BAILA EN CUBA FESTIVAL TRIP. EACH NOVEMBER

Disclaimer: This trip is fully compliant with U.S. travel regulations under the Support for the Cuban People category. Cubanisms works only with privately owned Cuban businesses and independent professionals — never with government-run entities.

Join us for an electrifying 12-day / 11-night dance journey perfectly timed to experience Cuba’s most iconic dance celebration—the Baila en Cuba Festival in Havana this November!

This unique edition places you at the center of the action—dancing alongside local maestros, absorbing Cuba’s authentic rhythms, and being part of one of the world’s most vibrant celebrations of music, movement, and cultural heritage.

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?

This trip is perfect for dancers, music lovers, cultural explorers, and open-hearted adventurers. No partner is required. All levels are welcome—from absolute beginners to advanced dancers.

Whether you’re a seasoned salsero or an enthusiastic beginner, this is your chance to dance where salsa was born, during the most festive time of the year.

WHY IS THIS TRIP SO SPECIAL?

• Festival Access Included

Full Pass to "Baila en Cuba Festival". Including Cuban rhythm classes (Son, Rumba, Mambo, Chachachá, and others), taught by prestigious Cuban teachers and dancers. Specialized workshops: folkloric dances (Yoruba, Guaguancó, Columbia), body movement classes for men and women separately, and choreography. Together, these workshops will help you improve and refine your salsa dancing while giving you a deeper appreciation of Cuba’s rich musical and cultural heritage.

• Live Concerts & Dance Shows
Nightly performances from Cuba’s top timba and salsa bands at legendary venues like Salón Rosado “Benny Moré”, plus exclusive themed parties and DJ sets.

• Optional Competition Participation
Represent your country or dance school in the partner dance (couples) or rueda de casino categories. Coaching support available for interested participants.

• Beyond the Festival
After Havana’s high energy, we head to Trinidad, Cuba’s colonial treasure, for more dancing, beach time, and relaxed cultural exploration.

FESTIVAL COMPETITION (Optional)

Participants can compete in two main categories:

• Partner Dance (dancing couples): Judged on technique and connection.

• Rueda de Casino: Teams of up to 5 couples; judged on technique and choreography.

AWARDS AND PRIZES

• "Bailar en casa del trompo" Trophy
Prestigious recognition awarded to the top winners in each category.

• Full Pass + Lodging (with breakfast) for the next Festival
Awarded to the best partner couple.

• Full Pass to Baila en Cuba for next edition
Awarded to the best rueda de casino team.

All prizes are granted by a jury of expert Cuban dance professionals.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

Salsa & Cultural Adventure in Cuba

Day 1 - Arrival in Havana · Check-in · Meet local coordinator · Rest & recharge
Day 2 - Meet & greet · Receive festival credentials · Cuban welcome party
Day 3 - Baila en Cuba Festival
- Morning: Dance workshops (Cuban rhythms & folklore)
- Afternoon: Free time or optional excursions · Competition preparation for participants
- Evening: Live concerts · Themed parties · Competition showcases
Day 4 - Travel to Trinidad · Explore the town
Day 5 - Tour Valle de los Ingenios · Optional beach trip · Nightlife in Trinidad
Day 6 - Excursion to Topes de Collantes · Salsa night in Trinidad
Day 7 - Return to Havana · Farewell “Fiesta Cubana”
Day 8 - Departure · Adiós, La Habana

A detailed daily itinerary—including all scheduled cultural and educational activities—will be shared with participants closer to the departure date. This itinerary is designed to comply with U.S. travel regulations for those visiting Cuba under the “Support for the Cuban People” category.

This trip is designed for SOLO TRAVELERS who value independence and flexibility.

It’s a more affordable way to experience Cuba—without sacrificing depth, connection, or comfort.

You won’t be locked into a strict itinerary—but the main essentials are taken care of. You’ll have an on-site coordinator, plus a curated guide full of our top recommendations for restaurants, spots to visit, and local tips—so you can explore freely, with just the right level of support.

✅ What's Included
• Full "Baila en Cuba Festival Pass" (workshops + concerts credential)
• 11 nights’ accommodation in charming casas particulares (Havana + Trinidad)
• Daily breakfast at your lodging
• All scheduled guided tours with transport if needed
• Trip coordinator and local guides throughout
• Google Maps list with key locations (downloadable & offline-compatible)
• Daily itinerary of activities that fully comply with U.S. regulations under the "Support for the Cuban people" category, ensuring your visit directly supports Cubans and their private businesses.
❌ What’s Not Included
• Flights to/from Cuba - From $150 to $550, depending on your departure city
• Cuban Tourist Visa - ~$85 – Official link will be shared after booking
• Mandatory Customs Form - Must be completed 48 hours before arrival – Link provided closer to departure
• Travel Insurance - Required – Often included in your airfare by the airline
• Airport Transfers - $30–$40 – Can be arranged and shared between attendees
• Meals - Budget $10–$20 per meal – Many arranged or suggested with local families and private restaurants
• Local Transportation (to lessons & concerts) - ~$10–$20 per ride – Can be shared between attendees; cheaper shared taxis also available
• Entry Fees - To natural sites like Topes de Collantes and Valle de los Ingenios (~$20 total)
• Contributions to Cuban Family Parties - $10–$20 or bring drinks/snacks to share
• Optional SIM Card / Internet Package - ~$20-$30

Old Havana, Havana City, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Trinidad & Valle de los Ingenios, UNESCO World Heritage Sites

TRAVELING FROM THE USA?

Yes—it’s legal to travel to Cuba from the United States under one of the approved categories of travel. Our itinerary complies with the “Support for the Cuban People” category, ensuring you have a meaningful, culturally immersive, and regulation-friendly experience.

Have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to help! cubanisms2016@gmail.com
Check out our detailed guide for Americans traveling to Cuba HERE

INTERESTED IN JOINING US?

Get in touch for more details cubanisms2016@gmail.com

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