Discover the Unforgettable Scenic Routes to Explore in Cuba with Your Rental Car

Exploring the Viñales Valley

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Cuban experience, a visit to Viñales Valley should be on top of your list. It is located approximately 2.5 hours away from Havana, and it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The journey towards Viñales is as breathtaking as the destination itself. The Valley is an outstanding example of Cuba’s natural beauty, which has earned its UNESCO World Heritage site designation.

From tobacco plantations to limestone caves and towering mogotes, the valley’s landscape is simply unforgettable. Exploring Viñales with a rental car provides the flexibility you need to create your own itinerary, and it’s perfect for spontaneous photo opportunities. The valley is also home to some of the best-preserved cave networks in Latin America. The Cueva del Indio is a must-see for any traveler visiting this region as it offers a unique and thrilling boat ride through a subterranean river of crystalline waters.

  • Don’t miss:
  • The Mirador los Jazmines viewpoint offers a picturesque panoramic view of the valley from above.
  • The Indian Cave offers a unique boat ride through a subterranean river of crystalline water.
  • Take a leisurely stroll and the charming village of Viñales and experience its unique laid-back Cuban culture.
  • The Scenic Coastal Drive from Varadero to Matanzas

    Varadero beach, known as “Playa Azul”, is one of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean, and it is only two hours away on the scenic coastal drive to Matanzas. The route weaves in and out of shorelines, and through serene towns that are perfect for stopping to take a few photos or grab a refreshing drink. Driving through the town of Matanzas feels like you have traveled back in time because it’s a haven of untouched Spanish colonial architecture.

    The scenic drive provides epic views of the shimmering waters of the Caribbean Sea and the opportunity to experience smaller towns filled with character and Cuban culture. You can stop on the way and take a swim at the local beaches, Cueva Saturno or Playa Coral. You can also check out the Bellamar Caves, the largest and most fascinating in Cuba.

  • Don’t miss:
  • The Bellamar caves provide a stunning subterranean world that’s perfect for exploring
  • A leisurely swim and enjoy of the local beaches, with some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen.
  • The small towns of Boca de Camarioca, Cardenas, and Jovellanos offer some of the most unique Cuban experiences, take the time to explore them.
  • Havana’s Countryside Drive

    Taking the countryside drive from Havana is a unique experience. As you travel through the city and into the green countryside, you will see iconic 50s-style Chevrolet cars careening past you. The countryside drive runs approximately for an hour, and it winds through eucalyptus groves, past mythical fincas, and meanders past coffee plantations.

    The Countryside drive offers a glimpse of Cuba’s rural life – you will see farmers working their fields, herdsmen herding their cattle, and riders on horseback. There are plenty of friendly locals to engage with and learn about their daily lives, and the roadside stops offer some of the best opportunities for Cuban lunch as well.

  • Don’t miss:
  • The San Francisco de Paula’s Hemingway Museum offers a deep-dive into Cuba’s relationship with one of its famous former residents.
  • Stop and enjoy some sugarcane juice from one of the roadside vendors doing it very traditionally right in front of you.
  • Talk with the locals, learn about the everyday difficulties, as well as the silver linings of Cuba’s unique history, and culture of resilience.
  • Sunset Drive Along the Malecon

    There are few better ways to experience a Cuban sunset than driving down Havana’s Malecon. Starting from the Hotel Nacional, the drive takes you along Havana’s beautiful waterfront, where you can watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. As the sun goes down, Havana comes alive. You can hear the cheers, and guitars of the locals getting together in the heart of Havana’s night, the Malecon creates the perfect atmosphere.

    Driving under the sea spray of a storm makes for an unforgettable experience; the waves crashing against the seawall provide the perfect background soundtrack effect. The drive is also close to many of Havana’s most famous landmarks, including the Castillo de San Carlos and Fuente de la India. You can stop and get out of the car to explore one of the famous Cuban seaside bars to cap off an unforgettable Cuban experience. Delve further into the subject and reveal additional insights in this specially selected external resource. CUBA RENTA DE CARROS https://rentalcarcuba.com/descubre-cuba, explore new details and perspectives about the subject covered in the article.

  • Don’t miss:
  • The Castle of the Royal Force and the Museum of the Revolution, and the Malecon of course.
  • The Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabana Royal has spectacular views of whole Havana at night and host the popular ceremonial Cannon shot at 9 pm.
  • The El Floridita bar, where legendary US writer Hemingway enjoyed many of his daiquiris and mojitos.
  • Final thoughts

    Cuba has a lot of hidden gems that are waiting for you to discover. There is no better way of taking in the beauty and uniqueness of the Caribbean island than traveling by car. Choose your route, rent a car, pack your bags, grab your loved ones and let the exploration begin!

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