Getting Around Holguin. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Holguin offers a mix of public and traditional transport. Local buses (Guaguas) are extremely cheap, with fares paid in Cuban Pesos (CUP). These buses are often crowded and do not have fixed schedules, nor are routes clearly marked or easily understood by tourists.

Bicitaxis (Bicycle Taxis) are common in Holguin city center for short distances, offering a quick, open-air way to travel and see the city. Horse-drawn carriages (Coches) are also a traditional local transport for shorter rides, offering a charming, slower-paced ride.

Aspects

Bus fares are very low, paid directly to the driver or conductor.
For bicitaxis and coches, agree on the fare before starting the ride; negotiation is common.
Local buses run during daytime hours but are infrequent and unpredictable.
Bicitaxis and coches operate throughout the day and into the evening.

Route Hubs

Official route maps are generally not available for tourists. The main bus terminal serves as the hub for intercity Viazul buses.

Efficient Navigation

For short distances, bicitaxis or walking are the most practical options for tourists. Private taxis are more convenient for longer city distances.

Accessibility

Public transportation in Holguin is not wheelchair accessible. Resorts may offer better accessible transport.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Look for yellow or designated 'Taxi' cars, state-run or licensed private vehicles.
Hailing on the street, at taxi stands (Parque Calixto García, hotels), or via accommodation.
Agree on the fare before starting, as meters are rarely used or functioning.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Major international ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) do not operate in Cuba.
Official taxis are generally safe.
Exercise caution with unlicensed private cars unless arranged by trusted locals.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires valid national driving license and IDP (International Driving Permit).

Companies

State-run companies like Havanautos, Cubacar, and Rex.

Booking

Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited availability and high demand.

Cost

Rental cars are relatively expensive in Cuba.

Driving & Other Rentals

Renting a vehicle offers freedom, but comes with specific requirements and conditions. Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common in Holguin city, more prevalent in coastal resort areas.

Driving Conditions

Roads vary in condition; main roads are generally paved but can have significant potholes.
Signage can be poor or non-existent.
Local driving habits differ; drive defensively.
Night driving is discouraged due to poor lighting, unlit vehicles, pedestrians, and animals.

Specialty Vehicles

Motorcycle/scooter rentals are more prevalent in coastal resort areas; a valid motorcycle license is needed.
Bicycle rentals are available from individual casa particulares or some hotels for local exploration.
Bicitaxis and Coches (horse-drawn carriages) offer unique local transport experiences.
Guarded parking lots are available in city centers and tourist sites for a small fee.

Walking & Cycling

Holguin city center, especially around Parque Calixto García, is highly walkable.
Loma de la Cruz is accessible by foot via a long staircase (458 steps).
Self-guided exploration with an offline map is common.

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; be aware of traffic.
Avoid poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.
Stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trafficked areas.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Mainly used for organized excursions from hotels or resorts to attractions like Guardalavaca beaches.

Boat Taxis

Available in coastal areas for short trips or excursions, especially within Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park.

Accessibility Services

Generally very limited for travelers with mobility needs. Public transport and many older buildings lack accessibility features.

Mobility & Convenience

Each transportation choice has a distinct way to experience Holguin province.

Tourist Mobility

Private taxis offer convenience for direct routes.
Viazul buses connect major cities, a reliable intercity option.
City centers are best explored on foot for short distances.
Pre-arrangement of transport addresses specific needs.

Unique Local Flavors

Bicitaxis provide an open-air city tour experience.
Coches offer a charming, slower ride through Holguin's streets.
Boat taxis are excellent for coastal explorations.
Renting a car brings independence for exploring rural areas.

Sustainable & Safe Travel

Eco-Friendly Choices

Opt for bicitaxis or walking for shorter distances.

Reduces carbon footprint.

Safety While Driving

Avoid night driving due to poor lighting and unlit vehicles.

Increases road safety.

Pre-Book Long Trips

Book Viazul buses in advance for intercity travel.

Secures your journey.

Rental Benefits

Freedom of Exploration

Car rental provides ultimate flexibility to explore beyond city limits.
Access remote nature spots and less-visited towns.
Stop whenever you wish for photos or spontaneous discoveries.

Rental Considerations

Understand insurance coverage before renting.
Be aware of fuel station availability, especially in rural areas.
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly and document any existing damage.

Road Safety Reminders

Road conditions vary greatly.
Breakdowns can present challenges due to limited roadside assistance.
Poor or non-existent road signage is common.
Avoid night driving.

Watch for pedestrians and animals on roads.
Unlit vehicles are a common hazard after dark.
Drive cautiously and defensively.
Plan fuel stops in advance.

Final Transport Tip

From a quick bicitaxi ride to a planned intercity bus journey, each choice offers a different way to experience the province.

This section outlines the necessary facts for travel logistics.

Getting Around Holguin