Things To Do
in Bejucal
Bejucal is a charming, historic town just outside Havana that feels like a snapshot of classic Cuban life. Its pastel-coloured casas, lively plazas, and relaxed pace give visitors a taste of daily rhythms away from the tourist crowds. The town is a gateway to the surrounding countryside and the nearby coast, while retaining strong local traditions.
Expect welcoming residents, vibrant music, and easily explored streets that reveal Cuban culture at its own pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the heart of Bejucal by visiting the beautiful Plaza de la Revolución. As the sun rises, stroll past the vivid murals and colonial architecture that tell the story of Cuba's rich history. Don't forget to stop at a local café for a traditional Cuban breakfast of tostadas and café con leche.
After a delicious lunch at a nearby paladar, spend your afternoon visiting the Museo de Bejucal, where you can learn about the town’s past and its role in the sugar industry. Wander through the charming streets, lined with colorful houses and local artisan shops, and perhaps pick up a handcrafted souvenir. The warm Cuban sun will make the walk enjoyable as you soak in the vibrant local culture.
As night falls, make your way to a local restaurant to taste some authentic Cuban cuisine, such as ropa vieja and congrí. After dinner, enjoy live music at a nearby venue, where you can experience the lively rhythms of salsa and son cubano. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation under the starlit sky.
Start your day early with a guided birdwatching tour at the nearby wetlands, where you can spot a variety of exotic bird species, including the Cuban Trogon. The peaceful sounds of nature will greet you as you sip on freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a light breakfast surrounded by lush greenery. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the beauty of the diverse wildlife.
After your morning adventure, return to Bejucal for a hearty lunch at a local eatery, featuring fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Spend your afternoon relaxing at a nearby park, enjoying the shade of the trees while observing local life unfold. You can also take a leisurely bike ride to explore the outskirts of the town and appreciate the scenic countryside.
In the evening, visit a local family-run restaurant for dinner, where you can engage with the friendly owners and learn about their culinary traditions. Afterward, join in on a community dance event, where locals gather to share their love for music and movement. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, and don't be shy to show off your best dance moves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕️Coffee or breakfast | $1-3 |
| 🧥Basic street-side snack or pastry | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (bus/taxi start) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or casa particular per night | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, authentic Cuban town experience
- Close to Havana with easy day trips
- Affordable, intimate dining and live music
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Limited tourist infrastructure
- Smaller selection of amenities
- Variable Wi-Fi and connectivity in some areas
- Occasional language barriers for non-Spanish speakers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Buen provecho!" - Enjoy your meal
- "Me gustaría…" - I would like…
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "¿Tiene menú en inglés?" - Do you have an English menu?
- "Soy vegetariano" - I am vegetarian
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Bejucal
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively plaza framed by colonial buildings, ideal for candid street photography and dusk lighting.
A historic street with colorful shutters, balconies, and period lampposts—great for wide-angle and detail shots.
An old church with simple architectural lines and a backdrop of pastel facades; good for sunrise or golden hour.
Riverbank and rural scenes with palm shadows and cattle; captures the contrast between town and fields.
Food in Bejucal
Bejucal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef slowly braised with peppers, onions, and tomatoes; best found at local paladares or home-style eateries.
Must-Try!
Black beans stewed with garlic and peppers served with white rice; a Cuban staple at most eateries.
Chicken cooked with saffron rice, peas, and vegetables; a comforting staple in many Bejucal homes and restaurants.
Succulent roasted pork often served with yuca or plantains at traditional Cuban restaurants.
Boiled cassava with a garlicky citrus mojo; a common side dish across Bejucal eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can taste fresh fruit, quick fried snacks, and observe everyday Cuban life.
Try tostas (toasted baguette slices with toppings), fried plantains, croquetas, and homemade pastries from nearby stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek in friendly settings; address people with polite forms and take your hat off indoors.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in homes or markets.
Safety
Tipping in Bejucal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but modest; leave cents or small tips for service in casas particulares and restaurants.
Cash is widely used (Cuban pesos CUP and Cuban Convertible Pesos CUC historically, but many places prefer CUP or mobile payments with local apps); credit cards are rarely accepted outside hotels and larger businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with scattered tropical showers; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Warm days and cooler evenings; still humid, with occasional rains; great for outdoor photography as light is softer.
Mild, comfortable temperatures; cool evenings; ideal for strolls around the plaza and evening music scenes.
Pleasant temperatures with increasing greenery; perfect for hiking and outdoor markets.
Bejucal at Night
Hiking in Bejucal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle rural trails on the outskirts offering farm views and birdlife.
Short hill walks with scenic outlooks suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Bejucal by plane.
Havana's main international gateway; about 40-70 km from Bejucal, depending on route; taxis and buses connect Bejucal to Havana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bejucal's population centers around families in multi-generational homes and long-standing local communities.
Families are connected to nearby schools and cultural programs; locals value education and community events.
A calmer segment who enjoy the town's pace and social gatherings at plazas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Cuba, with local leagues and informal play in parks.
A strong national sport with community gym programs and occasional local events.
Widely played in schools and neighborhoods; informal matches occur around town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bejucal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find bean-based dishes (beans and rice, moros y cristianos), plantains, salads, and vegetable sides; communicate dietary needs to staff and request oil-based dressings instead of pork broth.