TRAVEL TO CUBA WITH
VOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE, BERKSHIRES
March 12-18, 2026
DAY 1: THURSDAY, MARCH 12th | ¡BIENVENIDOS A CUBA!
Meet at Havana International Airport
When you arrive in Havana, you will pass through customs, get your bags, and exit the airport. Don’t be alarmed if it takes a long time to get your luggage. Cuba has a slow X-ray system to scan all bags. When you exit the airport, you will be greeted by our Cuban tour guide, chauffeur, and U.S.-based tour leader who will be holding a PRC sign. We will gather outside the airport in groups according to arrival times and transfer to our Havana hotels.
Check into boutique hotel La Alameda
Nestled in the vibrant El Vedado neighborhood, La Alameda Boutique Hotel is a meticulously restored residence rich in Cuba's colonial history. Guests will enjoy free WiFi, 24-hour multilingual reception and security, an outdoor plunge pool and courtyard, a rooftop bar and restaurant, an indoor restaurant, daily housekeeping, and room service. The hotel has its own generator in case of neighborhood blackouts. The service is excellent, and the food and breakfasts are of top quality. The location in the Vedado neighborhood is centrally convenient and safe, with many great restaurants and places to explore within walking distance.
La Alameda
Check into boutique hotel Casa Calis
We will be staying in one of our favorite private boutique hotels in Havana. This charming, comfortable, and stylish house is set in the centrally located Vedado neighborhood. The staff is very friendly and serves the best breakfasts in the city. This is an opportunity to support independent small businesses and get to know Cuban people on a more personal level.
Hotel Casa Calis
6:30 pm ~ Welcome mojitos and introductions
Meet & greet each other as we begin our tour. We will have a welcome and orientation over mojitos (or non-alcoholic refreshments).
Mojitos and introductions
7:30 pm ~ Welcome dinner at El Del Frente
Enjoy specialty cocktails and mojitos in our favorite restaurant in Habana Vieja. El Del Frente makes food and drinks that will rival any trendy restaurant in Boston.
Welcome dinner at El Del Frente
10:00 pm ~ Late night music (optional)
After dinner with those who are interested, we will visit some of Havana’s most interesting bars and music venues (optional--cost not included).
Concert in Havana
DAY 2: FRIDAY, MARCH 13th | COLONIAL HAVANA
Breakfast in our villas
Our house will cook a traditional Cuban breakfast which usually includes café con leche, freshly squeezed tropical juice, fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, and ham.
10:00 am ~ Old Havana four plazas walking tour
We will get to know the historic core of Havana surrounding our hotel. In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we will see extraordinary Colonial architecture of Cuban baroque and art nouveau, both well preserved and decayed, many galleries, contemporary centers, boutique museums, and little shops. We'll begin with the Plaza de la Catedral where our hotel is located. There we’ll visit the collective graphic arts workshop, Taller de Gráfica. This public studio for local artists was established by Pablo Neruda and Che Guevara at the beginning of the Revolution as a place where artists living and visiting Havana work on printmaking. Next we'll see an exhibit at the Wilfredo Lam Center. We'll continue on to la Plaza de las Armas, Havana’s first square and origin point of the city’s settlement. The next stop is Plaza San Francisco where we'll enter the Basílica.
Plazas of Old Havana
11:00 am ~ Private Concert with Camerata Romeu
Visit the beautifully restored Basílica San Francisco de Asis to experience a private performance of the first all-women string orchestra in Latin America. Under the direction of Zenaida Romeu, Camerata Romeu is one of Cuba’s most extraordinary classical music ensembles. This non-governmental independent music group frequently tours internationally and performs new works of numerous Cuban and other Latin American composers.
12:30 pm ~ Lunch at Los Mercaderes
We’ll stroll down the oldest street in Havana, Calle de los Mercaderes (Merchants Street), to have lunch in a beautiful new restaurant built inside the home of the owner.
Los Mercaderes restaurant in Havana
2:00 pm ~ Visit Maternity Home in Old Havana
We'll visit the Leonor Perez Home located on Lamparilla Street # 12 on the corner of Mercaderes in Old Havana. This will give us an opportunity to see firsthand how pregnant women are taken care of in Havana with a moment to meet the caretakers and patients and ask questions.
Leonor Perez Home
3:00 pm ~ Old Havana walking tour continued
We'll continue our walking tour of Havana's historic core at the Plaza Vieja where we can see a couple of exhibits of contemporary Cuban art at two of Havana’s most important contemporary art centers, El Centro del Desarollo de Arte Contemporánea and la Fototeca de Cuba. Then continue our walk down the pedestrian promenade of Obispo street to the Parque Central, Capitolio, and Prado boulevards.
Plaza Vieja (photo by Chris Granger)
4:30 pm ~ Time at leisure
Continue exploring Old Havana or return to the hotel to connect to WiFi, recharge your batteries, or take a siesta.
7:30 pm ~ Dinner at La Guarida
Anyone who has been to La Guarida will find it difficult to disagree that Enrique and Odeisys have managed to create their own magical home restaurant. The building, originally known as La Mansión Camagüey, shows its former grandeur from the magnificent wooden entrance door through the marble staircase up the two flights of stairs to the restaurant itself. The location is glamorized by Cuba's provocative and most iconic film “Fresa y Chocolate.” La Guarida has gone on to become one of the most popular restaurants in Cuba. On the menu is a choice of squash soup, eggplant caviar, or smoked marlin tacos for a starter; fish, chicken, or pork for the main course with sides of rice, black beans, fried yuca and plantains; and a cocktail, spring water, and coffee for dessert.
La Guarida
9:00 pm ~ Rooftop jazz concert at La Guarida
Above the restaurant, the hottest new music scene in Havana is happening on this rooftop patio on Saturday nights. Tonight, we’ll get to hear one of Cuba’s greatest jazz artists perform under the stars.
Rooftop jazz at La Guarida
DAY 3: SATURDAY, MARCH 14th | VEDADO
Breakfast at our villa
Wake up to a typical Cuban breakfast of eggs, fruit, breads, ham, cheese, juice, and other selections served daily between 8:00 and 11:00 am.
10:00 am ~ Conversation with the Ministry of Public Health
Dr. Ale Carrera, a licensed Cuban medical physician and health administrator, will visit us at our hotel to discuss the realities of the medical system in Cuba today, its technology, and the challenges amidst the restrictions from the US embargo. The presentation will be followed by a time for questions and a presentation of supplies to our speaker.
Havana medical professional
11:30 am ~ Visit El Patronato, Sinagoga Beth Shalom
Meet with the leaders of the Jewish Community in Cuba as they share the history and current practice of Judaism in Cuba. As Cuba’s largest and most active synagogue, it serves as a religious and cultural hub, preserving Jewish heritage through its sanctuary, community center, and library. Meet local community members, learn about Jewish life in Cuba, and explore the synagogue’s rich history and resilience.
El Patronato
12:30 pm ~ Lunch at Grados Paladar
Nestled in the heart of Old Havana, Cinco Sentidos restaurant is a culinary gem that promises a sensory journey like no other. Its charming colonial-era ambiance is transformed with a chic contemporary artist flare and a menu that pays homage to the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. From succulent ropa vieja to ceviche or perfectly grilled seafood, each plate tells a story of Cuba's rich culinary heritage.
Grados Paladar
3:00 pm ~ Private concert and visit with children's choir Coro Lucecita
Experience an exclusive and heartwarming encounter with the future of Cuban music through a private performance by Coro Lucecita, a renowned community children's choir. This special event offers a unique opportunity to witness the exceptional talent and passion of these young singers under the dedicated guidance of their esteemed director, Carmen Rosa Lopez. Immerse yourselves in the enchanting harmonies and vibrant rhythms of traditional Cuban melodies and international classics, all performed with youthful exuberance and precision. Following the concert, enjoy a personal meet-and-greet with the choir members and Sra. Lopez, gaining insight into their musical journey, the choir's important role in their lives, and the power of music to inspire and transcend cultural boundaries.
Coro Lucecita
4:30 pm ~ Early afternoon free
Continue exploring Old Havana or return to the casas to recharge your batteries, go for a swim, or take a siesta.
8:00 pm ~ Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)
Experience Havana’s hippest new magnet for the urban and chic: an old peanut oil factory refurbished into a multi-level, multi-purpose, and almost infinite art and music space. This expansive venue boasts a dense cultural program exhibiting contemporary photography, installations, sculptures, three music stages, tapas, and seven bars. This cultural hotspot is an entrepreneurial project of Cuban celebrity musician X Alfonso. This “Cuban Art Factory” is a shining reflection of what the future might hold for Havana as the cosmopolitan, trend-setting capital stronghold of Latin America that it once was. Have dinner on your own at one of the three restaurants it has inside (dinner not included).
Fábrica del Arte Cubano
DAY 4: SUNDAY, MARCH 15th | VIÑALES
8:45 am ~ Breakfast, check out, and head to Viñales
Wake up to a typical Cuban breakfast of eggs, fruit, breads, ham, cheese, juice, espresso, and many other selections served daily from 8:00 - 10:00 am. After breakfast, we leave Havana and head west towards Pinar del Rio with a rest stop along the way. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Western province of Pinar del Río, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This pine-populated, red-soiled tobacco-growing region of Cuba features limestone mountains called “mogotes” that jut out of the valley floor.
12:00 pm ~ Visit to the tobacco farm Finca Paco y Concha
On our way to Viñales we’ll stop by a 3rd generation tobacco farm that grows and prepares tobacco for the Cohiba brand. The farmer will show us the process of how the world’s finest tobacco is created.
Tobacco farm
1:00 pm ~ Lunch at Finca Agroecológica El Paraiso
Have lunch on what some might consider one of the most scenic farms in the world. For four generations this family has owned and operated this organic sustainable agricultural project. Enjoy a farm to table family style meal at their house perched on top of a hill with a magical view of the Viñales Valley. The farmers will take you on a tour of their “finca” after lunch.
Finca Agroecológica El Paraiso
3:00 pm ~ Check into private bed & breakfasts
The people of Viñales are as friendly and inviting as its landscapes. We will have the chance to split up into small groups and stay in these country homes in the center of town. This is an interesting and personal way of experiencing the Cuban “guajiro” way of life, an opportunity to practice your Spanish, and engage in direct people-to-people contact with the Cuban people. All rooms are comfortable and complete with private bathrooms, hot water, and air conditioners.
Viñales private BnBs
4:00 pm ~ Horseback ride through the Cuban countryside or walk with city historian
Enjoy a horseback ride through the small farms, stunning landscapes, geological wonders, and the world’s finest tobacco-growing region. Passing by mogotes (limestone karsts) and viewpoints, we'll explore the Gran Caverna de Santo Tomás (Santo Tomás Cave), one of the largest cave systems in Latin America.
Those who prefer not to ride a horse can meet with the City Historian of Viñales, Ricardo Alvarez, who will stroll with us on a shorter walking tour through the valley. He'll share information on the history and current events of the region.
Viñales Valley horseback ride
5:30 pm ~ Leisure time
Experience the slow life of Viñales on your own. Relax and enjoy the sunset over the valley from a rooftop terrace or a scenic viewpoint. Enjoy local cocktails. We highly recommend "El Guarito."
Viñales view
7:00 pm ~ Dinner at your casas
Your host families will cook dinner for you. Make sure to schedule the time and menu with them when you arrive.
9:00 pm ~ Night of music at Centro Cultural Polo Montañez
Gather with locals and foreigners alike to dance and listen to Cuban rhythms (optional).
Live music in Viñales
DAY 5: MONDAY, MARCH 16th | WEST HAVANA
Breakfast at our villas, check out, and depart for Havana
Your house will cook a traditional Cuban breakfast which usually includes café con leche, freshly squeezed tropical juice, fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, and ham. The drive is two hours with a rest stop along the way.
11:30 am ~ Farm tour, lunch, and discussion about sustainable agriculture and food in Cuba at Finca Marta
This small experimental agroecological farm 15 miles southeast of Havana aims to demonstrate that farms focused on biodiversity and intensive management can thrive in a rapidly changing economy by producing high-quality products without the need for transgenic crops, mechanization, or state-run distribution. Founded in 2012 by the renowned Cuban agronomist Dr. Fernando Funes-Monzote, La Finca Marta serves many of Havana’s restaurants, schools, and nursing homes. It pays its workers on total sales rather than a predetermined salary. Recent political reforms like legalizing direct sales and the emergence of private food and transportation cooperatives are allowing new models of privatized agriculture and culinary development. We'll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch and then a tour of the farm led by Dr. Monzote.
Finca Marta tour and lunch
3:00 pm ~ Visit to the Latin American School of Medicine
Embark on an insightful journey to Havana's Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), a unique institution embodying Cuba's commitment to global healthcare equity. This exclusive experience, tailored for Volunteers in Medicine, Berkshires, offers a rare glimpse into the world's largest medical school by enrollment, where students from around the globe receive tuition-free education. Witness firsthand the dedication of future physicians trained in community-focused medicine, exploring the campus, engaging with students and faculty, and understanding the school's mission to serve underserved populations. This visit provides a profound understanding of ELAM's impact on international healthcare and the transformative power of accessible medical education, enriching your perspective on global health initiatives.
Latin American School of Medicine
4:30 pm ~ Check back into La Alameda and Casa Calis
Dinner and evening on your own
Have dinner on your own. Options include the hotel restaurant or the many restaurants close by in Old Havana. We recommend the restaurants Jama, O'Reilly 304, or the Yarini Bar (see recommended restaurants section). Take the night off to recharge your batteries, see concerts, or explore on your own (cost not included).
Evening on your own
DAY 6: TUESDAY, MARCH 17th | HAVANA
Breakfast at our villas
Your house will cook a traditional Cuban breakfast which usually includes café con leche, freshly squeezed tropical juice, fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, and ham.
10:00 am ~ Ernest Hemingway’s Finca Vigía
Visit the hilltop house of American writer Ernest Hemingway where he lived from 1940 – 1960 with his wife, Martha Gellhorn, and their children. Cuba was Hemingway’s most frequented country where he wrote The Old Man and the Sea, To Have and Have Not, and For Whom the Bell Tolls. Hemingway donated his Nobel Prize to the Cuban people. His home in San Francisco de Paula has recently been the subject of a massive preservation effort by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. At this estate, you will see his sport fishing boat, the Pilar. The Finca Vigia estate and the fishing village of Cojimar are considered the most significant locales for those interested in Hemmingway’s history. We will also do a short visit to a neighborhood arts project at the Lidice Theater.
Hemingway’s Finca Figia
11:30 am ~ Artist studio visit of Luis Camejo
This is a special visit to the studio of Luis Camejo, one of Havana’s great painters of the city itself. Camejo captures Havana in a way that is palpable and real. You will get a chance to see both his current works in progress and completed paintings as we discuss his life and work. Also, enjoy the amazing views from his garret on top of a building in Central Havana.
Luis Camejo’s artwork
12:30 pm ~ Lunch at Cinco Sentidos
Nestled in the heart of Old Havana, Cinco Sentidos restaurant is a culinary gem that promises a sensory journey like no other. Its charming colonial-era ambiance is transformed with a chic contemporary artist flare and a menu that pays homage to the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine. From succulent ropa vieja to ceviche or perfectly grilled seafood, each plate tells a story of Cuba's rich culinary heritage.
Cinco Sentidos
2:00 pm ~ Private Performance with Modern Dance Company "Mi compania"
Watch one of Cuba’s top independent contemporary dance companies under the direction of Susana Pous. We will visit a beautiful house transformed into her private dance school and company headquarters.
Mi Compañía
3:00 pm ~ OPTIONAL: Havana shopping tour at Alma Shop, Clandestina, San José Artisan Market
We’ll visit a selection of the most interesting and highest-quality Cuban designers and artisans. This is the best time to find a piece of Cuba to bring home with you for gifts or memories while supporting small Cuban entrepreneurs.
Those who aren't interested in shopping can return to the hotel or explore Havana on your own.
Shopping at Cuban crafts & design studios
6:00 pm ~ Classic convertibles scenic car ride
Leaving from our hotel, we will travel to our final dinner “Havana-style” in a fleet of specially selected 1950s American convertibles that will take us on a scenic route through Havana’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Don't forget your cameras!
Classic 1950s convertible ride
7:00 pm ~ Dinner party at artist Kadir Lopez’s house and Habana Light Neon Studio
Celebrate with a home-cooked Cuban meal in a magical setting in the tree-filled Kohly neighborhood of Havana. In his home, gallery, and studio which includes a neon shop and studio for neon sign restoration, Kadir will discuss neon, some of the restoration projects in the city, and the efforts to restore the post-war heritage of Havana. Live music with the popular duo Nu9ve.
Kadir Lopez’s house
10:00 pm ~ Suggestion: Tropicana Cabaret
The Tropicana was the most famous nightclub in the world from 1939 to 1959. Built in the gardens of an early 20th-century residence, it contains one of Cuba’s most significant modern buildings, the Arcos de Cristal (1952), a thin-shell concrete structure by architect Max Borges Recio. The club continues to operate and is the only of Havana’s famous clubs to survive the Revolution. You will see the gardens and the show, which is based on the 1950s cabaret-era spectacles. Arrive by 9:30 pm, and the show goes from 10:00 to midnight (optional–cost not included--talk to Gretell about reserving tickets ahead of time).
Cabaret Tropicana
DAY 8: WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18th | ¡HASTA LUEGO CUBA!
Breakfast at our villas and check out
Your house will cook a traditional Cuban breakfast which usually includes café con leche, freshly squeezed tropical juice, fresh fruit, bread, cheese, eggs, and ham.
Transfer to José Martí International Airport
We will bring people to the airport in groups according to departure times. You will be assisted through check-in and customs.
¡Adios, Cuba!