Holguín Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local tips for your trip to Holguín, Cuba. Plan your itinerary with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Holguín

Holguín is a charming city located in the eastern part of Cuba. It’s famous for its rolling hills, refreshing beaches, and cultural attractions that take visitors back in time. Holguín was founded in the early 16th century and named after Captain García Holguín, who played a significant role in the colonization of Cuba. Today, it’s considered one of Cuba’s top destinations, offering visitors an authentic Cuban experience and a glimpse into the country’s rich history. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to enjoy Holguín, Cuba.

List of Places to Visit in Holguín

Holguín has plenty of attractions to discover, from museums and historical sites that showcase the city’s rich culture to natural landmarks that offer breathtaking views. Here are some of the top places to visit in Holguín:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Casa Natal de Calixto Garcia Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Calixto Garcia, a Cuban independence hero who fought against Spanish colonization. The museum displays photographs, documents, and personal items that belonged to Garcia.
  • La Periquera Museum: A neoclassical style building, it’s a fine example of colonial architecture in Holguín. The museum offers an insight into the city’s history and culture through art, artifacts, and memorabilia.
  • Mausoleo del Ché: Located on a hill overlooking the city, this mausoleum houses the remains of Che Guevara and his fellow comrades. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to the life and work of Ché.

Natural Attractions of Holguín: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Calixto García: This park is the heart of Holguín, offering visitors a peaceful retreat with shaded benches and calming fountains. Many festivals, cultural events, and concerts are held here throughout the year.
  • Hill of the Cross: A popular pilgrimage site in Holguín, Hill of the Cross offers a panoramic view of the city. The journey to the top can be a bit challenging, but the view from the summit is worth the effort.
  • Gibara Beach: Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Gibara Beach is one of the best beaches in Holguín. Relax on the beach or try water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Holguín

Holguín is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts, with scenic trails that offer stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Holguín:

  • El Yunque Hill: This is a popular hiking trail, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife in the area. The trail is a bit steep, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
  • Hill of the Cross Trail: The trail to Hill of the Cross is not very long, but it can be somewhat challenging. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top and offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Holguín City Bike Tour: Rent a bike and explore Holguín at your own pace. The city boasts a well-maintained bike path that leads to some of the city’s most popular attractions.

Best Things to Do in Holguín: Activities and Tours

Holguín offers a range of activities and tours to suit every taste, from city tours that take visitors to the most popular attractions to adventure tours that showcase the natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the best things to do in Holguín:

  • City Tour: Take a guided tour of Holguín’s cultural landmarks and historical sites, including museums, plazas, and churches.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the countryside on horseback with a guide. This is an ideal activity for nature enthusiasts who want to get closer to the region’s flora and fauna.
  • Cuban Cigar Tasting: Learn about the art of making cigars and try some of Cuba’s finest cigars. You’ll get a chance to see how the cigars are made and learn about their history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Holguín

Day 1: Visit La Periquera Museum and explore Parque Calixto García.

Day 2: Head to the Hill of the Cross for a panoramic view of the city, followed by a visit to the Mausoleo del Ché.

Day 3: Take a city bike tour and explore Holguín’s cultural landmarks and historical sites.

Day 4: Experience the natural beauty of the area with a horseback riding tour.

Day 5: Enjoy a day at Gibara Beach, where you can relax on the beach or try water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Day 6: Hike to El Yunque Hill and enjoy beautiful scenic views.

Day 7: Try a Cuban cigar tasting and learn about the art of making cigars, followed by a visit to Casa Natal de Calixto Garcia Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Holguín

Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences that offer a unique culinary experience. Holguín has a range of restaurants, cafes, and food stalls that serve delicious local dishes and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz con Pollo: A classic Cuban dish made with rice and chicken cooked in a blend of spices.
  • Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef cooked in a zesty tomato sauce and served with rice and beans.
  • Cuban Sandwich: A popular sandwich made with ham, cheese, pork, pickles, and mustard.

Local Beverages

  • Mojito: A classic Cuban cocktail made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint, and club soda.
  • Piña Colada: A sweet and creamy cocktail made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.
  • Cuban Coffee: A strong and flavorful coffee served in a small cup called a cafecito.

Where to Stay in Holguín: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Holguín has a range of accommodations that suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Holguín:

  • Hotel E Caballeriza: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Holguín, offering luxurious rooms and impeccable service.
  • Hostal Casa Sola: A charming guesthouse located in a quiet neighborhood, with comfortable rooms and a homey atmosphere.
  • Hostal Miraflores: A budget-friendly hostel located near the city center, with clean rooms and hospitable staff.

What to Buy in Holguín: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Holguín is known for its beautiful handicrafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Holguín:

  • Cuban Cigars: Holguín is famous for its cigars, which are considered some of the best in the world.
  • Handmade Pottery: Holguín has many skilled potters who create beautiful ceramic pieces, including vases, plates, and bowls.
  • Paintings and Artwork: Holguín has a thriving arts community, with many local artists creating unique paintings, sculptures, and other artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Holguín

Cuban culture is known for its music, dance, and hospitality. Holguín is no exception, with lively music and dance performances, colorful festivals, and friendly locals who are happy to share their culture with visitors. It’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions when visiting Holguín, including dressing modestly in religious sites and showing respect for the elderly.

Best Time to Visit Holguín

The best time to visit Holguín is from December to May when the weather is dry and warm. This is the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. June to November is the rainy season, with occasional hurricanes and tropical storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Holguín

Do:

  • Do greet people with a smile and a “Hola!”
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Do drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.
  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wear revealing clothing in religious sites.
  • Don’t take photographs of people without asking for their permission.
  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended.
  • Don’t buy items from unauthorized vendors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Holguín

Holguín is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take standard safety precautions like not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables and avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night.

Health in Holguín

Visitors should take standard health precautions when traveling to Holguín, including drinking bottled water, protecting against mosquito bites, and carrying any necessary medications.

Getting to Holguín: Transportation Options and Logistics

Holguín is accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options when traveling to Holguín:

Airports Near Holguín

  • Frank Pais International Airport: Located 10 miles from Holguín, this airport serves a limited number of international flights.

Bus Stations Near Holguín

  • Viazul Bus Station: Located in the city center, this is the main bus station for long-distance travel in Cuba.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent cars from international car rental companies like Hertz and Avis.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available for transportation throughout the city, with fixed prices for certain destinations.

How to Get Around in Holguín

Holguín is a small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis and buses are also readily available for transportation throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Holguín: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Holguín is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations like Guardalavaca Beach, Santiago de Cuba, and Cayo Saetia. Visitors can also take excursions to nearby waterfalls, national parks, and other natural attractions.

Conclusion

Holguín is a charming city with a rich history and culture, offering visitors a chance to explore Cuba’s natural beauty and experience the Cuban way of life. We hope this guide helped you plan your trip to Holguín and discover the best things to do and see in the area.