Things To Do
in Mella
Mella is a quiet Cuban municipality in the eastern inland region, surrounded by sugar cane fields and rolling countryside. The town preserves a human-scale, colonial charm with pastel facades, a central plaza, and a pace that invites lingering coffee breaks. Visitors can sample traditional Cuban dishes from local casas particulares and experience daily life away from the larger tourist hubs.
Though off the typical tourist track, Mella serves as a gateway to nearby nature reserves, rural trails, and coastal day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the José Martí International Airport and take a scenic drive to Mella, enjoying the lush Cuban countryside along the way. Check into your accommodation and relax as you take in the vibrant local atmosphere. Spend some time exploring the nearby streets and senses the rhythm of the town.
Visit a local café to try authentic Cuban coffee and snacks, mingling with friendly locals. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the central plaza, experiencing the hustle and bustle of Mella life. Stop by artisan shops to browse for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
As dusk falls, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Cuban dishes. Enjoy live music that captures the heart of Cuban culture while sipping on classic cocktails. Wrap up the night by mingling with locals at a vibrant open-air bar.
Take a short ride to Santiago de Cuba, where you'll visit the iconic Castillo del Morro, a fortress overlooking the harbor. Explore the history steeped within its walls and learn about the city's significance in Cuban history. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the Caribbean Sea.
Head to the historic Parque de Céspedes, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and see the beautiful architecture surrounding the park. Visit the nearby Museo del Ron to learn about the rum-making process and enjoy a tasting session. Take some time to wander through local markets and savor street food.
Return to Mella for a relaxing evening, enjoying dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Discuss your day's adventures over a meal rich in local flavors. Unwind with a peaceful walk along the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky in vibrant colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Authentic Cuban experience away from the big tourist hubs
- Limited English in some areas
- Fewer English-language services may require patience
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Mella
Visit one of these nice places.
The town’s bustling core with pastel facades and a venerable church, ideal for candid street photography and architecture shots.
19th-century church featuring ornate altars and softly filtered light through stained glass—great for interior photography.
Calm waters, local fishers, and palm-shaded banks perfect for sunset portraits and reflective landscapes.
Expansive sugar cane fields with long horizons and warm hues during the golden hour.
Food in Mella
Mella Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic chicken and rice dish cooked with peppers and peas, widely available at local casas and eateries.
Must-Try!
Black beans and white rice cooked together, a staple accompaniment that pairs with almost every main course.
Roasted pork marinated with garlic and citrus, a popular choice for family meals and special occasions.
Boiled cassava served with mojo sauce (garlic-lime), a common side dish throughout the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daytime market offering fresh produce, bread, and small prepared bites from local vendors.
Tipsy on the scent of grilled plantains and fried snacks—great for quick bites and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or light kiss-on-the-cheek is common among friends; address elders with respect and use polite language in public spaces.
Ask for permission when photographing people, especially in private homes or markets; always thank subjects afterward.
Safety
Tipping in Mella
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and casas particulares, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Guides and drivers commonly receive 10-15%.
Cash is widely accepted (CUP and foreign currencies). Credit cards are less commonly accepted; carry small bills and check with providers about payments in USD vs. local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor exploration, plaza strolls, and daytime photography. Pack light layers and sun protection.
Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers; plan for flexible outdoor activities and carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Increased risk of tropical storms; stay informed with local forecasts and have a simple contingency plan and emergency contact details.
Mella at Night
Hiking in Mella
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills with scenic overlooks and easy-to-moderate trails suitable for half-day hikes.
Flat, picturesque routes along waterways and farmlands ideal for relaxed walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Mella by plane.
Primary regional airport serving Camagüey Province; connects to Havana and several international destinations.
Smaller airport serving the Las Tunas area with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Larger international airport farther east; convenient for multi-stop trips in eastern Cuba.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly rural families, retirees, and students maintaining traditional Cuban customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Cuba, played in parks and schools and followed with passion by locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mella.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for bean-based dishes, yuca, plantains, and salads; most spots can adapt sides to suit vegetarian needs.
Rely on rice, beans, yuca, and lean proteins; communicate clearly with staff about gluten-containing sauces or processed items.