GITNUXREPORT 2026

Cuba Tourism Statistics

Cuba's tourism is recovering strongly but remains below its record highs before the pandemic.

Alexander Schmidt

Research Analyst specializing in technology and digital transformation trends.

First published: Feb 13, 2026

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Statistic 1

Cuba had 77,000 hotel rooms in 2023, with 70% in 4-5 star categories.

Statistic 2

Hotel occupancy rate averaged 52.6% in 2023, peaking at 85% in high season.

Statistic 3

Number of hotels: 300 state-run and 200 private (casas particulares) in 2023.

Statistic 4

Havana has 50,000+ accommodation beds, 40% of national total.

Statistic 5

New hotel openings in 2023: 10 properties adding 3,000 rooms.

Statistic 6

Casas particulares (Airbnb-style) hosted 1 million nights in 2023.

Statistic 7

Airport infrastructure: 10 international airports, Jose Marti handling 60% traffic.

Statistic 8

High-speed internet in hotels reached 70% coverage by end-2023.

Statistic 9

Car rental fleet for tourists: 15,000 vehicles in 2023, up 20%.

Statistic 10

Cruise terminals: 3 main ones, but utilization <5% in 2023.

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Over 5,000 km of tourism roads upgraded since 2021.

Statistic 12

Medical tourism facilities: 50+ spas and health centers.

Statistic 13

Private restaurant licenses (paladares): 20,000+ serving tourists.

Statistic 14

Average length of stay: 9.2 nights in 2023.

Statistic 15

Room supply growth: 5% annually to 2025.

Statistic 16

Private accommodations: 30,000+ casas particulares licensed.

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Marina berths for yachts: 2,000 nationwide.

Statistic 18

Golf courses: 4 operational, 2 under construction.

Statistic 19

WiFi hotspots: 1,000+ in tourist areas.

Statistic 20

Electric vehicle charging stations: 50 for tourist rentals.

Statistic 21

Convention centers: 20 venues, 100,000 delegates/year.

Statistic 22

Water parks and theme parks: 5 major ones.

Statistic 23

Solar power in resorts: 30% energy coverage.

Statistic 24

ATM availability for tourists: 500+ machines.

Statistic 25

In 2023, Cuba welcomed 2.44 million international tourists, marking a 180% increase from 2022 but still 20% below pre-pandemic levels of 2019.

Statistic 26

Canada remained the top source market for Cuba tourism in 2023, accounting for 620,000 visitors or 25.4% of total arrivals.

Statistic 27

From January to October 2023, tourist arrivals reached 2.15 million, with a monthly average of 215,000 visitors.

Statistic 28

In 2019, peak year, Cuba recorded 4.28 million international tourist arrivals, the highest on record.

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European tourists made up 45% of Cuba's arrivals in 2023, led by Russia with 167,000 visitors.

Statistic 30

US visitors to Cuba dropped to 144,000 in 2023 from 638,000 in 2019 due to tightened travel restrictions.

Statistic 31

Monthly tourist arrivals in December 2023 hit 360,000, the highest since reopening post-COVID.

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Cuba's tourism arrivals grew by 68% year-over-year in Q1 2024, reaching 745,000 visitors.

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Air arrivals constituted 93% of total tourists in 2023, with 2.27 million via flights.

Statistic 34

Cruise ship passengers to Cuba fell to under 10,000 in 2023 from 1 million in 2019 due to US bans.

Statistic 35

In 2022, total arrivals were 1.6 million, with recovery accelerating in the latter half.

Statistic 36

Projections for 2024 estimate 3.5 million tourists, aiming for 80% of 2019 levels.

Statistic 37

Russian tourists increased by 264% in 2023, from 65,000 in 2022 to 237,000.

Statistic 38

Cuban tourism arrivals from Argentina surged 150% in 2023 despite economic woes.

Statistic 39

In 2023, 55% of arrivals were for leisure, 30% VFR (visiting friends/relatives), 15% other.

Statistic 40

Scuba diving certification: 20,000 new per year.

Statistic 41

In 2023, Mexico sent 120,000 tourists to Cuba, up 100%.

Statistic 42

Germany contributed 85,000 visitors in 2023.

Statistic 43

France: 75,000 tourists, focusing on culture.

Statistic 44

UK arrivals: 60,000 in 2023.

Statistic 45

Italy: 55,000 visitors.

Statistic 46

Spain: 50,000, down from 120,000 pre-COVID.

Statistic 47

Poland surged to 40,000 tourists.

Statistic 48

Airline seats to Cuba: 4 million planned for 2024.

Statistic 49

Charter flights from Europe: 70% of air arrivals.

Statistic 50

Tourism growth target: 10% annual post-2024.

Statistic 51

Pandemic low: 201,000 arrivals in 2021.

Statistic 52

2020 arrivals: 1.07 million before March closure.

Statistic 53

Medical tourists: 50,000 in 2023 for health services.

Statistic 54

Havana accounted for 45% of all tourist visits in 2023.

Statistic 55

Varadero beach resort hosted 1.2 million visitors in 2023.

Statistic 56

Trinidad UNESCO site saw 800,000 day-trippers annually.

Statistic 57

Cayo Coco and Guillermo islands: 500,000 all-inclusive stays.

Statistic 58

Viñales Valley national park: 400,000 hikers and cyclists.

Statistic 59

Salsa dancing classes taken by 60% of tourists.

Statistic 60

Classic car tours in Havana: 300,000 rides per year.

Statistic 61

Tobacco farm tours: 250,000 participants.

Statistic 62

Diving sites: 500+ coral reefs, 150,000 divers annually.

Statistic 63

Rum distilleries visited by 70% of tourists.

Statistic 64

Che Guevara mausoleum in Santa Clara: 600,000 visitors.

Statistic 65

Old Havana walking tours: 500,000 participants.

Statistic 66

Bay of Pigs historical site: 200,000 visitors.

Statistic 67

Jardines del Rey archipelago: 700,000 beach days.

Statistic 68

Horseback riding in valleys: 150,000 rides.

Statistic 69

Birdwatching tours: 50,000 enthusiasts, 300+ species.

Statistic 70

Museum visits: 2 million entries to 200+ museums.

Statistic 71

Live music venues attended by 85% tourists.

Statistic 72

Cigar rolling demos: 400,000 experiences.

Statistic 73

Beach volleyball tournaments: 100 events/year.

Statistic 74

Yoga retreats: 20,000 participants in eco-resorts.

Statistic 75

Tourism revenue in 2023 reached $2.5 billion USD, up from $1.2 billion in 2022.

Statistic 76

Tourism contributed 10% to Cuba's GDP in 2019, expected to rise to 8% in 2024.

Statistic 77

Average spend per tourist in 2023 was $1,024 USD, a 15% increase from 2022.

Statistic 78

In 2023, tourism generated 500,000 direct and indirect jobs, 12% of national employment.

Statistic 79

Foreign exchange from tourism covered 25% of Cuba's import needs in 2023.

Statistic 80

Hotel revenues alone hit $1.8 billion in 2023, with occupancy at 52% annually.

Statistic 81

Tourism multiplier effect estimated at 2.5, meaning each tourism dollar generates $2.5 in economy.

Statistic 82

In 2019, tourism exports were $3 billion, second only to medical services.

Statistic 83

2024 forecast revenue: $4 billion, with focus on all-inclusive resorts.

Statistic 84

Tax revenues from tourism reached 15 billion CUP in 2023, funding infrastructure.

Statistic 85

Per capita tourism revenue: $220 USD per inhabitant in 2023.

Statistic 86

Leakage rate in Cuba tourism is 40%, higher than Caribbean average of 25%.

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Tourism FDI inflows: $500 million in 2023 for new hotels.

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Share of tourism in service exports: 35% in 2023.

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Tourism services exports grew 120% in 2023.

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All-inclusive resorts generated 75% of revenues.

Statistic 91

Private sector tourism revenue: $800 million in 2023.

Statistic 92

Construction investment in tourism: $1 billion 2021-2023.

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Tourism balance of payments contribution: positive $2.3B.

Statistic 94

Cayo Largo revenue: $300 million from 200,000 visitors.

Statistic 95

Occupancy revenue per available room (RevPAR): $85 in 2023.

Statistic 96

International chains operate 60% of rooms (Melia, Accor).

Statistic 97

Tourism debt service: 5% of revenues.

Statistic 98

Eco-tourism revenue growing 25% yearly.

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15,000 tourism workers trained in 2023.

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Tourists spent average $112 per day on accommodation in 2023.

Statistic 101

Food and beverage spending: 28% of total budget, $290 average per trip.

Statistic 102

Transportation costs for tourists: $150 average, mainly taxis and rentals.

Statistic 103

Souvenirs and shopping: $80 per tourist, rum and cigars top buys.

Statistic 104

Excursions and activities: 22% of spend, $225 average.

Statistic 105

Total expenditure per tourist: $1,024 in 2023, up 12% from 2022.

Statistic 106

Canadians spent highest per capita: $1,450 USD average.

Statistic 107

Europeans averaged 10 nights, spending $1,100 total.

Statistic 108

65% of tourists bought health insurance averaging $50.

Statistic 109

Nightlife and entertainment: $45 average spend per trip.

Statistic 110

40% of budget on packages, rest discretionary.

Statistic 111

Average room rate: $180/night in 5-star hotels.

Statistic 112

Dining out: $25-40 per meal average spend.

Statistic 113

Cigars purchase: 70% buy, average $100 spend.

Statistic 114

Rum bottles bought: average 3 per tourist, $50 total.

Statistic 115

Spa and wellness: $120 average per user.

Statistic 116

Cultural events tickets: $20-50, 40% attendance.

Statistic 117

Tips given: 10% of spend, $100 average.

Statistic 118

SIM card purchases: 80% of visitors, $15 avg.

Statistic 119

Art purchases: $60 average for paintings/prints.

Statistic 120

Fishing charters: $300/day, 10,000 trips/year.

1/120

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After weathering a quiet storm, Cuba's tourism pulse surged back to life in 2023, welcoming 2.44 million visitors and proving its timeless appeal is stronger than ever.

Key Takeaways

In 2023, Cuba welcomed 2.44 million international tourists, marking a 180% increase from 2022 but still 20% below pre-pandemic levels of 2019.
Canada remained the top source market for Cuba tourism in 2023, accounting for 620,000 visitors or 25.4% of total arrivals.
From January to October 2023, tourist arrivals reached 2.15 million, with a monthly average of 215,000 visitors.
Tourism revenue in 2023 reached $2.5 billion USD, up from $1.2 billion in 2022.
Tourism contributed 10% to Cuba's GDP in 2019, expected to rise to 8% in 2024.
Average spend per tourist in 2023 was $1,024 USD, a 15% increase from 2022.
Cuba had 77,000 hotel rooms in 2023, with 70% in 4-5 star categories.
Hotel occupancy rate averaged 52.6% in 2023, peaking at 85% in high season.
Number of hotels: 300 state-run and 200 private (casas particulares) in 2023.
Tourists spent average $112 per day on accommodation in 2023.
Food and beverage spending: 28% of total budget, $290 average per trip.
Transportation costs for tourists: $150 average, mainly taxis and rentals.
Havana accounted for 45% of all tourist visits in 2023.
Varadero beach resort hosted 1.2 million visitors in 2023.
Trinidad UNESCO site saw 800,000 day-trippers annually.

Cuba's tourism is recovering strongly but remains below its record highs before the pandemic.

Accommodation and Infrastructure

Cuba had 77,000 hotel rooms in 2023, with 70% in 4-5 star categories.
Hotel occupancy rate averaged 52.6% in 2023, peaking at 85% in high season.
Number of hotels: 300 state-run and 200 private (casas particulares) in 2023.
Havana has 50,000+ accommodation beds, 40% of national total.
New hotel openings in 2023: 10 properties adding 3,000 rooms.
Casas particulares (Airbnb-style) hosted 1 million nights in 2023.
Airport infrastructure: 10 international airports, Jose Marti handling 60% traffic.
High-speed internet in hotels reached 70% coverage by end-2023.
Car rental fleet for tourists: 15,000 vehicles in 2023, up 20%.
Cruise terminals: 3 main ones, but utilization <5% in 2023.
Over 5,000 km of tourism roads upgraded since 2021.
Medical tourism facilities: 50+ spas and health centers.
Private restaurant licenses (paladares): 20,000+ serving tourists.
Average length of stay: 9.2 nights in 2023.
Room supply growth: 5% annually to 2025.
Private accommodations: 30,000+ casas particulares licensed.
Marina berths for yachts: 2,000 nationwide.
Golf courses: 4 operational, 2 under construction.
WiFi hotspots: 1,000+ in tourist areas.
Electric vehicle charging stations: 50 for tourist rentals.
Convention centers: 20 venues, 100,000 delegates/year.
Water parks and theme parks: 5 major ones.
Solar power in resorts: 30% energy coverage.
ATM availability for tourists: 500+ machines.

Accommodation and Infrastructure Interpretation

Cuba's tourism landscape is a high-capacity luxury hotel with a half-empty feeling, powered by a vibrant private sector hustling to fill the void and patch the infrastructure gaps with sun, salsa, and solar panels.

Arrival Statistics

In 2023, Cuba welcomed 2.44 million international tourists, marking a 180% increase from 2022 but still 20% below pre-pandemic levels of 2019.
Canada remained the top source market for Cuba tourism in 2023, accounting for 620,000 visitors or 25.4% of total arrivals.
From January to October 2023, tourist arrivals reached 2.15 million, with a monthly average of 215,000 visitors.
In 2019, peak year, Cuba recorded 4.28 million international tourist arrivals, the highest on record.
European tourists made up 45% of Cuba's arrivals in 2023, led by Russia with 167,000 visitors.
US visitors to Cuba dropped to 144,000 in 2023 from 638,000 in 2019 due to tightened travel restrictions.
Monthly tourist arrivals in December 2023 hit 360,000, the highest since reopening post-COVID.
Cuba's tourism arrivals grew by 68% year-over-year in Q1 2024, reaching 745,000 visitors.
Air arrivals constituted 93% of total tourists in 2023, with 2.27 million via flights.
Cruise ship passengers to Cuba fell to under 10,000 in 2023 from 1 million in 2019 due to US bans.
In 2022, total arrivals were 1.6 million, with recovery accelerating in the latter half.
Projections for 2024 estimate 3.5 million tourists, aiming for 80% of 2019 levels.
Russian tourists increased by 264% in 2023, from 65,000 in 2022 to 237,000.
Cuban tourism arrivals from Argentina surged 150% in 2023 despite economic woes.
In 2023, 55% of arrivals were for leisure, 30% VFR (visiting friends/relatives), 15% other.
Scuba diving certification: 20,000 new per year.
In 2023, Mexico sent 120,000 tourists to Cuba, up 100%.
Germany contributed 85,000 visitors in 2023.
France: 75,000 tourists, focusing on culture.
UK arrivals: 60,000 in 2023.
Italy: 55,000 visitors.
Spain: 50,000, down from 120,000 pre-COVID.
Poland surged to 40,000 tourists.
Airline seats to Cuba: 4 million planned for 2024.
Charter flights from Europe: 70% of air arrivals.
Tourism growth target: 10% annual post-2024.
Pandemic low: 201,000 arrivals in 2021.
2020 arrivals: 1.07 million before March closure.
Medical tourists: 50,000 in 2023 for health services.

Arrival Statistics Interpretation

Cuba's tourism recovery is racing back like a chevy on the Malecon, fueled by a powerful European and Canadian engine, yet it's still sputtering from a punctured American tire and the ghost of a million missing cruise passengers.

Attractions and Activities

Havana accounted for 45% of all tourist visits in 2023.
Varadero beach resort hosted 1.2 million visitors in 2023.
Trinidad UNESCO site saw 800,000 day-trippers annually.
Cayo Coco and Guillermo islands: 500,000 all-inclusive stays.
Viñales Valley national park: 400,000 hikers and cyclists.
Salsa dancing classes taken by 60% of tourists.
Classic car tours in Havana: 300,000 rides per year.
Tobacco farm tours: 250,000 participants.
Diving sites: 500+ coral reefs, 150,000 divers annually.
Rum distilleries visited by 70% of tourists.
Che Guevara mausoleum in Santa Clara: 600,000 visitors.
Old Havana walking tours: 500,000 participants.
Bay of Pigs historical site: 200,000 visitors.
Jardines del Rey archipelago: 700,000 beach days.
Horseback riding in valleys: 150,000 rides.
Birdwatching tours: 50,000 enthusiasts, 300+ species.
Museum visits: 2 million entries to 200+ museums.
Live music venues attended by 85% tourists.
Cigar rolling demos: 400,000 experiences.
Beach volleyball tournaments: 100 events/year.
Yoga retreats: 20,000 participants in eco-resorts.

Attractions and Activities Interpretation

From sun-drenched beaches to rum-sopped tours, Cuba’s tourism paints a vibrant portrait of a nation where visitors eagerly swap their resort bracelets for dancing shoes, vintage car rides, and a hefty dose of revolutionary history.

Revenue and Economic Impact

Tourism revenue in 2023 reached $2.5 billion USD, up from $1.2 billion in 2022.
Tourism contributed 10% to Cuba's GDP in 2019, expected to rise to 8% in 2024.
Average spend per tourist in 2023 was $1,024 USD, a 15% increase from 2022.
In 2023, tourism generated 500,000 direct and indirect jobs, 12% of national employment.
Foreign exchange from tourism covered 25% of Cuba's import needs in 2023.
Hotel revenues alone hit $1.8 billion in 2023, with occupancy at 52% annually.
Tourism multiplier effect estimated at 2.5, meaning each tourism dollar generates $2.5 in economy.
In 2019, tourism exports were $3 billion, second only to medical services.
2024 forecast revenue: $4 billion, with focus on all-inclusive resorts.
Tax revenues from tourism reached 15 billion CUP in 2023, funding infrastructure.
Per capita tourism revenue: $220 USD per inhabitant in 2023.
Leakage rate in Cuba tourism is 40%, higher than Caribbean average of 25%.
Tourism FDI inflows: $500 million in 2023 for new hotels.
Share of tourism in service exports: 35% in 2023.
Tourism services exports grew 120% in 2023.
All-inclusive resorts generated 75% of revenues.
Private sector tourism revenue: $800 million in 2023.
Construction investment in tourism: $1 billion 2021-2023.
Tourism balance of payments contribution: positive $2.3B.
Cayo Largo revenue: $300 million from 200,000 visitors.
Occupancy revenue per available room (RevPAR): $85 in 2023.
International chains operate 60% of rooms (Melia, Accor).
Tourism debt service: 5% of revenues.
Eco-tourism revenue growing 25% yearly.
15,000 tourism workers trained in 2023.

Revenue and Economic Impact Interpretation

Cuba's tourism sector is booming with impressive revenue jumps and job creation, but a higher-than-average leakage rate means the island must still work to ensure more of those vacation dollars trickle down to truly benefit the local economy.

Visitor Expenditure and Spending Patterns

Tourists spent average $112 per day on accommodation in 2023.
Food and beverage spending: 28% of total budget, $290 average per trip.
Transportation costs for tourists: $150 average, mainly taxis and rentals.
Souvenirs and shopping: $80 per tourist, rum and cigars top buys.
Excursions and activities: 22% of spend, $225 average.
Total expenditure per tourist: $1,024 in 2023, up 12% from 2022.
Canadians spent highest per capita: $1,450 USD average.
Europeans averaged 10 nights, spending $1,100 total.
65% of tourists bought health insurance averaging $50.
Nightlife and entertainment: $45 average spend per trip.
40% of budget on packages, rest discretionary.
Average room rate: $180/night in 5-star hotels.
Dining out: $25-40 per meal average spend.
Cigars purchase: 70% buy, average $100 spend.
Rum bottles bought: average 3 per tourist, $50 total.
Spa and wellness: $120 average per user.
Cultural events tickets: $20-50, 40% attendance.
Tips given: 10% of spend, $100 average.
SIM card purchases: 80% of visitors, $15 avg.
Art purchases: $60 average for paintings/prints.
Fishing charters: $300/day, 10,000 trips/year.

Visitor Expenditure and Spending Patterns Interpretation

Cuba’s 2023 tourist is a rum-fueled art collector who tips generously while carefully budgeting for cigars and taxis, proving that a memorable vacation is a meticulously itemized one.

Sources & References

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