Varadero Travel Forum

Hi all,
I will be arriving in Havana in a week (Saturday) and going to Varadero.... but don't yet know how to get there. I have heard of Viazul but their schedule and pick-up points - I am not so sure of, and also whether their buses actually go to and from the Havana airport. So that's my dilema.
I arrive Sat. afternoon (3'30 pm) and didn't really want to rely on taxis to go to Varadero.
Can anyone help??
It would be very much appreciated.
THANKS!

viazul goes twice a day to varadero, but you arrive too late to catch it. there is no connection from havana airport. at that time of the day, it may take you up to one hour to clear immigration and customs and even more.
it may be better for you to stay the night at a casa particular in vedado and take the morning bus from vedado bus station to varadero or if you want it more convenient, take a taxi direct to varadero.
viazul.cu

Thanks for your reply!
Yes, i was hoping that there may exist other options. I did check the viazul website and noted the schedule. But had seen other post that suggested or stated there was another bus that left later.
Will have to keep checking for alternatives, or take a taxi...
Thanks again!

Looks like I will have to go by taxi...
Anyone, what would the approximate cost?
Thanks

I would say it would be close to 100 usd/chavitos. try to take the panataxi, they have the cheapest rate..you may be able to negotiate a rate with a panataxi driver. come out of the customs and walk past the men who are asking you whether you want a taxi, go directly to the rank and look for a panataxi, which is yellow in colour, and talk to the driver.

Guy,

You need to consider that the average monthly income is somewhere around $20 per month for the average worker! $100 for a two hour taxi ride is VERY EXPENSIVE and the local people expect foreigners to pay this. Here in DC a two hour taxi ride would cost about $225 or more. A taxi told me it would cost $50 to go from Downtown Havana to Varadero and the airport is about 15 minutes closer to Varadero... The VT'er is right...negotiate with a private person in the airport but before you get in the guys car...I would write down their car plates, license number, name, etc! Just for safety...You should plan to wait around at the airport outside and talk to many drivers...someone will do it... This one ride will bring them twice more money than the average worker will earn in two months!!!

Thanks for the very helpful information - and how to locate panataxi!
Muchas gracias and Suerte!

I would stay in a hotel your first night. Customs/Immigrations wants an address on your tourist card where you will be staying your first 2 nights and I don't think the "casas" qualify.