Cuban Mountain Trek

It’s finally time for your long-awaited departure to Cuba. Wave goodbye to friends and family, before you board the flight and embark upon your challenge!

On arrival in Havana, you will be met at the airport by your Charity Challenge local expedition leader who will transfer you to your hotel for a welcome cocktail and dinner. (D)

Accommodation: Hotel

After breakfast you set off from the hotel on foot to trek around Hanabanilla Reservoir. The hotel and reservoir are set high in the Escambray Mountains, and this was formerly a favourite spot for high level Cuban leaders to come to rest, walk and fish. The hotel is simple, but the surroundings are spectacular and provide a wonderful introduction to Cuban endemic flora and fauna. Expect to see the Cuban National Bird, the Tocororo, and many others who make their habitat in the lush tropical vegetation. The hike takes you along narrow paths around the lakeside, and into the tropical forest where you’ll be introduced to some of Cuba’s extraordinary flora and fauna. A steep climb takes you up to El Atalaya viewpoint with incredible views across surrounding forests and mountains. Then take a steep descent to the lakeside where your boat awaits, to take you to for a Cuban country lunch. Arrive back at the hotel mid afternoon to relax after your first days hike before tonights dinner. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: Hacienda or Hotel

Over the next couple of days, you will trek across the awe inspiring Escambray Mountains, Cuba’s second largest range. The highest peak is Pico San Juan at 1,140m. The slopes are swathed in Caribbean pines and an abundance of ancient tree-ferns, bamboo and eucalyptus. After breakfast you will have an arduous, mostly uphill trek along the trail known as Caburní -Vegas Grandes. This trail takes you through dense vegetation deep into the heart of the Escambray Mountains until an astonishing waterfall and natural pond Vegas Grandes. Enjoy a Cuban country lunch before walking back to the hotel. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: Hacienda or Hotel

The last day of your trek is through dry scrub with occasional views of the turquoise Caribbean. As the hours pass, you visit our third and final waterfall before celebrating your achievements with lunch and cocktails at a local restaurant. From here you drive to the coast of the Ancon Peninsula, just outside Trinidad. The night is spent in a hotel on southern Cuba’s best beach. (B,L,D)

Accommodation: Hotel

Spend more time sight-seeing or perhaps take part in a salsa or rumba lesson. If you’re feeling hungry you could grab a bite at one of Havanas many paladares (local Cuban houses that cater for paying guests). Afternoon transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home. (Please note lunch or Dinner is not included today). (B)