Cuba is a cultural and historical oasis for Black travelers

With the unmistakably African rhythms that undergird Cuban musical styles like rumba, salsa and conga, it should come as no surprise that almost 35% of the Cuban population is of Afro-Cuban or mixed race descent. However, with limited cultural exports, it can be a surprise for visitors who may have wished they had planned ways to engage with this part of Cuban culture before leaving home. For Black travelers, Cuba is a destination rich in tradition and heritage, though not without the realities of anti-Blackness visible in the social structure. The following destinations can help round out an itinerary that seeks to center Black experiences.

Afro-Cuban Museum

With three floors of artifacts, murals and dioramas, this small off-the-beaten-path museum is treasure trove of cultural heritage for those who are descendants of chattel slavery. Gifts that African world leaders bequeathed to Fidel Castro are nestled among remnants from Cuba’s slave past. Guards and attendants bring the visit to life, often playing roles from the various myths and legends depicted and engaging in deep conversations with visitors. Musical programming attracts huge crowds and play some of the best beats on the island.

Ballet Folklórico

Match West African beats with concomitant steps at Ballet Folklórico Cutumba. This highly trained, athletic, dynamic and African-inspired dance troupe rehearses Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and they welcome the public to watch. They also teach accessible, beginner-friendly classes in a variety of styles for those wishing to learn the movements that match the iconic music.

Regla Soul

Cuban-born hip-hop artist Alexey and his Black American wife, filmmaker Amberly Alene, have opened a wellness center in an area of Havana called Regla that caters to Black people’s physical, mental and emotional needs. They offer reiki sessions, vegan cooking tutorials and other holistic wellness-based practices like meditation to make these methods more accessible to the Afro-Cuban community.

This story was originally published August 10, 2022 at 2:00 AM.