Guanabo Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Guanabo, Cuba with our travel guide. Find out about the top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Guanabo

Located in Western Cuba, Guanabo is a picturesque coastal town boasting sandy beaches, turquoise waters and a tropical climate. Despite its small size, it has plenty to offer tourists from historical sites to natural wonders, and cultural experiences. The town is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle, welcoming locals, and vibrant nightlife.

List of Places to Visit in Guanabo

Guanabo is packed with tourist attractions and activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the must-visit places in Guanabo:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes - A museum that showcases Cuban art from the 16th century up to modern times.
  • El Morro Castle - A 16th-century fortress that served as a watchtower against pirate attacks.
  • Havana Cathedral - A grand baroque-style cathedral built in the 18th century.

Natural Attractions of Guanabo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Santa Maria Beach - One of the most popular beaches in Guanabo, characterized by calm waters, white sand and beautiful sunsets.
  • Boca Ciega Bay - A picturesque bay which features warm, shallow waters and a mangrove forest.
  • Cojimar - A rustic seaside village that inspired Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea”. The village offers beautiful views of fishing boats and sea turtles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guanabo

Guanabo’s lush natural scenery, including mountains and forests, makes it the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular routes to explore are:

  • Havana Bay and the Malecon - A scenic route that follows Havana Bay and the Malecon seaside promenade.
  • Parque Almendares - A park that features an old Spanish fort, shadowy groves and twisting pathways.
  • Vinales Valley - A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning mountain views, natural caves and tobacco fields.

Best Things to Do in Guanabo: Activities and Tours

Guanabo offers numerous activities and tours for tourists of all types, from water sports to historical and cultural tours, some of the best things you can do are:

  • Snorkeling and Diving - Explore the diverse marine life and shipwrecks at Santa Maria Beach and nearby coral reefs.
  • Hemingway Tour - Experience the life of legendary writer Ernest Hemingway by visiting his former home, Finca Vigia.
  • Classic Car Tour - A must-do activity in Cuba, hop in a 1950s classic car and cruise through the countryside, while enjoying the beautiful landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guanabo

Day 1: Start your trip by exploring Havana, visit Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and enjoy a classic car tour.

Day 2: Head to the nearby town of Cojimar to experience the quirky and bustling streets, and enjoy a seafood lunch. In the afternoon, visit the El Morro Castle, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Day 3: Take a day trip to the Vinales Valley and explore tobacco plantations, caves, and the natural beauty of the region.

Day 4: Explore the Boca Ciega Bay, try your hand at water sports, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Day 5: Visit the Santa Maria Beach, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.

Day 6: Enjoy a Hemingway tour. Visit Finca Vigia, where Hemingway wrote “The Old Man and the Sea” and spent most of his time in Cuba

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring more of Guanabo’s many attractions, or visit a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Guanabo

Cuban cuisine is an eclectic mix of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences and is known for its bold flavors and hearty portions. In Guanabo, you will find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving authentic Cuban dishes, snacks, and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ropa Vieja - A traditional Cuban dish made from shredded beef, onions, peppers, and tomatoes.
  • Congri - A Cuban rice and black beans dish that’s usually served with roasted chicken or pork.
  • Tostones - Fried green plantains, served with a garlic sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Mojito - A classic Cuban cocktail made with rum, lime juice, mint, and soda water.
  • Cuba Libre - A cocktail made with rum, cola, and lime juice.
  • Cristal Beer - A popular Cuban beer known for its crisp and refreshing taste.

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

Guanabo has plenty of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. Some of the popular options are:

  • Casa Verde - A budget-friendly hostel that offers private and shared rooms, free breakfast, and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Hotel Club Arenal - A charming hotel that offers beach access, a pool, and oceanfront rooms.
  • Casa Mar Havana - A guesthouse located in Havana, five minutes from the beach, which offers comfortable and spacious rooms, a communal living area, and a rooftop terrace.

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

Some popular souvenirs to buy in Guanabo include:

  • Cuban Cigars - A classic souvenir from Cuba, be sure to purchase them from reputable stores.
  • Coffee - Cuba has rich and aromatic coffee, which is an excellent souvenir for coffee lovers.
  • Local Handicrafts - Cuban art, clothing, and household items are unique, colourful and eye-catching and can be an excellent souvenir of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Guanabo

Cubans are warm, friendly, and hospitable people, who take pride in their history and traditions. Guanabo’s culture and customs are a reflection of the larger Cuban culture, which emphasises family values, music, and dancing. Tourism is critical to the local economy, and travelers should respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Guanabo

The best time to visit Guanabo is during the dry season, which runs from December to May, when the weather is sunny, warm, and dry, with temperatures averaging 25 to 28°C. The rainy season runs from May to October, but it’s still possible to travel during this period if you don’t mind occasional rains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guanabo

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local Cuban cuisine and delicacies.
  • Carry cash as some places may not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Take photographs of locals without their permission.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guanabo

Guanabo is a safe place to visit, but it’s essential to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding less-populated areas at night.

Health in Guanabo

Cuba has a reputable healthcare system, and travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical treatments.

Getting to Guanabo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guanabo can be reached by air or by bus. Some popular options are:

Airports Near Guanabo

  • Jose Marti International Airport - Located in Havana, which is 45 minutes drive from Guanabo.

Bus Stations Near Guanabo

  • Viazul Bus Station - Located in Havana, which has daily departures to Guanabo.

Other Options

  • Shared Taxis - A quick and safe option, shared taxis are readily available and usually cheaper than regular taxis.

How to Get Around in Guanabo

Getting around Guanabo is easy, either by walking or by taxi. Taxis are the most convenient mode of travel and are readily available. Be sure to agree on a price in advance to avoid getting overcharged.

Where to Go Next from Guanabo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cuba has many nearby destinations to explore, and some popular ones are:

  • Havana - The vibrant and colorful capital city, home to museums, restaurants, and art galleries.
  • Varadero - Known for its stunning beaches, restaurants, and water sports.
  • Trinidad - A colonial town that boasts beautiful cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and a vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Guanabo offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, natural parks, or indulging in Cuban cuisine, Guanabo has something to offer everyone. With our travel guide, you’re sure to have a memorable and unforgettable experience in Guanabo.