Have clients who are travelling to Varadero for the first time? Our team at WheelsUpNetwork was lucky enough to explore this beautiful city with Hola Sun. We've prepared a list of the top activities your clients can explore plus some important facts about traveling to Varadero.   

Varadero

Varadero is a narrow 27 km wide peninsula located in the province of Matanzas. It is the most north part of Cuba. Here are some key facts:

• Varadero was found on December 15, 1887
• It has 7,000 inhabitants and 59 hotels
• Varadero Beach is rated as the second best beach in the world
• It is a 2-hour drive east from Havana
• The official language is Spanish   

Cuba has two official currencies for locals and tourists. Cuban Pesos are a local currency used by all Cubans and Cuban Convertible Pesos are used by tourists. You can exchange currencies at the bank or at the hotel that guests are staying in. 

NOTE: Hotels will charge you a 3% fee when making an exchange.    

Matanzas

Matanzas is the capital city of the province of Matanzas located on the northern shore of Cuba. Found in 1693, Matanzas has so much to offer for any type of traveller! This city is often called the City of Bridges because it has over 30 bridges crossing over three rivers: Rio Yumuri, San Juan, and Canimar. 

Our recommendation? Go on a sightseeing tour with Hola Sun! Their team will show you around the beautiful Liberty Square where travellers will be given 1.5 hours to explore the city as a local. 

HOT TIP: Check out the free excursions Hola Sun is offering for 2020!     

Travellers will also pass by the University of Matanzas.

FUN FACT: Eduction in Cuba is free! It's also mandatory for males to go to the military for two years during their University period (it's voluntary for women).

The Bridge of Bacunayagua

Located in the province of Mayabeque, The Bridge of Bacunayagua is the tallest bridge in Cuba. It is 110 meters above the valley floor. Cubans consider it one of the seven wonders of Cuba's civil engineering.       

The best way to take a picture and see the grand beauty of this bridge, travellers can stop by the observation deck. Here you can find a cute little shop and you can enjoy a delicious Cuban pineapple Piña colada!  

Caribbean Sea Tour

When travelling with Hola Sun Holidays, your clients have a chance to experience a Caribbean Sea Tour. The company takes care of the transportation, their local guide and a lovely lunch while your clients get to lay on the beach and explore the area. Travellers will also be taken to the crocodile breading farm where they will learn everything there is to know about rare Cuban crocodiles.   

Cayo Blanco

This gorgeous island is located about 30 minutes away by boat from Varadero's peninsula. The easiest way to visit this beach paradise is on a Catamaran Tour. Departing from Melia Marina Varadero, a catamaran with friendly and welcoming staff will take you to explore the waters of Varadero. During the ride, travellers are able to get a wide variety of drinks on board served by the staff. Some excursions have options to take your clients to watch a dolphin show while other can just go directly to the island. 

Upon arrival to the island, the show starts! Dancers, DJs, an open bar and a restaurant are waiting to make it a truly spectacular day. Later in the day, travellers get the chance to join in on some more fun with a Foam Party. This excursion is an absolute MUST! 

Cuban Flora & Fauna

Flora:

• More than 1,000 species of plants
• 130 endemic families
• 16 rare families and 14 are in danger of extinction
• The most popular cuban fruits are bananas and avocados
• The national flower is Butterfly Lily

Fauna:

• 15 species of mammals
• 258 species of birds
• 43 species of reptiles
• 16 amphibious species
• 5 rare and 16 in danger of extinction 
• Wide variety of insects
• Natural shelter for 65 migratory birds
• Cuban crocodile -  3-5 metres long, rare specie
• American crocodiles can also be found in Cuba

Want to explore it all? Hola Sun has incredible excursions for flora & fauna lovers. One of them is  a trip to Zapata Swamp National Park which is located less than 150 km from Havana in the province of Matanzas. 

It is there when you can find over 900 species of plants, 175 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles and more! 

In Matanzas you can find the biggest ecological reserve, the Reserva Ecologica Varahicacos. This reserve is home to the most dangerous animal in Cuba, the Cuban Crocodile. This is an incredible attraction offered by Hola Sun.    

Varadero is full of interesting places to explore. From the sea and city tours to the national parks and rare flora and fauna, there is something for everyone.  

To make it easier for travellers, Hola Sun ensures that there's accessible information for travellers in every hotel and resort that they partner with.  Your clients can find a binder with information about the city, important contact information, and a schedule with available excursions in the area.      

Moreover, Hola Sun offers accommodations for every type of budget.

What are you waiting for? It's time to explore Varadero!