Cuba Kayak & Culture Tour
Step into the vibrant soul of Cuba, where stories of the past and the pulse of the present intertwine. This five-day journey traces the island’s central coastline—from Santa Clara’s revolutionary legacy to the seaside elegance of Cienfuegos, the wildlife-rich wetlands of Zapata, and the iconic rhythm and color of Havana.
Throughout the trip, you’ll glide by kayak through quiet lagoons, explore protected wetlands teeming with birdlife, and snorkel above coral reefs in the historic Bay of Pigs. Cobblestone streets, UNESCO-recognized architecture, and lively neighborhoods create a backdrop for meaningful encounters with Cuban guides, creatives, and families.
Whether it’s the sound of music drifting from Havana’s plazas, the thrill of paddling past flamingos, or the stories shared by the people you’ll meet along the way, this itinerary offers a profound window into Cuba’s layered history and dynamic culture.
Blending outdoor exploration with authentic connection, this experience is crafted for travelers who crave depth, discovery, and memories that linger long after the journey ends.
This itinerary complies with U.S. travel regulations under the Support for the Cuban People category (OFAC). All lodging is in privately owned casas particulares, and all meals are enjoyed at privately operated restaurants.
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Itinerary
Day 1
Santa Clara to Cienfuegos | Revolutionary History & Coastal Charm
Arrive in Santa Clara early afternoon and stretch your legs on a short walking tour of this historic city. Visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum and learn about the decisive 1958 battle that changed Cuba’s future. Wander Parque Vidal and peek inside the ornate Teatro La Caridad before heading south.
Transfer to Cienfuegos (about 1.5 hours), a coastal city with French roots and elegant architecture. Explore the historic center around Parque José Martí, admire the Tomas Terry Theater, and stroll the Paseo del Prado and the scenic Malecón at sunset.
Day 2
Guanaroca Lagoon to Playa Larga | Birdlife, Paddling & Snorkeling
Start early at Laguna Guanaroca, a quiet reserve known for flamingos, pelicans, and Cuba’s national bird. Paddle from the mangroves into Bahía de Cienfuegos, watching for tropical fish and even an old sunken Russian submarine before enjoying a fresh seafood lunch onshore.
Continue toward Playa Larga via the Zapata Peninsula (about 2.5 hours). Stop at the Bay of Pigs museum, then head to one of its calm snorkeling spots—clear water, coral rock formations, and colorful reef fish.
Settle into your beachside guesthouse in laid-back Playa Larga.
Day 3
Zapata National Park to Havana | Wetlands Kayaking & Rural Cuba
After breakfast, meet a local park guide for a kayak outing through the wetlands of Zapata National Park. Glide through quiet channels where flamingos, cormorants, and hawks fly overhead and bonefish move beneath your boat. Stop on a small cay for a picnic and learn more about this remarkable ecosystem.
In the afternoon, drive to Havana (around 2.5 hours) through countryside dotted with sugarcane fields and classic cars. Check in, unwind, and enjoy dinner in the lively capital.
Day 4
Havana | Plazas, Art & Classic Cars
Walk through Old Havana’s four iconic plazas—Armas, Vieja, San Francisco, and Catedral—each filled with colonial architecture, cafés, and local color. After lunch, visit either the Fine Arts Museum or the Rum Museum (depending on the day).
Later, hop into a 1950s convertible for a scenic ride through Vedado, Revolution Square, the University of Havana, and the historic Hotel Nacional. In the evening, you may choose to visit Fábrica de Arte Cubano, the city’s celebrated arts-and-nightlife space (open Thursday–Sunday).
Day 5
Departure from Havana
After breakfast, transfer to José Martí International Airport for your outbound flight.
*Note: Travel in Cuba requires flexibility. Activities may shift due to weather, guest speaker availability, or logistics. When adjustments happen, substitutions are always chosen to maintain meaningful and authentic interactions with the Cuban people.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||
| Jan 01, 2025 to Dec 31, 2026 Guaranteed departures for 4 or more people | $2,050£0€0$0$0 | $2,050£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
Dates: Guaranteed departures for 4 or more people on any Sunday! Please inquire today to begin the booking process.*
*Note: On trips with 6 or less people, some of our special meetings, like meeting with National Park Staff, may not be included due to cost.
Rates for the 2025 and 2026:
- $2050 per person**
**Note: Christmas departures have a supplemental cost ($150 per person) due to our increased prices for accommodations.
Up to 16 spaces available on each tour (depending on the number of solo travelers and available accommodations)***
***Note: We can guarantee trips for 2 with a supplement of $300 per person.
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.
Included:
- Experienced English-speaking guide(s)
- Airport pickup upon arrival
- 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, restaurant staff
- Cuba Visa
Not Included:
- Round-trip air to/from Cuba
- Transfers to the Havana airport for departure
- Guide gratuities
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, gifts, alcoholic beverages, additional entertainment outside the standard itinerary, and incidentals
Looking for a longer, but similar adventure in Cuba? Our Cuba by Kayak Signature Tour offers a similar itinerary with even more paddling, exploration and opportunities to connect with the culture and people of Cuba.
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FAQ & More
I'm a US Citizen, can I 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. The June 30, 2025 Memorandum issued by President Trump reinforces that lawful travel remains possible for U.S. citizens but that "tourism" such as going to a beach resort, is not allowed.
For more information on Cuba travel entry requirements, please see here and our Support for the Cuban People and People to People Educational Travel page.
What is the weather like in Cuba and when is the best time to visit the island?
Our favorite time to visit Cuba is the dry season, between November and April, when the high temperatures are generally between 75 and 80 degrees F, lows generally in the 60's F, and the average rainfall is at its lowest. This is also the time of year when you will avoid the summer crowds and the worst of the Caribbean humidity. The rainy season runs from May through October, and these months see the highest temperatures and humidity. The most active tropical storm months are September and October. For a complete month-to-month guide on Cuban travel weather, go here: Cuba Weather.
What are my flight options to Cuba
There are now many options for commercial flights between the US and Cuba! It is also possible to fly via Mexico or other countries. While the vast majority of travelers will fly in and out of Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport, there are ten cities with international airports on the island, so there are many possibilities. Airlines with direct flights from the US include American, Delta, United, WestJet, Southwest and JetBlue. American Airlines serves more Cuban airports than any other US airline. The right airline for you will depend on your home location and preference.
What type of sea kayaking do you use in Cuba
Sea Kayak Adventures provides high-quality polymer Necky Kayaks for all of our Cuba sea kayaking tours. These kayaks are known for their durability and performance, making them a great fit for the active, multi-day itineraries we offer.
Will single kayaks be available?
Single kayaks are available on our Cuba tours. While we primarily use double kayaks, we typically bring one to three singles on each trip to be shared among guests who are interested.
Do I need to bring my own snorkel and fins?
You don’t need to bring your own snorkel and fins. We provide a great selection of masks, snorkels, and fins for guests to use during the tour. That said, if you have your own gear, need a specific fit, or prefer not to share equipment, feel free to bring your own. Wetsuits are generally not needed, as the Caribbean waters stay warm year-round and are ideal for comfortable snorkeling.
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