Elevate Destinations

Experts in socially responsible luxury travel. We design travel experiences that support conservation and local communities without skimping on comfort.

Information on Travel to Cuba

IMPORTANT ALERT

January 2018: Travel to Cuba is still possible and safe through Elevate Destinations and our sponsoring partners.

The same 12 categories of legal travel under the U.S. trade embargo still apply, including the popular “people-to-people” educational travel category. The new rules contain two major changes: (1) elimination of “individual people-to-people” travel, and (2) introduction of a “prohibited list” of specific hotels, stores and other businesses owned by the Cuban military that U.S. citizens may not patronize.

The change that you have to pay attention to is that the president eliminated the sub-category of “individual people-to-people” travel introduced in 2015 by the Obama administration. However, group people-to-people travel is still allowed.

This means you must be accompanied by a representative that sponsors people-to-people travel and maintain a full-time schedule of educational activities designed to enhance contact with the Cuban people. Qualifying activities can include things like museum tours, dance classes, pottery workshops, concerts, art galleries, and visits to privately-owned restaurants (i.e. paladares).

Please understand that a “group” can be as little as two travelers, as long as you are accompanied by a qualified guide and maintain a record of your people-to-people activities.

Many hotels still qualify, and we often use locally-owned bed-and-breakfasts and/or private apartment and house rentals for groups. Well known, “paladares” (private restaurants in homes) are currently still permitted places to patron.

People-to-people travel to Cuba for U.S. citizens is still safe and legal.

BOOK A TRIP

Let us book you for a customized group tour! These tours will be private for your group (minimum 2 people), and you can choose your own dates.

Cuba marches to the beat of its own drum. With the sounds of jazz and the buzz of a vibrant culture pulsing through the streets, it’s hard not to feel energized when you visit.

VALUE AND INCLUSIONS

We work with experts on the ground to ensure that your trip exceeds expectations and offers great value.

Included in the cost of your trip will be:

  • All lodging and breakfasts. (We can also include a meal program to minimize the amount of cash you have to carry – just ask.)
  • A Cuban, English-speaking guide, private vehicle and driver, and local trip planners to enhance the depth of your experience in Cuba.
  • All touring and activities.
  • The OFAC license, visa, and all necessary documentation to travel to Cuba in accordance with regulations.
Trip cost

Pricing varies as all trips are customized. Estimated cost per person is $3,000-$4,000 depending on accommodation and activities. Inquire for more information and a custom proposal.

Interested in booking a trip to Cuba? Check out our suggested itineraries here or get in touch to customize a trip.