Sports and leisure activities Cuba

Budget & Tips

There are many sports opportunities in Cuba. From deep-sea fishing to scuba diving (coral reefs and wrecks in particular), from horseback riding to mountain hiking, whether on foot or by bicycle (three superb mountain ranges are to be discovered), there is something for everyone. Depending on the activity chosen, prices vary: 5/7 € for the rental of a bike or snorkeling equipment, 30/45 € for a diving trip, 300 € for a big game fishing trip... As for the hikes, it all depends on the length of the trip and the necessary logistics (with or without horse?).

What's very local

The two national sports? Boxing and baseball! The latter (Cuba was ranked ^8th in the world in 2023) attracts a very enthusiastic crowd at matches between local teams. If you get the chance to attend a match, go for it - the atmosphere is incredible.

On another front, dominoes keep Cubans busy. It's usually played in the street, around a mesa a ocho patas: the eight-legged table! A reference to the legs of the four players seated on stools who support the table with their knees. Games of dominoes can be very tense, attracting many onlookers who crowd around the players, impatiently waiting for their turn to play.

Salsa. As one of the world's centers of salsa, Cuba attracts dancers from all over the world every year to learn how to dance a la cubana, perfect their moves or simply have a good time on the dance floor! If you can find ten teachers in the blink of an eye while wandering around the capital or the big cities, the best thing to do is to take lessons at a specialized center. In Havana, we recommend the famous Casa del Son (Empedrado, 411 - between Compostela and Aguacate), which offers salsa packs and intensive percussion courses lasting several hours over one or more days, as well as the Casa de la Música de Galiano (Centro Habana). At the time of our visit, in summer 2024, the La Tropical club was doing well, as was the

Buena Vista, both in the Playa district. Ask around, and you're sure to find the right club for you! Once you've made up your mind, all that's left to do is launch yourself into the Cuban arena: head for our "Havana/going out" chapter!

Your documents please

You may be asked for your diving license if you want to explore Cuba's seabed. But most of the time, the instructors will trust you. After all, it's your life, not theirs!

To be booked

When it comes to diving, deep-sea fishing or mountain hiking, it's best to book your activity at least the day before. To avoid unpleasant surprises, agree on the service, times and prices.

Main events

Runners can take part in the Marabana Marathon, held in Havana every November. Maximum time allowed: 5 hours. The half-marathon can be run in 3 hours. There's also the Mini Marathon for Peace (4,219 m)!