Book Cheap Flights to Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba is a city of colourful façades and old streets that tremble with the rumble of classic cars and twang of guitar strings. It is a city that hums with the echoes of rebellious mystique and fierce Afro-Cuban soul. And it was the birthplace of Cuban Revolution and Bacardi Rum.

Wander along the steep streets and you will find locals hanging out on the Padre Pico Steps or vendors selling Barbecued pig on street corners. You will also find museums and galleries such as the Museo de la Lucha Clandestina and Museo Municipal Emilio Bacardí Moreau.

Follow the sweet aromatics of rum and you will find your way to the Bacardí Rum Factory. Traditional rum is still brewed here and tastings are on offer. For those interested in the history of Cuban rum, the Museo del Ron is a must-visit (be sure to have a drink in the bar below).

Be sure to explore Tivolí, the old French Quarter, and try local delicacies on the Plaza de Dolores. When the sun goes down, surrender to the seductive energy of Calle Heredia.

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South African passport holders require a visa to enter Cuba. Visas can be arranged through the Embassy of Cuba in South Africa. However, if you are travelling to Cuba via the United States, you will need to apply for a visa at the airline desks in the United States.

The Embassy of Cuba is situated in Pretoria.

Address: 45 Mackenzie Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria, 0011

Phone: (+27) 0 12 346 2215

Although Santiago de Cuba is considered a relatively safe city, you should still take the usual precautions and remain vigilant throughout your trip to avoid any unpleasant situations. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is recommended.

Apart from petty theft such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching, the biggest problem in the city is overzealous jineteros (touts). Familiarise yourself with the various scams that pervade the streets of Santiago de Cuba before arriving and be polite but firm if you are approached. Only make use of licensed and reputable taxis when getting around (especially at night). Cuban drivers can be reckless and the streets a dangerous place; remain vigilant when crossing or walking along roads.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from an infected country. Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya and other insect-borne diseases are common, so the necessary precautions should be taken to avoid bites and infection. Vaccinations for hepatitis A & B, cholera, typhoid and rabies are recommended. Routine vaccinations include MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, meningitis, varicella, polio and influenza. Stick to bottled water.