The Caribbean area, famous for its favorable conditions for tourism, has in the Cuban archipelago one of the most important tourist destinations, thanks to an offer which combines nature, culture and traditions.

The traditional sun and beach options, which are preferred by tourists, are now complemented by offers of cultural, ecologic and health tourism.

Dozens of kilometers of excellent beaches, with white sands and crystal-clear waters, are combined with an exuberant and perfectly preserved nature which is ideal for ecologic leisure options.

In addition, nautical activities, including diving, can be enjoyed along 70,000 kilometers of the island shelf, with nearly 5,000 kilometers of coasts bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Likewise, close to 6,500 varieties of fish, crustacean, sponges and mollusks can be found in the Cuban seas, accompanied by up to 850 kilometers of coral reefs which provide one of the best preserved submarine ecosystems in the region.

Also, hundreds of sunken ships from colony times to the present, as a consequence of the role played by Cuba in the route of fleets sailing from the Caribbean to Europe, can be seen.

Three dozen specialized diving centers operate in the territory, including facilities for basic diving courses and diving in coral reefs and caverns, under the international standards for such activity.

Culture and history go hand in hand with traditions inherited from colony times, while there are unique places to enjoy nautical activities, hiking programs and ecotourism options.

The abovementioned natural values are complemented by a rich fauna including about 16,500 registered species, in a context where certain zoological groups show and endemism above 90 percent, complemented by an indigenous flora including more than 6,300 varieties of plants.

Natural reserves, biosphere reserves, natural landscapes and protected areas make up a large network of options characterized by the richness, excellent preservation and unique features which distinguish the area.

On the other hand, the Cuban tourist sector has the necessary infrastructure to turn the vacation periods into an effective mechanism to improve visitors’ health.

The abovementioned infrastructure is supported by thousands of professionals, modern equipment and dozens of specialized centers, including programs of natural and traditional medicine.

The medicinal characteristics of the water and mud in several areas of the country are used for health benefits and can play a fundamental role in treating different ailments.

In addition, races and customs have melted through the centuries, creating a unique culture which shows African, indigenous, Chinese, French and, of course, Spanish features.