Are you hoping to stop at Cuba during your next Caribbean vacation? Or maybe you want to spend your entire trip exploring Cuba.
Well, you’re not alone! Cuba welcomed 4.7 million visitors in the past year alone.
While many people opt for Havana, there’s another city that’s worth visiting. Varadero, Cuba is a coastal town that has everything you would want for a tropical getaway. There are white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, plenty of upscale resort hotels and restaurants, and water sports galore.
But what if you want to stay in this relaxing town and explore the surrounding area a little? Well, good news–you can do both!
Do you want to know what we’re talking about? Keep reading to discover the top excursions you can do in Varadero.
Varadero Sightseeing Tour
At first glance, Varadero may seem like your typical resort town. But there’s a decent amount of culture ready to be explored right around the corner.
A Varadero sightseeing tour will take you to some of the cultural stops in the city. This could include the Rum and Cigar House, Al Capone’s house, or the Varadero Museum. There are tons of tours to choose from, but they should only take around 3 hours, so you’ll have the rest of the day to hit the beach.
Havana Day Tour
When visiting Cuba, you probably read a lot about Havana. You may have even contemplated staying there. Luckily, you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Varadero and taste the history and culture present in Havana.
While group tours are available, it’s impossible to cater these to your unique tastes. If you already have a few ideas of what you want to see, consider going with a private tour guide to Havana. You’ll have the freedom to see what you want and skip what you don’t.
Not sure what they best stops are? No problem! Your guide will be able to give you the inside scoop.
Of course, there is one way you can take this tour to the next level. Consider taking your private tour in a vintage car. It adds a unique experience that just can’t be beat.
Swimming with Dolphins
Have you always dreamed of swimming with dolphins? Well, you can make that a reality in Varadero, Cuba by taking a boat to the offshore dolphinarium.
Here you’ll get to interact with dolphins for roughly half an hour. They’ll come up for a kiss, jump around, and may even perform some acrobatics! There is even a dolphin show nearby where you can see these graceful creatures in action.
If you decide to do this tour, please avoid wearing jewelry and sunscreen. Jewelry may hurt the dolphins’ sensitive skin when interacting with them, and sunscreen often washes off in the water and can damage the dolphins’ eyesight.
Bellamar Caves
That’s right, the beach isn’t the only natural beauty around Varadero, Cuba. The Bellamar Caves are located about an hour’s drive away in the city of Matanzas.
They’ve been open since the 1860s and are thus considered one of Cuba’s oldest tourist attractions. You’ll see impressive stalagmites, stalactites, crystalized domes, and an underground stream.
Your tour of the caves will begin with a quick walk-through of a museum. There’s a restaurant and souvenir shop at the end, so you can find the perfect keepsake and grab something to eat before leaving.
You may also choose to combine the Bellamar Caves with a Matanzas sightseeing tour.
Sugar Tour
Do you have a sweet tooth? Well, Varadero is sure to please!
Cuba is known for their sugar cane, and you can tour a sugar cane plantation on your trip. You’ll learn about the process sugar goes through to get from the plantation to your table. At the end of your tour, you might even get to try some fresh guarapo (sugar cane juice).
Bay of Pigs Tour
While the Bay of Pigs may immediately bring up memories from your high school history class, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy this excursion. Today, the Bay of Pigs is well worth a visit for the stunning scenery alone.
Museo de Playa Giron is a great stop for anyone who is interested in learning more about the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion. You can also visit a local crocodile breeding farm, swim in a natural pool, take a boat ride to Treasure Lagoon, and visit a local Cuban ranch.
Opting for a private Bay of Pigs tour is a great way to pick and choose which activities you want to do and how long you want to stay.
Snorkeling
Of course, you’ll probably want to spend as much time on the beach as possible. But don’t forget to enjoy the wonderful world under the waves, too.
A snorkeling or scuba diving excursion is the best way to see the local coral reef. It’s located about 50 feet under the surface, making it close enough to be visible for snorkelers and accessible for beginner scuba divers.
Some tours even combine the coral reef with the Saturno Cave cenote. This is a large opening in the ground that’s been filled with crystal clear fresh water. You can swim or snorkel but remember to keep your eyes peeled for some stalagmites and stalactites.
Make the Most of Your Trip: Varadero, Cuba Excursions
If you’re planning a trip to Cuba, Varadero can’t be missed. Aside from the stunning beaches delicious food, there are so many excursions in Varadero, Cuba that will make your trip unforgettable.
From Varadero to Havana, we have you covered. Check out our FAQ page to find answers to all your questions, and book a private tour or transfer in one of our classic cars today!