Cuba Off The Beaten Track

Cuba

You might think that a trip to Cuba is itself a vacation spent off the beaten track, but it's possible to go even further when you head to these unique Cuba destinations. Achieve the impossible — escape crowds of travellers and manage to have a little bit of Cuba all to yourself. If it's an authentic experience you're seeking, you'll enjoy spending time in smaller towns full of locals.

Going off the beaten path will allow you to get to know the real Cuba. The tranquil beaches on Cuba’s islands will make you feel like lounging in the sunshine indefinitely. Visiting small towns gives you the chance to see Cuban culture and experience Cuban friendliness and generosity firsthand. Cuba holidays off the beaten track will also allow you to enjoy unique activities such as hiking, or learning about the roots of the island nation's oft forgotten indigenous population.

Cuba Off The Beaten Track
Destinations

Cuba Highlights

A curated look at the best Cuba has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Baracoa

Baracoa

Baracoa is one of the most remote destinations in Cuba. This small town borders the northeastern coast and is surrounded by some seriously scenic areas.

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Santa Clara

Santa Clara

Santa Clara is a midsized town in central Cuba. It’s best known for its massive Che memorial, but the city is also a good place to soak up unfiltered Cuban culture.

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Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos is a midsized town set along the south-central coast of Cuba. It has a pleasant colonial center, and French-styled boulevards that are perfect for strolling.

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Gibara

Gibara

Gibara is a small fishing town set along Cuba’s northeastern coast. It’s an unsung destination, but Gibara will appeal to travelers who like non-touristy places, fresh seafood, and coastal settings.

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Cienaga de Zapata

Cienaga de Zapata

Ciénaga de Zapata National Park is 82 miles (132 km) south of Havana, in Cuba’s Central Heartland region. This wildlife reserve protects miles of rare mangrove forest and swamps that are lively with unusual wildlife.

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Las Terrazas & Soroa

Las Terrazas & Soroa

Las Terrazas and Soroa are two small “eco-communities” set in the cool, forested hills of western Cuba. Located about an hour west of Havana, these two communities are easily accessible from the city and offer up a fine place to relax for a day or two. The air here is fresh, the mountains are lovely, and there aren’t crowds of tourists around.

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Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo

The small town of Santo Domingo lies amidst the forested Sierra Maestra in eastern Cuba. The setting – with tall mountains, lush forests, and clear streams – is lovely, and the area is home to Fidel’s rebel headquarters at La Comandancia de la Plata.

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Cayos de Villas Clara

Cayos de Villas Clara

The stunning islands of Cayos de Villa Clara are situated just off the northern coast of Cuba. Reached by a 31-mile-long (50-km) causeway, these islands boast lovely, uncrowded beaches.

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María La Gorda

María La Gorda

María la Gorda is located at the westernmost tip of Cuba. It’s a laid-back, remote beach set within the Guanahacabibes Peninsula National Park.

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Pinares de Mayarí

Pinares de Mayarí

Pinares de Mayarí is touted as a top ecotourism destination in Cuba. In reality, it’s an aging resort set in a remote pine forest. Even so, if you’re looking for peace and quiet in a natural area, this could be a good place for you.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Cuba Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Cuba itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

8 days | $$

Our Journey from Havana to Trinidad

Our hosts in Cuba went out of their way to make us feel welcome, as if we were staying in our own home.

Our Journey from Havana to Trinidad
Itinerary
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7 days | $$$

Discovering Cuba Together

It’s time to enjoy some quality time as a family. This vacation, unplug in Cuba — a colorful nation with a history still being written, and where time stood still.

Discovering Cuba Together
Itinerary
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5 days | $$

Pure Cuba: An Island Nation Essence

What if you could only visit Cuba for a limited time. What must you do? Why, explore Havana and Varadero Beach, of course. If you can distill an experience, this is it.

Pure Cuba: An Island Nation Essence
Itinerary
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5 days | $$$

Alone But Not Lonely: Cuba

See the world economically with this adventure for one on the island nation of Cuba. Your solo voyage lets you explore the beach and the city.

Alone But Not Lonely: Cuba
Itinerary
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5 days | $$$

Romantic Cuban Express

Don’t have a lot of vacation time? No problem! Spend 5-days and 4-nights enjoying sun, sand, Cuban culture, and plenty of opportunities to indulge in romantic moments.

Romantic Cuban Express
Itinerary
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7 days | $$$

In Search of The Lost Mojitos

Make the most of your vacation — get the sun, fun, and culture you seek on this amazing Cuban adventure through Havana, Varadero, and more.

In Search of The Lost Mojitos
Itinerary
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7 days | $$$

Feeling the Cuban Vibes

Fit a big vacation into a small time frame when you and your best friend get an authentic Cuban experience in 7 days and 6 nights.

Feeling the Cuban Vibes
Itinerary
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9 days | $$$

Romance 101: Essentials of Cuba

Need a romantic overview of Cuba? Then this Signature Trip is for you. Assembled by Local Experts, this getaway is guaranteed to give you the ideal Cuban experience.

Romance 101: Essentials of Cuba
Itinerary
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5 days | $$$

A Delicious Cuban Adventure

Prepare for plenty of food, fun, and adventure as you go on a vibrant tour of the island nation of Cuba. Hit the beach and the town, and sample the nation's flavors as you go.

A Delicious Cuban Adventure
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7 days | $$$

Classic Cars and Classical Charm

A trip to experience Cuba should be on everyone’s list!! We are still absorbing all the information and sites. Our trip was so much more amazing than we had even hoped.

Classic Cars and Classical Charm
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