Guaranteed departures for 6 or more people! Please inquire today to begin the booking process.
Discover Eastern Cuba
Join us on the first-ever kayak and walking tour of Eastern Cuba and discover why Christopher Columbus laid his eyes on the region and declared it "the most beautiful land human eyes have seen."
Cuba flips the paradigm, and on the other side of the island you can find the wild wild east…for now. Compared to Central and Western Cuba, Eastern Cuba (or Cuba’s Oriente) is a little more raw. A little more unrestrained. A lot less visited. We’ve scouted out the finest kayaking waters where you will be the only paddlers, in a private tropical paradise.
Discover why Christopher Columbus laid his eyes on the region and declared it “the most beautiful land human eyes have seen.” Though time has passed since 1492, the Oriente still embraces winsome coastlines, tranquil rivers, and striking mountains. The towns are no less vibrant, and their lack of infrastructure and tourist trappings only add to its unadulterated allure.
We have designed this tour as a stand-alone kayak-centric adventure, that can also be combined with continued exploration of eastern Cuba on one of our two walking itineraries.
Our 8-day Support for the Cuban People kayak tour starts and ends in Holguin, Cuba’s fourth-largest city with daily air connections from the USA and other parts of the world. Near Holguin, Gibara’s cobalt bays first caught Columbus’ eyes, and as you stand by ta statue commemorating the legendary explorer you can imagine what it must have felt like to lay eyes on the island long ago. We explore this north coast by kayak for three days, then follow the steps of Buena Vista Social Club’s famous song “Chan Chan” and make our way to Mayarí and into the mountains to Cuba’s highest waterfall. Then we return to the coast for more kayaking at the surrealistic African safari island of Cayo Saetia where zebras and buffaloes roam. Then it’s back to Holguin for flights home.
Or, should you opt for continuing with us, we head to the mountains. Our Cuba’s Wild East tour takes you east to Alexander Humboldt National Park and Cuba’s oldest town, Baracoa. Our Origins of the Revolution tour takes you south, to the Sierra Maestra where the Revolution started. Both routes end up in Santiago de Cuba, which moves to its own tempo: it’s more frenetic, more keyed up, more exposed than other Cuban cities. Get off the smooth tour track and dive deeper into Cuban culture, dig deeper into its history of rebellion and repression, and look deeper into Cuba auténtica.
A scene of natural beauty is a story written over scores of years, a character formed by storms and sun. Let Cuba tell you its story on our Eastern Cuba Kayak tour! Our paddle excursions are two to four hours and cover 3 to 8 miles on average. Most of our paddles are in relatively protected waters, on rivers or in bays. Walks are from one to five miles.
*This trip was selected in OUTSIDE Magazine as one of the top 25 trips to take in 2018.
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 0
Commercial flights from the United States to Havana are the standard mode of travel between the two countries, and we ask that our guests book their own travel between the U.S. and Holguin. This tour will begin in Holguin upon your arrival at the airport on Day 1. If you arrive on Day 0 then we will meet you about 1-2 hours after the flight arrival of anyone not arriving on Day 0. We recommend you arrive a day early to allow for flight delays or cancellations and we are happy to book an extra night's accommodation for you as a tour extension.
If you prefer to arrive on Day 1, we will meet you at the airport, gather those people that arrived the day before and then start the tour.
You might also consider flying to Miami on Day 0 and spending the night there, and then flying to Cuba the next morning.
We are happy to offer guidance with scheduling your travel to and from Cuba, and our office staff is ready to answer any questions you may have.
Note: Travel in Cuba requires a flexible attitude. Our days are full, and as required by U.S. law, we have a full-time agenda of Support for the Cuban People activities. Cuba has it’s own beat and things don’t always run on time. The activities and visits listed are not guaranteed but we endeavor to do our best to provide the content intent of this supportive program. Visiting developing countries can be eye-opening and life-changing, and hopefully visiting Cuba is both. Accommodations may not be up to the standards you are used to. Sometimes the hot water or air conditioning doesn’t work. We ask all our guests to appreciate the authenticity of your cultural encounters as well as the people, food, culture, and adventures that are exceptional in their difference. Our Cuba Unbound Tour Leader promise to do their best to make this a fascinating and educational experience.
Day 1
Arrive Holguín – Introduction to Cuba
After everyone is gathered, we explore Holguin. Though it’s no Havana, Holguín has its own appeal with its 18th century churches and colonial plazas and is known as the “city of parks”. It’s a real pleasure to wander the streets, find a bench in one of the parks and watch the world go by. There’s a stout walk up to the top of Lomas de la Cruz, crowned with a cross that has stood here since 1790 and from the base of which are grand vistas over the surrounding landscape.
Day 2
Paddle Bahia Puerto Padre, Farm Lunch, Special Jazz Performance
From Holguin we drive west through sugar cane fields and country landscapes toward the small town of Puerto Padre. We arrive at our kayaking launch and begin our first kayak paddle after a safety and orientation talk. We paddle about two or three hours (depending on winds) on the large, protected Bay of Puerto Padre. Our local guides tell about life as a fisherman in this small town and we may see fishermen throwing their nets, or searching for shrimp. After our paddle, we drive a short distance to our lunch at a local farm to enjoy a traditional pig roast feast! The lovely family welcomes us and we learn from them about this carefully-tended farm that has been in their family for generations.
From lunch we head into the small town of Puerto Padre for yet another wonderful local experience. The town is the birthplace to Emiliano Salvador, a legendary jazz pianist and also, Juan Pablo Torres, a legendary trombone player. Today, a small group of musicians continues their tradition and we meet with them to learn about this special history and hear their music. We then drive east to the coastal town of Gibara where we will spend a total of three nights.
A charming fishing town that is slowly seductive, wily yet understated—Gibara is ideal for travelers disenchanted with throngs of tourists and looking for a Cuba that remains much as it has been. We enjoy dinner featuring some of Cuba’s favorite dishes including the freshest of fresh seafood at a local paladar.
Day 3
Bay of Gibara, Cigar Factory, and Caverna de los Panaderos
After breakfast we drive a short distance from the sea to paddle down a slow-moving river coursing through fields and mangroves that are home to a variety of birdlife, toward the Bay of Gibara. The river arrives in Gibara Bay and another 20 minutes has us washing up against the shores of Gibara. After a quick change of clothes in the hotel we meet for lunch.
We then visit a state-run cigar factory to learn about the art of cigar making and the many steps required from green leaf to brown cigar. The workers take pride in showing off their skills. Then we go to the Caverna de los Panaderos, caves tucked under limestone hills located just outside of town. Our local guide leads us through the caverns that hold a labyrinth of 19 mineral galleries where glittering stalactites catch the minimal light. Wander the dark caves in search of “the mammoth”—an elephantine knob—as well as a lake lying in silent, calm anticipation with Tolkien-esque mysticism. Our guide is a fount of knowledge, providing excellent tutoring in the geology of the caves and eastern Cuba, telling us about his local caving club and their work with local youth.
There’s a bit of time to relax before dinner at an excellent paladar where you can taste some more Cuban food prepared with a local flair and accompanied by lively Cuban music.
Day 4
Explore & Kayak Gibara
We wake early and spend our day exploring more of Gibara and its inviting bay. There’s some dispute over where Christopher Columbus first landed. Gibara, specifically the Silla de Gibara rising, is believed to have been first seen by Christopher Columbus in 1492; meanwhile, Holguín claims he first landed at Cayo Bariay, and both lay claim to Columbus’ proclamation of it being “the most beautiful land human eyes have ever seen.” Decide for yourself as you explore Gibara today!
First up, we kayak around the bay where fishermen ply the waters for shrimp and crab. We paddle up the mangrove-lined Gibara River, with good birdwatching as we go. We return to the bay, and perhaps a little wind and swell as we make our way back to our beach take-out point. From there it’s off to an exquisite lunch of the region’s bounty.
We meet with Señor Jose for a stimulating Support for the Cuban People exchange. Jose is a host of local radio and TV show as well as a master of several languages including English, French, Portuguese, and Russian. He gives us a tour of the town, bringing to life its once-vibrant history as a cultural and trade center as well as its still-vital annual hosting of the international film festival, the Festival Internacional de Cine Pobre. We visit the Iglesia de San Fulqencia and discuss the history and current status of religion in Cuba. We also visit the local Museum of Natural History and a few other interesting sites in the town.
Tonight is our final night in Gibara and we enjoy yet one more fine meal at a paladar.
Day 5
Visit Cuba’s Highest Waterfall and Town of Mayarí
We gather for a fresh breakfast before heading out to the east towards Mayarí following the distinguished “Ruta de Chan Chan.” Compay Segundo’s canonical song “Chan Chan” is now immortalized by a 360 km route that follows along the iconic places mentioned in the song such as Macarné, Cueto, and Mayarí as well as several other towns bounded by Sierra del Cristal.
Once we reach the town of Mayarí, we head south into the mountains to the Parque Nacional la Mensura and then on to a forested area of Caribbean pines known as the Pinares de Mayarí. It’s a lofty region settled neatly over the cloud line and the entire region is perfumed with crisp pine.
Our destination is the Gran Salto del Guayabo, the second highest waterfall in Cuba at over 100m in height. With our local Park guide, we enjoy a quality experience as we hike through the lush tropical forest where orchids grow and Cuban’s national bird, the Cuban Trogan, may be seen. We enjoy a fine panoramic view of the falls and mountains from the top of the highest falls. Then we walk to the top of the other falls to play in the water and watch as water cascades down the rock face in frothing streams until it meets the waiting pool below.
After our lunch, hike, and swim, we descend back to the town of Mayarí. This is an agriculturally rich part of Cuba and we may pass ox or horse carts hauling their goods. We arrive at our Casa Particulares (Bed & Breakfasts) and have time before dinner for a stroll through town.
Day 6
Kayak & Snorkel Cayo Saetía
We drive a bit over an hour to one of Cuba’s more idiosyncratic spots, Cayo Saetía, an island located in Cuba’s largest bay, Bahía de Nipe. In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Cayo Saetía was a favorite haunt for communist apparatchiks looking for the thrill of some large wild game hunting a la Hemingway himself. Fidel and Raul both stayed here. Now, the animals are protected in the wildlife park rather than vulnerable to passing bullets. That being said, Cayo Saetía is the closest to an African Safari Cubans get on the island with its 19 species of exotic, introduced animals including zebras, camels, antelopes, ostriches, wild boar, water buffalo and peacocks.
We paddle along the western side of the island, stopping for a relaxed beach lunch and swim. We continue skimming over the waters until we reach a protected beach to end our paddle. On our way back to Mayeri we take a mini-safari to see some of the island’s African animals.
We stay in Mayari for another night in our Casa Particulares.
Day 7
Kayak and Snorkel Cayo Saetía
We return to the island of Cayo Saetía for a day of beaches, snorkeling and kayaking. With our local guides who help us better understand the history of this place as well as the underwater marvels, we have a relaxed day. Here we find some of the most sublime coastal scenery in all of Cuba. The white sand beaches and secluded coves lend a Caribbean air to the otherwise African ambience. We take to the kayaks and glide along the azure waters enveloping unique beaches and interesting rock formations. We also have the opportunity for a clearer look at the underwater world surrounding the small island while we snorkel in the warm waters.
At the end of our paddle we return again to Mayarí for a delicious dinner in our Casa Particulares and overnight.
Day 8
South to Biran, birthplace of Fidel and Raul Castro, return to Holguin
After breakfast we drive southwest to Biran, a small town as well as the former home of the Castro family. We stop for an informative tour of the old house and grounds in what was once a full-service train stop. Angel Castro was the head of the family and through his agricultural and other business pursuits, became a wealthy man in the early 1900’s. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the early years of Fidel and Raul.
We continue to Holguin, check into our accommodations (if you are staying an additional night), and have time to explore the town. We will transfer to Holguin airport at around 5:00PM.
PART II – Extend your stay with one of our fabulous itineraries to explore more of the east!
We offer Cuba’s Wild East, and our focus is on hiking and exploring Alexander Humboldt National Park as well as the town of Baracoa. This itinerary follows the perimeter of the island, circling back to two nights in Santiago de Cuba. Our other option is the Origins of the Revolution, and visits the Castro’s birthplace and the mountains of the Sierra Maestra where the Revolution took hold. This trip also includes time in Santiago de Cuba.
** If you arrive a day early, it’s easy to get a taxi from the airport to the city for about $20-$25. We are happy to arrange an extra night's accommodation for you as an extension to the tour.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 01, 2024 to Dec 31, 2024 Guaranteed departures for 6 or more people | $3,190£0€0$0$0 | $3,190£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
Dates: Guaranteed departures for 6 or more people! Please inquire today to begin the booking process. Trips depart on Sundays.
Up to 14 spaces available on each tour (depending on the number of solo travelers and available accommodations)
Rates for the 2024 Season:
- $3190 per person*
*Christmas departures have a supplemental cost ($300 per person) due to our increasedd prices for accommodations.
Single Supplement: $500
If you are traveling solo and prefer private accommodations (pending availability) you may elect to pay the single supplement fee. If you are traveling solo and wish to be paired up with another solo traveler of the same gender in order to avoid the single supplement fee, please let your Adventure Consultant know at the time of booking. We will do our best to find another traveler to pair you with, however if there is not another solo traveler of the same gender willing to share on your trip, you will be charged the single supplement fee.
Optional Extensions:
Extend your exploration of alluring Eastern Cuba with our 7 day walking tours, Origins of the Revolution and Cuba's Wild East!
Included:
- Experienced English-speaking guide(s)
- Specialized activity guides based on activity of trip (kayaking, biking, hiking, etc.)
- Specialized equipment needed for activities such as kayaks, bikes, helmets, paddles, personal flotation devices, etc.
- Private pre-tour orientation meeting
- Cuba Unbound hand-crafted itineraries
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All meals as noted in itinerary
- Certification of travel to Cuba under the U.S. Department of Treasury general license
- Small group size (Custom tours for 2, group tours are 16-18)
- All entrance fees to include events and activities
- All in-country ground transportation
- Clean drinking water available at all times
- Gratuities for presenters, luggage handling, and restaurant staff
- Cuba Visa (a $80-120 value)
Not Included:
- Round-trip air to/from Cuba
- Transfers to the airport at the end of the tour
- Guide and driver gratuities
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, gifts, alcoholic beverages, additional entertainment outside the itinerary activities, and incidentals
Reviews
FAQ & More
Can US citizens travel to Cuba?
Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a US citizen! Although, the United States is the only country that restricts its citizens from traveling to Cuba for touristic reasons, however, the U.S. does allow travel to Cuba under one of 12 permitted travel categories. Of these categories, most of our travelers are traveling under either "Support for the Cuban People" or "Educational People-to-People" travel.
For more information on Cuba travel entry requirements, please see here.
Do I need experience to join the kayaking adventure?
Whether you are an avid sea kayaker or stepping into a sea kayak for your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small so that you not only travel intimately among nature, but receive the necessary attention from our guides as well. Your guides will give you an introduction to paddling and you’ll have plenty of chances to practice. We take plenty of paddle breaks to observe the biodiversity and learn about the area from our knowledgeable guides. We do recommend that you get some paddling in before your trip as kayaking uses muscles you may not know you have. Getting a little experience and building some strength will help your enjoyment of the trip.
What type of kayaks does Cuba Unbound provide?
For our Cuba tours we use polymer Necky Kayaks and you'll find specific information on these models if you follow the link. These kayaks provide a quality paddling experience and are durable enough to hold up with our active itinerary.
Will single kayaks be available?
We have both double and single kayaks in Cuba. At this time we are not offering the choice for a single kayak rental. Rather, we plan to bring between one and three singles on each tour to be shared among participants, depepnding on expressed interest.
How much paddling will we do on the kayaking trip?
Sea kayaking distance is best measured in hours rather than miles. We usually paddle from 2 to 4 hours each day but this can be influenced by several factors: weather, tide and currents. We start off each kayak tour with a planned route, but there is always some flexibility available.
What kind of equipment or gear should I bring?
All of the kayaking equipment is provided as well as personal flotation devices and a dry bags, so just bring your clothing and personal gear. Do bring snorkeling gear and paddling gloves. A complete packing list will be sent to you upon reservation. We highly suggest traveling “light” for this adventure.
Are there restrooms available on the kayak tours?
We recommend you use the restrooms available in your Casa Particular/Hotel before leaving on a kayaking adventure. Restrooms will be limited or non-existent in some kayaking excursions. Be prepared to use the outdoors. Pack toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Who are the kayak guides and what skills do they have?
We know your guide will make the biggest difference on your trip! This is why we pride ourself on employing only the best local guides for all of the incredible locations that we visit. Part of this is to support our eco-tourism efforts, but we also believe that there is no better way to experience a new destination than through the eyes of a local! We find talented and skilled local guides, train and certify them, and provide a positive and consistent source of income to them and their families. Most of our guides are with us for the long-term, despite the seasonal nature of the industry. Cuba Unbound guides know their outdoor skills as second nature. Each trip will have 2-3 guides to assist, inform, and lead the way so you get the most out of your adventure. They love to share conservation, knowledge, games and laughter.
How much snorkeling will we be doing?
Cuba has some beautiful beaches that are perfect for snorkeling. The flourishing ocean life is an ecological treasure. We have two specific times dedicated to snorkeling but you will have multiple opportunities to snorkel during our kayaking adventure. We do recommend you try snorkeling ahead of time for your trip to get the most out of your experience, if you have never done so.
Do I need to bring my own snorkel and fins?
While snorkel gear is sometimes available for rent in Cuba, we advise that you bring your own snorkel and mask (fins and wetsuits not required). Your own equipment also ensures a better fit and better hygiene, as well as prescriptions if needed.
How can I prepare for the hiking & kayaking portions of my tour?
The trip is not extremely strenuous, but it is quite active and physical by nature. The more prepared you are for the trip, the more you'll enjoy it, and the more you’ll be comfortable. Walking a few miles per day, climbing stairs, working out with light weights, and other cardio and strength training exercises are all highly recommended activities. At the very least, we recommend that participants take long walks and condition muscle groups of the upper body and core by exercising for a full month prior to the trip to avoid overuse injuries of the wrists and arms.
Can I drink the Water in Cuba?
Generally it's best to drink filtered tap water or bottled water. In an effort to reduce the use of single-use plastic, we encourage you to pack a wide-mouth water bottle with a filter built in. There are many brands available.
Is ice safe to have in my drinks?
If you are getting a drink at a hotel bar, or other bar establishment, the ice is most likely made with filtered or bottled water, so should not cause any issues.
Can I eat salads in Cuba?
Cubans pride themselves on proper hygiene and food handling. The restaurants we use on our tours are very good and eating any salads or raw vegetables that are served is fine.
Reviews
Recommending this trip
Myself and three others did this trip in April 2022. We all found learning about Cuba most interesting. The history and how the people live now. They were so welcoming. We went to several places and did a variety of activities. My favorite place was Gibara. I do enjoy small towns Our guides really made our trip. They were always helping us with a smile. It is hard to say what I liked best because each event was special and interesting. I highly recommend this trip. I hope to travel with ROW again!
Beyond Expectations
While I knew this trip would be different, I had no idea how utterly amazing and impactful it would be. Abel, our guide, would be at home in any five-star resort...his knowledge, humor, and grace put the trip on a different plane -- he even took us to meet his grandfather in his home! The kayaking was breath taking, the hotels superior, the food outstanding. It was a great mix of activity, touring, relaxing and exploring. The transportation was comfortable and the rides from different cities were filled with stories, histories and once, I kid you not, with live music from a three-piece band! And, you do not know rum until you have had it in Cuba. Don't think about it...just book it!
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