Tailor made vacation to Western Cuba

Planet

The Moka Ecolodge at Las Terrazas encourages responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people. Part of its electricity comes from solar panels, and some of the food served is grown in hydroponic, organic gardens. Through projects such as a recycling programme, Moka has also raised environmental awareness in the community. The Lodge funds conservation and scientific research, protects fragile and pristine ecosystems. It also promotes rural development and enhances ecological and cultural sensitivity in the travel industry.

People

Responsible Travel in Cuba is not easy as the government prefer to prevent visitors from getting a true insight into the locals' lives, hence the encouragement of large 'all-inclusive' type hotels. However, we see Cuba differently: we employ local Cuban guides and drivers to escort you throughout your trip who are more than happy to chat about life today in communist Cuba.

In this itinerary you will be supporting the community by visiting local artists in their studios and the organic gardens of Havana, eating at the wonderful family-run restaurants/paladars (so your money goes directly to the locals rather then the state), and exploring the rural area of Pinar del Rio to appreciate the countryside on bike rides, or by pony and trap!

There are also long walks you can take in the conservation area of Las Terrazas where you will be able to visit the local farming community, in the foothills of the Sierra del Rosario Reserve and even have the opportunity to stay with a local family. It is the largest UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Caribbean and the main center for ecotourism within Cuba.

Merely by visiting Cuba itself will also enhance the locals lives as you bring money into the country which will help subsidise their meagre state salaries.