Things To Do
in Guayos

Guayos is a small town located in the Cienfuegos province of Cuba, known for its vibrant culture and friendly locals. The town is characterized by its picturesque colonial architecture and lush green surroundings. Visitors can experience authentic Cuban life, away from the more touristy areas, while enjoying the local music and dance.

Guayos serves as a great base for exploring the natural beauty and attractions of the surrounding region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Guayos
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Cuban breakfast at a local café, then take a stroll through the town to admire the colonial buildings and vibrant street art.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Cienfuegos Botanical Garden, where you can explore a diverse collection of tropical plants and enjoy a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Return to Guayos for a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a night of live music at a local venue.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head out early to visit the nearby El Nicho Waterfalls for a morning hike and swim in the natural pools.

afternoon
:

Return to Guayos for lunch, then visit the local market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset stroll along the town’s main square, followed by a dinner with traditional Cuban dishes at a local paladar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
🚕Taxi Ride$5
🥤Cuban Coffee$1
🛍️Souvenir$5
🏨Night in a Budget Hotel$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Cuban experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Rich culture and vibrant community life.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited access to modern amenities.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for some travelers.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría una cerveza" - I would like a beer

Places to Visit in Guayos

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de Guayos

A picturesque square that showcases the town's colonial architecture and is perfect for capturing local life.

El Nicho Waterfalls

Breathtaking waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for nature photography.

Cienfuegos Botanical Garden

A stunning garden filled with exotic plants and flowers, providing a colorful backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guayos

Guayos offers a delightful array of Cuban cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The local food scene is a reflection of Cuban culture, emphasizing traditional recipes and communal dining experiences.

Guayos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce, often served with rice and black beans.

Must-Try!

Moros y Cristianos

A traditional dish of black beans and rice cooked together, symbolizing the historical coexistence of different cultures.

Tostones

Twice-fried green plantains that are crispy and often served as a side dish or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Agropecuario

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies at reasonable prices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guayos has a tropical climate with high humidity levels. Summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging between 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) and less humidity. Rain is common from May to October, with the hurricane season peaking in September and October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly 'Hola' is the common way to greet people. It's customary to greet everyone in a group.

Respect for elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Cuban culture, often addressing them as 'señor' or 'señora.'

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and sharing food is common.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guayos is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure. Be cautious of street vendors and always ensure you're aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Guayos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes. In bars, rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most transactions are done in cash, with CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) being the preferred currency. Some places may accept credit cards, but always check in advance.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

The weather is mild and dry, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Spring (March - May)

Temperatures begin to rise, and you'll experience blooming flora, perfect for photography and nature walks.

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid weather; be prepared for occasional rain showers. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September - November)

The weather cools down slightly, and it's less crowded, making it a great time to visit for a more relaxed experience.

Nightlife Guide

Guayos at Night

The nightlife in Guayos is vibrant and community-oriented, with local bars and venues hosting live music and dance events. You can find a mix of traditional Cuban rhythms such as salsa and son, often accompanied by lively crowds. The local community enjoys gathering at open-air venues where music and dance blend into a festive atmosphere. Visiting a local nightclub can provide an authentic experience of Cuban nightlife.

Hiking in Guayos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero El Nicho

A scenic trail leading to stunning waterfalls, suitable for hikers of all levels, with lush vegetation and wildlife along the route.

Cerro de la Loma

A more challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for experienced hikers seeking adventure.

Airports

How to reach Guayos by plane.

Cienfuegos Airport (CFG)

Located about 15 km from Guayos, Cienfuegos Airport is the nearest airport offering domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guayos is a small town that is highly walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly paths, making it easy to explore on foot. Walking allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local atmosphere and engage with the friendly residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents in Guayos are of mixed heritage, primarily descendants of Spanish colonizers and African slaves, which influences the local culture.

Tourists

An increasing number of tourists are discovering Guayos, drawn by its authenticity and charm, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, with many locals passionate about playing and watching games.

Boxing

Cuba has a rich history in boxing, and many young athletes train in the sport, making it a significant part of local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Guayos is typically light, with most transportation consisting of bicycles, scooters, and walking. Public transportation options, such as buses and shared taxis, are available but may not be very frequent. It's common for visitors to walk or rent bikes to navigate the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guayos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adjusted for vegetarians, but it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Cuban cuisine primarily features rice and beans, which can be gluten-free, but be cautious with sauces and bread.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Guayos is basic but accessible. There are local clinics available for minor medical issues, and more comprehensive care can be found in the nearby city of Cienfuegos. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and to carry any necessary medications with them.

Discover Cuba

Read more in our Cuba 2025 Travel Guide.

Cuba Travel Guide