Left to right: Gihana Galindo, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board; Carlos Latuff, President of the Gaviota Hotel Group; Lessner Gomez; Marketing Director of the Ministry of Tourism; Gipsy Hernandez, President of Cubanacan Hotel

A high-level delegation from Cuba recently visited Canada to address the current market concerns and reaffirm the country’s strong commitment to the Canadian travel market.

The delegation included Lessner Gomez, Marketing Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Carlos Latuff, President of the Gaviota Hotel Group, Gipsy Hernandez, President of Cubanacan Hotels and Gihana Galindo, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board.

Cuba is operating normally

The delegation acknowledged that there are currently concerns in the market, particularly on social media; however, they confirmed clearly that Cuba is operating normally, with tourism services continuing as planned across the island.

Fuel supply & electricity assurance

One of the main concerns addressed by the delegation was the fuel supply, particularly related to the latest political developments in Venezuela. Cuban authorities confirmed that airports and hotels have sufficient fuel to sustain the entire winter season and beyond.

Canadian trade partners have also received official letters from the Cuban authorities guaranteeing oil supply for the season.

Hotels and resorts are equipped with generators and adequate fuel supplies to ensure guest comfort. Meanwhile, the country is actively addressing the nationwide blackout issues (another concern mentioned by the delegation), which stem from maintenance challenges rather than fuel shortages.

It's worth noting that Cuba's energy security extends beyond Venezuelan oil, with the country maintaining supply agreements across multiple international partners.

Canada Continues to be the Number 1 Market

Canada remains Cuba’s number one source market. In the first days of January this year, the Canadian visitor numbers grew by 17% year over year. Currently, there are approximately 120 Canadian flights per week, arriving across multiple destinations in Cuba.

NEW: A new route was launched by WestJet in December 2025, connecting Canadians to Cuba’s capital, Havana. 

This year also marks the 80th anniversary of uninterrupted diplomatic relations between Cuba and Canada, reflecting the long-standing and stable relationship between the two countries.

Health and Safety Updates

Another concern raised relates to mosquitoes. Officials clarified that mosquitoes commonly found in coastal areas near the beaches are a different type than those that transmit diseases. However, the pest control plan is already in action, and the latest Ministry of Health data shows a decline in reported cases across the destination. For more information, please click here.

Growth of the Private Sector

Cuba’s private sector continues to expand, with stronger participation this year, particularly in distribution and supplies for the tourism industry. This growth is supporting tourism operations and service delivery.

Sustainability and Renewable Energy

Cuba is investing heavily in renewable and sustainable energy, with some Canadian companies involved in these initiatives. A major focus is on solar energy. As an example, Meliá Trinidad Península already operates at 80% solar energy, which reflects the country’s long-term goal for other resorts.

Gaviota’s New Products and Experiences

Gaviota is diversifying its offerings for Canadian travellers, reinforcing the message that “Cuba can deliver luxury.” Developments include a new Playa Luxury concept with properties in Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Santa María, Varadero, and Holguín, as well as the Playa Kids concept for families. For more information on each concept, please click here.

Also new is a “Splash” waterpark located in the Cayo Santa Maria, offering the ultimate family adventure in Cuba!

To top the list of the new experiences in Cayo Santa María is a brand new initiative called “Cayo Santa María All In”, an added-value program that allows your clients to experience more of Cayo Santa María’s offerings beyond the hotel. This program extends the all-inclusive concept to the 3 plazas in the area: Plaza Gallery, Plaza Las Dunas & The One Collection, and it is absolutely FREE for all guests staying in Cayo Santa Maria (and yes, any resort!). For more information, please click here.

Every Thursday, all tourist plazas and resorts host a Canadian Day, featuring dedicated celebrations and parties to honour Canadian travellers.

Looking Ahead

Cuba’s biggest tourism trade show, FITCuba, will take place May 6–10, 2026, in Varadero, with Canada as the Guest of Honour. Additionally, Destinos Gaviota is scheduled later this year for September 2026.

Cuba expects approximately 1 million Canadian visitors this year, compared to 720,000 last year. Interest in Cuba has not declined, as Canadian travellers are experienced and “Cuba-savvy,” viewing the destination as a home away from home.

It has been said that while sales have slowed slightly in January, this trend is affecting multiple destinations, not only Cuba. Media coverage has influenced booking behaviour, but tour operators report that current performance remains within normal expectations.

A Longstanding Relationship

Canadians have supported Cuba for decades, and this support continues. With strong airlift, fuel guarantees, expanding products, and a focus on sustainability, Cuba remains confident in its ability to meet market demand and deliver a safe, hospitable, and reliable destination for Canadian travellers.

Left to right: Carlos Latuff, President of the Gaviota Hotel Group; Gipsy Hernandez, President of Cubanacan Hotel; Gihana Galindo, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board; Angel Pacheco Jimenez, Business Development Manager - Ontario at Iberostar Hotels & Resorts; Lessner Gomez, Marketing Director of the Ministry of Tourism; Nieves Ricardo, Cuba Tourist Board

By Kateryna Ivchenko