While Havana captures the headlines, the southern coast of Central Cuba captures a diverse collection of converging cultures. About a 3.5 hour drive from the capitol,this trio of destinations offers a perfect loop for travelers seeking colonial grandeur, French-inspired elegance, and the raw, rugged beauty of the Cuban countryside. The coastline boasts cliffs and coves with easy, clear waters dotted with coral reefs.
If you want a tropical escape that is lush, exotic, and environmentally conscious, western Cuba should be at the top of your travel list.
Go ahead. Start dreaming.
Here’s a glimpse at what awaits you in Cuba.
South Central Cuba unfolds at a slower, more romantic pace—where cobblestone streets, coastal breezes, and tucked-away natural escapes create a richly textured experience. In Trinidad, often called the Museum City, centuries of history live on in pastel plazas, preserved architecture, and a vibrant arts scene.
Living History – Trinidad is a perfectly preserved Spanish colonial time capsule
Neoclassical Elegance – Cienfuegos with its boulevards, grand palaces, and the island’s most refined architectural layout.
Mountain-to-Sea Adventures – The region spans from the lush hiking trails and waterfalls of el Nicho, the Topes de Collantes mountains to the dramatic seaside cliffs of Guajimico.
Nautical Heritage – Centered around the massive Bay of Cienfuegos, the area is a hub for sailing, kayaking, and exploring hidden coastal coves and mangrove forests.
Artisan Craftsmanship – From the world-famous “Needlework of Trinidad” to the local pottery studios, the region is the heart of Cuba’s traditional hand-crafted arts.
The Tinajón Legacy – The region is defined by its iconic tinajones (massive clay jars). Originally used to collect rainwater, they are now the soulful symbol of the province and can be seen in almost every courtyard.
Cienfuegos offers a selection of elegant and meticulously restored mansions by the sea or hotels downtown. In Trinidad you can stay in private homes on cobblestone streets within walking distance of live music and nightlife or you can stay at the most upscale 5-star resort on the island about 25 minutes away on the beach. No matter where you stay, you’ll have a mixture of contradictory and layered experiences filled with the warmth of the Cuban people.
Combined with Havana, the central southern coast—is a must-visit because it offers a complete, condensed experience of Cuba’s history, culture, and nature within a short distance of each other. Visiting them together allows you to move from Spanish colonial charm to French elegance and then directly into rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Plan a trip just for you and your favorite people! Enjoy the flexibility to choose your destination, pace, and activities— with only your friends and family along for the adventure.
Start with your own group, then open the trip to a few fellow travelers. Meet new people, share the journey and make the experience more affordable for everyone.
Join a ready-to-go trip and meet new friends along the way! Enjoy a mix of planned activities, local highlights, and plenty of time to explore together.
