Cienfuegos is one of my favorites places to visit in Cuba.
Let me show you why and how I traveled from Havana to Cienfuegos, Cuba, and what you shouldn’t miss out on when you get there.
This will be of value to you because working out the ideal things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba can take a lot of work.
If you are unsure where to start, this guide will break down some of the shining lights in the city, making your tourist trip here a touch more enjoyable.
Table of Contents
Getting to Cienfuegos Cuba
If you’re traveling to Cienfuegos from Havana, then the recommended way is to take the ViAzul bus, which is the official tourist bus network for travelers in Cuba.
You’ll find the ViAzul bus is comfortable for the most part, and there’s no shortage of air-con if you’re not a big fan of the heat while traveling by road.
It is recommended that you take some water with you on the journey to avoid dehydration. Say no to buying more plastic and check out these filtered water bottles that you can take everywhere with you.
Havana to Cienfuegos by bus
You’ll find that those buses fill up very quickly, so I recommend booking the day before to avoid disappointment. You may find yourself waiting for a good few hours for the next available bus
Collectivos and Taxis in Cuba
The other option, which I’m reluctant to recommend but by all means risk it, would be to take a collectivo. I have taken many in Cuba.
Getting to Cienfuegos by collective will be something that will be offered to you by local Cubans from outside the bus station.
You ogle at other disappointed travelers as you get offered the chance to travel in a random car for a fraction of the price offered by the bus.
That’s what I did, and it was safe – I had no problems, and you probably won’t either. Just remember that if anything happens on the road, your insurance may not cover it.
Travel Insurance Cuba
In fact, speaking of travel insurance in Cuba, before you start packing for Cuba, remember that having travel insurance is mandatory.
If you have to go to the embassy as I did in London before my flight to Havana; you’ll need to show proof of your travel insurance.
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The best company I’ve found for this type of travel is World Nomads.
Right, now we’ve got that out of the way, let’s look at some of the things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba that will really enhance your trip.
When you’re in Cuba, I found that it’s best to team up with someone or travel with a friend. It makes everything cheaper, including accommodation and transport.
Best things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba
Ok, so when it comes to backpacking Cuba, you want to see all that it has to offer.
With this short guide, you will get a better idea of what lies under the belt of Cienfuegos.
Parque Jose Marti
Parque Jose Marti is, without a doubt, one of the best places to spend your time when you come to this amazing city.
Just make sure that you are vigilant if you come here later at night or on the weekends: some people might be a touch more boisterous than you would have expected, though generally, trouble is extremely rare.
Guanaroca Lagoon
The Guanaroca Lagoon is among the easiest to appreciate locations that you can visit in the region and is up there with the most enjoyable things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba.
All I ask is that you’re quite cautious around the animals: some might react in a way that you would not have expected, so listen closely to any local advice given.
- The Ultimate Cuba Itinerary
- Getting to Trinidad from Havana
- What to Pack for Cuba
- Things to do in Havana
Malecon de Cienfuegos
As one of the most enjoyable places to visit, this awesome sightseeing adventure is among the most entertaining things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba.
Get prepared to walk your feet away! This is why I always travel with a comfy pair of walking shoes when I travel.
You will find it easy to enjoy, with plenty of nice spots to just stand and relax as well as plenty of opportunities to buy some souvenirs.
Urban Historic Centre
A trip to this amazing UNESCO Heritage Site is a must, and this means you will need to be very particular about what you do and touch when you are here.
It’s important that you spend some time here, though, as it is easily among the most stunning sights that you will find here – it’s also where you will find Jose Marti Park and Palacio Ferrer.
Cementerio la Reina
This stunning cemetery might not be for everyone, but it’s a stunning place to visit if you wish to visit a grandiose, large-scale cemetery that makes it easy for you to see what old-age Cuba would have been like.
Stunning monuments and builds make this among the best places that you can come to visit in the city by far.
Palacio Ferrer
One of the well-known facts about Cuba is that it has some of the best architecture in the Caribbean. Palacio Ferrer is a stunning old-school palace, and a trip here will remind you of the opulence that once lived here.
It’s a beautiful architectural landmark and is easily among the most enjoyable things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba.
Be sure to go the top as the photos you can snap are simply breathtaking.
Cienfuegos Cuba – Where will you go?
With so many awesome things to do in Cienfuegos, Cuba, the main challenge will be working out where you wish to go.
You see, a trip here offers unique possibilities that you simply would not get with other towns across Cuba.
If you choose to come here, visiting the many historical sites will ensure that you benefit from a hugely exciting educational experience, full of excitement, energy, and joy.
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