Havana Jazz Festival 2027

All Access Havana Jazz Fest Music and Cultural Tour by Musician Tour Leaders
January 25th-February 1st, 2027

Havana-jazz-fest-Tour-banner-havana-music-tours 2

TOUR OVERVIEW

Experience Cuba’s Premier Jazz Celebration in Style

Join us for this unique journey through the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival, an intimate, small-group tour crafted by accomplished musicians and musicologists from both Cuba and the United States. This is more than a tour; it’s a rare opportunity to explore the world-renowned festival that has been graced by legends such as Chucho Valdés, Telmary, Joe Lovano, and Snarky Puppy. Whether you’re a musician, an avid jazz enthusiast, or someone who loves great music, this experience is designed for you.

What Makes the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival So Special?

The Jazz Plaza Festival is Cuba’s most prominent music event, showcasing a stunning array of talent from Cuba and across the globe. Past lineups have included groundbreaking performances from Aaron Goldberg, Dayramir Gonzalez, Emmet Cohen, Brenda Navarrete, Alain Pérez, Interactivo, Alejandro Delgado, Oliver Valdés, Los Van Van, Hector Quintana, Muñequitos de Matanzas, Pedrito Martinez, Cimafunk, Ruy López-Nussa, Dave Weckl, Horacio Hernández (El Negro), Habana de Primera, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, alongside Afro-Cuban luminaries like the Muñequitos de Matanzas, Rumbatá, and Pedrito Martinez. Every year, this festival highlights the dynamic evolution of Cuban music while paying tribute to its rich roots and global connections.

Why Choose Our Havana Jazz Festival Tour?

Unlike conventional tours, ours is designed and led by professional musicians who know Cuban music inside and out. You’ll gain a unique perspective on this unique island’s music, culture, and history. With All Access passes, you’ll experience Cuba’s most iconic music venues included in the Jazz Fest program. Alongside established stars, you’ll also have the chance to discover Cuba’s rising talent, new voices shaping the future of Latin American music.

  • A Week of Music and Culture

Each day presents a new musical adventure, with concerts, private performances, and workshops that delve into a range of Cuban genres. Beyond the music, we’ll connect you with the cultural and historical heart of Cuba. Expert bilingual tour leaders will introduce you to Havana’s art galleries, history museums, craft markets, and acclaimed paladares—giving you an authentic taste of Cuban life.

  • Accommodations and Hospitality

Retreat to the comfort of a Premium Casa Particular, a high-end, private homestay that offers an authentic and intimate Cuban experience. These hand-selected accommodations are fully U.S. OFAC-compliant and provide a unique window into local life without sacrificing luxury. You’ll stay alongside your fellow travelers, fostering a close-knit and communal atmosphere throughout the week. Each morning begins with a curated breakfast of fresh eggs, unique breads, tropical fruits, and premium coffee—the perfect fuel for your musical adventures.

  • Immersive, Unforgettable Experiences

This is more than just a music tour—it’s a journey into the soul of Cuban culture. In addition to live performances, you’ll participate in dance lessons, visit museums, and enjoy free time to explore Havana at your own pace. Every moment is carefully curated to offer a deeper connection to the music, history, and artistry that define this beautiful island.

Why Our Guests Keep Coming Back

Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned this itinerary with valuable feedback from past travelers. Our guests consistently praise the personalized attention and the insider access that only professional musicians can provide. But don’t just take our word for it—visit our TripAdvisor page to read firsthand reviews from travelers who have experienced this remarkable journey.

Reserve your place on our Havana Jazz Festival Tour 2027 and experience Jazz Plaza in Cuba through direct access to the musicians and culture that define it.

Group Sizes

Small Group — Maximum 10 Guests per Tour Group

Tour Duration

8 Days / 7 Nights

Location

Havana

Want to see more of Cuba? We offer optional tours during your free day and after the festival:

  • Optional Day Tour to Viñales
  • Optional Jewish Cuba Day Tour
  • Optional Afro-Cuban Religion Day Tour
  • Optional Extra Music/Dance Lesson
  • Optional Add-On Tours to Matanzas, Trinidad/Cienfuegos, and Viñales after our Havana Jazz Fest Tour.

Legal Travel to Cuba

This specialized program is operated strictly under the authorized Group People-to-People Educational Exchange general license (31 CFR § 515.565(b)). All scheduled programming is organized by Havana Music Tours and led directly by a designated company representative to facilitate meaningful cultural dialogue and educational exchange.

Ticket Ticket

Dates & Prices

Pricing and Payments:

Community commitment: Havana Music Tours contributes 5% of tour revenue to The CreatiVrole Project to support community and cultural initiatives in Cuba. This contribution is made by Havana Music Tours and does not require a separate traveler donation.

Prices are per person and vary depending on whether you select a Group Casa, Private Casa, or a fully private residential villa. Havana Music Tours strictly operates within the independent private sector. All traveler accommodations are exclusively located inside vetted, authorized, family-owned Cuban Casas Particulares, independent neighborhood guest homes, and private villas. All options include a private room and a private bathroom.

To reserve your spot on this tour, we require a $500 USD non-refundable deposit (50% of the total price for private tours). Final payments are due around 90 days before tour departure. We have several payment plan options if needed. Just contact us and let us know.

The prices on our website are all in US Dollars and based on an ACH/Wire bank transfer from our 3rd party merchant or directly from your own bank. If you wish to use a credit or debit card, a 3.5% fee will be added. We do not accept cash or checks.

We have plenty of individuals, couples, groups, and families who travel with us, and everyone has a blast. If you have any special requests, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure you have the perfect space and feel comfortable during your stay.

If our dates do not work for you, remember that we also offer personalized tours with custom dates and group sizes. More info about our private tour options here.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

  • Day 1

    Arrival and Welcome

    Arrival in Havana: Your tour leaders will personally greet you at the airport upon your arrival. 

    Transfer to Accommodations: We’ll travel together on a group transportation to your Premium Casa Particular. During the ride, our musician-guides will introduce themselves and provide a short orientation so you know what to expect in the coming days.

    Light Lunch nearby: After checking in, enjoy a light, welcoming lunch nearby or at your Casa Particular. It’s a relaxed opportunity to settle in and start to feel at home.

    Welcoming Havana Music Tours Ritual: Kick off the experience with a special ritual hosted by our team, designed to give you a warm and memorable start. (The details will remain a surprise!)

    Welcoming Dinner: In the evening, join us at a fine local private restaurant (Paladar) for a welcoming dinner.

    Opening Private Party: Following the meal, we’ll have a private group party featuring an exclusive performance by a live Latin jazz band. It’s the perfect introduction to Havana’s rich musical culture and a chance to mingle with fellow travelers.

    *From the moment you arrive, our tour leaders and musician-guides are with you every step of the way. Whether you need assistance settling in, have questions about the schedule, or want recommendations on what to explore, we’re here to help.

    MEALS: Lunch & Dinner

  • Exploring Havana and Meeting the Musicians

    Breakfast: Start your day with a group breakfast at your accommodations. There will be plenty of options to choose from, including eggs, meats, bread, freshly squeezed juices, and coffee.

    Havana Driving Tour: Spend the morning exploring Havana’s historic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods by bus. Our knowledgeable guides, who are also accomplished musicians, will share their unique insights into the city’s culture, history, and daily life.

    Group Lunch: Midday, enjoy a delicious Cuban meal as a group. The setting will be warm and welcoming, allowing you to get better acquainted with your fellow travelers while sampling traditional Cuban flavors.

    Visit a Music Conservatory: In the afternoon, visit a local music conservatory to meet young Cuban musicians, hear their stories, and learn about the country’s renowned music education system. You’ll also enjoy a private performance and have the chance to donate musical gear, making a meaningful connection to the Cuban music community.

    Group Dinner: After returning to your accommodations and freshening up, gather for a group dinner at another fine Paladar in Havana. With our guides alongside you, this second group meal offers a comforting, guided experience so you can continue to adjust to your new surroundings.

    Evening Jazz Festival Concerts: After dinner, experience the energy and talent of the Jazz Plaza Festival. Our team will accompany you to ensure a smooth, stress-free evening.

    Throughout the day, our tour leaders and musician-guides are available to provide support, share their expertise, and handle any needs you may have.

    MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

    Day 2

  • Day 3

    Live Studio Experience and Havana’s Creative Scene

    Breakfast: Start the day with a filling group breakfast at your accommodations.

    Studio Session: Join a live music studio experience featuring Cuban and Latin jazz musicians. This isn’t your typical concert—it’s a more intimate, high-fidelity performance where everyone listens with a fully immersive sound. During the session, you’ll have the chance to interact with the musicians, ask questions about their practice and creative process, and enjoy a private mini-concert in a unique setting. A light lunch will be provided in the studio.

    Dinner on Your Own: Take this evening as an opportunity to venture out and find a local restaurant or café that speaks to your tastes. If you need suggestions or reservations, our team will be happy to assist.

    Evening Jazz Festival Events: After dinner, meet back with the group to attend more Jazz Plaza concerts. You’ll experience another evening of incredible live performances by both Cuban and international artists.

    *Our team is here to support you every step of the way—from guiding the studio session to helping with your evening plans—ensuring that every detail of your day is smooth and enjoyable.

    MEALS: Breakfast & Lunch

  • Havana Exploration

    Breakfast: Start your morning with a group breakfast at your accommodations.

    Guided Walking Tour of Old Havana: Take a guided walk through Old Havana’s picturesque streets and plazas. Discover the city’s rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture as our knowledgeable guides share stories and insights along the way.

    Lunch included

    Dinner & Music on Your Own: Pick a restaurant that catches your eye, or let us help you choose a hidden gem for a memorable meal. Also, feel free to attend the festival concert of your preference; our team will have great recommendations from the official program. You can also explore other music venues and concerts outside the festival program. 

    *Although your evening’s schedule is flexible, our team is always available to help you plan your activities, arrange transportation, or answer any questions.

    MEALS: Breakfast & Lunch

    Day 4

  • Day 5

    Cuban Music, Dance, and More

    Breakfast: Begin the day with breakfast together at your accommodations.

    Cuban Music History & Vinyl Session with DJ Jigüe: In the morning, delve into the rich history of Cuban music with guidance from DJ Jigüe, a renowned local expert. Through vinyl records and engaging storytelling, you’ll learn how different genres and rhythms developed and discover the cultural influences that have shaped Cuba’s musical identity. (See what one of our recent clients thought of this experience.)

    Dance or Music Lessons: After the session, get hands-on with a dance or music workshop. Learn basic steps to a popular Cuban dance or try your hand at a traditional instrument. It’s a relaxed and interactive way to connect with the music on a personal level.

    Group Lunch: Following the workshop, sit down with your fellow travelers to share a traditional home-made Cuban lunch. The casual setting and delicious food offer a perfect break before your free afternoon.

    *Afternoon allocated for self-directed independent cultural research, community immersion, and localized interaction with self-employed artists, craft markets, and independent private micro-enterprises.

    Group Dinner: In the evening, gather once again for dinner at another fine Paladar. It’s a time to reflect on the day’s experiences, enjoy excellent food, and continue connecting with the group.

    Evening Jazz Festival Events: As night falls, meet up for another round of Jazz Plaza concerts to hear incredible live performances.

    Fábrica de Arte Cubano: Later on, visit this unique space that brings together art, music, and nightlife under one roof. Stroll through galleries, enjoy Jazz Festival live performances, and soak up Havana’s rich creative energy. Our team will be there to guide you, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

    *Our team is with you throughout the day, ensuring that each activity, meal, and concert is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

    MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

  • Discover Havana at Your Own Pace

    Breakfast: Begin the morning with a relaxed group breakfast at your accommodations.

    Optional Excursions: With no set itinerary today, you’re free to choose your own adventure. If you’d like to explore further afield, consider joining one of our optional day tours to Viñales or Matanzas. These excursions offer a deeper dive into Cuba’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Be sure to let us know early, as spaces are limited.

    Dinner on Your Own: In the evening, select a restaurant that piques your interest, or let us recommend one of our favorite local spots. This is the perfect opportunity to try something new or revisit a place you loved earlier in the trip.

    Evening Free: Spend the night as you wish, enjoy more live music, relax back at your group Casa Particular, or take in the vibrant energy of Havana after dark. Remember you can use your Festival Pass to attend any of the Jazz Plaza events. 

    *Although today’s schedule is flexible, our team is always available to help you plan your activities, arrange transportation, or answer any questions.

    MEALS: Breakfast

    Day 6

  • Day 7

    Rumba Party and Final Night in Havana

    Breakfast: Start your morning with breakfast at your accommodations.

    Rumba Party in Central Havana: Spend the late morning at Callejón de Hamel, where you’ll experience a lively Community Rumba Party. This vibrant alley is the heart of Havana’s Afro-Cuban culture, filled with colorful murals, local artistry, and live drum performances that reflect Cuba’s rich musical heritage.

    Afternoon Free Time: After the rumba party, take the afternoon to relax, explore more of Havana, or pack and prepare for your final night.

    Farewell Dinner: In the evening, join the group for a special farewell dinner at one of Havana’s renowned Paladares. This final meal together is a chance to reflect on the week’s unforgettable experiences, share stories, and celebrate new friendships.

    Evening Jazz Festival Events: Cap off your tour with the closing performances of the Jazz Plaza Festival. Revel in the incredible music and vibrant energy one last time.

    *Throughout the day, our team will be there to ensure everything runs smoothly, help with any last-minute needs, and celebrate the final evening with you.

    MEALS: Breakfast & Dinner

  • Adios Cuba!

    Breakfast: Enjoy one last breakfast at your accommodations. This is a relaxed time to reflect on the week’s experiences and prepare for your journey home.

    Goodbyes: Spend the morning sharing final moments with the group and our tour team. It’s a chance to exchange contact information, take group photos, and say farewell to the new friends you’ve made during your time in Havana.

    Airport Transfers: For those departing today, we’ll ensure a smooth transition to the airport.

    *Our team will provide all the necessary details and send you off with warm wishes for safe travels.

    MEALS: Breakfast

    Day 8

Important info about this itinerary

  • Flights arriving on Day 1 of the itinerary must arrive between 11am-1pm EST to have included transportation. You can contact us and arrive early with some add-on packages we can create for your group. It is better to arrive earlier than later, as our tour starts around 4 pm on the first tour day. We can arrange private airport transport at any time. All flights arriving must come into Havana and depart from Havana. If you book a departing flight from another city and/or stay extra days, the transportation will not be included.
  • All breakfasts are included. Other meals are on a per-day basis. 
  • All music entries and reservations are also included with your VIP festival pass.
  • This is just a sample itinerary; you will receive a detailed itinerary with confirmed events closer to your trip departure. Keep in mind that the festival does not provide the final program until about 1 week before the first performance. So we try to have a preliminary itinerary a couple of weeks before, but the final music schedule will not be until a few days before your trip. We use all of our musical knowledge as professional musicians and musicologists to curate the best music tour for the Havana Jazz Plaza Festival.
  • While we strive to keep the schedule as outlined, certain events or times may change at any moment due to unforeseen circumstances. If any adjustments are needed, we’ll notify you promptly and ensure you have an equally exceptional experience.
  • If you’d like to know more about what previous guests have said about our Havana Jazz Festival Tour Itinerary, please check out our multiple TripAdvisor reviews. This itinerary has been carefully refined over time thanks to past travelers’ invaluable feedback and our team’s ongoing dedication. We strive to offer the best Havana Jazz Festival experience, ensuring you don’t miss any of the essential sights and sounds that make Cuba unforgettable.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

The Havana Jazz Fest Tour includes the following:

  • Accommodations: Premium Casa Particular
  • Small Group of only 16 travelers per tour group!
  • All Access Music Pass to Jazz Plaza Festival
  • Private VIP welcoming dinner with private band performance
  • Unique and immersive studio listening experience with excellent musicians
  • Bilingual musician tour leaders
  • Support for the Cuban people, local musicians, and small businesses
  • Breakfast everyday
  • 4 Dinners total
  • 4 light lunches total, one on the first day and four others during the day tours
  • Entry and reservation into each scheduled itinerary event, workshop, clinic, or museum
  • Cuban Music History & Vinyl Session with Dj Jigüe
  • Visit to a Cuban Music Conservatory
  • Casino de Salsa Dance Lessons or Private Music Lessons
  • Airport transport to and from José Martí International Airport 
  • Transportation to all scheduled events
  • Flight concierge (flights are not included, but we help you book the best one).
  • Concierge service for extras like restaurants, tours, and experiences, reservations, and recommendations.
  • Detailed Itinerary that is US Traveler and O.F.A.C. General Travel Licensing compliant. (U.S. Travelers)
  • and more

YOUR STAY IN HAVANA: Premium Casa Particular

Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 53
Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 52
Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 57
Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 44
Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 51
Havana Music Tours-Luxury Accommodations Casa Particular 54

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

What to look forward to during this Havana Music Tour?

Curated educational access to top Jazz Plaza Festival performances as part of a structured cultural immersion and arts education itinerary.

Bilingual musicians tour guide from Cuba and the U.S (a tour from musicians for music lovers).

 Real interactions with the Cuban people and professional musicians.

Dance or music lessons.

 Authentic music and cultural experiences almost every day of your tour.

Fresh breakfast and authentic Café Cubano each morning in a luxurious villa with our wonderful traveler friends.

 Taste of the best Paladares around Havana, Cuba (Private restaurants).

Transportation to all scheduled events.  

HAVANA JAZZ FESTIVAL FAQ

The Havana Jazz Festival, officially scheduled from January 24th to 31st, 2027, is a prestigious event celebrating Cuban and international jazz. Our Havana Jazz Festival Tour runs from January 25th-February 1st, 2027, offering early access to festival highlights and exclusive cultural experiences before the festival officially begins.

Our tour includes all-access passes to festival events, accommodations, guided cultural experiences, transportation within Havana, and curated dining experiences at local paladares. You’ll also enjoy unique activities like dance lessons, music workshops, and exclusive interactions with local artists.

By joining our tour, you’ll enjoy unique perks such as personalized guidance from musician-led hosts, VIP access to performances, and seamless logistics. We provide an immersive experience that combines the festival’s best moments with cultural insights, ensuring a stress-free and enriching journey.

Yes! While group tours follow a curated itinerary, we offer private tour options that can run alongside the group itinerary. Private tours allow for personalized experiences while maintaining access to the festival’s events and activities.

Not at all! The festival’s diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone, from seasoned jazz lovers to casual music fans. The tour also includes cultural excursions and activities that appeal to a wide range of interests.

We provide excellent accommodations through Privately Owned Casas Particulares
Authentic Cuban homes offering a cozy, personalized experience with local hosts.
All accommodations are conveniently located near festival venues. Let us know your preferences when booking!

Your all-access pass, included in the tour, provides entry to all main performances and events. We can help you secure additional experiences or reserve seats for special shows.

Our Havana Jazz Festival Tour includes a variety of cultural experiences, such as visits to historic landmarks, music and dance workshops, eco-community excursions, and an exploration of Havana’s vibrant nightlife. To see the full list of activities and inclusions, visit our tour inclusions section.

For this tour, travel is structured under the authorized Group People-to-People Educational Exchange general license (31 CFR § 515.565(b)). We provide the required program documentation and guidance for U.S. travelers, including information about the Cuban tourist visa. For details, see our Ultimate Cuba Travel Checklist.

Pack light, comfortable clothing for warm weather, a reusable water bottle, sun protection, and attire for both daytime excursions and evening concerts. Our Ultimate Cuba Travel Checklist covers everything you’ll need for your trip.

If this is something you can afford or would like to do, we recommend packing some essential donations for Cubans. For more info, check our blogs Supporting Cuban Music: Donations for Music Students and Local Musicians and Essential Donations for Cuba: Supporting Cuban Families with Everyday Necessities.

Yes! The Havana Jazz Festival Tour welcomes music lovers of all ages. Our team ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for families while accommodating specific needs. However, some venues may have age restrictions, and performances often extend into the late hours, making them less suitable for young children. We can help you plan alternatives during these times.

Wi-Fi is available at many hotels and public hotspots, though speeds may vary. Purchasing a local SIM card is an economical option. Our guides can assist with connectivity and ensure you stay in touch throughout your trip—more info on our Ultimate Cuba Travel Checklist.

By choosing our tour, you contribute to Cuba’s vibrant music culture. We collaborate with local artists, venues, and small businesses to ensure your visit benefits the local community while providing you with authentic cultural experiences. We also encourage bringing musical donations for Cubans to directly support music students and local musicians. For more info, check our blog post Supporting Cuban Music: Donations for Music Students and Local Musicians.

Our tours are led by professional musicians, offering insider access to Cuba’s jazz culture and exclusive festival moments. With curated activities, personalized attention, and a seamless travel experience, we make the Havana Jazz Festival an unforgettable adventure.

The Havana Jazz Festival, known as Jazz Plaza, was established in 1980 in Havana, Cuba. Its origins trace back to the vibrant jazz scene of the 1960s and 1970s, with significant contributions from Cuban musicians and venues that nurtured the genre. The festival has since evolved into a premier event, attracting both local and international jazz artists and serving as a platform for emerging talents. 

For more detailed information, you can visit our blog section.

We intentionally limit each tour group to a maximum of 10 guests, allowing for more personal attention, easier movement through Havana, and access to smaller music venues and cultural spaces.

Yes, our tour includes exclusive interactions with local artists, providing opportunities for jam sessions and behind-the-scenes experiences.

Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and accommodating. For detailed information, please refer to our terms and conditions.

Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Our tours involve moderate physical activity, including walking tours and standing during performances. But our team will assist you if you have limited mobility. 

Yes, the tour includes most meals at top-rated paladares, offering authentic Cuban cuisine.

Casual attire suits most events; however, some evening performances may call for smart casual wear.

Yes, we strive to accommodate dietary needs. Please inform us in advance of any restrictions or preferences.

While U.S. travel regulations do not permit completely unmapped ‘leisure time,’ our itinerary perfectly balances group activities with dedicated blocks for self-directed independent cultural research. During these periods, travelers are encouraged to engage in community immersion, explore local private craft markets, and interact directly with self-employed Cuban artists and independent micro-enterprises, ensuring full compliance while giving you space to explore.

HAVANA JAZZ FESTIVAL GUEST’S TESTIMONIALS

Traveler's Choice Tripadvisor (Medium Banner (US) (Landscape)

My wife and I went on the Jazz Plaza 2024 tour. Really excellent. Chaz and Yami have put together a great team of Cuban guides and facilitators: Rocio, Ismelys… were all wonderful. They go out of their way to personalize the experience and provide any support that is needed. Jazz Plaza is an incredible experience, and Havana Music Tours did a great job curating the adventure. Read More

Chaz and his crew made our very small group (9) experience the best ever. So many authentic experiences, from our casa in a former private home, farm to table lunch outside Havana, and so much music through the jazz fest and with local musicians including young students. History was a big part as well, helping to truly put all in context. Read More

Havana Jazz Festival Tour 2024 - Client testimonial

My wife and 26 year old son spent 9 days of amazing immersion in the jazz music scene in Havana hosted by Havana Music Tours. We had been to the jazz festival in 2015 with Blue Note and had a great time, but Havana Music Tours blew that experience out of the water!. Read More

live music studio experience in havana 2

Our visit to the 2022 Havana Jazz Festival with Havana Music Tours was a wonderful experience. Tour director Chaz Chambers and his Cuban wife, Yamilka, looked after all arrangements in a professional and proactive way. They curated an outstanding selection of concerts, informal performances, and visits to musical institutions. Read More

Havana Jazz Plaza Festival 2025- Small Group Tours Avalaibility 3- Havana Music Tours

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay up to date with our tours, new dates, experiences and offers!​