Cuba has it's challenges at the moment - fuel shortages and power outages are common, but this trip is a truly amazing way to see what I think is the real Cuba. There are long days of travel especially in the first few days, but Baracoa was my absolute favourite spot and the furthest point of the trip. Our guide Emilio is a true gem, enthusiastic, knowledgeable helpful, and passionate about his country and his job. If you read the Trip Notes you will know what to expect, and if you approach it with the right attitude you will not be disappointed.

Best of Cuba is a fantastic trip and it is well worth the pain of driving so far to the East of the island where tourists rarely reach to see the rich culture and history that exists out there. This trip is also an excellent experience for those who love history, politics or economics as it is proof that communism does not work.

I loved every minute of my "Best of Cuba" trip. It offered unique insights into contemporary Cuba within its historical context. The country's natural features were breathtaking. Cubans are extremely friendly people, and with a bit of Spanish, conversations with the local hosts offered additional insights into Cuban society. Much credit goes to our tour leader for making this an unforgettable experience.

Our Leader - Papa Joe and Driver - Uncle Yas made our Intrepid trip through Cuba unforgettable! Joe’s knowledge, passion, and heart brought every stop to life, while Yas’s skill and humor made every journey a joy. Their energy and care created a truly special experience. Can't recommend them enough

The best way to understand the history and ongoing hardship of this country is to go and get a taste. Don’t expect anything to be at the standard of where you come from and be patient and accepting of the things you experience along the way. That’s daily life for most Cubans.

Two weeks travelling over 2000 km in our Intrepid bus to discover The Real Cuba. Our Leader Yuleidys was so knowledgeable and encouraging that we all joined in the activities around Cuba. The beach days were the best as the sea was so warm and beautiful. Long bus days but lots of sightseeing along the way. Do take lots of USA or Euro cash as needed for your trip as no ATM ever work. Power cuts are a daily event but as most restaurants and Casas cook on gas the food is fabulous in an evening but lttle choice during lunch time. As we didn't have WIFI most days it made me look at my surroundings instead of my mobile. I appreciated the bright stars at night, the gorgeous blue Caribbean sea, the wonderful nature and animals, talking to the locals and handing them treats like soap and shampoo which are not fully available as no shops as such, enjoying the warm weather. Jewelers re use old forks. Knifes and spoons to make earings and bracelets. The happy things in life are mostly free and that is Cuba. Soon got into the laid back culture. Our tour leader educated us all things Cubian and explained The Cubian history and way of life after the Revelution. I bought a bracelet re shaped by old hotel knives and forks. I loved all the classic cars, which have replaced engines. Which are hand painted and made from re cycled parts. There are lots of Artists and craftsmen selling their wares so do support them.

Best of Cuba really does show you the real country and its people. Travelling right across the island, staying in family casas. We were a party of 14, from 39-79. Sometimes all in the larger ones or separate in a collection near each other, we were made welcome in every one and given amazing, freshly prepared breakfasts. We traveled in an air conditioned bus with phone charging available, with regular stops which were interesting. Local guides joined us at each town for a guided walk. There may not have always been electricity or WiFi but this is a fantastic way to see the real culture and art of Cuba. Loved every minute!

This trip allows you to see almost all of Cuba in an efficient way but it might be better named 'Bus Trip around Cuba' as there is a LOT of bus travel. Cuba is a very interesting country but make sure you fully understand what you are letting yourself in for - it is more a country for 'explorers' than those that want a a chilled out 'holiday' (power cuts/shortage of food etc). The highlights were Santiago, Baracoa and the beach at Trinidad. I recommend taking an extra day for Havana and also an extra day to visit Vinales.

The tour of Cuba was fabulous, partly obviously due to the beauty and fascinating colonial and revolutionary history of the country but particularly due to the friendliness of the Cuban people, none more so than our wonderful guide Rosie and brilliant driver Raul. Rosie was extremely knowledgeable, patient ( particularly with one or two rather ‘difficult’ people in our group - I do wonder why some people chose to travel when they appear to hate absolutely everything about the country they are in and moan about absolutely everything, as well as being exceptionally rude to everyone around), friendly, funny, honest and made the trip an excptional one. I don’t think you could find a better guide and driver to help you explore this beautiful and fascinating country.

An excellent trip. Most enjoyable, well organised and led. We just dodged a hurricane, then an earthquake. Advanced my knowledge of Cuban history and showed the resilience and friendliness of the Cuban people in the face of more adversity than they should have to endure.