Alquizar

Alquizar is a municipality and town in Artemisa Province, western Cuba, located about 60 km southwest of Havana. The town has a long history dating back to the colonial era and was historically known as a centre for agriculture, particularly sugarcane and tobacco cultivation.

The municipality has a population of roughly 30,000 and retains a quiet, rural Cuban character. The town centre features a colonial-era plaza, a parish church, and modest administrative buildings. The surrounding countryside is flat and fertile, devoted to farming.

Climate is tropical with a wet season (May–October) and a drier season (November–April). The best time to visit is during the drier months when temperatures are warm but humidity is lower.

By Plane

José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana is the nearest major airport, approximately 60 km northeast. Taxis from Havana airport to Alquizar take about 1 hour and cost around CUC 40–50.

By Car / Road

Alquizar is accessible from Havana via the Carretera Central or local roads branching from the A1 autopista. The drive from Havana takes approximately 1 hour. Occasional local buses and shared taxis (colectivos) serve the route from Artemisa and Havana.

The town centre is compact and walkable. Bici-taxis and horse-drawn carts provide local transport within town. For trips to surrounding areas, colectivos or private taxis are the main option.

• Parroquia de Alquizar — the town's colonial-era parish church, a focal point of the central plaza.

• Central plaza — a typical Cuban town square with benches, shade trees, and surrounding colonial buildings.

• Sugarcane fields — the surrounding agricultural landscape offers a glimpse into Cuba's rural economy.

• Walk the town centre — explore the quiet streets and colonial architecture at a relaxed pace.

• Visit local farms — some agricultural estates in the area may welcome visitors interested in sugarcane or tobacco farming.

• Day trips to Artemisa — the provincial capital is a short drive away and offers more amenities and sights.

Alquizar has modest dining options typical of small Cuban towns. Paladares (private home restaurants) serve Creole cuisine including rice and beans, roasted pork, and yuca.

• Local paladares — home-cooked Cuban meals at affordable prices (CUP 50–150 per dish).
• State-run cafeterias — basic meals and snacks at low cost.

Signature dishes include congrí (rice and black beans), lechón asado (roast pork), and tostones (fried plantains).

Cuba Libre, mojitos, and Cristal or Bucanero beer are widely available. Rum (Havana Club) is the standard local spirit. Tap water should be avoided; bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Casas particulares (private homestays) in town, approximately CUC 15–25 per night for a double room.
• Mid-range: Limited options in Alquizar itself; better to stay in Artemisa or Havana.

Local markets sell basic goods, fresh produce, and household items. There are no major shopping centres; artisan goods and local crafts may be found at informal stalls.

• Artemisa — the provincial capital, about 20 km west, with more dining and cultural options (30 min drive).
• Guanajay — a nearby municipality with colonial heritage, about 25 km northwest (30 min drive).
• San Antonio de los Baños — known for its humour museum, about 20 km east (25 min drive).
• Havana — the national capital, about 60 km northeast (1 hour drive).