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Varadero is much more than a beach destination. Of course, it remains the ideal place to relax, enjoy the tranquillity and sip cocktails on a magnificent beach. But even the most zen of holidaymakers can tire of the same routine after seven days. Varadero may be your starting point, but the real journey begins when you leave the hotel! Beyond its heavenly beaches, Cuba has a unique wealth to discover. With this selection of carefully chosen day trips from Varadero, immerse yourself in history on a tour of Havana or the city of Matanzas, explore picturesque sugar cane fields or head out to sea to see colourful reefs.
These excursions will transform your all-inclusive Varadero holiday into an unforgettable experience and provide you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Cuba’s wealth of culture, history and natural beauty is ready to transform your trip into a voyage of discovery.
Jeep safari tour in Matanzas and the sugar cane fields of the Yumuri Valley
A jeep safari through the province of Matanzas is an invitation to discover the real Cuba. Crossing endless sugar cane fields, wandering through charming authentic villages and feeling the warm soul of this unique region will immerse you in an unforgettable adventure.
On this fantastic excursion, you’ll travel down the Yumuri Valley to take a boat ride on the peaceful Canimar River and enjoy a traditional meal at a ranch. All unforgettable moments where nature and culture come together. Next, you’ll explore the colonial city of Matanzas, where you’ll discover a rich history. This is followed by a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of the Saturno Cave.
This day trip ends with snorkelling at Coral Beach before returning to the Varadero all-inclusive. This excursion combines change of scenery, adventure and authentic discovery at every stage.
Catamaran cruise to Cayo Blanco from Varadero
Board a catamaran in Varadero for an 8-hour luxury cruise to the unspoilt island of Cayo Blanco.
This small island of approximately 15 square kilometres lies east of Varadero, in the heart of the Sabana-Camagüey archipelago. This natural gem owes its name to the fine, almost unreal white sand that covers its unspoilt beaches. Bordered by majestic palm trees and mangrove swamps rich in wildlife, this tropical haven is an invitation to serenity and wonder. Its crystal clear turquoise waters are home to exceptional marine biodiversity, ideal for admiring tropical fish and multicoloured corals, and a fascinating spectacle for snorkellers. A true paradise for nature lovers and sun worshippers!
This excursion offers plenty of on-board entertainment, festive music and an open bar for a great atmosphere. As you glide along the azure waters, the stresses and strains of everyday life will melt away!
Topes de Collantes, Cienfuegos and Trinidad
Treat yourself to an unforgettable two-day excursion to discover Cuba’s natural and cultural wonders. First stop is the Topes de Collantes, a region renowned for its spectacular scenery. In Cuba’s cool green mountains you can hike, discover spectacular waterfalls and enjoy some of the best coffee on the island. This vast rainforest-like nature reserve is home to caves, waterfalls, mountains, hummingbirds and peaks.
Then head to Guanayara Park for a hike through lush vegetation to the majestic El Rocio waterfall. Enjoy a relaxing swim in a natural pool, in harmony with Cuban nature. Spend the night in a cosy mountain hotel, the perfect place to recharge your batteries away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The next day, enhance your trip with a visit to the Che Guevara Memorial in Santa Clara, before strolling through the colonial streets of Cienfuegos and the city of Trinidad, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Pearl of the South will captivate you with its elegant French architecture, while Trinidad has a timeless charm with its cobbled streets and colourful facades. A unique cultural immersion in the heart of Cuba!
Are there day trips from Varadero to Havana attractions? Sure, Transat has two!
No visit to Cuba is complete without discovering Havana, a city pulsing with energy and history. This bustling capital is a living museum of decaying beauty and vibrant culture. Especially if you’ve got a taste for Hemingway’s literature! Start your adventure in Old Havana at Plaza de la Revolución (Revolution Square), dominated by the iconic image of Che Guevara, and admire El Capitolio, a stunning neoclassical gem.
Havana’s architecture is a fascinating mosaic of baroque, neoclassical and art deco styles. Its crumbling pastel buildings tell the story of centuries of history, while the majestic Capitol and colonial arcades of Habana Vieja contrast with the modern facades of the Malecón or the stunning Palacio de los Capitanes Generales. A city of captivating and unique charm!
Each of Havana’s neighbourhoods has its own unique charm, which you will discover when you climb aboard a vintage car for a guided tour of the city and its most beautiful corners. After a period of free time, you will witness the cannon firing ceremony at Fort El Morro.
- Havana Premium: This 10-hour day trip includes a guided tour of Havana in a vintage car as well as lunch.
- Habana Colonial: No car tour included in this 8-hour excursion, but plenty of free time for shopping and eating.
Snorkelling trip in Cuba’s Saturno cave
Start your morning with a snorkelling trip to Coral Beach, where vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life lie just 15 metres from the shore. The underwater scenery here is nothing short of spectacular!
Continue your adventure at Saturno Cave. Nestled in the bowels of the earth, the cave boasts a deep blue subterranean freshwater lagoon fed by clear, cool waters. Its rock formations, with imposing stalactites hanging from the ceiling, create a mystical atmosphere. This unique site, surrounded by limestone cliffs and bathed in natural light, offers the perfect setting to explore its nooks and crannies while swimming or admiring its tropical fish.
Diving equipment is included on this trip. All you need to bring is a sense of adventure and a desire to explore!
