Where is Holguin, Cuba ?

The province of Holguín is located in the south-eastern of the main island of Cuba, 680 km from the capital, Havana.

Third largest city in Cuba with an area of 9.300 km2 and more than 1.5 milion people.

Christopher Columbus discovered Cuba on October 27, 1492 in Gibara in the province of Holguín.

The excursions available in Holguin

We were surprised to see the number of excursions offered in Holguin. All foreign tour operators (i.e. Nolitours, Tours Mont-Royal, etc.) offer tours and also Cuban tour operator, Gaviota Tours. The excursions are purchased on the site. Although suggested, you do not have to buy your trips exclusively from your tour operator.

You can pay either in cash (CUC) or by credit card (except those issued by a U.S. bank such as MBNA). Note there is no automated teller machine (ATM) in Holguin. Visit our Things-to-know section to learn more about the Cuban currency, credit cards and other important issues to the proper planning of a trip to Cuba (now bilingual!).

If you decide to pay by credit card, you are strongly advised to notify the bank that issued your card BEFORE you leave for Cuba. Banks can refuse transactions in some countries.

Guided tours are in French or English. You indicate your preference when you book. Please note that some tours require a minimum of people and are not all available during the low season. Browse books of tour operators located in the lobby of hotels. You have to pay cash for scooter rentals.

Click to see HERE to see a © Google Earth satellite photo of the Bahia de Naranjo located between Playa Esmeralda and Yuraguanal or click HERE to see a closer look of the dolphinarium and its access to the main land.

We have photos of the following tours ... Catamaran and dolphins, Cayo Saetia by helicopter, Las Guanas (near the Sol Rio Luna y Mares hotel), visit the Pueblo Guardalavaca, Jeep Safari (photos by Sylvain and Sophie), city of Holguin. Click HERE to see our photo album.

Source: prices and information from tour operators in Blau Costa Verde hotel in September 2009

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Caribe Sol

Holguin City Tour

Leaving the hotel in air-conditioned bus to the countryside where you can enjoy the Cuban culture and visit a clinic for family medicine. In elementary school, you will receive information on the Cuban education system. En route to the city of Holguin, stops are planned to take pictures. Visit a cigar factory in the city of Holguin. Walk to downtown, to the Playa Principal where you will have free time to shop and take pictures. WITHOUT MEALS.

Weekday(s): Wednesday
Leaving: 8h30 / Return: 14h30
Minimum pers. required: 4 persons

Dolphinarium

Leaving the hotel in air-conditioned bus to the marina. Welcome cocktail. Swimming with dolphins (20 minutes). Dolphin show.

Weekday(s): everyday
Leaving: 9h00 / Return: 11h30
Minimum pers. required: 6 persons
Price (adults) : 99 CUC / (children) : 48 CUC

Santiago de Cuba

Leaving the hotel in air-conditioned bus to Santiago. Visit the Place de la Revolution "Antonio Maceo", visit the fortress El Morro, visit the museum "Diego Velazquez, the bar mill rum (Bacardi old), visit stairs Padre Pico, a place of historic interest and tourism. Visit panoramic "Cuartel Moncada and cemetery Santa Ifigenia. Lunch at restaurant "La Maison". Walk in the historic center of the city, the "Cespedes" and its surroundings.

Weekday(s): Tuesday and Thursday
Leaving: 7h30 / Return: 15h00
Minimum pers. required: 4 persons

Catamaran

Enjoy a relaxing day aboard a catamaran. Browse gently on the high seas and enjoy the scenery. Time to do snorkeling. Open bar and half a lobster for lunch included.

Weekday(s): everyday
Leaving: 8h30 / Return: 15h30
Price (adults) : 49 CUC / (children) : 39 CUC

Catamaran and dolphins

Excursion in catamaran and visit the reef. Swimming with dolphins and meal with half a lobster. Bar open and music onboard.

Weekday(s): everyday
Leaving: 8h30 / Return: 15h00
Price (adults) : 120 CUC / (children) : 72 CUC

Country and Sea

Tour 3 in 1 ... Jeep, Zodiac boat and horseback. In 4x4 vehicles, explore the area east of Guardalavaca and admire the scenery. Visit the lighthouse "Punta Lucrecia, a medical clinic and swimming. Stop in Banes. In "Boca de Sama" you'll have fun aboard a Zodiac boat while you heading towards a small beach. You then set off for a hike in a picturesque path. Meals included.

Weekday(s): everyday
Price (adults) : 86 CUC / (children) : 63 CUC

Fishing

Departure by bus to the marina for boat cruise. Fishing in the long run, with three lines maximum. Specialized crew. Snack on board and all drinks included. 5 hours of fishing. Only three persons can fish!

Leaving: 9h00