African Presence in Cuba | Join this Experience

8 days/7 nights

This multi-day Afro-Cuban cultural experience will provide participants a first-hand look at the significant African influence on Cuban culture and daily life. I will be your guide and translator as we explore a side of Havana that most tourists don't get to see.

The experience was created in collaboration with Afro-Cubans from the town of Guanabacoa, and will be facilitated by local experts, families, and religious practitioners. Participants experience an in-depth glimpse of the resilience and uniqueness of Afro-Cuban culture.

Reviews

"I left Cuba feeling grateful and with a renewed (and more accurate) understanding about the people of Cuba. I was provided a one-of-a-kind experience that will not be forgotten." - Sonji

"AfroBuenaventura is an excellent host who makes every day special. There's lots of learning and lots of fun. Once in a lifetime sights and sounds and tastes... " - Jenna

"I came to Cuba a stranger, and left as family. The guides and facilitators were genuine, attentive, and knowledgeable. Outstanding job! " - Quincy

See a sample itinerary below.

The Curated Itinerary

Day 1: Get Acquainted with Havana

Arrive in Havana and get settled. By evening, meet your experience facilitators over a Cuban dinner at one of the country's top restaurants. End the night with locals on the famous Malecón.

Day 2: Religion and Spirituality

Get a rare glimpse into Santeria, Abakua, and other faith systems that originated in Africa. Our generous babalawo will help us to gain understanding about these often mischaracterized religions. Even get a dafa reading if you'd like.

Day 3: A Taste of Community & Communing with the Orishas

Learn the history of Afro-Cuban flavors and engage with locals over great food that will energize us for an afternoon of dancing with Orishas.

Day 4: The Arts and Blackness

African drums call bodies and spirits to move. Surround yourself with dance and music in the core of Havana's black arts community, and have a custom curated tour of work by Black artists in the National Museum of Art.

Day 5: Historic Havana

Visit the sites and places where history happened. Relive the Cuban revolution and it's key moments.

Take private salsa lessons in the evening.

Day 6: Day Trip to Viñales

Hop in a classic car and head to a town know for its prehistoric rock formations, laid back vibe, and horseback riding through tobacco farms. And get your hands on organic, hand-rolled cigars.

Day 7: Choose Your Adventure

Pick how you spend your last day in Havana. Head to the market, relax along the Malecón, head to the beach, or just people watch. It's up to you.

Day 8: Departure

Kiss Havana goodbye. Don't worry, you'll have tons of photos to remember the trip. Just make sure to take back rum and cigars!

Sign up to get access to insider information and discounts.

Included:

8 days/7 nights lodging in one of the top bed & breakfasts in Old Havana (not an AirBnB), each room with its own restroom and safe
All transfers, ground transportation to scheduled activities
All historical site and museum entrance fees
Breakfasts
Social media ready photos of you every step of the way
Branded swag bag full of travel goodies
Your choice of travel t-shirt from MyTravelTee
Travel intention setting and reflection sessions