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Discover Cuba
All Star Cuba offers Blue Sanctuary workshops
– Diving in Cuba is now open to U.S. citizens –
Discover Cuba
Cuba is unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. Rich in history, culture, music, and natural beauty, the island offers an authentic travel experience where vintage American automobiles, colorful colonial architecture and vibrant local traditions create an atmosphere frozen in time. Beyond its famous cities, Cuba is home to lush tobacco valleys, UNESCO heritage sites, pristine coral reefs, protected marine parks and some of the healthiest marine ecosystems in the Caribbean. Whether you’re exploring historic Havana, relaxing at a beachfront boutique hotel, or diving the legendary Jardines de la Reina (Garden of the Queens), Cuba is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
Top Cities & Places to Explore
Havana
Cuba’s capital is one of the most fascinating cities in the Caribbean. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admire beautifully restored colonial architecture, ride through the city in a classic 1950s American car, enjoy live music and experience Havana’s vibrant plazas, museums, restaurants and the picturesque miles-long Malecón waterfront promenade.
Cuba is synonymous for Habanos Cigars, dating back to 1842. The original factory, The Royal Partagás Cigar Factory (La Real Fabrica de Tabacos Partagá), still exists. Here, visitors can learn about cigar production and the rolling masters and how to properly smoke a cigar Cuban-style.
Walk to the site of the former Capitolio Nacional de La Habana (National Capitol of Cuba). Twelve blocks away is the Museo de la Revolución (Museum of the Revolution) with magnificent glass domes. In 1913, it was to be a city government building but the First Lady, commandeered it for her family’s home. Following the 1959 revolution, it transitioned to its new role, displaying pre-discovery artifacts, Cuba master painters, poet Jose Marti, items from the War of Independence and the Granma Yacht. Nearby is the Museo de Bellas Artes – Arte Cubano (National Museum of Fine Arts – Cuban Art). The building, a restored Colonial Barracks built in 1764, highlights stunning architecture, which is not be outdone by exceptional Cuban and global artists, ranging from Flemish and Italian Renaissance to 19th century. Guided and self-guided tours.
Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen)
Stretching more than 90 miles along Cuba’s southern coast, Jardines de la Reina is one of the largest protected marine parks in the Caribbean. Its remote location has helped preserve thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it one of the world’s premier diving destinations. Divers regularly encounter Caribbean reef sharks, silky sharks, crocodiles, sea turtles, eagle rays, groupers and massive schools of tropical fish in remarkably healthy ecosystems.
Viñales Valley
Surrounded by dramatic limestone mogotes (abrupt hills surrounded by flat land), Viñales is Cuba’s premier tobacco growing region. Visitors can tour tobacco farms, explore caves, ride horseback through the valley, and experience rural Cuban life while enjoying some of the country’s most spectacular scenery.
Trinidad
One of the best preserved colonial cities in the Americas, Trinidad features colorful Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, lively town squares and a thriving arts community.
North of the city, Gran Parque Natural Topes de Collantes, is a scenic nature reserve with hiking trails and waterfalls. Discover Salto del Caburní and Salto Vegas Grandes.
El Valle de Los Ingenious (Valley of the Sugar Mills), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Trinidad, spotlights three (3) interconnected valleys – San Luis, Santa Rosa and Meyer. From the 18th to 19th century, these valleys were instrumental to the sugar industry with 50 sugar mill plantations, which existed due to slave labor. Estates and historic ruins are featured.
The waterfalls, mountains, heritage sites and beaches make Trinidad an excellent addition to any Cuban itinerary.
Cienfuegos
Often called the “Pearl of the South,” Cienfuegos combines French inspired architecture with a beautiful waterfront setting. Its UNESCO World Heritage historic center features elegant plazas, tree-lined boulevards and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Zapata Peninsula & Bay of Pigs
Known for both its historical significance and exceptional natural beauty, the Zapata (shoe-shaped) Peninsula is Cuba’s largest wetland and home to Parque Nacional Ciénaga (swamp) de Zapata (Ciénaga of the Zapata National Park), one of the Caribbean’s most important wildlife refuges. Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Bigs), the site of a failed U.S. and Cuban group military landing operation in April 1961, adjoins the east side of the park. The surrounding coastline also offers excellent snorkeling and shore diving in crystal clear waters.
Wildlife, Nature & Landscapes
The best beach in Havana is Tarará. Many beaches can be found along the island’s coast. East of Matanzas on the Hicacos Peninsula is popular Playa Varadero. This narrow strip of land is also home to Varahicacos Ecological Reserve with flora, fauna and pictographs found in ancient caves once inhabited by Taíno Indians.
As the largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba boasts an incredible variety of landscapes including coral reefs, mangrove forests, wetlands, mountains, tobacco valleys, caves and white sand beaches.
The waters surrounding Cuba are home to Caribbean reef sharks, silky sharks, sea turtles, crocodiles, groupers, eagle rays, tarpon and hundreds of species of tropical fish. On land, visitors may encounter flamingoes, saltwater crocodiles, Cuban hutias (rodents), the bee hummingbird, the smallest bird in the world, and colorful endemic birds, like the national bird, a Cuban trogon.
Protected marine reserves such as Jardines de la Reina (Garden of the Queens) have become internationally recognized models for marine conservation, allowing wildlife and coral reefs to flourish with minimal human impact.
History, Culture & Heritage
Cuba’s history is a fascinating blend of Spanish colonial influence, African traditions, revolutionary heritage and vibrant artistic expression. Throughout the island, visitors can discover beautifully preserved colonial cities, centuries-old fortresses, grand plazas and colorful neighborhoods filled with music and local life.
Music is woven into everyday Cuban culture, from salsa and song to jazz and rumba, created in Cuba. Hand rolled cigars, classic automobiles, local art, dance, warm hospitality and games of dominoes, all contribute to the country’s unmistakable character.
Know Before You Go
Official Language: Spanish
Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP), USD or EURO often accepted
Capital: Havana
Time Zone: Cuba Standard Time (GMT -5)
Electricity: Most hotels and resorts accommodate both 110V and 220V, though plug types may vary.
Driving: Vehicles are drive on the right side of the road.
Tipping: Gratuities are appreciated for guides, drivers, hotel staff and restaurant service.
Entry Requirements: Most international visitors require a valid passport and Cuban tourist visa or travel authorization. Requirements vary depending on nationality. See next section.
Legal Travel to Cuba
Travel to Cuba remains legal for U.S. citizens when conducted under an authorized category established by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. All Star Adventures works with experienced Cuban partners to ensure every itinerary complies with current travel regulations.
Our Havana cultural tours are operated in partnership with a licensed Cuban tour company under the Support for the Cuban People category. Guests stay in privately owned casas particulares, dine at locally owned paladares, and participate in meaningful cultural exchanges that directly support Cuban entrepreneurs, artists and local communities.
Guests joining All Star Avalon for expeditions to Jardines de la Reina (Garden of the Queens_ participate in our Blue Sanctuary conservation workshop. This educational program explores the extraordinary marine ecosystem of Jardines de la Reina while highlighting the importance of marine conservation, sustainable tourism and the long term protection of one of the Caribbean’s most pristine marine parks. Participation in this educational program provides the authorized travel framework for the expedition while directly supporting conservation awareness.
Food & Local Flavors
Cuban cuisine blends Spanish, African and Caribbean influences using fresh local ingredients and traditional family recipes. Popular dishes include ropa vieja (shredded beef), roast pork, arroz congrí, also known as moros y cristianos (rice and black beans), yuca with mojo, tostones, tamales, fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Cuban coffee is world renowned, while classic cocktails like the mojito and daiquiri originated in Havana. Throughout the country, privately owned paladares offer authentic Cuban cuisine in intimate settings that showcase the island’s warm hospitality.
How to Get There
Most international visitors arrive through José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana. Additional international airports serve destinations including Varadero, Santa Clara, Camagüey, Holguín and Santiago de Cuba.
Guests joining All Star Avalon expeditions to Jardines de la Reina typically fly into Camagüey International Airport (CMW), the closest major airport. From here, ground transportation is provided to the departure marina before boarding the liveaboard.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Cuba enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year.
Winter (December to February)
Pleasant temperatures between 70 and 80°F (21 to 27°C), low humidity and excellent conditions for sightseeing, diving and outdoor adventures.
Spring (March to May)
Warm sunny weather, calm seas and exceptional underwater visibility make spring one of the best times to visit Cuba.
Summer (June to August)
Temperatures between 82 and 90°F (28 to 32°C) combine with warm Caribbean waters and occasional afternoon showers, creating excellent conditions for diving and beach vacations.
Fall (September to November)
Often one of the best times to visit for divers, fall offers fewer visitors, warm ocean temperatures and excellent marine life activity. Travelers should be aware that this period overlaps with the Caribbean hurricane season, bringing the possibility of tropical weather systems.
Water temperatures generally range from approximately 79°F (26°C) during the winter to 86°F (30°C) during late summer, making Cuba an outstanding destination for diving and water sports year round.
Experience Cuba with All Star Adventures
Whether you’re strolling through the colorful streets of Havana, enjoying authentic Cuban cuisine or diving the pristine reefs of Jardines de la Reina aboard All Star Avalon, Cuba offers one of the Caribbean’s most rewarding and memorable travel experiences.