Las TunasOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Cuba's sculpture capital, where art meets nature.
If you're wondering what to do in Las Tunas, this city, often called the "capital of Cuban sculpture," offers much more than its open-air artworks. Beyond exploring Plaza Vicente García, the city's beating heart with its colonial architecture and emblematic statues, Las Tunas is an invitation to adventure. Imagine strolling along the lively Boulevard de Las Tunas while solving puzzles. An outdoor escape game immerses you in its history and culture, turning every street into a playground. It's a unique and immersive way to discover the Museo Provincial Vicente García, for instance, without the usual walls. This treasure hunt allows you to experience a life-sized scavenger hunt, an unusual activity that promises laughter and discoveries for all ages. Las Tunas is a destination where art, history, and adventure meet to create unforgettable memories.
Unusual things to do in Las Tunas
For an unusual activity in Las Tunas, off the beaten path, why not embark on a thematic exploration of its sculptures? The city is an open-air museum, and an OddballTrip scavenger hunt transforms this artistic richness into a real treasure hunt. It's an original outing that challenges you to uncover the secrets of local art, find hidden clues within the artworks, and discover anecdotes known only to insiders. Imagine deciphering riddles in front of a monumental work, thus revealing an unknown aspect of Cuban culture. It's a unique way to immerse yourself in the creative soul of Las Tunas.
Things to do in Las Tunas with kids
What to do in Las Tunas with your family to entertain both young and old? An outdoor escape game is the ideal activity! Designed to be accessible from 8 years old, it transforms the city into a huge playground. Children and teens love solving riddles, searching for clues, and collaborating to advance in the adventure. It's a playful experience that stimulates curiosity and teamwork, while allowing you to discover the city in an interactive way. Away from screens, your family will share moments of bonding and laughter, creating precious memories in the heart of Las Tunas. A perfect outing for a memorable day.
Las Tunas for couples
For a romantic getaway to Las Tunas as a couple, let yourself be charmed by the intimate atmosphere of its narrow streets and the beauty of its heritage. Imagine yourselves hand in hand, exploring the hidden corners of the city, discovering sculptures and architecture that tell stories. An OddballTrip scavenger hunt can add a touch of adventure to your stroll, turning each discovery into a shared and intimate moment. Enjoy the views offered by Parque 26 de Julio, or a discreet terrace for a special moment. It's an invitation to mutual discovery, through the discreet charms of Las Tunas, away from the hustle and bustle, for memories for two.
What to do in Las Tunas when it rains
If rain decides to join your visit to Las Tunas, don't panic! Fortunately, a large part of our outdoor escape game route is designed to be played under the arcades and covered passages that line the city center. Approximately 80% of the game takes place under shelter, allowing you to continue the adventure without getting soaked. It's a perfect solution to enjoy the city even in capricious weather, exploring its architectural charms while staying dry and having fun. An ideal activity for rainy days, ensuring your exploration is not interrupted.
Where is Las Tunas, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Las Tunas
- Vicente García Park
- Parish Church of San Jerónimo
- Site of the Old Spanish Fort (Commemorative plaque or remnant)
- Facade of the Vicente García Provincial Museum
- Martí Square
- Revolution Park (Major General Vicente García González)
- Francisco Vega Street (Historic facade)
- Municipal Assembly Building (or former City Hall)
The history of Las Tunas
From Cattle Ranch to Burned City
The first historical reference to the region of Las Tunas dates to 1510, when Spanish conqueror Alonso de Ojeda was shipwrecked there. The area was then home to the aboriginal chiefdoms of Maniabón and Boyucá in the north, and Cueybá in the south. The city was officially founded in 1796 around the Parish of San Jerónimo. It was initially known as Hato de Las Tunas around 1603, named for a large cattle ranch where tuna brava, a spiny plant, was abundant. The town received the title of 'villa' in 1848 and 'city' in 1853.
The Phoenix City and the Capital of Sculptures
Las Tunas retains few traces of its original colonial architecture. The city was deliberately burned three times by Creole forces during the wars of independence against Spain. Major General Vicente García González, a figure in the Ten Years' War, ordered the city to be burned in 1876, declaring he preferred it "burned before slave." This act is a significant part of the city's identity and is commemorated annually. The city was also partially burned in 1869 and completely in 1897. In the mid-20th century, Las Tunas began to rebuild with an eclectic architectural style, featuring masonry residences with tiled roofs, columns, and portals. In 1976, Las Tunas became the capital of its own province, having previously been part of the larger Oriente province. A development program was initiated to modernize the city and connect it by road to Havana. Today, Las Tunas is known as the "Capital of Sculptures," with over one hundred artworks adorning its streets, many of which were donated by Cuban artists following the 3rd Sculptors National Meeting in 1977.
What to see in Las Tunas
- Vicente García Park — This central park is a focal point of the city, surrounded by historical buildings. It is a place to observe daily life.
- Parish Church of San Jerónimo — The city was founded around this church in 1796. This church marks the city's historical nucleus.
- Site of the Old Spanish Fort — Remnants or commemorative plaques mark the historical significance of the Spanish fort, reminding visitors of the city's past during the independence wars.
- Vicente García Provincial Museum — Housed in an eclectic blue two-story building on Francisco Varona Street, this museum was originally the colonial mansion of Enrique Rosende. It served as a telegraph barracks, was rebuilt as a city hall in 1921, and became a provincial museum in the 1980s. It exhibits artifacts like old weapons and decorative arts.
- Martí Square (Plaza Martiana) — This square is dedicated to Cuba's national hero, José Martí. It features a solar clock.
- Revolution Park (Major General Vicente García González) — A large square dedicated to Major General Vicente García, a figure in Cuba's independence. It is a place to reflect on the city's revolutionary history.
- Francisco Vega Street — This street offers a view of the eclectic architecture that emerged in Las Tunas after its rebuilding in the mid-20th century.
- Municipal Assembly Building (former City Hall) — This building, on Francisco Varona Street, was rebuilt in 1921 on the foundations of a former telegraph barracks and served as the City Hall until 1959.
- Fuente de las Antillas (Antilles Fountain) — Inaugurated in 1977, this sculpture by Rita Longa Arostegui is a symbol of the city and represents the legend of the Cacique Jaias and the birth of the Antilles.
When to visit Las Tunas
The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit Las Tunas. Temperatures range from 66°F to 85°F, and rainfall is minimal. February is typically the clearest month. This period is suitable for exploring outdoor sculptures and cultural events. The warmest months are July and August, with average highs around 92°F. The wet season runs from May to October, with October usually experiencing the most rainfall. Summer brings a higher chance of rain and muggy conditions. The Carnival of Las Tunas typically takes place in the second half of September, and the International Festival of Magic Ánfora is held in November.
Getting around Las Tunas
Las Tunas is along Cuba's Central Highway. The most common way to arrive is by bus, with Viazul operating routes from cities like Holguín and Camagüey. The nearest international airports are Frank País Airport (HOG) in Holguín, about 1 hour and 18 minutes away by bus, and Ignacio Agramonte Airport (CMW) in Camagüey, about 3 hours and 19 minutes by bus. The Hermanos Ameijeiras Airport (VTU) in Las Tunas offers domestic flights from Havana twice a week.
Walking is suitable for exploring the central areas. For longer distances, local taxis are available. Car rental services are offered through Transtur and Vía. Many shops and businesses may observe a midday siesta, so plan visits accordingly.
Things you probably do not know about Las Tunas
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Vicente García Provincial Museum
- This prominent blue building in the city center has a history of dramatic transformations. What was its initial purpose before becoming a museum? Before its current role as the Provincial Museum, this eclectic two-story building was originally the colonial mansion of Mr. Enrique Rosende. It later served as a telegraph barracks and even the City Hall or Municipal Palace before being inaugurated as a museum in the 1980s.
- Martí Square
- Beyond being a tribute to a national hero, what unique feature makes Martí Square stand out among other public spaces? Martí Square is not just a typical plaza; it incorporates a solar clock, a distinctive piece that combines elements of art, history, and astronomy.
- Fuente de las Antillas
- This well-known fountain is more than just a sculpture; it tells a story. Which ancient legend does it symbolize? The Fuente de las Antillas, created by sculptor Rita Longa Arostegui and inaugurated in 1977, symbolizes the legend of Cacique Jaias, which recounts the mythical birth of the Antilles islands.
- Las Tunas City
- The city has earned a powerful and somewhat dramatic motto. What is it, and what historical event inspired it? Las Tunas' motto is "burned before it slaves." This originated in 1876 during the Ten Years' War when Major General Vicente García ordered the city to be set on fire rather than let it fall into Spanish hands.
- El Cornito
- Beyond its natural beauty, what annual cultural event of national importance takes place at El Cornito? El Cornito is home to the Jardín Botánico de Las Tunas and is also the venue for the annual Jornadas Cucalambeanas, a significant national festival celebrating Cuban rural culture and art, honoring 19th-century poet Juan Cristóbal Nápoles Fajardo, known as "El Cucalambé."
- Las Tunas Province
- What unusual and significant wildlife reserve can be found within the province of Las Tunas? The province of Las Tunas is home to the Monte Cabaniguán Ecological Reserve, which holds the largest reserve of American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) in the world.
Questions about visiting Las Tunas
How long should I plan to stay in Las Tunas?
For a comprehensive experience of the city and its immediate surroundings, including the sculptures and historical sites, 1 to 3 nights is generally recommended. If you plan to explore the provincial beaches or natural reserves like Monte Cabaniguán, consider extending your stay.
What are the best ways to get around Las Tunas?
The city center of Las Tunas is walkable, allowing you to explore many sites on foot. For longer distances or trips outside the immediate downtown area, local taxis are readily available. Car rental services are also an option for those preferring more independence.
What kind of budget should I expect for a trip to Las Tunas?
Las Tunas is generally considered a more authentic and less tourist-heavy destination compared to other Cuban cities, which can mean more affordable options for accommodation, food, and local transport. Specific budget details will depend on your travel style, but it tends to be less expensive than Havana or Varadero.
Is Las Tunas a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Las Tunas can be a good family destination. The open-air sculptures offer visual interest, and the city's slower pace can be appealing. The nearby beaches and natural reserves, such as the crocodile reserve at Monte Cabaniguán, provide unique educational and recreational opportunities for children.
Are there any particular neighborhoods or areas of interest to explore?
The city center, particularly around Vicente García Park and Martí Square, is rich in historical sites and sculptures. For a different experience, exploring the coastal town of Puerto Padre offers historical charm and access to beautiful, less crowded beaches like Covarrubias.
What are the local customs or particularities I should be aware of?
Las Tunas has a relaxed Cuban spirit, and locals are known for their kindness and hospitality. Many smaller businesses may close for a siesta in the early afternoon. Street parties, known as 'Las Noches Tuneras,' often occur on weekends, with performers taking to the streets, offering a lively cultural experience.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game cost in Las Tunas?
An OddballTrip outdoor escape game in Las Tunas is priced at €12 per team. This rate is fixed, regardless of the number of players (up to 6 people per team for a better experience). It's excellent value for money for an activity lasting several hours that combines city discovery, puzzle-solving, and shared moments. Consider dividing the cost by the number of participants, and you'll see it's a very affordable option for an original and memorable outing. No hidden fees, just pure fun!
Is it suitable for children / families?
Absolutely! Our outdoor escape games are designed to be a fantastic activity for families with children. We generally recommend a minimum age of 8 years old, as some puzzles may require a bit of logic and reading. However, younger children can certainly participate by helping to look for clues and enjoying the adventure. It's a great way to spend quality time together, stimulate teamwork, and discover Las Tunas in a fun and interactive way, away from screens. Both young and old will find something to enjoy!
How long does an escape game in Las Tunas last?
The duration of an outdoor escape game in Las Tunas generally ranges between 1h30 and 2h30. This, of course, depends on your pace, how quickly you solve the puzzles, and the time you take to admire the surroundings and monuments. It's not a race, but an immersive experience! You are free to take breaks, grab a refreshment, or stroll around. The goal is to fully enjoy the adventure and discover the city at your leisure. Plan half a day to be comfortable.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, there's no need to book in advance for our outdoor escape games in Las Tunas! This is one of OddballTrip's great advantages: you can start the adventure whenever you want. You just need to purchase the game online, download the app, and go to the indicated starting point. You have the flexibility to decide at the last minute, depending on the weather or your current desires. It's ideal for spontaneous travelers or those who prefer to organize their day without time constraints. Adventure awaits you, at your signal!
What to visit in Las Tunas beyond escape games?
Beyond the excitement of our escape games, Las Tunas is full of treasures to explore. Don't miss Plaza Vicente García, the historic heart of the city, with its equestrian statue and lively atmosphere. The Boulevard de Las Tunas is perfect for a stroll, lined with sculptures and shops. The Museo Provincial Vicente García will immerse you in local history. Art lovers will appreciate the numerous open-air sculptures that earned the city its nickname. Finally, Parque 26 de Julio offers a pleasant green space to relax. Every street corner reveals a part of Las Tunas' artistic soul.
What is the best season to visit Las Tunas?
The best season to visit Las Tunas, like most Cuban cities, extends from November to April. During these months, the climate is drier and temperatures are pleasantly warm, without the intense humidity and hurricane risks of the rainy season (May to October). This is perfect for fully enjoying our outdoor escape games and exploring the city on foot comfortably. Days are sunny and evenings are mild, ideal for strolling and discovering the local atmosphere. You'll have optimal conditions for a memorable experience.