Havana & Colonial Trinidad Sample Itinerary*
*A significant portion of your in-country programming is customized for each group in order to maximize your cultural experience. Many of our visits are not tourist destinations and are not always available, therefore, this program should be considered as a sample only, and may not be the actual itinerary for your particular program.
Day 1: Bienvenidos a Havana!
Welcome to Havana! After clearing immigration and customs, your Cuban host will greet you and accompany you to your hotel in the heart of Havana. Take some time to settle in, and spend the rest of the day soaking up the incredible sights and sounds of the city. Later that evening, celebrate your arrival with a welcome dinner at the hotel.
(Dinner included)
Day 2: Explore Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
Your first full day in Havana begins with a warm greeting from your Cuban host and breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a stroll through the streets of historic Habana Vieja, exploring the famous Cathedral Square, Plaza de Armas, and the City Museum. The city has been restored to its historic splendor by UNESCO World Heritage; it exudes colonial charm at its finest and is a must-see for all travelers.
Later that morning, visit La Casa del Niño y la Niña (The House of the Boy and Girl) which provides social and educative services for families.
As the sun hangs low, tour through the Vedado and Centro Habana neighborhoods before indulging in a sweet treat at Copellia Ice Cream Emporium, which was featured in the movie Fresa y Chocolate (Strawberries and Chocolate).
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 3: Visit Abel Santamaria School, Castillo del Morro, and the Malecon
Today you’ll have the special opportunity to visit with the Abel Santamaria School for the Blind and Deaf. Located on the outskirts of Havana, the school provides care for special needs children between the ages of four and fourteen. Your time together is sure to be filled with stories, smiles and lots of laughter.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Then, with a full heart and stomach, take a stroll through the beautiful Castillo del Morro (Morro Castle), the majestic waterfront, and the elegant neighborhood of Miramar. Tonight, take in dinner with your fellow participants, sharing stories and reflecting on the day’s events.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 4: Visit children at a local orphanage and Hammel's Alley
Today you’ll make a special trip to the Hogar para Niños sin Amparo Filial Bauta orphanage right outside of Havana. Visits from Americans are so rare and exciting for these children; you’ll be greeted with outstretched arms and open hearts.
In the afternoon you'll visit Callejón de Hammel (Hammel’s Alley) – a community project promoting art, music, and culture. You'll have the incredible opportunity to meet with several Afro-Cuban artists for an up-close and personal look at the thriving arts scene.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 5: Travel to Trinidad
It’s off to Trinidad! First stop is Santa Clara for lunch and then continue through Cienfuegos, on a drive that winds along the Caribbean coast to the charming old town of Trinidad. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad is one of the best preserved towns in Latin America.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 6: Explore Trinidad
Start the day with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Trinidad, nestled in between the Caribbean Sea to the south and the Sierra del Escambray mountains to the north.
In the afternoon, visit the School of Social Work to meet with students and professors where you will learn about issues facing the region. You will then make your way to the local health clinic to learn about socialized medicine in this rural province. Round out the afternoon by visiting with the leaders and participants of a prominent women’s group and learn how they play a vital role in their local community.
This evening we encourage you to venture on your own to Casa de la Musica. This outdoor venue is famous for live music and dancing where you will be entertained by some of Cuba’s most talented musicians.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 7: Travel Back to Havana
Today you’ll make your way back to Havana. Commemorate your time in Cuba with a farewell dinner with our Cuban hosts at Casa de la Amistad.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 8: Adios Cuba!
After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to Cuba as you board your flight back home.
(Breakfast included)