It is proud of its revolutionary heroes, beautiful squares and vibrant musical tradition. And it is known particularly for its carnival.
The magnificent landscape of the city is surrounded by impressive Sierra Maestra and links it to the sea. Santiago is a city of hills so bring good walking shoes.
Avg. °C | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
High | 27 | 27 | 17 | 28 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 |
Low | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 |
Rain (mm) | 70 | 40 | 50 | 50 | 130 | 100 | 60 | 90 | 100 | 190 | 90 | 80 |
Great scuba diving and snorkeling with extremely well-preserved coral reefs and crystal clear waters. The Sigua, Daiquiri, Bucanero and Sierra Mar diving areas are part of the 73 regional dive sites.
The Marina Punta Gorda has excellent docking facilities and offers sailing tours. From here you can rent a boat for a wonderful fishing expedition in fresh waters.
Go on a horseback ride on the mountain paths.
Dining & Nightlife
Tropicana Santiago is a grand cabaret devoted mostly to Cuban-Caribbean rhythms. But it also features other fine artistic performances and excellent cuisine and beverages. Another one to try is the San Pedro del Mar Cabaret.
There are countless bars and discotheques to party the night away. Some mentions include the Club Tropical, Club la Iris (with karaoke) and Club 3000.
Traditional and cultural performances abound as well at the Casa de la Tradiciones Populares, Casa de la Trova and Cafe-concert Niagara to name a few.
Shopping
Cuban cigars, rum and coffee are the most popular souvenirs, followed by wood handicraft and congas. Cuban music recordings are a must as well.
Santiago de Cuba claims to have some of the best rum in all the Caribbean.
Flying time from:
Toronto: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.
Montreal: Approximately 4 hours.
Languages: Spanish, English widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso); CAD dollars easily exchanged but subject to 8% conversion fee (10% for US dollars and 11.24% for credit card charges). US-issued credit cards and travellers cheques are not accepted in Cuba.
Climate: Santiago has a tropical hot climate that is moderated by trade winds. The rainy season runs from May through October.
Electricity: 110V or 220V (converters required) depending on hotel.
Documents
Canadian citizens require a valid passport to enter Cuba. All other nationalities please consult a vacation specialist or the Cuban Consulate at (416)234-8181 or the Cuban Tourist Board at (416) 362-0700.
Cuba tourist cards are supplied & validated with vacation packages. Some restrictions apply to tourists 18 years & under, when travelling without parents.
Brisas Los Galeones
- An intimate setting for those who enjoy quiet and beautiful surroundings. Location: Hillside, 80 minutes from the airport and 5 minutes from the town of Chivirico. more
Brisas Sierra Mar
- Set in the foothills of the dramatic Sierra Maestra mountains and overlooking a glorious 4 km blaze of golden brown beach, the Brisas Sierra Mar has a wide range of activities and entertainment for all ages. Location: Hillside, overlooking Sevilla… more
Club Amigo Carisol Los Corales
- This resort is comprised of two hotels, Carisol and Los Corales which are perched on the edge of Cazonel, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Location: Beachfront, 60 minutes from the airport. more
Costa Morena
- Located 30 minutes from the city of Santiago, this resort is a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun and the serenity of the Caribbean sea. Location: Beachfront, 55 minutes from the airport. more
Hotel Casa Granda
- Hotel Casa Granda is in the heart of Santiago de Cuba, offering a unique view of the beautiful panorama of the Bay of Santiago, the historic city centre and surrounded by mountains. The surrounding area includes historical and cultural landmarks… more
Hotel Versalles
- Versalles Hotel is in the Versalles Heights area, close to the historic centre of Santiago de Cuba. Only five minutes from the city and from Antonio Maceo International Airport. Location: Versalles Heights, five minutes from the center of Santiago city;… more
Melia Santiago de Cuba
- An excellent city resort reflecting the outstanding attention to detail that Melia is famous for. By day, lounge by the pool or explore the historic city and surrounding areas. At night there is plenty to do, from dining to disco.… more
Villa Gaviota
- Location: Residential neighborhood of Vista Alegre, a few minutes from Santiago city. 15 km from airport. more