La Esmeralda Finca — Restaurant in Viñales

So that you know, this appears to be an organized scam from the get go. A man dressed as a forest guard stops you in the hayway exit and the adventure begins. He is friendly and asks you to drive a worker to the ranch near Viñales. He is chatty and tells you all about the ranch, once you dropped him, the fun begins. Cigar tour and horse backriding with swimming in a cave 20€. In the cave, the local guide also asks for a small entry fee. Built into the story of their government allowance, they also try to sell you their cigars, which you can try, for a nominal price compared to the stores 6-8€. Once on the horse ride, they take you to another rach to tell you all about their honney and coffe. Very nice and authentic, as expected they will try to sell you coffe and honney also lunch/dinner at a beautiful plantation.

All and all, a great and beautiful experience. The valley is amazing. People very friendly. Too bad is built into this apparent initial lie to help...

Is a scam!!! At the crossing from the autopista to Viñales, an official looking man made us stop (he had a tag with "security" on it) asking is to take a second person with us to Viñales. We took him with us (was a friendly man). He was so greatful that he could arrange a visit to this tobacco ranch and a horse riding tour and a good price. We didn't get a 'good' price. This was just a setup! So coming to Viñales, never take someone with you when asked by an official looking person. Only police can make you stop your car and police would never ask to take...

We visited Finca "La Esmeralda" Faimel as part of a Civitatis Viñales tour. While our guide was average, the experience at the finca itself was enjoyable. The highlight was watching how they expertly roll cigars, which was both fascinating and informative. The place has a charming atmosphere, and it’s worth a visit if you’re curious about the traditional...