Cuba | Cuba`s Birding Hotspots Post Extension

with Michelle McGehee
Date:
Mar 14 - Mar 17, 2026
Activity Level:
MODERATE
Duration:
4 Days
Price:
From $1,100
Interests:
Join Waitlist This departure is SOLD OUT Print Itinerary

About this trip

Extend your Cuba birding trip for a chance to seek out more endemic avian species along the beautiful Cayo Coco.

Highlights

  • Bird in the Cayo Coco area, an ideal spot for observing Cuba's bird life including Oriente Warbler, Thick-billed Vireo, Bahama Mockingbird, and Cuban Gnatcatcher.
  • Enjoy optional snorkeling and search for aquatic wildlife in the waters and reefs at Cayo Romano.
  • Taste fresh local cuisine and connect with a Cuban family during dinner at a paladar.
Land Cost

$1,100

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $100

What makes us different

Scopes

All of our birding guides carry scopes to improve your chances of spotting even the most hard to find species

Carbon offsetting

As part of our commitment to sustainable travel, we partner with ClimateSafe to offset the carbon emissions from each journey

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Top birding guides

Our in-country birding guides are experts in bird identification and behavior, providing rewarding experiences for everyone from novice birders to ornithologists

Meaningful experiences

We believe travel should be more than just a vacation – it should enrich and inspire

Daily Itinerary

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Morón
This morning take some time to bird in the national park, looking for any species that might have been missed. Then travel approximately four hours to the Morón area with some possible birding stops along the way. Morón will be your base for the next couple of days, providing convenient access to Cayo Coco and the surrounding islands for opportunities to see more endemic and migrating species.
Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Particular
Morón
The Cayo Coco area is an ideal spot for observing Cuba's bird life. Start the day at Cayo Guillermo and spend the afternoon at Cayo Romano. Look for Oriente Warbler, Thick-billed Vireo, Bahama Mockingbird, and Cuban Gnatcatcher, in addition to a variety of waterbirds including the West Indian Whistling-Duck. For those who are interested, the waters and reefs here offer some of the best snorkeling in the world.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Particular
Morón
Begin the day at Cayo Paredón Grande, hopefully spotting any species you may have missed. There should also be a chance to spot migrating birds moving through the area. Enjoy dinner this evening at a local paladar.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Particular
Depart
This morning transfer to the Camagüey Airport in time for flights back to the U.S.
Breakfast- included
Land Cost

$1,100

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $100

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • English-speaking guide, private transportation, and entrance fees.
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of a personal nature and tips.
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Cost is based on a minimum of 1 participants in double occupancy.

A deposit of $350 is required for participants to register and reserve space on the program. Reservations submitted beyond the final payment deadline noted below will require full payment to enroll. 120 or more days before departure: $100 cancellation fee; remaining balance is refunded. 119 - 96 days before departure: full deposit of $350 is forfeited. 95 - 0 days before departure: 100% of program price is forfeited.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $100


Final payment due date: December 09, 2025

Travel Info

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Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Cuba. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry and have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.

All travelers must also have an electronic visa, which includes a health declaration form. The Cuban e-visa is valid for a single entry and allows the holder to stay in Cuba for 90 days. Your program includes the e-visa fee, and Holbrook will send you an email several weeks prior to departure with a link to your assigned e-visa number. The form may only be completed within 7 days of departure and must be completed before checking in for your flight to Cuba. (Note: This may be easier to do on a laptop or desktop rather than your smart phone.) Upon completion, you will receive an email with a PDF including a QR code for your specific e-visa. Please print or save this document to your phone for ease of submission when requested.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport or you are a Cuban-born person, please check with the Cuban Embassy for requirements based on your nationality. Also, be sure to have your required documents (passport, Cuban e-visa) for re-entry into the U.S.

Please note: The U.S. Department of Treasury, Department of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) requires that all travelers to Cuba retain itineraries for at least 5 years.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Cuba, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required. The CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Cuba.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

Dengue fever and Zika virus are known to be present in Cuba. Travelers to Cuba should protect themselves against insect bites: Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later). As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Travelers’ Diarrhea

The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is the most frequent health problem for travelers worldwide. To avoid contracting this, use bottled water, which is about $1.50 to $2 for a small bottle purchased in your private home or casa particular and some restaurants. Water costs much less in stores.

Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or peeled fruit. When in doubt, ask your trip leader. If you contract diarrhea, it is very important to drink large quantities of purified water with rehydration salts and consult your doctor for appropriate medication.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

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Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs. For hikes, long socks that you can tuck your pant legs into are recommended to deter ticks.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more rugged itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter to protect against insects

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all accommodations. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed
  • Small towel – bath mats are not always provided in accommodations

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness medication, anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport, e-visa, and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – Cash; small bills in good condition are recommended. Please note: Credit or debit cards that are drawn against accounts in the United States cannot be used in Cuba. Therefore, it is important to estimate the amount of cash that is necessary for travel.
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
  • Money belt
  • Chargers for electronics
  • Converters and plug adapters for electronics
"I enjoyed this trip tremendously and wouldn’t hesitate to go back to Cuba in the future."
- Kathy S.
Cuba , 2023
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eBird Trip Reports: Cuba
Want to know which species other Holbrook travelers have seen on their birding trips to Cuba? Check out these eBird trip reports shared by past groups to see their checklists and get an idea of what y