Che Guevara image on building facade next to Cuban flag

In the Footsteps of Che and Fidel

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Sierra Maestra
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 165.- per person (excluding flights)

The Sierra Maestra mountain range is a place of outstanding natural beauty, and one made famous by Che and Fidel. It was from here that the two men plotted the course of the Cuban Revolution. Staying in a simple cabana hidden between the trees, you’ll hike through the forest, visit the rustic camp that served as rebel headquarters, and follow in the footsteps of history.

Day 1 – Sierra Maestra arrival

The journey into the Sierra Maestra is a jaw-dropper in itself, with scenic twisting lanes and rugged, bumpy roads. Finally, you’ll arrive in the rural town of Santo Domingo, nestled in a green valley next to the Yara river. Here, you’ll settle into your countryside cabana, tucked away between the trees. It’s a simple hotel operated by the Cuban government, but it has a restaurant and everything you need for a short stay.

Days 2-3 – Guided walk in the Sierra Maestra

The next morning you’ll set off early with a local guide, starting with a steep drive up to the Alto del Naranjo and some of the most spectacular views of the area. This is the starting point of your hike towards the “Comandancia de la Plata” – the remote wooden huts which formed the headquarters of the Guerrilla rebels as they plotted the Cuban Revolution. The hike is around 1.5hrs each way, and is relatively gentle.

There’s a strange, just-abandoned atmosphere to the entire camp, with pots, bottles and ammunition strewn across the ground. You can even see the makeshift radio station put together by Che himself. You’ll head back to the hotel around lunchtime, and the rest of the afternoon is your own. You can stroll through the woods spotting pygmy owls, tiny frogs and even butterflies with invisible wings, which can only be found in Cuba. The following morning you’ll journey onward to your next destination.