Cuba's tourism industry has experienced a significant downturn in the first quarter of 2025, with visitor numbers plummeting by 29.7% compared to the same timeframe in 2024. According to data released by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) this Friday, the island welcomed 571,772 international tourists between January and March—237,169 fewer than in the first quarter of the previous year.
The decline is primarily attributed to a decrease in visitors from Russia, Canada, and the Cuban diaspora abroad, as revealed by official statistics. Notably, the number of tourists from Russia dropped to almost half of what it was in 2024, and the Cuban community overseas saw a decline from 75,235 to 59,896 visitors.
In March, 197,505 foreign tourists were recorded, following 178,263 in February, both figures falling short of the numbers seen in 2023 and 2024. Although Canada remains the top source of tourists to Cuba, the number of arrivals decreased by 31.8%, from 399,254 in 2024 to 272,274 this year. Other major countries sending tourists also saw significant drops: from the United States, only 39,447; Germany, 17,242; France, 14,746; Argentina, 12,275; Mexico, 11,592; and Spain, 9,827.
Despite the Cuban government's attempts to boost tourism, underlying economic and service sector issues continue to deter visitors. The scarcity of essential goods, including food options in hotels, and poor maintenance of tourist infrastructure lead to frequent complaints from those visiting the island.
Experts like economist José Luis Perelló predict that a rebound in the tourism sector is not on the horizon anytime soon. He suggests that Cuba might not reach pre-pandemic levels of tourism until 2030, deeming this period a "lost decade" for one of the island's traditional economic engines.
The official optimism about transforming Havana into a regional hub clashes with the absence of necessary basic conditions, which discourages investors and tourists alike. Without energy security, functional modern infrastructure, and clear incentives for international airlines, the megaproject announced by CACSA risks becoming another unfulfilled promise, while plane seats continue to arrive empty.
Understanding Cuba's Tourism Challenges in 2025
Why has there been a decrease in tourists visiting Cuba in early 2025?
The decrease in tourists visiting Cuba can be largely attributed to a decline in visitors from Russia, Canada, and the Cuban diaspora. Additionally, structural economic issues and inadequate service sector conditions have deterred potential tourists.
What are some of the major challenges facing Cuba's tourism industry?
Cuba's tourism industry faces significant challenges, including the scarcity of basic goods, poor infrastructure maintenance, and a lack of incentives for international airlines. These issues contribute to a negative visitor experience and deter tourism growth.
When is Cuba expected to recover its pre-pandemic tourism levels?
Experts, like economist José Luis Perelló, suggest that Cuba may not recover its pre-pandemic tourism levels until 2030, which is seen as a "lost decade" for the industry.