How to get to Camagüey

Located in the central part of Cuba, colorful Camagüey is known as the city of clay jars and intricate ancient streets, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. When planning how to reach this unique destination, you can choose the most convenient option: planes fly here, trains and intercity buses run regularly, and scenic highways lead the way. Traveling to Camagüey means discovering the true soul of the island, and your journey will be easy thanks to the accessible transport infrastructure.

The fastest and most convenient way to be in the center of the action is to fly into Ignacio Agramonte International Airport (CMW). This aviation hub accepts both domestic and international flights, ensuring a stable connection between the region and the outside world. The terminal is located just a few kilometers from the city limits, so the journey to your hotel will not take much time.

If there are no direct tickets for your desired dates, experienced travelers often choose to fly to neighboring provinces. Convenient alternatives include airports serving the Cayo Coco resort or the city of Holguin, located a few hours' drive away. You can also consider a route through Manzanillo if the flight schedule there suits your itinerary better.

The city's railway station is an important point on the island's transport system map. Camagüey is located on the country's main railway line, providing direct connections to key regions. Unlike many other settlements, you can get here by train without resorting to complex combined routes.

Long-distance trains running between Havana and Santiago de Cuba pass through the station, as well as trains connecting the city with other eastern provinces. Although a journey by rail often takes longer than a flight or a taxi transfer, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy non-tourist landscapes and experience the authentic atmosphere of travel.

Bus services on the island are well-established, and for tourists, this is one of the most reliable ways to reach the central regions of the country. The popular route from the city of Holguin takes about 3–4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 200 kilometers along picturesque roads. If you are relaxing on the coast, a convenient service departs from the resort of Cayo Coco: travel time is around 4 hours, allowing you to enjoy views of tropical nature from the window of a comfortable cabin.

Travelers departing from the city of Manzanillo will have to drive just over 200 kilometers, which usually takes from 4 to 5 hours. Most intercity buses catering to tourists are equipped with air conditioning and make stops along the way so passengers can stretch their legs and buy refreshing drinks. Such a trip is not just a transfer, but an opportunity to see the real, non-tourist life of the Cuban province.

Traveling by car around the island is a great chance to see the real life of the country outside of hotels. The shortest route to the center of the province leads from the resort of Cayo Coco: the distance of 188 kilometers can be comfortably covered in about 2.5–3 hours. If you are driving from Holguin, the road will take a little longer — expect to spend about 3.5 hours on the 204-kilometer journey.

The route from coastal Manzanillo stretches for 223 kilometers, and the trip will require almost 4 hours. Many tourists prefer to hire private drivers in colorful retro cars for such transfers, which turns the journey into a separate adventure, although the cost of the trip should be negotiated in advance. Self-driving rental is also possible but requires attentiveness on the roads and prior booking.

To make your trip to Camagüey as comfortable and memorable as possible, it is worth preparing for local features in advance. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations that will help you easily navigate this colorful corner of Cuba and enjoy your holiday without unnecessary worries.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Given the hot tropical climate, bring light clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to ensure comfortable shoes without heels: the historic center is paved with ancient cobblestones, and long walks require maximum comfort for your feet.
2. Transport: It is best to explore the historic part of the city on foot so as not to miss the picturesque squares and courtyards. For moving over longer distances, bicycle taxis (bicitaxi) are the ideal option — this is the most common, inexpensive, and authentic mode of transport in the region.
3. Finances: It is recommended to carry cash (Euros or US Dollars), preferably in small denominations, as change is not always available. Bank cards may not work due to technical failures or restrictions, so do not rely solely on cashless payments. Exchange money only at official exchange points (CADECA).
4. Health and Safety: Drink exclusively bottled water and avoid drinks with ice at street kiosks to prevent stomach upset. The city is safe for tourists, but you should keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places and never leave them unattended.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Spanish. In tourist hotels, the staff speaks English, but explaining yourself on the city streets will be more difficult. Download an offline translator and maps to your smartphone in advance, as mobile internet may be slow or unavailable.
6. Local Etiquette: Cubans are very welcoming and appreciate politeness. Simple words like "Hola" (Hello) and "Gracias" (Thank you) will help establish contact. A leisurely pace of life is adopted here, so do not rush waiters or drivers — relax and enjoy the moment.
7. What to Avoid: Do not buy cigars from hands on the street — in 99% of cases, they will be low-quality fakes, even if the sellers assure you otherwise. Also, refrain from photographing military facilities and police officers to avoid unnecessary questions from the authorities.
8. Extra Tip: Camagüey is known for its unique maze-like street layout, created specifically to confuse pirates in the past. It is very easy to get lost here even with a map, so do not hesitate to ask locals for directions or orient yourself by the high spires of churches, which serve as excellent beacons.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor troubles and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the legendary city of clay jars. May your acquaintance with the Island of Freedom leave only warm and vivid memories!