Buena Vista
  • Casa Natalie
  • Hostel Familia La Rampa

What to Buy in Ciego de Ávila: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cigars: Cuba is famous for its cigars, and you can buy them in the city center.
  • Guayabera shirts: A type of men’s shirt, traditional to Cuba.

Local Culture and Customs of Ciego de Ávila

  • Cuba is a socialist country, and people may be curious about where you are from and why you are visiting.
  • It’s considered impolite to refuse food or drink that is offered to you.
  • Cubans are very friendly and will often strike up a conversation with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Ciego de Ávila

The winter months (December to March) are the best time to visit Ciego de Ávila, with temperatures ranging from 20-28 °C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ciego de Ávila

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases before you arrive; it will come in handy.
  • Try the local cuisine and local beverages.
  • Carry some cash, as some places don’t accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing.
  • Insult the government or the Revolution.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ciego de Ávila

Cuba is generally a safe country, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions, such as not carrying valuable items openly and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Ciego de Ávila

Visitors should make sure their vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Cuba. The tap water is not safe to drink, so make sure to use bottled water or boiled water. Dengue and chikungunya are present in the province, so take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Getting to Ciego de Ávila: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ciego de Ávila

The closest airport is Jardines del Rey International Airport, about 120km north of Ciego de Ávila.

Bus Stations Near Ciego de Ávila

Viazul is the national bus company and operates daily buses from Havana to Ciego de Ávila.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi from Havana or other parts of Cuba.

How to Get Around in Ciego de Ávila

Taxis are readily available in the city center, and there are also regular buses that connect to nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Ciego de Ávila: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cayo Coco: A nearby island known for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Morón: A small historic town with a colorful colonial center.

Conclusion

Ciego de Ávila is a charming and vibrant city that offers visitors a glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of central Cuba. From exploring its museums and historical sites to enjoying outdoor adventures and trying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this must-visit Cuban province. Plan your trip today and discover why Ciego de Ávila is one of the country’s hidden gems.

Catedral San Eugenio Catedral San Eugenio