From Havana to Varadero: Delve deeper into the  Motivos Cubanacan destinations

Motivos Cubanacan, an event designed to promote the balanced development of tourism in Cuba by taking travelers beyond traditional destinations, begins today with a program that includes tours of four destinations in the western and central regions of the island.

Due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa at the end of October, the second edition of the tourism event could not be held in the east, as planned. Therefore, the activities were moved to Havana, Trinidad, Villa Clara and Varadero.

Sol de Cuba presents a brief overview of each of these locations, with options specially designed for tourists to discover both the nation’s most typical products and some of its hidden gems.

Havana

Declared one of the Seven Wonder Cities of the World in June 2016, Havana has something for everyone. The Historic Center of Old Havana stands out, having achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982 in recognition of its outstanding universal value. Its diverse architecture and urban planning, preserved with a high degree of authenticity, captivate visitors. Some of its main attractions include:

Malecón: An iconic seaside promenade offering spectacular ocean views and ideal for a sunset stroll.

Old Havana: A World Heritage Site, this neighborhood is filled with colonial architecture, historic squares and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Capitol building and Cathedral Square.

El Morro Castle: This historic fortress offers breathtaking views of the bay and is a symbol of the city’s defense.

Museum of the Revolution: A journey through the history of Cuba and its revolution, with fascinating exhibits.

Trinidad

Trinidad boasts one of the most beautiful and best-preserved architectural complexes in the Americas. Recognized as the Museum City of the Caribbean Sea, its historic center, along with the Valley of the Sugar Mills (Valle de los Ingenios), was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. With a microclimate distinct from the rest of the island, temperatures range between 16° and 25°C, creating a moderate subtropical climate. It also features breathtaking natural beauty, such as the Topes de Collantes Protected Natural Park. Attractions include:

Plaza Mayor: The heart of the city, surrounded by colorful colonial buildings and museums.

Church of the Holy Trinity: A beautiful church that stands out for its architecture and historical significance.

Valley of the Sugar Mills (Valle de los Ingenios): A UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see old sugarcane plantations and enjoy nature.

Casa de la Música: A lively venue where you can enjoy live music and the local atmosphere.

Villa Clara

Villa Clara boasts one of the most influential cultures in Cuba. It is the birthplace of several of the most renowned artists on the Cuban cultural scene. The province is rich in festivals and popular traditions, most notably the Parrandas Remedianas, a symbol of a tradition spanning over 500 years and declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Among its attractions are:

Santa Clara: The Che Guevara Mausoleum is an iconic place to visit.

Topes de Collantes Natural Park: Ideal for nature lovers, it offers trails, waterfalls and impressive biodiversity.

Cayo Santa María: A paradisiacal beach destination with white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

Varadero

Varadero boasts the most beautiful of Cuba’s beaches and is one of the most important destinations in the Caribbean. Its total area is 14.4 square kilometers, with approximately 21 kilometers of beach and an average width of 22 meters.

It offers facilities for nautical activities, golf, events and incentive trips, as well as an attractive nightlife promoted by its cultural centers, all complemented by a tourist infrastructure designed to guarantee customer satisfaction.

The transparency of its waters, the diverse shades of blue in the sea, its fine white sand, its warm climate, its vegetation and its natural landscapes make it an unforgettable resort. Attractions include:

Varadero Beach: Considered one of the best beaches in the world, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and enjoying water sports.

Varahicacos Ecological Reserve: A protected area that is home to endemic flora and fauna, as well as caves and nature trails.

Varadero Dolphinarium: A fun place to interact with dolphins and enjoy aquatic shows.

Cueva de Saturno: A natural cave with a beautiful cenote, perfect for swimming and exploring.

These destinations offer a unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, making Cuba an unforgettable place for tourists.