Cuba's tourism sector, which has grown steadily over the past few years, benefits from the existence of excellent beaches, rich history and traditions and one-of-a-kind natural attractions.

In addition to traditional tourist options, Cuba promotes the natural environment, which is characterized by beautiful landscapes and peculiar flora and fauna that are key complements to the sector's development.

In that regard, authorities are developing agri-tourism, in which holidaymakers have the opportunity to relate to the rural environment and nature.

Rural tourism has been developed nationwide, especially in Pinar del Río, Sancti Spíritus, Las Tunas and Matanzas.

Generally, nature enthusiasts are attracted to the environment, protected species in their natural habitats and the information available about them.

In addition, as a complement, they participate in equestrian tourism, trekking, mountaineering, fishing, hunting, ecotourism and nautical sports, among other options.

In central Cuba is the community of Jibacoa, a typical mountainous town surrounded by a valley and renowned for its excellent coffee and tobacco, which have are among the best-paid varieties internationally.

The objective of agri-tourism is that holidaymakers live in the communities in direct contact with local residents to learn about their customs and the process to make coffee, which is a kind of ritual, as well as the region's social achievements.

Moreover, vacationers can learn about the experiences of the residences in Cuban rural environments, like milking a cow, pick up eggs or ride a horse, among others.

Activities also include planting shady trees like royal palms or cedars, so that tourists, if they wish, can take a nap in a hammock.

In Pinar del Rio is the Tobacco Route, which consists of visits to tobacco crops and houses, meetings with producers and visits to cigar factories.

Farms in Pinar del Rio supply nearly all the leaves used as cigar wraps, which are processed for more than one year and undergo nearly 190 operations before being smoked by a cigar aficionado.

That way, the well-earned fame of Cuban cigars has resulted in the growing presence of clients interested in smoking good Havana cigars, which offer a perfect combination of excellent lands and climate with the centennial experience of tobacco growers.

Natural and biosphere reserves, natural landscapes, national parks and protected areas provide a wide range of options marked by their wealth, excellent preservation and unique characteristics that make Cuba stand out in the region.