Traveling to Cuba in a sustainable, authentic and responsible way, with a clear itinerary that offers options to visit both iconic and lesser-known places, requires conscious choices and guidance from the right travel professionals.

Whether you organize it on your own or rely on specialized agencies, trip planning takes time, effort and a minimum knowledge of what you can and cannot do.

From Old Havana to the pristine beaches of Baracoa, every corner offers a window to the essence of the country that can be visited without compromising biodiversity, air or water quality. And, of course, without detracting one iota from the enjoyment.

To help you get the most out of your experience, we have created this list of tips for sustainable travel to Cuba.

What does sustainable travel mean?

Before going into details, it is necessary to explain the key concept of sustainable travel, which means making trips that take into account the economic, social and environmental impact, both in the present and in the future.

This does not mean downplaying the importance of the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and local communities, as mentioned in the study “Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals – Good Practices in the Americas” published by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

This is a new way of traveling that seeks to preserve the environment, culture and economy of the destination, which requires respect for the community and its resources. This is a modality that invites us to take practical daily measures, such as reducing waste or using public transportation.

From what has been said so far, it follows that an ideal way to travel sustainably is to rely on the experience and knowledge of professionals who have spent time researching and planning responsible travel, choosing sustainable accommodations, eating local food, as well as respecting the culture and traditions of the places visited.

Tips for sustainable travel to Cuba

Whether you are traveling alone or with friends or family, here are 11 tips for sustainable travel to Cuba based on our agency’s experience:

Respect local communities

Traveling involves immersing yourself in new cultures. When you travel to Cuba, it is enriching to enjoy the customs, traditions and ways of life, such as the traditional Fiestas del Tambor Yuka in Pinar del Río, the well-known Carnivals in Havana or the classic Jornada Cucalambeana, among others.

This involves interacting respectfully with the local population, learning about their culture, wisdom and showing interest in their values and beliefs.

To do so, take your time, observe and enjoy unusual experiences, such as riding in an almendron (American cars from the 1950s) or savoring a cigar dipped in honey.

Use public transportation

To get to know the country in depth you will have to move around. And to do it in a sustainable way you can use public transport.

Using local buses, sharing collective cabs or even walking and using bicycles are options that reduce the environmental footprint and allow for a more authentic experience by interacting with the daily life of the locals.

However, we know that when you travel with your family, it is not always easy to resort to them. Therefore, plan ahead and let yourself be advised by expert professionals.

Reduce waste in your suitcase

From a cap to a plastic bag, any type of waste can be avoided when traveling.

To make it easier for you, when packing your suitcase for sustainable travel to Cuba, use practical and eco-friendly accessories such as cloth bags, bamboo cutlery or paper handkerchiefs.

Also, when packing your luggage, try to take only what is necessary.

Travel in low season

If you choose to travel in low season, you contribute to reduce the pressure on tourist resources and help to decongest the most popular destinations, such as Varadero, Havana or Cienfuegos, among many others.

This will allow you to enjoy a quieter and more authentic experience and, at the same time, help minimize the environmental impact of mass tourism.

If you are looking for less agglomeration and do not mind the rain, the months of May and August are the best months to go to Cuba.

Visiting unpopular destinations

There are a lot of places you probably don’t know about in the country and exploring them offers the opportunity to discover authentic corners, as well as contribute to the development of less touristic communities.

As advantages, it promotes the diversification of tourism and helps to distribute economic benefits more equitably.

Practice animal-friendly activities

When participating in tourist activities that involve animals, such as guided horseback riding tours or diving to see the Black Coral, Cuba’s largest coral reef, it is important to choose those that respect the animals’ well-being and natural habitat.

Try to do activities that do not involve animal exploitation, such as wild animal rides or shows that may cause any kind of harm.

Choose environmentally responsible accommodations

Looking for accommodation is one of the first steps when you decide to travel, but where to stay if you are traveling to Cuba on a sustainable basis?

Test accommodations that implement sustainable practices, such as the use of renewable energy, efficient water management and waste reduction.

Some private homes allow a more committed stay with natural resources, while allowing you to interact with them and learn about family traditions up close.

Put the “slow travel” method into practice

This advice for traveling to Cuba means to travel consciously and enjoy each destination without rushing, instead of running from one place to another trying to visit many places.

Take your time, explore the sites in depth, interact with the local people and immerse yourself in the Cuban culture without looking at the clock.

This allows you to take away a much more enriching experience than you could have ever imagined.

Consume local foods

One of the greatest pleasures when visiting another country is discovering its gastronomy and bringing new flavors to the palate.

Do not deprive yourself and try the ropa vieja, the casquitos de guayaba con queso, yuca con mojo, among many other popular delicacies of the island.

By feeding yourself with local products from Cuba, you will not only live an authentic gastronomic experience, but you will also help local farmers and producers.

We encourage you to opt for restaurants and markets that offer fresh and sustainably grown food.

Cares for nature at every step

When exploring Cuba’s natural landscapes, be sure to leave them in the same condition you found them. So, respect protected areas, follow conservation rules and avoid leaving garbage or disturbing the local flora and fauna.

Cuba celebrates Protected Areas Day every April 12, precisely to promote sustainable development on the island at a time of climate change that threatens the planet.

Rely on a sustainable tourism agency

When planning your sustainable trip to Cuba, choose a tour agency that allows you to explore the country with local experts and promotes sustainable, respectful and ethical practices.

Look for a team committed to environmental conservation, respect for local culture and community development, someone with whom you can tailor-make your trip into a unique and unforgettable experience.

The application of these tips for traveling to Cuba begins with a deep awareness of the care of the planet.

Although the country is working to develop sustainable tourism, the infrastructure is not yet fully adapted to meet all needs and there is still some way to go.

Enjoy Travel Group is an agency that takes into account criteria and activities that respect the environment, we know the existing communities in different areas and we can put you in contact with local guides to organize your tailor-made sustainable trip.