Island of Revolution GA Tour

Havana → Varadero

Depart Havana, the capital of Cuba, and head east along the northern coast.

Colonial Beginnings — The Spanish Empire

Havana was founded in the early 16th century and quickly became one of the most important ports in the Spanish Empire. It served as a key hub for ships traveling between the Americas and Europe.

The city’s architecture — forts, plazas, and colorful buildings — reflects centuries of colonial influence.

Cuba’s early history was shaped by its role as a strategic and economic center, built on trade, agriculture, and the labor of enslaved people.

This was the foundation of the island’s identity —

one rooted in empire and control.

Varadero → Camagüey

Head inland toward central Cuba.

Sugar, Slavery, and Expansion

Cuba’s economy grew rapidly through sugar production, becoming one of the world’s largest exporters in the 18th and 19th centuries.

This growth came at a cost — driven heavily by enslaved labor and later by large agricultural estates.

Camagüey, one of Cuba’s oldest cities, reflects this period of expansion and wealth.

The wealth of the island increased —

but so did inequality and unrest.

Camagüey → Manzanillo

Continue southeast toward the coast.

The Fight for Independence

By the late 19th century, Cuba began to push for independence from Spain.

Revolutionary movements formed, leading to the Cuban War of Independence (1895–1898).

Figures like José Martí became symbols of the struggle for national identity and freedom.

The fight was long and difficult —

but it changed the direction of the island forever.

Manzanillo → Santiago de Cuba

Fly toward one of Cuba’s most historic cities.

Santiago — A Center of Change

Santiago de Cuba played a major role in both the independence movement and later revolutionary history.

It was near here that key battles were fought, and where revolutionary ideas took root.

The city has long been associated with resistance, culture, and identity.

It represents a turning point —

where Cuba’s past began to give way to its future.

Santiago → Cayo Coco

Turn north across the island.

The 20th Century — Influence and Instability

Following independence, Cuba entered a new era — one marked by political instability and strong influence from the United States.

Economic ties grew, but so did internal tensions.

Tourism began to develop, particularly in coastal regions, but inequality remained a persistent issue.

The island was independent —

but not entirely in control of its future.

Cayo Coco → Cienfuegos

Continue west along the southern coast.

The Road to Revolution

By the mid-20th century, dissatisfaction with the government grew.

Corruption, inequality, and foreign influence led to rising opposition.

This would eventually lead to one of the most significant events in Cuba’s history.

Cienfuegos → Santa Clara

Head inland.

The Cuban Revolution — 1959

Santa Clara was the site of a decisive battle during the Cuban Revolution.

Led by figures such as Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, revolutionary forces overthrew the government of Fulgencio Batista.

This marked the beginning of a new era —

one defined by socialism and significant political change.

Santa Clara → Havana

Return to the capital.

A New System

Following the revolution, Cuba underwent major transformations.

Industries were nationalized, and the country aligned with the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

This period defined Cuba’s modern identity — politically, economically, and globally.

Havana → Guantánamo Bay

Fly southeast along the coast.

Global Tensions — The Cold War

Cuba became a focal point during the Cold War, particularly during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 — one of the closest moments to nuclear conflict in history.

Guantánamo Bay remains a unique geopolitical location, housing a U.S. naval base on Cuban soil.

The island stood at the center of global tension —

a small nation with worldwide significance.

Guantánamo → Havana

Return across the island to complete your journey.

Modern Cuba — Change and Continuity

Today, Cuba remains shaped by its history — its revolution, its culture, and its resilience.

While changes have occurred in recent years, many aspects of life remain deeply connected to the past.

Classic cars, historic buildings, and cultural traditions reflect a country that continues to evolve while holding onto its identity.

Final Reflection

Cuba is an island of contrasts —

past and present, struggle and resilience, isolation and connection.

From colonial beginnings to revolution and beyond, its story is written across every region you’ve flown.

And from the air —

you’ve seen it all come together.