6 Reasons To Visit Cuba Now

There’s no Caribbean island like Cuba. Vintage cars. Cigar trails. Salsa dancing. A community that warms you as soon as you step foot out of the airport and into your taxi. The rate of tourism has risen dramatically in the last year and is expected to increase further with the improving relations between Cuba and the United States – just 145km away. Before the Americans descend upon this mysterious and beautiful island (which the locals fear will bring a swarm Starbucks and McDonalds), come to Cuba and experience the top things to do.

Scuba Diving In Paradise

Cuba is home to the second largest coral reef in the world – beaten only by the Great Barrier Reef. There are around 527 miles of coral reefs in the country’s insular shelf, with La Habana containing 76 sites alone. Maria La Gorda has long been considered in the top 10 for seabeds in Latin America, due to its amazing marine life and colourful coral. There are perfect sites for beginners (The Pirate’s Anchor) and experienced (Lost Paradise).

Kayaking Over The Mountains

Pitch up at private beaches, paddle into majestic caves, gain unique views of waterfalls, and go in search of manatees, dolphins and giant iguanas while kayaking destinations such as Trinidad, Lake Hanabanilla, Parque Nacional Caguanes and Cayo Fabrica.

Take A Salsa Class

Cubans have a natural rhythm that’s demonstrated through the art of salsa. You can take a personal class in Vinales (booked through the Paradiso office opposite the main Plaza) from around £6.50pp. If you want to show off the moves you learnt, the cobblestones of Plaza Catedral in Old Havana is the perfect stage for impromptu dancing.

Watch Baby Turtles

In an effort to conserve and protect the turtle population of the Caribbean, the island of Cayo Largo del Sur has a turtle farm – Granja de las Tortugas – that collects hundreds of Carreta-Carreta, Green and Hawksbill turtle eggs from vulnerable beaches to be incubated back at the farm. Once the turtles have hatched out of their eggs, they spend some time in protected pools before being released into the sea for them to continue their life’s journey. You can watch the turtles being released back into the wild and make their way into the sea.

Swim In Saturn Cave

12 miles from the resort town of Varadero is Cueva de Saturno, which translates to Saturn Cave. This natural wonder contains a big opening that’s filled with crystal clear freshwater, in which snorkelling is popular to marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites and fish. While appearing wild, the cave is monitored, open from 8am to 6pm daily, and there’s even an on-site bar selling snacks. To avoid the crowds, arrive as early as possible.

Eat At La Guarida

Famous amongst locals and a favourite with visitors, La Guarida is Havana’s best Paladar (private restaurant). From tuna-stuffed peppers to Caimanero stonebass and lemon pie with almonds, you can’t leave behind your friendly hosts without raving about the food.