Varadero Travel Guide

Explore Varadero with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food and drink options, cultural customs, safety and health information, and transportation options.


Introduction to Varadero

Varadero is a stunning resort town located on the Hicacos peninsula in western Cuba, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and the Bay of Cardenas. It is renowned for its pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, breathtaking natural scenery, and lively culture. Varadero is perfect for a relaxing holiday with your loved ones, honeymoon, or solo adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Varadero

Varadero boasts several attractions that are worth visiting, including culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, and activities/tours. Here are some of the most popular:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bellamar Caves - a fascinating network of limestone caves
  • Monumento a las Victimas del Maine - a monument dedicated to the sailors who died in the USS Maine explosion in 1898
  • House of Rum - a museum showcasing the history of rum in Cuba
  • Josone Park - a luxurious garden featuring exotic flora and fauna, a lake, a restaurant, and a small amusement park

Natural Attractions of Varadero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Varadero Beach - the main attraction of Varadero, offering crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches
  • Saturno Cave - a natural underground pool offering a unique swimming experience
  • Varahicacos Ecological Reserve - a beautiful area with diverse flora and fauna, offering hiking and birdwatching opportunities
  • Gaviota Varadero Marina - a marina that offers various activities such as boat rides, fishing, and snorkeling

Hiking/Biking Routes of Varadero

  • Parque Natural Punta Hicacos - a beautiful park that offers several hiking trails and pristine beaches
  • Peninsula de Zapata - the largest wetland in the Caribbean, offering diverse flora and fauna to explore
  • Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos - a protected area with various hiking trails, lagoons, and birdwatching opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Varadero: Activities and Tours

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling - explore the fascinating underwater world of Varadero and experience the color and diversity of life within the coral reef.
  • Catamaran cruise - enjoy a leisurely catamaran ride along the coastline while marveling at the beauty of the sea
  • Havana day trip - explore the capital city, Havana, and discover its rich history and culture
  • Cuban show - enjoy a night of entertainment with Cuban music, dance, and delicious food

Week-Long Itinerary for Varadero

  • Day 1: Arrive in Varadero and explore Josone Park
  • Day 2: Visit the Bellamar Caves and the Monumento a las Victimas del Maine
  • Day 3: Scuba diving or snorkeling in the coral reefs
  • Day 4: Hiking in Parque Natural Punta Hicacos or Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos
  • Day 5: Day trip to Havana
  • Day 6: Catamaran cruise along the coastline
  • Day 7: Departure day

Food and Drink Scene of Varadero

Cuban cuisine is a blend of African, European, and indigenous culinary traditions. When in Varadero, here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ropa Vieja - shredded beef stew with tomato sauce, garlic and peppers
  • Arroz con Pollo - yellow rice with chicken and vegetables
  • Lechón Asado - slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus juices and spices
  • Tostones - fried plantain slices

Local Beverages

  • Mojito - a classic Cuban cocktail made of white rum, sugar, lime juice, mint leaves, and soda
  • Cuba Libre - a cocktail made with white rum and cola, garnished with a wedge of lime
  • Cristal beer - a light lager and the most popular beer in Cuba
  • Cafe Cubano - a type of espresso that is strong and sweet.

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

Varadero offers an array of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the popular choices include:

  • Iberostar Varadero - an all-inclusive resort with five pools, private beach access, and several restaurants and bars
  • Melia Las Americas - a luxurious beachfront resort with an 18-hole golf course, spa, and 3 outdoor pools
  • Hostal Calle 4 - a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Varadero, offering clean and comfortable rooms.

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

Cuba is famous for its cigars, rum, coffee beans, and handmade artisanal products. Here are some of the things you can bring home as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones:

  • Cohiba cigars - premium hand-made cigars made from Cuban tobacco
  • Havana Club rum - a high-quality rum made from sugar cane juice
  • Coffee beans - Cuba produces excellent quality coffee beans from its lush mountainous regions
  • Handicrafts - local artisans create beautiful handmade pottery, wooden carvings, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Varadero

Cubans are warm and hospitable people, so expect to receive a lot of kindness and smiles when you visit Varadero. However, it is important to respect local customs and culture, such as:

  • Greeting people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
  • Removing your shoes when entering someone’s home
  • Dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Varadero

The best time to visit Varadero is from November to April, when the weather is pleasant, and there is low humidity. From May to October, the weather is hot and humid, and there might be occasional rainfall and hurricanes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Varadero

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Varadero:

Do:

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases
  • Exchange currency at Cadeca or official banks
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks
  • Dress in light, breathable clothing

Don’t:

  • Use unlicensed taxis
  • Carry large amounts of cash
  • Wear flashy jewelry or show off expensive gadgets
  • Take pictures of military personnel or installations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Varadero

Varadero is a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates compared to other Caribbean destinations. However, it is always advisable to take some precautions:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
  • Keep your belongings safe and secure
  • Avoid carrying valuable items with you
  • Use official and licensed transportation services.

Health in Varadero

Cuba has a well-developed healthcare system that offers quality medical care to both locals and tourists. Visitors are advised to take the following precautions:

  • Drink bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases
  • Wear sunblock to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays
  • Consult with your doctor before visiting Varadero to get any necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Varadero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Varadero

Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA) is the main airport that services Varadero. It is located about 30 minutes away from the city center. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the airport to your hotel.

Bus Stations Near Varadero

Viazul is the national bus company in Cuba, offering affordable transportation between different cities and towns. The nearest Viazul bus stations to Varadero are:

  • Matanzas Bus Station - located about 20 kilometers away from Varadero
  • Cardenas Bus Station - located about 35 kilometers away from Varadero

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or rent a car to get to Varadero from other parts of Cuba. However, it is important to note that gas stations are sparse, and there might be limitations on where you can travel with a rental car.

How to Get Around in Varadero

Varadero is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. You can also use:

  • Taxis - official taxis are marked with a yellow sign and are relatively affordable.
  • Bikes - bike rentals are available at resorts and hotels.
  • Buses - buses run between different parts of Varadero, but they can be crowded and infrequent.

Where to Go Next from Varadero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Varadero is an excellent hub to explore other nearby destinations such as:

  • Trinidad - a historic town with colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.
  • Havana - the capital city of Cuba and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Cienfuegos - a charming coastal city with French-inspired architecture.

Conclusion

Varadero is a captivating destination for travelers looking to relax, unwind, and experience a blend of rich cultural heritage with stunning natural surroundings. Use this guide to explore Varadero’s attractions, food, and cultural customs, and make the most of your visit to this enchanting town.

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