Eastern Cuba Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Eastern Cuba with this comprehensive travel guide highlighting the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Eastern Cuba

Located in the Caribbean region of North America, Eastern Cuba offers a glimpse into the country’s fascinating history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the colorful streets of Santiago de Cuba to the lush mountain ranges of the Sierra Maestra, Eastern Cuba has something to offer every type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Cuba

Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s rich history or immersing yourself in its natural wonders, Eastern Cuba boasts plenty of attractions worth visiting. Here are just a few:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Santiago de Cuba’s historic city center, featuring colonial architecture, art galleries, and street performances
  • The Castillo del Morro, a colonial fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Bay of Santiago
  • Casa de la Trova, a traditional music venue where you can immerse yourself in the sounds of Cuban son and salsa
  • The birthplace of Fidel Castro, located in the town of Birán
  • The Museum of the Revolution, offering insight into Cuba’s revolutionary history
  • The Moncada Barracks, where the failed 1953 attack led by Fidel Castro signaled the start of the Cuban Revolution

Natural Attractions of Eastern Cuba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Sierra Maestra mountain range, offering hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities
  • The beaches of Guardalavaca, known for their crystal-clear waters and white sand
  • The Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring diverse flora and fauna
  • The El Salto del Guayabo, a 40-meter waterfall located in the Sierra Maestra
  • The Gran Piedra, a massive rock formation with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Cuba

For those seeking an active adventure, Eastern Cuba offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are a few noteworthy routes:

  • The Comandancia de la Plata trail in the Sierra Maestra, where Fidel Castro’s revolutionaries set up their base camp
  • The Humboldt Trail, a multi-day hiking route through the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt
  • The biking route between Baracoa and Santiago, offering stunning coastal views and challenging terrain

Best Things to Do in Eastern Cuba: Activities and Tours

To make the most of your time in Eastern Cuba, consider booking one of the following activities or tours:

  • A salsa dancing lesson in Santiago de Cuba, the birthplace of the Cuban music genre
  • A Jeep safari through the Sierra Maestra, where you can explore hidden waterfalls and learn about Cuban history
  • A snorkeling excursion in the Bay of Nipe, featuring abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs
  • A visit to a local tobacco farm, where you can learn about the production of Cuba’s world-renowned cigars

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Cuba

Day 1: Arrive in Santiago de Cuba and explore the city center Day 2: Visit the Castillo del Morro and the Moncada Barracks Day 3: Spend the day hiking in the Sierra Maestra Day 4: Head to Baracoa and take a bike ride along the coast Day 5: Visit the beaches of Guardalavaca and go snorkeling Day 6: Learn about cigar production on a tobacco farm tour Day 7: Depart from Holguin International Airport

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Cuba

No trip to Cuba would be complete without indulging in the delicious local cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and beverages in Eastern Cuba:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ropa vieja: shredded beef with tomato sauce and onions
  • Moros y cristianos: black beans and rice, a staple of Cuban cuisine
  • Tostones: fried plantains, often served as a side dish
  • Sopa de ajo: garlic soup, a warming comfort food

Local Beverages

  • Mojito: a cocktail made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint, and club soda
  • Daiquiri: a cocktail made with rum, lime juice, and sugar
  • Cuban coffee: espresso with a generous amount of sugar

Where to Stay in Eastern Cuba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Cuba has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Some top choices include:

  • Casa Granda: a historic hotel in the heart of Santiago de Cuba
  • La Habanera: a charming guesthouse with views of the Bay of Santiago
  • Villa Maguana: an eco-friendly beachfront resort in Baracoa
  • Hotel Playa Costa Verde: an all-inclusive resort in Guardalavaca

What to Buy in Eastern Cuba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, Eastern Cuba offers plenty of options. Consider bringing home:

  • Cuban cigars: a world-renowned product with a long history
  • Coffee: Cuba produces some of the world’s finest coffee
  • Handmade crafts: look for unique pottery, textiles, and wood carvings
  • Rum: Cuba is famous for its rum, with many brands available for purchase

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Cuba

Cubans are known for their friendly, hospitable nature, and Eastern Cuba is no exception. When visiting the region, keep in mind the following cultural customs:

  • Respect for elders and authority figures is important in Cuban society
  • Tipping is customary in restaurants and for tour guides
  • Be respectful when taking photos of people or religious sites

Best Time to Visit Eastern Cuba

The best time to visit Eastern Cuba is during the cooler winter months of December to February. However, events like the Santiago de Cuba Carnival in July and the Baracoa Chocolate Festival in September are also popular times to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Cuba

Do:

  • Try to learn some basic Spanish before your trip
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Leave a small tip for good service

Don’t:

  • Expect everything to go smoothly or on schedule
  • Disrespect religious practices or symbols
  • Take photos of military or government buildings

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Cuba

Eastern Cuba is generally a safe destination, with low levels of violent crime. However, visitors should take precautions against pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded areas. It’s also important to note that traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable, so pedestrians should remain vigilant when crossing the street.

Health in Eastern Cuba

Travelers to Eastern Cuba should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider getting a Hepatitis A vaccine. Insect-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and Zika virus are also a concern in the region, so it’s important to take precautions against mosquito bites.

Getting to Eastern Cuba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern Cuba

  • Antonio Maceo Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba
  • Frank País International Airport (HOG) in Holguin

Bus Stations Near Eastern Cuba

  • Santiago de Cuba bus terminal
  • Holguin bus terminal

Other Options

Eastern Cuba can also be reached by private car or taxi, although these options may be more expensive than public transportation.

How to Get Around in Eastern Cuba

Public transportation in Eastern Cuba includes buses and taxis, although schedules can be unreliable. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or taking a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Cuba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have additional time to explore Cuba, here are a few nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Trinidad: a colorful colonial city with a well-preserved historic center
  • Varadero: a popular resort town with miles of white-sand beaches
  • Havana: the capital city of Cuba, featuring museums, art galleries, and lively nightlife

Conclusion

Eastern Cuba is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, this region is sure to leave a lasting impression on your travel memories. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of Eastern Cuba.



    Baracoa
    Holguín
    Santiago de Cuba