Take a tour to the "spiciest" city in Cuba, Santiago de Cuba, the island's second largest, which is surrounded by the Sierra Maestra mountains range.
A wonderful mixed pot of African, French and Spanish nationalities, mixed with a little Latin-American attitude, flavoured with some old Indian culture and spiced up with some modern day events. In actual fact, the turbulent history of Santiago goes further back than modern day. It was here that the Morro Castle was built in 1643 by the Spanish against invading pirates. This impressive structure still stands today dominating the city at the entrance to the bay and is a fine example of medieval bridges and moats. The "revolutionary" attack on the Moncada Barracks in 1953 by Fidel Castro and his rebels is evident by the bullet holes in the walls. The second successful attack against the Batista regime led to Cuba's leader coming to power. This is a very strategic city, in location and historical significance. A visit to the "Santa Ifigenia" cemetery pays tribute to those who served with the rebels during the revolution. Santiago is also known in Cuba as the "City of Heroes" and it is here where many have been laid to rest. The grave of the national hero, Jose Marti, takes pride of place in the form of an octagonal mausoleum. Our tour also gives the opportunity to visit a rum distillery with the accompanying heady fumes. The story behind the Bacardi family's departure from the island and the subsequent Cuban rum recipe being used is intriguing. Enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant in town and later, if you prefer to amble around the piazzas and boulevards, backstreets and courtyards then a little leisure time is provided. This eye-opening tour take you to a city where numerous famous people of Cuba come from including Fidel Castro himself!
Duration : Full Day
Departure Time & Location: Hotel lobby starting from 7:00am (may vary depending on hotel).
Return Time & Location : Hotel lobby returning at approx. 6:30pm (may vary depending on hotel).
Frequency : Monday,Wednesday,Thursday,Daily
Inclusions: • Transfers
• Guide
• Sightseeing tour
• Lunch
Notes: Not suitable for customers in wheelchairs or with certain physical disabilities.
Whato to wear/bring:
• Comfortable shoes
• Bottled water
• Camera (a small fee might be charged if taking cameras inside museums)
• Basic lunch included with one drink
• Passports if you plan to purchase more than 50 cigars or using a credit card (cash suggested)
• Cash in small denominations for souvenirs, drinks, tips/ small change for toilet facilities. (It is recommended to not wear flashy jewellery).
Sunwing makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein and cannot be held responsible for changes, errors or omissions.