Cuban hotel chains showcase renovations at FITCuba2026
Hotel chains agreed that Cuban tourism is committed to product renewal, sustainability, and greater diversification of experiences, with the goal of consolidating the sector’s recovery and strengthening Cuba’s image as an authentic Caribbean destination
Posted by Daily Pérez Guillén, 10/05/2026
Cuba’s leading hotel chains presented a comprehensive update to their services, products, and promotional strategies at FITCuba 2026, focused on diversifying the country’s tourism offerings and enhancing the experience for international visitors.
During the second virtual day of the fair, the Gran Caribe, Islazul, and Cubanacan hotel groups, along with the Gaviota Tourism Group, emphasized that Cuba’s main value as a destination transcends hotel infrastructure and centers on the authentic experiences enjoyed by visitors.
Gran Caribe opted to present an exciting vision of Cuban tourism, highlighting iconic properties such as the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, the Hotel Plaza, and the Capri Victoria, the latter conceived as a complex that combines business, relaxation, and entertainment in the heart of Havana’s Vedado district. The chain emphasized that beyond hotel numbers and categories, Cuba is “appreciated” through its landscapes, culture and human interaction.
The company also promoted nature and beach destinations such as Villa Los Pinos and Escaleras de Jaruco, as well as properties on Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo, focused on weddings, events and experiences linked to the sea and adventure. Gran Caribe also reiterated the importance of its digital platforms for reservations and international promotion.
Meanwhile, Islazul celebrated its 32nd anniversary by showcasing a network of 119 hotels and more than 9,300 rooms distributed throughout Cuba. The chain reinforced its diverse tourism strategy, with proposals for city, nature and sun and beach, in addition to the growing “Beach Houses” product, aimed at travelers seeking greater privacy and connection with the environment.
Among the highlights presented were the reopening of the Hotel Bella Habana and the renovation of Villa Punta Blanca. Islazul also emphasized heritage and urban properties such as the Hotel Caribbean and Hotel Colina, as well as nature-based options in the Sierra Maestra and Gran Piedra mountains in eastern Cuba.
For the Cubanacan Group, Vice President Yaima Suárez focused the presentation on the destination’s authenticity and the connection between hotels and the cultural environment. With 118 properties and more than 17,000 rooms, the chain championed a strategy based on beach tourism, nature, heritage, events, and wellness.
Among the most significant announcements was the energy matrix transformation project on the Zapata Peninsula, focused on sustainability and energy efficiency. Cubanacan also promoted circular economy and food sovereignty initiatives at resorts such as Las Terrazas and Soroa. The chain also presented new commercial amenities and promotions aimed at senior citizens, families, and couples, including discounts for those over 65, group benefits, wedding and honeymoon packages, and flexible check-in and check-out times.
One of the most noteworthy moments was the announcement of the festival dedicated to the late singer-songwriter Polo Montañez in the Las Terrazas community, scheduled for June and conceived as a space for integrating culture, nature and sustainable tourism.
Meanwhile, the Gaviota Tourism Group presented new offerings for the luxury and family tourism segments. The corporation highlighted the strengthening of its products in Varadero, Cayo Santa María and Jardines del Rey, where it operates hotels and nautical services in high demand.
Among the main new features are the One Collection brand hotels and new premium options in Cayo Santa María. Gaviota also promoted the Splash water park, the largest in Cuba, and the “Kids” concept, initially implemented at the Hotel Playa Cayo Santa María. The chain also strengthened its luxury offerings with the Hotel Playa Luxury Cayo Las Brujas and the Hotel Playa Luxury Cayo Guillermo, designed for travelers seeking exclusive services, spa treatments, butler service, and personalized beachfront experiences.
During FITCuba 2026, hotel chains agreed that Cuban tourism is committed to product renewal, sustainability, and greater diversification of experiences, with the aim of consolidating the sector’s recovery and strengthening Cuba’s image as an authentic Caribbean destination.
