Things To Do
in Unión de Reyes

Unión de Reyes is a charming town located in the province of Matanzas, Cuba. Known for its rich agricultural landscape, it is surrounded by lush fields and sugarcane plantations. The town offers a glimpse into traditional Cuban life, with friendly locals and a slower pace of life.

Visitors can explore its vibrant culture, historical sites, and stunning natural scenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parque José Martí where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café and immerse yourself in local life.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the town's history and then take a stroll through the surrounding sugarcane fields for some stunning views.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then catch a live music performance at a nearby venue to experience Cuba's vibrant music scene.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take an early hike in the nearby hills to experience the natural beauty of the region, followed by a hearty brunch.

afternoon
:

Explore local artisan shops and markets to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Cuban restaurant and finish the night with a relaxing walk through the town square.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$8
🍺Local Beer$2
🏨Mid-range Hotel Room$50
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$5
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Cuban experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Rich agricultural landscape and vibrant local culture.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited major tourist attractions compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hasta luego" - See you later

Places to Visit in Unión de Reyes

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque José Martí

A picturesque park with beautiful trees and benches, perfect for capturing everyday Cuban life.

Sugarcane Fields

Vast green fields that offer stunning landscape shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Local Murals

Colorful street art throughout the town that showcases the vibrant culture and history of Unión de Reyes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Unión de Reyes

Unión de Reyes offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect Cuban culture.

Unión de Reyes Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ropa Vieja

A flavorful dish made with shredded beef, tomatoes, and spices, often served with rice and beans.

Must-Try!

Tostones

Fried green plantains that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect as a side dish or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where local farmers sell fresh produce, meats, and homemade goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering quick bites like empanadas, churros, and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Unión de Reyes has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Winters are mild with average highs around 25°C (77°F), while summers can reach up to 32°C (90°F). The rainy season typically occurs from May to October, bringing cooler evenings and occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; saying 'Hola' is a polite way to greet someone.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Cuban culture; always address them politely.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Unión de Reyes is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in less crowded areas. It's advisable to travel in groups, especially at night.

Tipping in Unión de Reyes

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and for services, as wages are generally low.

Payment Methods

Cash is predominantly used; credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's advisable to carry sufficient local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Temperatures are mild, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Spring

A pleasant time to visit; the weather is warm, and local flora is in full bloom.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for enjoying the local pools and shaded areas.

Fall

Cooler temperatures return, and there's less humidity, providing a comfortable atmosphere for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Unión de Reyes at Night

The nightlife in Unión de Reyes is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. Locals enjoy socializing in the town square, where live music often plays. Small bars and cafes offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying cocktails or local rum, and occasionally, there are cultural events or dance nights showcasing traditional Cuban music.

Hiking in Unión de Reyes

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Demajagua Trail

A scenic trail located just outside of Unión de Reyes, offering moderate hiking with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Sierra del Rosario

A bit further away, this area features more challenging hikes through diverse ecosystems, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Unión de Reyes by plane.

Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA)

Located about 90 km from Unión de Reyes, this airport serves international flights and offers connections to major cities in Cuba.

Getting Around

Walkability

Unión de Reyes is quite walkable, with many attractions located within easy distance of each other. The streets are generally flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. However, be cautious of uneven pavements and local traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Farmers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, particularly in sugarcane production, which is a crucial part of the local economy.

Artisans

A significant number of locals are artisans, creating handmade crafts and goods that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, with many locals playing in the streets and parks.

Boxing

Cuba has a rich boxing tradition, with many champions emerging from the country, and local gyms often have training sessions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Unión de Reyes is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation consists mostly of shared taxis and buses, which may have irregular schedules. Be mindful of pedestrians as you navigate the streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Unión de Reyes.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple in Cuban cuisine, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable rice and beans.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are limited, but fresh fruits and vegetables are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Unión de Reyes includes a local clinic and a few pharmacies. While basic healthcare services are available, for more serious medical needs, it is advisable to travel to larger cities like Matanzas. Visitors should consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Cuba

Read more in our Cuba 2025 Travel Guide.

Cuba Travel Guide