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Authentic Cuba Expert's Corner
Yane Marquez, Authentic Cuba Travel® Expert Travel Agent Hola! My name is Yane Marquez and I was born and raised in Cuba. After graduating from the University of Havana and the Tourism School of Cuba, I worked for over 10 years as a tour guide, translator and event organizer for Cuba's travel companies and organizations. I guided many groups attending Cuba's main international festivals, fairs and events. A few years ago, I moved to Canada where I have continued promoting Cuba’s tourism industry. I would be more than happy to answer any question you have about festival Cuba travel. Do not miss out!
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Havana Hotel Packages for Cuba Architecture Tours
Accomodation:
This Cuba tour offers the following Cuban hotels and Casas Particulares (Private Homestays):

Luxury Casa Particular

Destinations:
This Cuba tour travels to the following Cuban destinations:

Santiago de Cuba
Second Largest City
in Cuba


San Pedro de La Roca Castle
UNESCO World Heritage
Site in Santiago de Cuba


Cayo Granma
Small Island in the Caribbean Sea

Basilica of Our Lady of Charity
in the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range
Cuba tour options for the Cuba's International Jazz Festival
Cuba Tours:
Which Cuba Jazz Festival Cuba tour is best for you?

6-Day Havana Jazz Festival
Cuba Tour

for travelers on a limited budget or short on time looking to explore Havana and Western Cuba.

9-Day Havana Jazz Festival
Cuba Tour

for travelers looking to explore Havana, Western Cuba and Central Cuba.

8-Day Santiago Jazz Festival
Cuba Tour

for repeating travelers looking to explore Santiago de Cuba in Eastern Cuba.

Jazz Tour Comparison
How to go to the Santiago de Cuba`s International Jazz Festival from USA
About the Santiago de Cuba's International Jazz Festival
The International Jazz Festival Jazz Plaza will celebrate its 40th Anniversary in Havana (Cuba's capital city) and Santiago de Cuba (Cuba's 2nd largest city) in 2025.

Founded in Havana in 1978, and considered as the largest Jazz festival in the Latin-American & Caribbean region, the Jazz Festival 2025 will be hosted in Santiago de Cuba for a fourth time.

Among the biggest jazz names that have performed at the Santiago de Cuba's Jazz Festival are Arturo O'Farril (USA), The Shuffle Demonds (Canada), Jose Tobon and Sigurajazz (Colombia), among others.

From Cuba: Giraldo Piloto and his Klimax Band, Albertico Lescay and his Formas Band, Los Munequitos de Matanzas Rumba Group, Explosion Rumbera Group, Los Hoyos Conga Group, Renacer Vocal Group, Compas Vocal Group, Divas Vocal Group, Atenas Jazz Ensemble, Jazz de Bess as well as Jazz Ensembles, Jazz Bands, and Jazz Virtuosos from the Santiago de Cuba's Music Conservatory Esteban Salas.
How to Go?
Cuba Study Tours & Travel to Cuba from USA
US Cuba Study Tours & Travel
Authentic Cuba Travel® offers universities, colleges and schools from US, Canada and all over the world the best study trips to Cuba.

Business
Cuba Tours

HealthCare
Cuba Tours

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Cuba Tours

Nature
Cuba Tours

Religious
Cuba Tours

Architecture
Cuba Tours

US Cuba Educational Tours & Travel
Educational Travel to Cuba should be more than sunbathing in beautiful Caribbean beaches while sipping cold tropical drinks.

Spanish
Cuba Tours

Jazz
Cuba Tours

Ballet
Cuba Tours

Art
Cuba Tours

Sports
Cuba Tours

Dance
Cuba Tours

Cuba's Fire Festival

Cuba's Ballet Festival

JoJazz Havana Festival

Havana Art Biennial Cuba Tour

Havana Film Festival

Havana Jazz Festival

havana book fair

habano cigar festival

Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival Official Cuba Tour

Jazz Festival, Santiago de Cuba 2025 Shopping in privately-owned stores supports the Cuban people financially Verified Reviews from Past Travellers to the Cuba's Jazz Festival Cuba Jazz Tours for American Travelers Support for the Cuban People establish a dialogue with Cuban Independent Organizations. Luxury Private Accommodation (Casa Particular) Discount Cuba Tours Cuba Jazz Festival Tours Santiago de Cuba Tours & Travel USA Cuba Jazz Travel for US Music Organizations USA Cuba Jazz Travel for US Music Schools

Join our 8-Day Official Cuba Tour to the Jazz Festival
of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba's 2nd Largest City!
From January 20 to January 27, 2025


Explore Cuba's Caribbean Heritage! $2,899 (all taxes included)


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Cuba Festival Travel | Referral Discount: $100

Invite 1 Friend and Pay $2,799 only
Invite 2 Friends and Pay $2,699 only
Invite 3 Friends and Pay $2,599 only
Invite 4 Friends and Pay $2,499 only
Invite 10 Friends and Pay $0 only
And remember every person you invite
will also receive a $100 discount!


The 40th Cuba’s International Jazz Festival, Jazz Plaza 2025 (sponsored by Grammy-Award winner Chucho Valdes) will be hosted in Havana and Santiago de Cuba (Cuba's second largest city) from January 19 to January 26, 2025. Working in partnership with the Instituto Cubano de La Musica (Cuba’s Music Institute), the Centro Nacional de Musica Popular (Cuba’s National Centre of Popular Music), and the Jazz Plaza Organizing Committee both in Havana and Santiago de Cuba, Authentic Cuba Travel® is offering the Official Jazz Plaza 2025 Cuba Tour to the International Jazz Festival of Santiago de Cuba from January 20 to January 27, 2025.

Why Join Our 8-Day Cuba Tour to The Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025?



Our 2025 Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival Official Cuba Tour allows our travelers unlimited access to all jazz events, including preferential seating at the Opening or Closing Gala of the Jazz Festival. Designed for those repeating travelers who have attended the International Jazz Festival in Havana in previous years and wish to attend again, but who also want to visit a different Cuban destination and enjoy a completely different Cuba travel experience.

The itinerary has been planned for American travelers who want to visit Santiago de Cuba LEGALLY during the Cuba’s Jazz Festival 2025. It includes Luxury Private Rental Accomodation, 24/7 Luxury Air-Conditioning Motor Coach, University-Graduated Cuban Tour Guide Escort, keen to share his knowledge of Cuba, most meals at Santiago de Cuba’s Finest Restaurants, ALL ACCESS JAZZ PASS, and entrance fee to all Santiago de Cuba’s Museums, Top-Notch Attractions and Activities as described in the itinerary.

Any US citizen or permanent resident genuinely interested in supporting the Cuban people can travel to Cuba from USA legally. Supporting the Cuban people by patronizing privately owned restaurants, stores, art galleries and other small businesses; and supporting the work of independent Cuban organizations is the main intend of this Cuba tour.

With recognition from the Organizing Committee of the Cuba’s International Jazz Festival, as North America's largest Cuba travel sellers of escorted tours to the Cuba’s Jazz Festival (mainly but not only from USA & Canada), it is clear to those in the know that our once-a-year official Cuba jazz tours to the Havana and Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival are the ultimate bucket list Cuba travel experience for Jazz lovers with a burning desire to be fully immerse in the culture of the Caribbean island and explore the authentic Cuba beyond the jazz event.

Click here to read historical verified reviews and testimonials from past travelers from US and all over the world dating back years!

Invite Friends and Family and Travel Free!



Add to that our ONE HUNDRED UNLIMITED DISCOUNT PROGRAM, and you’ll see that our budget Jazz tours to Cuba aren’t just very affordable (you can end up traveling free!)- our 24/7 escorted Cuba jazz tours are the best Cuba travel experience for Canadian and USA travelers. Again...you will receive a $100 discount for every family member and friend that travels to Cuba with you. In the event that you bring TEN Jazz lovers along, we will simply cover all your Cuba ground tour costs! And those family members and friends (traveling to the Cuba's Jazz Festival 2025 with you) will be grateful to you since they will also pay ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR less the price of the tour.

Visit Cuba Legally from USA!



Authentic Cuba Travel® makes it as easy as possible (under the current OFAC Cuba Travel Regulations- June 9, 2022) for US citizens who are genuinely interested in supporting the Cuban people to visit Cuba legally. Our Jazz tours to Cuba have been designed to meet the criteria set forth by Biden’s administration on USA-Cuba legal travel under the General License for the Support for the Cuban People. Our Cuba Jazz tours feature a full-time schedule of activities that will enhance the contact with the Cuban people and support civil society in Cuba.

You will engage in a full-time schedule of activities that will result in meaningful interaction with ordinary Cubans to learn about the Cuban culture; and Cuban entrepreneurs (self-employed Cubans) running privately-owned business such as private accommodation (Rooms-for Rent), restaurants (paladares), art galleries and stores.

You itinerary features authorized Support for the Cuban People activities of internationally recognized Cuban NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and independent organizations; out-reach community projects, and individuals that promote independent activity to strengthen the Cuban society.

The General License for Support for the Cuban People for US travel to Cuba is created through a do it yourself process rather than by submitting an application and awaiting approval. Fast, free and convenient, a General License for Support for the Cuban People simply requires US individuals to prepare their own documentation in a way that meets all OFAC guidelines.

We provide our US travelers with all the required documentation to ensure you are in compliance with 2022 Biden administration’s rules on Cuba travel under the US Cuba Travel category: Support for the Cuban People. US travelers can choose to depart to Cuba from any US port of their choosing.

US travelers relying on the General License for Support for the Cuban People are responsible for maintaining all Cuba travel records for up to 5 years to show OFAC (if asked) evidence that they have engaged in authorized activities while in Cuba (staying at accommodations not listed in the Restricted List of Cuban entities, eating at privately-owned restaurants, shopping at privately-owned art galleries and stores, etcetera).

At Authentic Cuba Travel®, we have updated our itineraries to make sure that American travelers are not directly or indirectly dealing with any of these prohibited entities. We do monitor constantly any updates to this list of entities to make sure our itineraries remain in compliance for our American customers.

Explore Santiago de Cuba beyond the Jazz Festival!



Authentic Cuba Travel® offers the International Jazz Festival of Santiago de Cuba tour, with pleasure! Santiago de Cuba is one of those cities in Cuba that forces you to slow down and simply enjoy. It is the type of cultural playground that many travelers dream of finding.

During your 8-Day Official Cuba Tour to the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival, you will explore the complex cultural heritage of Santiago de Cuba by the hand of your passionate Cuban guide who will propel you into a week of tackling the new and the unknown.

You will visit those places the Cubans visit like the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity, the sacred pilgrimage site of all Cubans, located in the Sierra Maestra Mountain Range, Cuba’s highest and most biodiverse mountain range, and home to La Gran Piedra, a UNESCO Heritage Site boasting the ruins of 19th century coffee plantations.

You will embark on a guided walking tour of Santiago de Cuba’s Historical Centre, and visit historical venues like the oldest house in Cuba, the Residence of Diego Velazquez, the infamous Spanish conquistador and the Cathedral of Santiago de Cuba (1522), where Diego Velazquez was buried.

As you tour San Pedro de La Roca Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will enjoy the serenity of the Sierra Maestra mountains while taking in the views of Santiago de Cuba’s Bay and the Caribbean Sea.

Then you will be sailing to Cayo Granma, a small key of red-roofed wooden dwellings inhabited by a fishing community in the Bay of Santiago de Cuba, you will soak up in the real Cuba as you enjoy a fresh lunch at a local restaurant or while visiting the main parish, Iglesia de San Rafael.

Why the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival?



The Jazz genre reached exceptional heights in the last edition of the Cuba’s International Jazz Festival "Jazz Plaza", especially in the Eastern Cuban city of Santiago de Cuba, also known as the Capital of the Caribbean and the Cradle of the Cuban Revolution, where jazz virtuoso, Arturo O’Farrill (son of Cuban musician Arturo “Chico” O’Farrill) headlined a concert that captivated the audience and showcased his versatility as a Jazz musician. Dedicated to pay tribute to the work of musician, researcher and author Leonardo Acosta, the Santiago de Cuba's Jazz Festival, not only hosted big Cuban and international Jazz acts, but brought together Cuban heritage, history, culture, and music.

Among the biggest jazz names that have performed at the Santiago de Cuba's Jazz Festival are Arturo O'Farril (USA), The Shuffle Demonds (Canada), Jose Tobon and Sigurajazz (Colombia), Giraldo Piloto and his Klimax Band, Albertico Lescay and his Formas Band, Los Munequitos de Matanzas Rumba Group, Explosion Rumbera Group, Los Hoyos Conga Group, Renacer Vocal Group, Compas Vocal Group, Divas Vocal Group, Atenas Jazz Ensemble, Jazz de Bess as well as Jazz Ensembles, Jazz Bands, and Jazz Virtuosos from the Santiago de Cuba's Music Conservatory Esteban Salas.

The Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival reverberates to the jazz sounds of big names from the national and international Jazz scene time and time again. The 2025 Jazz Edition of Santiago de Cuba is not going to disappoint! On our Official Cuba Tours 2025, the double and single accommodations are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis. Do not risk missing out this opportunity, book today!

Please, check the day-by-day itinerary below. Welcome Aboard!

Notice to US Universities, Colleges and Schools with Music Studies Departments and Programs:



In January 2016, the US Government announced further enhancements to the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba that previously required a specific license (this is, lengthy applications to OFAC). Now travel to the Caribbean island is allowed under a general license (this is, self-completed paperwork with no application to OFAC needed).

After President Biden’s policy change on USA Cuba travel on June 9, 2022, the General License for Educational Activities remains in place. Accredited U.S. graduate or under graduate degree-granting institutions; U.S. Academic Institutions; and U.S. Schools can organize and sponsor an educational trip to Cuba for their students, faculty and staff under the General License for Educational Activities, provided that the trip meets OFAC guidelines; and that an employee or other representative of the organization escorts the trip to make sure such guidelines are followed by all participants.

US Universities, Colleges and Schools with Music Studies Departments and Programs can organize and sponsor a trip to Cuba for educational activities. The purpose of the Cuba travel should be for:

_ the participation in a structured educational program offered for credit as part of a course of the sponsoring institution;

_ educational exchanges sponsored by Cuban or U.S. secondary schools involving secondary school students’ participation in a formal course of study or in a structured educational program offered by a secondary school or other academic institution, and led by a teacher or other secondary school official are authorized. This authorization allows for participation of a reasonable number of adult chaperones to accompany the secondary school students to Cuba.

_ attendance at non-commercial academic seminars, conferences and workshops related to Cuba sponsored or co-sponsored by U.S. academic institution.

_ non- commercial academic research related to Cuba for the purpose of obtaining a graduate or undergraduate degree;

_ the participation in a formal course of study at a Cuban academic institution provided that credits will be accepted toward the student’s graduate or undergraduate degree;

_ participation in a 10-week structured educational program in Cuba as part of a course offered at the U.S. institution;

_ participation in a formal 10-week course of study at a Cuban academic institution, provided the formal course of study in Cuba will be accepted for credit toward the student’s undergraduate or graduate degree at the U.S. institution;

We take care of all details both in North America and in Cuba, including VISA and flight arrangements to Cuba's main destinations via USA ports (Miami, Tampa, New York, Los Angeles, or other) or through third countries like Canada and Mexico. Authorized US organizations can travel through a third country subject to the same restrictions and requirements as those flying directly from USA.

At Authentic Cuba Travel®, we have been organizing such educational and cultural travel experiences from the United States of America for years with great success.


Notice to US Recording Industry Associations, US Music Publishers’ Associations, US Musicians Associations, US Music Clubs, US Academies of Music, and other Music Institutes and Societies from USA



US Recording Industry Associations, US Music Publishers’ Associations, US Musicians Associations, US Music Clubs, US Academies of Music, and other Music Institutes and Societies from USA can organize a trip to Cuba under the provisions of the General License for Educational Activities, the General License for Group People-to-people Educational Travel, the General License for Support for the Cuban People, the General License for Professional Research, the General License for Semi-Professional & Amateur International Sports Competition, the General License for Humanitarian Projects, the General License for Activities of Private Foundations or Research or Educational Institutes among others. Certain conditions are to be met to comply with OFAC General License requirements for each category of USA Cuba travel though.

The mission of your organization and the objective of your trip to Cuba determine under what general license you can travel to Cuba legally. In general, most trips should consist of a full-time schedule of activities intended to promote the exchange with the ordinary citizens of Cuba. This full-time schedule must also include educational activities that result in meaningful interaction in between U.S and Cuban nationals. Free time in excess or regular tourists' activities are not permitted.

We take care of all details both in North America and in Cuba, including VISA and flight arrangements to Cuba's main destinations via USA ports (Miami, Tampa, New York, Los Angeles, or other) or through third countries like Canada and Mexico. Authorized US organizations can travel through a third country subject to the same restrictions and requirements as those flying directly from USA.

At Authentic Cuba Travel®, we have been organizing such educational and cultural travel experiences from the United States of America for years with great success. Call us and let us know more about your organization and we will provide guidance and assistance.

Cuba Travel Services for US citizens genuinely interested in Supporting the Cuban people



  • Cuba Real Tour 3Havana, Las Terrazas & VinalesMar 9- Mar 16, 2024Book Now
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  • Just a US traveler looking to go to Cuba on Support for the Cuban People tours?

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  • Are you a US K-12 teacher, university or school professor? Check these tours!

  • Cuba Education Tour 1Havana, Cienfuegos & Trinidad Feb 24- Mar 2, 2024Book Now
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  • CUBA JAZZ TOURS COMPARISON
  • 6 Day Havana Jazz Festival
    Cuba Tour 2025
    9 Day Havana Jazz Festival
    Cuba Tour 2025
  • Support for the Cuban People General License DocumentationSupport for the Cuban People General License Documentation
  • VIP Havana Jazz Festival PassVIP Havana Jazz Festival Pass
  • 9 Meals Included at Cuba’s finest privately-owned Restaurants15 Meals Included at Cuba’s finest privately-owned Restaurants
  • 24/7 Luxury Air-conditioned Motor Coach24/7 Luxury Air-conditioned Motor Coach
  • 24/7 English Speaking Guide24/7 English Speaking Guide
  • 24/7 Support from ACT Staff24/7 Support from ACT Staff

  • Hotels:
  • Luxury Casa Particular (Private Rental Accomodation) or 5-Star Quinta Avenida by Valentin HotelsLuxury Casa Particular (Private Rental Accomodation) or 5-Star Quinta Avenida by Valentin Hotels and Luxury Casa Particular (Private Rental Accomodation)

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
  • TWO(2): Old Havana and Vinales ValleyFIVE(5):Old Havana, Vinales Valley, Cienfuegos Historical Centre, Trinidad Historical Centre & The Sugar Mill Valley

  • Support for the Cuban People Activities:
  • Exchanges with nongovernmental organizations in Havana such as Cabildo Quisicuaba, Vocal Clave de Sol, Santa Amalia Tap Club, Jaimanitas Community Project, Callejón de Hamel Community Project, Children Theatre Group: The Little Beehive, among others.

    Exchanges with independent organizations in Pinar del Rio such as Community Project El Patio de Pelegrin, among others.

    Engage with owners and staff at privately-owned stores, art galleries and studios in Havana and Vinales Valley such as Piscolabis Bazar-Cafe, Rox 950 Jewelry Store, Clandestina Store & Studio, Poco Bonito Art Gallery, AMOS Photography Gallery, Experimental Printing Workshop, among others.

    Exchanges with nongovernmental organizations in Havana such as Cabildo Quisicuaba, Vocal Clave de Sol, Santa Amalia Tap Club, Jaimanitas Community Project, Callejón de Hamel Community Project, Children Theatre Group: The Little Beehive, among others.

    Exchanges with independent organizations in Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Pinar del Rio such as Casa Templo de Santería Yemayá, Korimakao Community Project, Trazos Libres Community Project, Entre Hilos, Alas y Pinceles Community Project, El Patio de Pelegrin, among others.

    Engage with owners and staff at privately-owned stores, art galleries and studios in Havana, Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Vinales Valley such as Piscolabis Bazar-Cafe, Rox 950 Jewelry Store, Clandestina Store & Studio, Poco Bonito Art Gallery, Casa Huella Art Store, AMOS Photography Gallery, Experimental Printing Workshop, among others.

  • Attractions:
  • Guided Tours of Old Havana and Vinales Valley & Town.Guided Tours of Old Havana, Vinales Valley & Town, Cienfuegos, Trinidad & Sugar Mills Valley.

  • Price (All Taxes Included):
  • 5 Star Package Price: $2,4995 Star Package Price: $3,099
  • BOOK NOW!BOOK NOW!

  • 8 Day Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival Cuba Tour 2025
  • Support for the Cuban People General License Documentation
  • All Access Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival Pass
  • 12 Meals Included
  • 24/7 Luxury Air-conditioned Motor Coach, English Speaking Guide, Support from ACT Staff

  • Hotels:
  • Luxury Casa Particular (Private Rental Accomodation)

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
  • San Pedro de La Roca El Morro Castle

  • Support for the Cuban People Activities:
  • Exchanges with nongovernmental organizations in Santiago de Cuba such as Suenos y Fantasia (Dreams and Fantasies), El Cobre Youth Steel Band, Sonrisas (Smiles) Community Work Group, Community Project, Quiquiriqui Community Project, Children Literary Workshop Menique, Tumba Francesa Society, among others.

    Engage with owners and staff at privately-owned stores, art galleries and studios in Santiago de Cuba and Guantanamo such as Escalera de Edy Antique Bookstore, Claustrofobias Digital Bookstores, Rene Valdes Art Gallery, Casa de La Ceramica Art Gallery, Carlos Rafael Studio & Art Gallery, among others.

  • Attractions:
  • Guided tours of Santiago de Cuba’s Historical Centre, San Pedro de La Roca Castle, Museum of Colonial History, Municipal Museum of History, La Granjita Siboney Museum , Moncada Barracks, Santa Ifigenia Cementery (1868), among others.

    Visits to the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity, the Bacardi Rum Factory, Cayo Granma, among others.

  • Price (All Taxes Included):
  • 5 Star Package Price: $2,899
  • BOOK NOW!

  • Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival
    2025 Official Cuba Tour
    Quick Facts & Highlights

    • Support for the Cuban People General License Documentation.
    • Full-Time Schedule of Support for the Cuban People Activities.
    • Travel to "the Capital of the Caribbean", Santiago de Cuba.
    • 7 nights at Luxury Casa Particular in Santiago de Cuba with breakfast included.
    • Luxury 24/7 Dedicated Air-conditioned Motor Coach and Driver.
    • 24/7 Cuban English Speaking Guide and Translator Services.
    • 24/7 Support from Authentic Cuba Travel®' Staff in Cuba.
    • 12 Meals Included at Cuba’s finest privately-owned restaurants:
      7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches.
    • "All Access" Jazz Pass to Attend All Santiago de Cuba's Jazz Venues.
    • Premium Seats at the Closing Concert of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival.
    • Daily Attendance to 2025 Jazz Festival's Venues Across Santiago de Cuba.
    • Exchange with nongovernmental community project, Sin Limites.
    • Exchange with independent community project, Suenos y Fantasia.
    • Exchange with nongovernmental organization El Cobre Youth Steel Band.
    • Exchange with independent Community Work Group Sonrisas.
    • Exchange with nongovernmental Quiquiriqui Community Project.
    • Exchange with self-funded cultural project, Allegro Theatre Company.
    • Exchange with independent Children Literary Workshop, Menique.
    • Exchange with religious community project, Tumba Francesa Society.
    • Visit to privately-owned Cuban publishing house, Claustrofobias.
    • Visit to privately-owned Art Gallery of Carlos Rafael Gonzalez Barban.
    • Ferry Boat Ride to Cayo Granma (Granma Island) in the Caribbean Sea.
    • Visit to Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Cobre.
    • Guided Tour of Santiago de Cuba's Historical Site.
    • Guided Tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Pedro Morro Castle.
    • Guided Tour of Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, resting place of Fidel Castro.
    • Guided Tour of National Monument, La Granjita Siboney Museum.
    • Guided Tour of the Moncada Barracks museum and the primary school.
    • Performance by Tumba Francesa Society "La Caridad de Oriente".
    • Rub Shoulders with International & Cuban Jazz Musicians.
    • Unlimited Access to Activities of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025.

    Hotel Melia Santiago, Venue of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival. During your 8-day Cuba jazz journey, you will stay at a Luxury Casa Particular. US travelers to Cuba are authorized to stay at private reantal accomodations. US government prohibits US travelers to conduct financial transactions with over 180 Cuban hotels, restaurants and other entities. We constantly monitor the list of prohibited entities to make sure our American travelers to Cuba are in compliance with current USA Cuba travel regulations.
    Arturo O'Farrill playing at the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival Captivating performances by Grammy Award-winning pianist, Arturo O’Farril at the Teatro Marti brought the audience to standing ovations at the Opening Gala of the Santiago de Cuba City Jazz Festival last year. Son of the legendary Cuban composer, Chico O’Farrill, Arturo O’Farrill was raised in New York where he attended prestigious music schools such as the Brooklyn College Conservatory and the Aaron Copland School of Music. Spearheading the political fight to normalize USA Cuba relations for years, Arturo O’Farrill has paved the way that makes possible Cuba jazz travel from USA.
    Alberto Lescay, Art Gallery Community Project, Support for the Cuban People Activity.
    We will drive through the former bourgeois neighborhood of Vista Alegre for a visit to the Rene Valdes Art Gallery. This art space was established by the Caguayo Foundation, a cultural institution founded by world renowned local artist Alberto Lescay to promote monumental works of art. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the individuals of Cuba!
    Paladar Aurora, Santiago de Cuba' International Jazz Festival.
    Our American travelers to Cuba will be treated to delicious meals at Cuba's paladares like Aurora Paladar in Santiago de Cuba. Paladar is a Spanish word that refers to private independent restaurants run by Cuban restaurateurs (self-employers). Cuban entrepreneurs are showing an emerging confidence and a newfound responsibility to take control of their futures after Raul Castro's economic reform programme. Eating in privately-owned restaurants directly supports the Cuban People and their families.
    Girardo Piloto, Klimax at the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival. Giraldo Piloto, one of the best jazz drummers in Cuba, is among the numerous Cuban jazz musicians that perform during the Santiago de Cuba’s International Jazz Festival. During our jazz trips to Cuba from USA, visitors enjoy the good taste and high virtuosity of the array of Cuban musicians who take the stage at the numerous jazz venues that host the international Cuban Jazz event.
    Santiago de Cuba’s El Morro, Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca Cuba jazz tours from USA explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Santiago de Cuba such as the San Pedro de La Roca Morro Castle, showcasing stupendous views of the Caribbean Sea, and striking Spanish military architecture. It contains a museum that showcases the many events the fort has witnessed during its 4-Century history from pirate’s attacks, to English forces’ assaults, to United States’ fleet battles.
    Our Lady of Charity is housed in Cuba's only basilica US travelers aboard our jazz tours to Cuba from USA will explore authentic Cuba’s destinations such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity, proudly standing in the heart of Cuba’s highest and most biodiverse mountain range: Sierra Maestra. Sierra Maestra mountain range is also home to another UNESCO World Heritage site where the ruins of the first 19th century coffe plantations remains have been found.
    Munequitos de Matanzas performing with Arturo O'Farrill at the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival. The Los Munequitos de Matanzas (Cuba’s most famous rumba group), Conga Los Hoyos (Santiago de Cuba city’s award-winning conga group) and American Jazz pianist, Arturo O’Farrill (Grammy Award winner) delivered a luxurious performance at the Marti Theatre with the fusion of Jazz, Rumba and Conga during the International Festival Jazz Plaza in Santiago de Cuba. Our jazz Cuba tours offer unlimited access to all venues hosting the event such as Teatro Marti (Marti Theatre), Plaza de Marte (Marte Square), Plaza Dolores (Dolores Square), the UNEAC Headquarters (Cuba’s National Union of Artists and Writers), Melia Santiago Hotel, Cabaret Tropicana de Santiago de Cuba, among other smaller jazz clubs such as Iris or La Pachanga.
    Cayo Granma, Santiago de Cuba.
    The best Cuba jazz tours to Santiago de Cuba, explore overlooked authentic Cuban destinations such as Cayo Granma. Included in your jazz travel to Cuba, it is a very pleasant panoramic ferry ride through the Caribbean waters surrounding this small 2-square-kilometer charming island, inhabited by fishermen that live in red-roofed picturesque houses standing on stilts in the Bay of Santiago de Cuba. Our people-to-people Cuba tours make possible for US citizens to mingle with the friendly people (population about 1,200) that inhabited this island and learn about their way of life.
    Libreria Escalera de Edy, Support for the Cuban People Activity.
    Libreria Escalera de Edy, a privately-owned Cuban rare and old book store that also carries vinyl records, posters and other memorabilia. The book store serves also as a book exchange and cultural center for the neighbours. Run by self-employed Cubans (cuentapropistas) Edy Ferrer and Conrado Ferrer, here we can shop for some rare Cuban Cuban books, postcards and posters).
    Cementery Santa Ifigenia, Santiago de Cuba.
    Our Jazz trips to Cuba from US, include a visit to the Santa Ifigenia Cementery (1868), one of the largest and grandiose cementerios in Cuba (second to Havana’s Necropolis Cristobal Colon only). With a mausoleum dedicated to those killed during the Moncada barrack’s battle of 1953, the cemetery is also the resting place of Jose Marti (Cuba’s National Hero) and Fidel Castro.
    Promociones Literarias Claustrofobias, Support for the Cuban People Activity.
    As part of our Support for the Cuban People exchanges in Santiago de Cuba, we will engage in authorized Support for the Cuban People activities at Promociones Literarias Claustrofobias, an independent digital publishing house and cultural project founded in 2012 by Cuban entrepreneurs, Naskicet Domínguez and Yunier Riquenes. Claustrofobias promotes the publication of contemporary Cuban authors beyond the national frontiers. This Support for the Cuban People activity includes conversations with Naskicet, Yunier, Amels, Zaylen Clavería and other members.
    El Cobre Youth Steel Band, Support for the Cuban People Activity.
    During our Support for the Cuban People trip to Cuba, we will visit El Cobre Town, the headquarters of El Cobre Youth Steel Band. Under the direction of musician, Hermes Ramirez, a children’s steel band have been founded to preserve the musical and social work of the band for future generations. Performing for the Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity, the El Cobre Youth Stell Band is also a regular of the Cuba’s Jazz Festival. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the people of El Cobre town.
    Day 1. Monday 20 January 2025.
    Hello Santiago de Cuba
    Arrival at Santiago de Cuba International Airport. Private transfer.

    It is no secret the Santiago de Cuba City, the Capital of the Caribbean as it is also known, is a year-round destination. January just makes it an extra special Cuban destination because of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival.

    Group welcomed by your Authentic Cuba Travel® Cuban Guide. Panoramic transfer to your Luxury Casa Particular. Private group check-in.

    With our Cuba Jazz tours, we have found the way to share Authentic Cuba Travel® experiences in a way that enlightens and empowers the North American travelers and the Cuban people they connect with along the Cuban Jazz journey.

    Breakfast is complimentary daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

    Santiago de Cuba (1514), second largest Cuban city, was one of the first 7 villages founded by Spanish conquistador Diego Velazquez in the beginning of the 16th Century. It was also the first capital of the country under the colonial ruling. The city’s privilege location by the Santiago de Cuba’s Bay- opening to the Caribbean Sea- made it a strategic departing point for the explorations of Mexico and Florida led by Spaniards Juan de Grijalba and Hernan Cortes respectively in 1518 and 1538.

    Also known as the Capital of the Caribbean because of its cultural heritage, the city has played important roles during historical events in the Caribbean region. For example, during the 1791 Haiti’s Revolution, a large number of French and British immigrants fleeing the conflict settled in the city enriching the Spanish and African cultural fabric of the city.

    Evening: tonight, the thrilling Cuba jazz travel experience begins with the second night of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025. There are numerous concert venues to choose from, which can make it difficult to decide where to go. However, with your ALL ACCESS Jazz Pass, you have the advantage of enjoying unrestricted entry to all things jazz in Santiago de Cuba. Don't worry though, because your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide is available to provide guidance, and your bus driver will transport you to the finest highlights of the Cuban Jazz Festival. Please keep your Jazz pass safe, as it cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.

    Among the main venues for this year's festival are the Teatro Heredia (Heredia Theatre), Teatro Marti (Marti Theatre), Cafe Teatro Macuba (Macuba Theatre), Plaza de Marte (Marte Square), Plaza Dolores (Dolores Square), UNEAC Headquarters (Cuba's National Union of Artists and Writers), Cabaret Tropicana de Santiago de Cuba, along with smaller jazz clubs like Iris and La Pachanga.
    Day 2. Tuesday 21 January 2025.
    Historical Santiago de Cuba
    Morning: During our Support for the Cuban People trip to Santiago de Cuba, we will pay a visit to 28 de Enero Casa de Cultura, in the Jose Marti Municipality. We will exchange with Yaneslidia Delis Mustelier, founder and director of Sin Limites, a community project founded in 2015 with the goal of promoting equality and equal opportunities for all by integrating handicap people, and those with disabilities, with Cubans without disabilities into the fashion industry. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the individuals of Cuba. We will present donations of educational & humanitarian items and ask how we can help promoting their message of equality in the USA.

    Your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide will teach you a lesson today about the early days of Santiago de Cuba as you explore the surroundings of Parque Cespedes, the city’s original colonial square.

    Well-known for being the burial site of Diego Velazquez, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption (1522) was visited by Pope Francis in 2015 and showcases elaborate ceiling frescos, hand-carved choir stalls, and a refined altar dedicated to the venerated Virgin of Charity.

    At over 500 years young, Santiago de Cuba’s Historical Centre showcases distinctive colonial architecture, narrow steep streets, and the oldest house in Cuba (Museum of Colonial History), former house of Diego Velazquez, the Spanish conquistador who founded the city back in 1514.

    Next we visit Casa Dranguet, the former home of coffee grower Carlos Dranguet Thomas. The residence of this Frenchman who fled the 1791 Haitian Revolution and established his plantation in the fertile hills east of Santiago now functions as a small coffee museum. We’ll learn about the history of coffee in the region and enjoy a delicious coffee.

    Lunch at Paladar Aurora. Paladar is a Spanish word that refers to private independent restaurants run by Cuban restaurateurs (self-employers). Cuban entrepreneurs are showing an emerging confidence and a newfound responsibility to take control of their futures after Raul Castro's economic reform programme. We will engage in a conversation with Cuban owners and staff to learn more about the booming independent Cuban hospitality industry. Eating in privately-owned restaurants directly supports the Cuban people and their families.

    Afternoon: next we will pay a visit to Santiago de Cuba’s antique bookstore, Libreria Escalera de Edy, a privately-owned Cuban rare and old book store that also carries vinyl records, posters and other memorabilia. The book store serves also as a book exchange and cultural center for the neighbours. Run by self-employed Cubans (cuentapropistas) Edy Ferrer and Conrado Ferrer, here we can shop for some rare Cuban books, postcards and posters). Shopping in these sorts of stores directly supports the Cuban staff and their families while encouraging independent entrepreneurial activities that in turn strengthen civil society in Cuba.

    Visit to Municipal Museum of History, Emilio Bacardi, one of Cuba’s oldest museums founded in 1899 by Independence War hero, Emilio Bacardi. As Santiago de Cuba’s first republican mayor, Mr. Bacardi amazed an extensive fortune as a rum producer. The museum highlights the history of the Eastern region and contains the largest collection of paintings of Santiago de Cuba’s landscape artists, Jose Joaquin Tejada.

    Evening: the 40th Jazz Festival in Santiago de Cuba is currently underway, featuring renowned Cuban and international jazz artists and pushing boundaries in the genre. With your All Access Jazz Pass, you'll have exclusive entry to the Marti Theatre, where the biggest names in jazz will be performing, as well as all other venues hosting the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025.

    The main 40th Jazz festival venues in Santiago de Cuba are the Teatro Heredia (Heredia Theatre), Teatro Marti (Marti Theatre), Cafe Teatro Macuba (Macuba Theatre), Plaza de Marte (Marte Square), Plaza Dolores (Dolores Square), UNEAC Headquarters (Cuba's National Union of Artists and Writers), Cabaret Tropicana de Santiago de Cuba, along with smaller jazz clubs like Iris and La Pachanga.
    Day 3. Wednesday 22 January 2025.
    Opening Gala, Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival
    Morning: this morning we will visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Pedro de La Roca Castle (1633) which guards high above the narrow entrance to the pocket-shape Bay of Santiago de Cuba. Boasting stupendous views of the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Maestra mountains, and a striking Spanish military architecture, the fort serves as a museum today showcasing the many events it has witnessed during its 4-Century history from pirate’s attacks, to English forces’ assaults, to United States’ fleet battles.

    Lunch at Paladar El Pirata, serving delicious local seafood dishes and boasting nice views of Santiago de Cuba bay and Sierra Maestra Mountains.

    Afternoon: panoramic bus ride of modern Santiago de Cuba. We will visit the Heredia Theatre, San Juan Hill, Square of Revolution Antonio Maceo, baseball stadium Saturnino Lora, Moncada Barracks, Palacio de Justicia, among others.

    Afternoon: then we will drive through the former bourgeois neighborhood of Vista Alegre for a visit to the Rene Valdes Art Gallery. This art space was established by the Caguayo Foundation, a cultural institution founded by world renowned local artist Alberto Lescay to promote monumental works of art.

    Next we will pay a visit to Santiago’s Casa de la Ceramica where Santiaguero ceramic artists work using a range of techniques from raku, painted, to enameled work. Exchange with artists and staff members.

    Before heading back to our hotel, we will enjoy a panoramic bus ride of modern Santiago de Cuba. We will visit the Heredia Theatre, San Juan Hill, Square of Revolution Antonio Maceo, baseball stadium Saturnino Lora, Palacio de Justicia, among others.

    Evening: the exhilarating and exciting Cuba jazz travel experience continues on tonight. During the fourth night of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025, almost all venues offer concerts in parallel so it is hard to decide where to go. Especially when you have an ALL ACCESS Jazz pass that grants you complete access to All Things Jazz! No worries, your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide is here to guide you and your bus driver is here to drive you to the best the Cuban Jazz Festival has to offer!
    Day 4. Thursday 23 January 2025.
    Cayo Granma, Authentic Cuban Destination
    Morning: after a 10-minute ferry ride throughout Santiago de Cuba’s Bay, you will arrive at an authentic Cuban destination known as Cayo Granma, a pedestrian only island named after the Granma vessel that brought Fidel Castro’s Revolutionaries to Cuba from Mexico in 1956. Cayo Granma is a small 2-square-kilometer charming island inhabited by fishermen whose red-roofed picturesque houses stand on stilts above the Caribbean waters. Today we will mingle with its friendly people (population about 1,200) and learn about their way of life.

    Next we will visit the community art project, Suenos y Fantasia (Dreams and Fantasies) carried out by local children who use their imagination to create toys and crafts from recycled materials collected from the seashores. During this visit we will engage with the Cubans to learn more about the role of this Cuban independent organization. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the people of Cayo Granma. We will present donations of educational & humanitarian items.

    A true seafood lunch will be served at Paladar Cayo Granma where you will indulge over freshly-caught fish sided by the traditional Cuban staples such as congris (rice and beans) and tostones (plantain chips).

    Afternoon: you will visit the San Rafael Church, which stands on the highest elevation at the center of the island. As you stroll around the village you will see the local school, pharmacy, family doctor’s office, as well as the colourful dock where the fishing boats are kept. You will unveil the mystery of this overlooked authentic destination in Santiago de Cuba by the hand of your Cuban guide.

    Evening: the exhilarating and exciting Cuba jazz travel experience continues on tonight. During the fifth night of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025, almost all venues offer concerts in parallel so it is hard to decide where to go. Especially when you have an ALL ACCESS Jazz pass that grants you complete access to All Things Jazz! No worries, your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide is here to guide you and your bus driver is here to drive you to the best the Cuban Jazz Festival has to offer!
    Day 5. Friday 24 January 2025.
    Basilica del Cobre, Sacred House of all Cubans
    Morning: during our Support for the Cuban People trip to Cuba, we will engage in authorized Support for the Cuban People activities at El Cobre Town, the headquarters of El Cobre Youth Steel Band. The community work of the band includes the betterment of El Cobre town and its locals. Under the direction of musician, Hermes Ramirez, a children’s steel band have been founded to preserve the musical and social work of the band for future generations. Performing for the Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Charity, the El Cobre Youth Stell Band is also a regular of the Cuba’s Jazz Festival.

    This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the people of El Cobre town. We will present donations of educational & humanitarian items and ask how we can help promoting their message of peace in the USA.

    As you venture past touristy stalls selling religious stamps, sunflowers and souvenirs in El Cobre town, you will reach the sacred house of all Cubans, the Basilica of Our Lady of Charity, proudly standing in the heart of Cuba’s highest and most biodiverse mountain range: Sierra Maestra. Sierra Maestra mountain range is also home to another UNESCO World Heritage site where the ruins of the first 19th century coffe plantations remains have been found.

    Followed by a visit to nearby Monumento al Cimarron (Runaway Slave Monument), a bronze-and-iron sculpture standing atop a hill near El Cobre town, It was created by Santiago de Cuba’s sculptor Alberto Lescay as a remembrance of the slave revolts that took place in the region during colonial times.

    We will have lunch at another private restaurant today, Paladar La Brasa. This is a must visit in our Cuba jazz trips for USA citizens on Support for the Cuban People Cuba tours. We will engage in a conversation with Cuban owners and staff to learn more about the booming independent Cuban hospitality industry. Eating in privately-owned restaurants directly supports the Cuban people and their families.

    Afternoon: exchange with students of the University of Santiago’s Faculty of Dentistry in charge of the Sonrisas Community Project, a community work group that visits remote communities in Santiago de Cuba to provide ambulatory free dental treatment and education. During this visit we will engage with Cuban dentistry students to learn more about the role of this Cuban community work group in the promotion of preventive dentistry practices (daily brushing and dental cleanings) through educational exchanges with adults and children. The students also provide a full scope of ambulatory dental treatments. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with Cuban students.

    A visit to Santiago de Cuba would not be complete without sipping in some traditional Cuban rum. And...where better than at the original Bacardi Rum Factory, founded in 1868 by Spaniard Don Facundo. Although the Bacardi family left Cuba after 1959, the Cuban government has continued to produce traditional rum here ever since under different brand names such as Ron Caney (the factory’s signature), Ron Santiago and Ron Varadero.

    Evening: the exhilarating and exciting Cuba jazz travel experience continues on tonight. During the sixth night of the 40th Jazz Festival of Santiago de Cuba, almost all venues offer concerts in parallel so it is hard to decide where to go. Especially when you have an ALL ACCESS Jazz pass that grants you complete access to All Things Jazz! No worries, your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide is here to guide you and your bus driver is here to drive you to the best the Cuban Jazz Festival has to offer!

    The main 40th Jazz festival venues in Santiago de Cuba are the Teatro Heredia (Heredia Theatre), Teatro Marti (Marti Theatre), Cafe Teatro Macuba (Macuba Theatre), Plaza de Marte (Marte Square), Plaza Dolores (Dolores Square), UNEAC Headquarters (Cuba's National Union of Artists and Writers), Cabaret Tropicana de Santiago de Cuba, along with smaller jazz clubs like Iris and La Pachanga.
    Day 6. Saturday 25 January 2025.
    The Cuban Revolution
    Morning: during our Support for the Cuban People trip to Santiago de Cuba, we will visit the Quiquiriqui Community Project, founded by Angelina Prada in the Santa Barbara community, in Santiago de Cuba. This Support for the Cuban People activity will result in a meaningful interaction with the people of the 30 de Noviembre neighborhood. We will learn about the role of this community project in the promotion of visual arts, performing arts and other cultural activities in the community. We will present donations of educational & humanitarian items and ask how we can help promoting their community work in the USA.

    Meet the Allegro Theatre Company, a self-funded cultural project with over 20 members. Created and directed by local actor Alexander Legro, Teatro Allegro uses “living statues” to express their art. Working with recycled materials and natural fibers; combining body painting, physical theater and performance, this creative group has proven that they can produce art of the highest caliber with very limited resources. Their street shows include La fiesta de Amy (Amy’s Party), dedicated to late British singer Amy Winehouse; and the fantasy performance Ajedrez Humano (Human Chess).

    Followed by visit to Callejon del Carmen. This is a pedestrian-only alley in the city center bursting with self-employed Cubans (cuentapropistas) selling their goods and services. Here you can buy local crafts and souvenirs while supporting Cuban families!

    We will have lunch at another private restaurant today, Paladar St. Pauli. Housed in a refurbished historical house, this stylish restaurant is full of live, aromas and good taste. It has altered the food scene in Santiago de Cuba. Where else can you find gazpacho in Santiago? Unique opportunity for American visitors to Cuba to talk with local entrepreneurs up close. Eating in privately-owned restaurants directly supports the Cuban people and their families.

    Afternoon: as part of our Support for the Cuban People interaction in Santiago de Cuba, we will engage in authorized Support for the Cuban People activities such as a visit to the internationally recognized Cuban based nongovernmental organization (Cuban NGOs), Promociones Literarias Claustrofobias. This is an independent digital publishing house and cultural project founded in 2012 by Cuban entrepreneurs, Naskicet Domínguez and Yunier Riquenes.

    Claustrofobias promotes the publication of contemporary Cuban authors beyond the national frontiers. Its extensive community work also features the creation of the Menique Children Literary Workshop that promotes reading and writing at early ages. The project also features a book store that promotes and sells books. This Support for the Cuban People activity includes conversations with Naskicet, Yunier, Amels, Zaylen Clavería and other members.

    Continue on delving into the history of the Cuban Revolution with a guided tour of the Moncada Barracks, the battle site of the armed attack led by a group of young Cubans under the leadership of Fidel Castro on July 26th, 1953, considered as the prelude of the 1959 Revolution. Today it houses a museum and the largest primary school in Santiago de Cuba with more than 1500 students.

    Followed by a visit to the Santa Ifigenia Cementery (1868), one of the largest and grandiose cementerios in Cuba (second to Havana’s Necropolis Cristobal Colon only). With a mausoleum dedicated to those killed during the Moncada barrack’s battle of 1953, the cemetery is also the resting place of Jose Marti (Cuba’s National Hero) and Fidel Castro.

    Evening: Tonight marks the seventh night of the Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival 2025. American travelers are able to travel to Santiago de Cuba for the Jazz Festival 2025, and in that time, move throughout Eastern Cuba and experience the authentic Cuban culture along the way.

    Enjoying Cuba beyond the Cuba’s Jazz Festival, it is the goal of our educational tours to Caribbean island. The goal of your Authentic Cuba Travel® tour guide is to provide you with a sense of place; to offer a deeper understanding of Cuba, and the Eastern region and the communities you will visit. But it is the memories you get to bring home with you that are the best part of our Cuban jazz tours.
    Day 7. Sunday 26 January 2025.
    Closing Gala, Santiago de Cuba Jazz Festival
    Day trip to Guantanamo, the most eastern province in the island. The infamous US Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp and Military Base is located in the southern coast of Guantanamo province.

    Upon arrival we attend a Tumba Francesa performance by the Santa Catalina de Ricci Pompadour Society, declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Founded over 100 years ago and being one of only three Tumba Francesa societies left in Cuba that specializes in a unique form of Haitian-style dancing.

    It conserves in all its splendor the contributions bequeathed by the French and dahomeyana- Benin, Congo and Niger cultures, in the island of Cuba; as genuine example of the tradition and expression of the popular culture of the Cuban east.

    Next we will head to the House of Changüí to learn about Guantanamo's music. The changui is one of the oldest styles of Cuban popular music. It originated in the early 1800’s and it is considered to be the predecessor of the popular Son rythm. We’ll enjoy a special performance and exchange with the musicians.

    We will have lunch at another privately-owned paladar (restaurant) today (optional/ not included in tour cost). We will engage in a conversation with Cuban owners and staff to learn more about the booming independent Cuban hospitality industry. Eating in privately-owned restaurants directly supports the Cuban people and their families.

    Afternoon: before heading back to Santiago de Cuba, we will the privately-owned studio and art gallery of Carlos Rafael Gonzalez Barban. We will engage with our Cuban host and his family in a conversation to learn more about the Cuban culture and the challenges that independent private artists are facing in Cuba.

    Evening: Cuba is one of those places in the world that forces you to slow down and simply enjoy. Paradoxically, another supercharged Jazz night unfolds in the Cuban city tonight with the closing act of the 40th Jazz Festival of Santiago de Cuba. Attending the Closing Gala of this Cuban Jazz Festival at the Marti Theatre marks the ending of your Jazz odyssey into the heart and soul of Eastern Cuba. Please....do not forget your All Access Jazz Pass :)
    Day 8. Monday 27 January 2025.
    Departure
    Transfer to Santiago de Cuba International Airport for departure.

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