Cuba – Havana Jazz Festival

Experience Cuba's vibrant music and arts scene like never before with private rooftop jazz performances, an all-access pass, and more during the famous Havana Jazz Festival. January 13-18, 2021

Our Purpose

Experience Havana like never before at the world famous Havana jazz festival. In addition to private rooftop jazz performances and an all-access pass to the festival, you will get to experience the action firsthand with Discover Corps’ Founder, Andrew Motiwalla, at some of his favorite local spots (scroll down to learn more!).

To achieve our purpose in supporting the Cuban people, we’ll connect with a local music and arts center for children, learn about the island’s evolving culture, both in the alleyways of Havana and further afield in the stunning countryside of Viñales Valley.

The 2020 lineup has yet to be announced, but past performers have included popular artists such as Chucho Valdés, Daymé, Joe Lovano, Snarky Puppy, Charlie Haden, Roy Hargrove, and Telmary. Check back with us for updates!

What You'll Do

You will have an all-access pass and guaranteed seating while attending the jazz festival, plus Discover Corps guests will be treated to a private rooftop jazz performance with cocktails before attending the opening ceremony. The jazz festival is held at night where you are free to roam about at your leisure, but you will find performers in every corner of the city this week. Walk through the streets of Havana and experience the sounds of jazz and salsa echo out of cafes and artwork adorns the century old buildings.

During the day, explore Hemingway’s former home, Finca Vigía, a Havana neighborhood Fusterlandia, and a visit Havana’s famous Museum of Fine Arts. You will also experience the talent of the Habana Compas dance troupe, meet the children of the music center Muraleando, and explore Old Havana – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What You'll See

Your journey begins in Havana, the capital city of fascinating history and charming architecture. Havana will be your hub for all things jazz, as well your home for duration of your stay. Explore Fusterlandia, a neighborhood overtaken by the colorful art of José Fuster, one of the most celebrated artists in Cuba said to capture the true resilience and spirit of the Cuban people. You will also find yourself at Finca Vigia, or author Ernest Hemingway’s former home, before spending time at the local music and arts center Muraleando.

Beyond Havana and its surrounding neighborhoods, spend one day in the gorgeous Viñales Valley. Perhaps Cuba’s most picturesque spot, explore tobacco farms and meet with farmers to learn about their life and work.

Where You'll Stay

For this customized jazz festival departure, you will be able to choose between two different lodging options. Opt for the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, which is considered a symbol of history, culture, and Cuban identity with 87 years of history and prestige. The Hotel Nacional de Cuba was declared a National Monument, and with its privileged location in the middle of Vedado, the center of Havana, it stands on a hill just a few meters from the sea, and offers a great view of the Havana Harbor; the seawall and the city. The Hotel stands out due to its refined elegance and its ancient splendor, which since 1930 has attracted a large number of personalities from the arts, science and politcs, such as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, artists Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Johnny Weismuller, Maria Félix, Jorge Negrete, and scientist Alexander Flemming.

If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in Cuba culture, opt to stay in casas particulares, or family owned bed & breakfasts. Families invest in making sure their houses are up to international quality standards, and they greet you with Cuban hospitality – but also give you the privacy and comfort you desire. While houses vary in style from eclectic to classical, they all provide a comfortable glimpse into Cuban life. Our portfolio of casas particulares are hand selected with prime locations that will put you right in heart of the action and have private bathrooms, air conditioning & a fresh breakfast each morning.

Optional Post-Trip Extension

Trinidad & Cienfuegos (3 days/ 2 nights)

For a different side of Cuba, opt for a post-trip extension to the colorful Trinidad and Cienfuegos. Visit the historic site of the Bay of Pigs invasion, experience a private guitar ensemble, and explore both towns by night at your leisure.

Keep that Cuban energy and expect live music and dancing each night (including a private salsa class!) on this extension. Request an itinerary or visit here for more information on this 3 day/2 night extension!

Want to learn more?

Traveler's Journal

Andrew was a pioneer in opening up travel to Cuba. He began leading groups there in 1999 and over the years has visited the island over a dozen times and has developed a network of Cuban friends and contacts. Andrew enjoys taking visitors to fascinating off-the-beaten path spots to enjoy great food, music, and art. While you will still have a Cuban guide with you along the way, Andrew has infused his own experiences into this itinerary for a unique and unforgettable experience!

Your Host: Andrew Motiwalla

Discover Corps Founder

Dates & Fees

Havana Jazz Festival

Program Fee:

Option 1 Hotel Experience: $4,495/person

Option 2 Casa Experience: $3,495/person

* Double Occupancy Price. Single room supplement: $395 for the Hotel Nacional, $195 for the casa experience

All-access passes to the jazz festival ($400 value), including full access to all activities, guaranteed seating, opening dinner and concert, a bag with souvenirs
5 nights lodging in either the historic Hotel Nacional or casas particulares
12 meals throughout the trip, including drinks
Pure bottled water while touring
Discover Corps’ Founder, Andrew Motiwalla, has spent years in Cuba and will serve as your host
Bilingual Cuban guide
Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
$50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
Trip literature and turnkey customer support from preparing for your trip to arrival back home
Legal documentation of your support for the Cuban people program

Does NOT include

International airfare
Cuban visa
Three dinners
Laundry service, room service, or phone calls

All-access passes to the jazz festival, including full access to all activities, guaranteed seating, opening dinner and concert, a bag with souvenirs
5 nights lodging in either the historic Hotel Nacional or casas particulares
12 meals throughout the trip, including drinks
Pure bottled water while touring
Discover Corps’ Founder, Andrew Motiwalla, has spent years in Cuba and will serve as your bilingual guide
Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
$50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
Trip literature and turnkey customer support from preparing for your trip to arrival back home
Legal documentation of your support for the Cuban people program
Legal documentation of your support for the Cuban people program

Departure Dates

January 13-18, 2021

Have questions about the logistics and legalities of traveling to Cuba? Contact us at (619) 758-3030.

Festival Lineup

Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More

Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.

Customized Private Trips

Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.

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