Cuba
Dive into Cuba's clear oceans to discover stunning coral reefs, or hike through the emerald expanses of Viñales Valley, where the earth tells tales of ancient times. Feel the adrenaline as you zip-line across breathtaking landscapes, and then slow down to wander through colorful, colonial cities.
Popular Cuba Adventure Tours
Snapshot of Cuba Adventure Travel
Without a doubt, Cuba blends natural beauty with historical charm. Here are some top destinations and activities for those seeking adventure by booking a guided Cuba tour:
Viñales Valley: Famous for its striking limestone formations (mogotes) and tobacco fields, Viñales Valley offers exceptional hiking, rock climbing, and cave exploration opportunities. Horseback riding tours allow you to experience the area's serene beauty and traditional agricultural practices up close.
Zapata Peninsula: This biosphere reserve is a haven for nature lovers. The Ciénaga de Zapata is the largest wetland in the Caribbean, perfect for bird watching, fishing, and eco-tours. Diving in the Bay of Pigs (Playa Girón) reveals stunning underwater sites, including coral reefs and sunken ships.
Trinidad and the Escambray Mountains: The colonial city of Trinidad, near the Escambray Mountains, is a perfect base for adventure. Trek through the Topes de Collantes nature reserve to discover hidden waterfalls, swim in natural pools, and explore cave systems.
Baracoa: Located on the eastern tip of the island, Baracoa is Cuba's oldest city and a paradise for eco-tourists. Hike through the lush El Yunque National Park to reach the flat-topped El Yunque mountain. Explore rivers and waterfalls, such as the Rio Toa, offering white-water rafting and kayaking.
Soroa and Las Terrazas: Known for its orchid gardens, Soroa, along with the nearby eco-community of Las Terrazas, is an excellent spot for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying Cuba's rich biodiversity. Zip-lining through Las Terrazas offers a unique perspective on the area's lush landscapes.
Diving and snorkeling: With over 500 species of fish and 50 types of coral, Cuba's underwater world is incredibly rich. The Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) Marine Park is a remote and pristine area renowned for its sharks, while Maria la Gorda is known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Cycling: For an up close and personal take, cycling is a fantastic way to see Cuba. The island's relatively flat terrain, scenic vistas, and rural roads make for an unforgettable journey through both countryside and historic cities.
Cuba Travel FAQs
The Tourist Visa (or Tourist Card) is required by the Cuban Government for travelers from nearly every country. We recommend checking the entry requirements for your nationality to determine whether this information applies to you. The visa is valid for one entry for a stay of up to 90 days but can be renewed for an additional 90 days while you are in Cuba. It is important not to lose your visa while in Cuba because they will collect it when you depart.
If you are flying directly to Cuba from the US (e.g. Miami, Tampa, Houston), regardless of nationality, you need a Pink visa. You will purchase the visa in the airport before you board your flight to Havana. In the process of purchasing the visa, you will be asked to verify that you are traveling legally to Cuba. This is the time to select your category of general license, the most common is 'Support for the Cuban People.' The pink visa will cost between US$50-100 and the transaction takes just a few minutes to process. Some US airlines will also allow you to buy the visa in advance and ship it to your home. Airline call center staff are usually not well informed about travel to Cuba, so it's best to search the airline's website (Airline name + Cuba + Visa in a Google search) instead of calling to ask about the Cuba visa.
If you are flying from any country other than the US to Cuba (even on a US passport), you will buy what is known as the Green visa. We recommend checking your visa requirements with your local consulate. As an overview, here are the general visa requirements for various nationalities/countries of departure: -Flying from Latin America or the Caribbean (e.g. Mexico, Panama, Cayman): Purchase your visa at the airport during check-in for your flight to Cuba. The cost is around US$25-30. Verify with your airline in case of changes. You can also purchase in advance from a third-party visa service. - Flying from Canada: The visa is usually included with your flight. Verify with your airline. - Flying from Europe: The easiest way to get your visa is to buy from a third-party servicer. There are several companies that will ship the visa to your home. Make sure you order the tourist card with sufficient time to receive it before your trip. You can also deal directly with your local consulate.
Yes, by booking through Skyhook, you'll be joining a guided small-group adventure. The trips listed on Skyhook offer various activities, such as hiking, diving, snorkeling, horse riding, zip lining, and scuba diving. You'll be booking with a reputable local operators who will enrich your experience.