Cuba, a destination par excellence in the Caribbean, has reported a steady growth in tourism, due to its natural, historic and patrimonial attractions.

Statistics confirm that growing trend, as more than two million foreign travelers have visited Cuba over the past few years.

In addition to excellent beaches distributed nationwide, Cuba has also inherited the Spanish architectural wealth and the European influence that followed the colonial period.

Precisely, that element turns the Cuban capital, one of the first seven villages founded by the Spanish conquistadors and initially called San Cristóbal de La Habana, and especially its historic heart, into a key element in many tourist programs.

The development of the so-called smokeless industry in Cuba also involves ecotourism, with offers that are true adventures for those who bet on the Caribbean island to spend their vacations.

Cuba's mountain ecosystems are also influenced by the fast-growing tourism sector, so many options include excursions and overnight stays in those areas.

Natural and biosphere reserves, natural landscapes and protected areas make up a wide range of offers that are well preserved and are unique in the region. They offer tourists the chance to watch the Cuban flora and fauna along specialized trails.

Three dozens of specialized dive center operate throughout the country, where vacationers can take initiation courses and dive in coral reefs and caverns, under strict international standards for that activity.

In addition, nearly 6,500 varieties of fish, crustaceans, sponges and mollusks, and an 850-kilometer coral reef in perfect state of preservation turn the island into one of the best-preserved underwater ecosystems in the region.

Fusions of races and customs in a centuries-old process gave way to Cuban culture, which is made up of African, aboriginal, Chinese, French and, of course, Spanish elements, creating a unique and rich combination at the same time.

Havana and several major Cuban cities host the International Book Fair every year, a true festival of contemporary literature, which is held every year at the Morro-Cabaña historic-military park.

Cities with a well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, hotels linked to plastic arts, patrimonial sites and a busy schedule of celebrations and festivities make up Cuba's tourist offer.

Cuba's cultural calendar consists of meetings, workshops, festivals, congresses and specialized courses on a wide range of topics and artistic expressions.