Cuba's tourism sector, characterized by a rich cultural, natural and historic wealth, offers a wide range of options to thousands of foreign vacationers who visit the country every year.

From east to west, Cuba offers unique options for leisure and recreation.

In the east, Santiago de Cuba, the second major city in the island nation, is considered the capital of the Caribbean, due to its privileged location and centuries-old history.

On the outskirts of the city is Gran Piedra (Large Rock) – the largest rock on earth according to the Guinness Book of Records. The majestic and imposing rock weighs 63,000 tons and is 1,220 meters above sea level

The warm waters surrounding the island give tourist the chance to enjoy nautical activities and to swim all year around.

The Caribbean Island also offers more than 70,000 square kilometers of insular platform and some 5,000 kilometers of coasts, which are bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, which are excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cuba's natural assets can be found in more than 4,000 keys and islets, where vacationers can enjoy a wide range of options, including bird watching.

Cuban fauna is very diverse and consists of more than 350 species birds that live on islets and keys throughout the country, many of which are endemic.

Cuba is inhabited by some 16,500 animal species, including some zoological groups whose endemism is over 90 percent. The autochthonous flora consists of more than 6,300 varieties.

Natural and biosphere reserves, natural landscapes and protected areas create a broad network of offers characterized by excellent preservation and unique features.

Cuba also offers a rich culture inherited from the Spanish colonial period, including buildings and the remains of coffee farms and sugar mills that attract foreign travelers.

In addition, several international events are held in Cuba every year, including cultural, sports, commercial and academic meetings.

Cities characterized by well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, hotels that promote plastic arts, humankind's heritage sites, and celebrations and festivities all year around make up Cuba's tourist offers.

However, many visitors prefer to take refuge in gastronomic establishments where they can enjoy Cuban and international dishes, as well as cocktails made with Cuban rum.