Holguin - Discovering Cuba

Travelling to Holguin

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Holguin, a pretty good destination in Cuba (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Holguin and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Holguin, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cuba, here's everything to know about Holguin for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Holguin

Holguin is a province located in the eastern part of Cuba, known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The capital city of the province is also called Holguin, and it is a popular tourist destination thanks to its warm climate and the variety of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed there. Holguin is nicknamed "the city of parks," due to the numerous parks and green spaces throughout the region, and it is also famous for being the birthplace of several famous writers and artists from Cuba's cultural history. The area boasts a lively nightlife and an excellent gastronomic scene, featuring both traditional Cuban cuisine and international fare.

What to visit in Holguin

Sure, here is a list of some popular tourist attractions in Holguin, Cuba along with some information about them: 1. Guardalavaca Beach: Known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, Guardalavaca Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cuba. It's a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
2. Bahia de Naranjo Nature Park: This nature park is filled with flora and fauna, including exotic birds, reptiles, and mammals. You can take a boat ride to see dolphins and explore a coral reef, or just enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
3. Loma de la Cruz: Translated as "Hill of the Cross," this hill offers panoramic views of the city of Holguin. You can hike up the hill or take a bus to the top for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
4. Parque Calixto Garcia: This is a beautifully landscaped park in the heart of Holguin. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, with street vendors, musicians, and cafes nearby.
5. Casa Natal de Calixto Garcia: The birthplace of Cuban general Calixto Garcia, this museum gives insight into the life and works of one of Cuba's most famous figures. It showcases his uniforms, medals, and other possessions.
6. Museo Chorro de Maita: This museum showcases the remains of a Taino Indian village from the 16th century. You can see evidence of their daily life, including pottery, tools, and burial sites.
7. La Periquera: This historic building was built in the early 19th century and served as a military barracks, hospital, and prison. It's now a museum that gives an interesting perspective on the history of Holguin and Cuba.
8. San Isidoro Cathedral: This historic cathedral was built in the 18th century and is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture. It has been restored several times over the years and is now one of the most important religious sites in the region.
9. Mirador de Mayabe: This lookout point offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the picturesque Mayabe Valley. It's also home to a popular brewery and restaurant, where you can sample local beers and cuisine.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Holguin, Cuba!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cuba, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Holguin.

When to go on holiday to Holguin

The best time to visit Holguin (Cuba) is from December to May when the weather is dry and the temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). Outside of these months, there is a high chance of rainfall, especially during hurricane season (June-November). If you are looking to avoid the crowds, it is better to avoid peak season which is December to March.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Holguin

Holguin is a city in eastern Cuba with an international airport which makes it easy to reach from other parts of the world. There are direct flights to Holguin from several cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Some of the airlines that fly directly to Holguin are Air Canada, Air Transat, Sunwing Airlines, WestJet, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Condor.
If there are no direct flights from your location, you can take a connecting flight to Havana or Varadero, and then take a domestic flight to Holguin. Domestic airlines like Cubana de Aviacion, Aero Caribbean, and Aerogaviota offer flights from Havana and Varadero to Holguin.
Another option to get to Holguin is by bus. Viazul is the main public transportation company in Cuba that offers comfortable and affordable bus service throughout the country. There are daily buses from Havana and other cities like Santiago de Cuba and Camaguey to Holguin.
Finally, you can also get to Holguin by private taxi or car. This option provides more flexibility and comfort, but it can be more expensive.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Holguin, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Holguin

Sure, here are some typical foods of Holguin, Cuba along with a brief description: 1. Ropa Vieja - This is a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded beef, sometimes mixed with vegetables like peppers and onions. The name translates to "old clothes" because the shredded beef resembles the texture of ragged clothing.
2. Moros y Cristianos - This dish is essentially black beans and rice mixed together. "Moros" refers to the black beans, while "cristianos" refers to the white rice. This dish is usually served as a side dish, but it can also be a main dish on its own.
3. Tostones - Tostones are fried plantain chips that are common in Cuban cuisine. They are often served as a side dish or snack.
4. Frijoles negros - This is another dish made with black beans, but it is usually served as a soup. The dish includes black beans, pork or bacon, onions, garlic, and other ingredients.
5. Arroz con Pollo - This is a classic Cuban dish that is made up of chicken, rice, and various vegetables like onions, peppers, and peas. The chicken and vegetables are usually cooked together with the rice to make a flavorful and comforting meal.
6. Lechón asado - This is a roasted pork dish that is often served during holidays or special occasions. The pork is marinated in a mixture of garlic, sour orange juice, and other seasonings, then slow roasted to perfection. It is typically served with rice and beans or other side dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cuba here.

Is Holguin an expensive destination for tourists?

Holguin, Cuba, can be considered a moderate to low-cost destination for tourists. Although prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and amenities you choose, overall, they tend to be quite inexpensive compared to other Caribbean destinations. For example, a mid-range hotel room in Holguin could cost between $50-80 USD per night, and food and drinks are also quite affordable. That being said, there are some high-end resorts and tourist facilities in Holguin that may be more costly. However, if you are willing to stay in simpler accommodations, explore local markets and restaurants, and use public transportation, you can enjoy a great vacation in Holguin without spending a lot of money.

Where to find accomodation in Holguin

There are several areas in Holguin (Cuba) where you can find accommodation depending on your preferences: 1. Holguin City Center: This area is ideal if you want to stay close to the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the San Isidro Cathedral or the Calixto Garcia Park.
2. Playa Pesquero: This is a popular resort area, located about 45 minutes from the city center. Here you can find all-inclusive resorts and beautiful beaches.
3. Guardalavaca: This is another popular resort area, located about 1 hour from the city center. It has many beachfront resorts and attractions such as the Chorro de Maita Museum.
4. Gibara: This is a charming fishing village that is becoming more popular with tourists. It has a small selection of homestays and guesthouses and is about 30 minutes from Holguin City.
You can check hotel prices at Holguin here:
Booking.com

Is Holguin a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Holguin is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other tourist destination, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions such as keeping your belongings secure and not carrying large amounts of cash. However, Holguin is generally considered to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cuba here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Holguin.

What type of travelers will enjoy Holguin the most?

Holguin, Cuba is a great destination for all types of travelers, whether you are a couple, young people looking for fun, or families. Here are some of the reasons why: - For couples: Holguin has many beautiful and romantic beaches, such as Playa Pesquero and Guardalavaca, where you can relax and enjoy each other's company. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking or horseback riding, that you can enjoy together.
- For young people: Holguin has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to explore. The city also has a number of cultural attractions, such as the Calixto Garcia Park and the Catedral de San Isidoro, that are well worth a visit.
- For families: Holguin is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that will appeal to children of all ages. Many of the beaches are child-friendly, with shallow waters and soft sands, and there are also a number of water parks and theme parks to explore.
Overall, Holguin has something to offer for everyone, and is a great destination for a memorable trip.

How to get around Holguin

Some of the transportation options to move around Holguin, Cuba include: 1. Taxis: Taxis are easily available in Holguin and can be hired for a day or for specific destinations. They are relatively expensive, but provide a comfortable and convenient way of getting around.
2. Buses: Public buses run throughout Holguin and are a budget-friendly option, however, they can be crowded and may not always be punctual.
3. Bicycle rentals: Bicycles can be rented in Holguin, and can be a great way to explore the town and surrounding areas at your own pace.
4. Private car rentals: Private cars can be rented for the day or week, giving you the freedom to explore Holguin and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
5. Horse-drawn carriages: In Holguin, you can also hire horse-drawn carriages to take you around town. This option can be a fun and unique way to explore the city.

What to see around Holguin

Sure, here are some places that you can visit in a day trip from Holguin (Cuba): 1. Guardalavaca Beach: Guardalavaca is a beautiful beach town located about 1 hour from Holguin. The beach boasts crystal clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
2. Bahia de Naranjo Nature Park: Bahia de Naranjo is a natural park located about 30 minutes from Holguin. It offers a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, and more.
3. Gibara: Gibara is a charming colonial town located about 30 minutes from Holguin. Its colorful streets and traditional architecture make a great backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a nice meal.
4. Banes: Banes is a small town located about 45 minutes from Holguin. It is known for its archaeological sites, which include pre-Columbian ruins and petroglyphs.
5. Cayo Saetia: Cayo Saetia is an island located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Holguin. The island boasts beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and wildlife sightings such as zebras, antelopes, and buffalos.
These are just a few options. There are many other places to visit in Holguin and its surroundings, depending on your interests and preferences.
For every travel information about Cuba you can click here.

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