A sharp downturn for Cuba’s once-booming tourism sector
Tourism, once celebrated as the driving force of Cuba’s economy, is now in steep decline. New data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) reveals a 20.5% fall in international arrivals between 2024 and 2025, leaving hotels emptier and businesses struggling.
The official report, Arrival of International Travelers and Visitors, confirms what locals already feel — that Cuba’s tourism, long seen as a key source of foreign revenue, is faltering. The sector, supported by 84,000 hotel rooms and 19 international hotel chains, is facing its worst performance in years.
In 2024, Cuba welcomed 1.72 million tourists. By October 2025, that number had dropped to 1.37 million.
“This confirms how severe the crisis has become,” said Cuban economist Pedro Monreal, who warns of a ripple effect harming small businesses, taxi drivers, and artisans who depend on travelers.
Major declines across key markets
The slump spans nearly every major source market for Cuba:
| Country | Arrivals 2024 | Arrivals 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 695,557 | 559,715 | –19.5% |
| United States | 110,538 | 88,849 | –19.6% |
| Russia | ~146,000 | ~92,000 | –37% |
| Germany | — | — | –43% |
| Spain | — | — | –27% |
Canada — historically Cuba’s biggest market — saw the largest numerical drop, while U.S. arrivals remain constrained by sanctions and complex travel rules. European markets also shrank, hit by rising airfare and global instability.
There are, however, small pockets of growth. Latin American travelers are increasing: Argentina +7%, Colombia +11%, Peru +27%. Yet, these gains are too minor to offset the broader decline.
Power outages cripple tourism and business
Behind the falling visitor numbers lies another serious issue: Cuba’s deepening energy crisis. Rolling blackouts, fuel shortages, and unreliable transportation have plagued the country throughout 2025. Even government officials have admitted the disruptions are undermining productivity and investor confidence.
Hotels are among the hardest hit. Constant power outages force them to rely on diesel generators to maintain air conditioning and lighting — raising costs and discouraging guests.
“When vacations turn into waiting for the lights to come back on, tourists choose other destinations,” says a hotel owner in Varadero.
Energy shortages are also damaging agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics. In an economy already struggling with inflation and scarcity, the impact on tourism — once Cuba’s economic lifeline — is particularly painful.
Bleak forecasts for Cuba’s economy
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) recently downgraded Cuba’s growth outlook:
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GDP is expected to contract by 1.5% in 2025,
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with a meager 0.1% recovery forecast for 2026, assuming power supplies stabilize and external pressures ease.
The government continues promoting new investments and tourism incentives, but analysts warn that without deep structural reforms, recovery will remain elusive.
A paradise under pressure
Cuba still boasts stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and world-class music — but charm alone can’t revive the industry. Without reliable energy, modern infrastructure, and consistent policies, travelers are looking elsewhere.
Tourism was once Cuba’s most vital source of income. Now, it’s a sector in need of a complete overhaul. Until then, for many would-be visitors, the dream of dancing salsa under the Havana sun remains just that — a dream.