Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip Itinerary
Are you ready for a thrilling adventure? Embark on the Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip and explore the best of Cuba! This 1162km journey starts in Havana and ends in Havana, taking you through Viñales, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spiritus, and Matanzas. This 12-day road trip is best experienced between December and April, when the temperatures are mild and the skies are clear.
As you make your way through each town, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and UNESCO Heritage Monuments. Be aware of the curvy roads and narrow roads you might encounter, as well as the overall poor road conditions.
This road trip offers a unique experience that will provide you with memories for a lifetime. Suitable for all types of drivers, it is also easy on the pocket, allowing you to enjoy a high-end experience at a fair budget. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a Cuban adventure of a lifetime!
12
number of days
1,158 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Havana
Distance 1,158 km
Driving time 26.4 h
Pace: slow
266.4 kWh
Airports
HAV
,
VRA
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Havana, the vibrant capital of Cuba, is the perfect starting point for the "Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip". Home to a plethora of attractions, Havana is a great place to explore for a few days before beginning your road trip. Start by visiting the iconic Plaza de la Revolución, the grandiose Capitolio Nacional, and the old city of Habana Vieja, lined with cobblestone streets and architectural wonders. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Malecón, the 8-kilometer seawall, or take a stroll through the beautiful Parque de la Fraternidad.
For those flying into Havana, the José Martí International Airport (IATA: HAV) is the closest international airport and offers car rental services. From there, it is easy to hit the open highway and experience the vibrant culture of Cuba. There are plenty of roadside attractions and natural wonders to explore as you make your way to the next destination on your Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip.
1
Havana
- Viñales
Distance 184 km
Driving time 6.0 h
Pace: slow
42.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip adventure that starts in Havana and ends in Viñales, only 184 km away and a drive of less than 6 hours. Along the way, you will have the chance to admire the stunning views of the Cuban countryside. Keep your eyes peeled for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Along the route, you’ll find UNESCO Heritage sites, winding roads, and narrow roads. Don’t forget to take time to stop and take in the beauty of this amazing place. Make sure to take lots of pictures to remember your journey. After the journey, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a peaceful stay in Viñales. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Viñales - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - Pikist
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2
Viñales
- Güines
Distance 224 km
Driving time 6.4 h
Pace: slow
51.6 kWh
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Get ready for an incredible road trip from Viñales to Güines! This 225 km journey is filled with some of the most amazing sights Cuba has to offer. You will be able to take in the breathtaking views of the lush valley of Viñales and get to explore some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way. The winding roads surrounded by the stunning green landscapes and quaint villages will make this drive even more enjoyable. The roads can be narrow in some sections so please drive with caution. During this journey, you can also enjoy the picturesque views of the majestic mountains and the scenic road. In Güines, you will find plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. All in all, this adventure will take you less than 7 hours, so it is perfect for a day trip. To get the most out of your journey, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites.
Güines - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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3
Güines
- Cienfuegos
Distance 193 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
57.9 kWh
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Embark on a captivating road trip from Güines to Cienfuegos and explore the beauty of Cuba! This 193 km journey will take no more than three hours and will take you through some of Cuba's most interesting attractions. Start your journey in Güines, as you drive through the winding roads, you will have the opportunity to admire the beautiful Cuban countryside, take in the scenery of the coastal city of Cienfuegos, and visit many of the historical sites along the way. Along the route, you will also come across narrow roads and steep hills. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the stunning views! At the end of the journey, you will reach the city of Cienfuegos. Be sure to explore its colonial architecture and the Parque José Martí. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Cienfuegos - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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4
Cienfuegos
- Trinidad
Distance 83 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
21.5 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Cienfuegos to Trinidad, just 83km away. This drive will take you less than two hours and will pass through some of Cuba's most unique and beautiful scenery. You will be able to visit the UNESCO Heritage sites of Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Valle de los Ingenios. The winding roads of the region offer breathtaking views of the Cuban countryside, and some sections of the route will be narrow. There will also be plenty of opportunities to explore the unique culture of this region, with its stunning colonial towns and historical sites. As you drive, take the time to admire the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, the lush green hills, and the winding roads. Along the way, you can also make stops at some of the local restaurants and campsites to enjoy a delicious meal or a relaxing night under the stars. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” section of this stage.
Trinidad - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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5
Trinidad
- Sancti Spiritus
Distance 0 km
Driving time 0.0 h
Pace: slow
0.0 kWh
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Embark on an epic road trip starting in the vibrant city of Trinidad, Cuba and ending in Sancti Spiritus. This 0 km journey will take you fewer than 0 hours, and along the way you will be able to admire stunning views of the Cuban countryside. You will find the road winding in some sections, and narrow in others, so keep your eyes open and be careful as you drive. On your way, don't forget to visit some of the most interesting sites in the area. In Trinidad, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire the colonial architecture. Then, head to the Valle de los Ingenios, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for its incredible landscape. Finally, in Sancti Spiritus, make sure to explore the historic center, where you can find the beautiful Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad church. There are plenty of other attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" section for more information.
Sancti Spiritus - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - Max Pixel
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6
Sancti Spiritus
- Santa Clara
Distance 70 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
18.3 kWh
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Take a road trip and explore the beauty of Sancti Spiritus and Santa Clara! Start your journey in Sancti Spiritus, a city of culture and tradition located in the heart of Cuba, and travel the 70km to Santa Clara – a journey that can be completed in fewer than 2 hours. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and the scenic roads, and keep an eye out for historical sites that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. As you drive, make sure to explore the attractions in both cities – the 19th century Yayabo Bridge in Sancti Spiritus and the Ernesto Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara are must-sees. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Santa Clara - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Santa Clara
- Matanzas
Distance 92 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
23.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Santa Clara to Matanzas? This 95 kilometer journey will take you no more than two hours to complete and you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places Cuba has to offer.
In Santa Clara, be sure to visit the Monument to Che Guevara and La Caridad Theater. As you drive, take in the breathtaking views of the countryside, full of sugarcane fields and charming villages.
Once you arrive in Matanzas, you can visit the San Severino Castle and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The city is also known for its natural beauty and a visit to the San Juan River is a must.
Along the way, be sure to stop for some delicious Cuban snacks and drinks. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that offer local delicacies.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Matanzas - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Matanzas
- Havana
Distance 211 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: modest
54.9 kWh
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Embark on a road trip to discover the wonders of Matanzas and Havana, Cuba! Starting off in Matanzas, you'll visit the Bellamar Caves, a breathtaking underground network of limestone caves, and the Castillo de San Severino, a fortress built in 1745. Afterward, you'll drive 211 km east to Havana, the country's capital. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore some of Cuba's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Valle de los Ingenios and the city of Trinidad. When you reach Havana, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant cityscape and be able to explore the historical sites, such as the Plaza de la Revolución and the Catedral de San Cristóbal. For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for a memorable Cuban road trip. Viva la revolución!
Havana - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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9
Havana
Distance 100 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
30.0 kWh
Airports
HAV
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VRA
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Itinerary
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Havana, the vibrant capital of Cuba, is the last stop on the Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip. The old city of Havana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's full of amazing sights and sounds. The city is home to centuries-old fortresses, colonial buildings, and cobblestone streets. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from exploring the old city to taking a tour of the famous cigar factories.
When you're ready to explore, head to the Plaza de la Revolucion, which is a giant square in the center of the city. Here, you can find monuments honoring Cuba's revolutionary heroes, as well as the National Capitol Building. The Malecon, a seawall that lines the coast of Havana, is the perfect place to spend an evening, as it's lined with bars, restaurants, and shops.
On your way to the city, you can also take a side trip to the Cienfuegos, the city of parks and palaces. Here, you can explore the colonial architecture, check out the Afro-Cuban culture, and take a dip in the Caribbean Sea.
When you're ready to head home, the closest international airport to Havana is the José Martí International Airport (HAV), which is located just outside the city. Whether you're traveling by car or by air, Havana is the perfect way to end your Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip.
Havana - Cuba - Middle America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Havana
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End:
Havana
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Distance:
1,158 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
José Martí International Airport (HAV),
Juan Gualberto Gomez International Airport (VRA)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, July, August, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip, a captivating 1162km circuit that encapsulates the essence of Cuba's rich heritage and stunning natural vistas. Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Havana, this 12-day journey invites travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscape and cultural tapestry of Cuba. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the rhythmic beats of salsa, this Road Trip is a window into the soul of the Caribbean's largest island.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Havana: Delve into the heart of Cuba’s capital, a city frozen in time with its colonial fortresses, vintage cars, and the iconic Malecón esplanade. Don't miss Old Havana (Habana Vieja), a living museum of Spanish colonial architecture.
- Viñales: Surrender to the allure of the Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the surreal mogotes rise like green giants from the tobacco plantations, a testament to Cuba's famed cigar industry.
- Cienfuegos: Admire the architectural marvel of Palacio de Valle and the city's Parisian flair, a reflection of its French immigrant influence, earning it the nickname `The Pearl of the South.`
- Sancti Spíritus: Wander through the cobbled streets lined with colorful facades and colonial landmarks, offering a glimpse into Cuba's storied past.
- Matanzas: Discover why Matanzas is heralded as the `Athens of Cuba,` a hub of poetry and culture, also recognized for its significant role in the development of Cuban music, particularly rumba.
Best Time to Go:
To fully enjoy the Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip, consider traveling between December and April. This dry season promises the idyllic Caribbean climate—warm days, cool nights, and minimal rainfall—making it the perfect backdrop for Road Trips and outdoor adventures.
Potential Risks:
- Winding and narrow Roads may present a driving challenge, particularly in the countryside.
- Some areas have poorly maintained Roads; drivers should be cautious and alert.
- Sudden tropical weather shifts, although less likely in the dry season, can impact driving conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The entire journey is achievable for drivers at any level of experience.
- Cuba is cost-effective, allowing for an indulgent Trip that is also wallet-friendly.
- The island is a melting pot of African, European, and indigenous influences, offering a rich tapestry of experiences— from the historic sites of the revolution to the rhythmic dance scenes.
A good choice for:
The Isla Grande Highlights Road Trip is an invitation to an enchanting Cuban odyssey. It's a celebration of the island's multifaceted attractions, promising travelers a treasure trove of memories, all achievable on a modest budget and with the freedom of the open Road.
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