Havana City Guide - Getting There By Rail

Cuba is the only Caribbean island with a functioning rail service, which is operated by Ferrocarriles de Cuba. There is no national enquiries number but information can be obtained from the main station in Havana, the Estación Central, Avenida Bélgica and Calle Arsenal (tel: (7) 862 1920). The station tends to be rather crowded with patient passengers surrounded by large piles of luggage waiting for delayed trains. There is a cafe in the station to escape the chaos.

Rail services: Train travel is a great way to meet people and experience a slice of Cuban life, but the service is notoriously unreliable with frequent delays and cancellations. For those with the time and wherewithal, it makes for an unforgettable journey. The main, and best, route is from Havana to Santiago de Cuba via Matanzas, Santa Clara, Ciego de Ávila, Camagüey and Las Tunas. The overnight express service between Havana and Santiago is the fastest, taking a minimum of 15 hours. There are several branch lines from this main line. Published timetables don't exist, so it is imperative to check times well in advance and make a reservation in person at the La Coubre ticket office (tel: (7) 860 3163) by the station.