Tourism in Cuba has seen a sharp decline during the first quarter of the year, with a 29.7% decrease in visitors compared to the same period in 2024.
The data published this Friday by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) indicates that between January and March, 571,772 international visitors were received, 237,169 fewer than during the first quarter of the previous year.
The crisis is primarily due to the decrease in visitors from Russia, Canada, and the Cuban community abroad, as reflected in the official data.
The volume of international visitors from Russia dropped to almost half of what was recorded in 2024, and from the Cuban community abroad, there were 59,896 travelers, while last year the number was 75,235.
In March, there were 197,505 foreign tourists recorded, up from 178,263 in February, but below the figures from 2023 and 2024.
Although Canada remains the top source of tourists, the number of arrivals decreased by 31.8% compared to 2024, falling from 399,254 to 272,274 tourists.
The countries that contribute the most number of tourists experienced a significant drop: from the United States, only 39,447; from Germany, 17,242; from France, 14,746; from Argentina, 12,275; from Mexico, 11,592; and from Spain, 9,827.
Despite the efforts of the Cuban government to attract more visitors, structural problems in the economy and the service sector negatively impact the arrival of travelers.
The shortage of basic goods, including food options in hotels and the lack of maintenance in tourism infrastructure, leads to constant complaints from tourists visiting the island.
For experts like economist José Luis Perelló, the recovery of the sector is not expected in the short term. Cuba will not reach pre-pandemic tourism levels until 2030, which he describes as a "lost decade" for one of the traditional engines of the island's economy.
The official optimism about turning Havana into a regional hub contrasts with the lack of basic conditions that deter investors and tourists.
Without energy security, without functional modern infrastructure, and without clear incentives for international airlines, the megaprojec announced by CACSA could remain just another empty promise, while airplane seats continue to arrive empty.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Tourism Crisis in Cuba
Why has tourism in Cuba declined in the first quarter of 2025?
The decline in tourism in Cuba during the first quarter of 2025 is primarily due to a decrease in visitors from key markets such as Russia, Canada, and the Cuban community abroad. Furthermore, structural issues in the economy, lack of maintenance in tourism infrastructure, and shortages of basic goods have negatively impacted the experience of tourists on the island.
How is the tourism crisis affecting the Cuban economy?
The tourism crisis is profoundly affecting the Cuban economy, as tourism is one of its main sources of income. The decline in the number of visitors has resulted in a significant reduction in the sector's revenues, further exacerbating the already fragile economic situation of the country.
What problems do tourists face in Cuba currently?
Tourists in Cuba face issues such as the scarcity of basic products, the lack of food options in hotels, and the deterioration of tourist infrastructure. Additionally, the lack of energy security and poor management of basic services negatively impact the tourist experience on the island.
What are the projections for the recovery of tourism in Cuba?
Experts like economist José Luis Perelló estimate that Cuba will not reach pre-pandemic tourism levels until 2030, which is described as a "lost decade" for one of the traditional engines of the island's economy. The lack of a clear and effective strategy from the government complicates the recovery of the sector.
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