Cancun – Mérida – Havana – Return to Cancun (7–9 Days)

Traveling to Cuba and Mexico in one trip is one of the most exciting and practical ways for U.S. travelers to explore the Caribbean and Latin culture—especially for those who prefer not to fly directly from the United States to Cuba.

This guide presents a 7 to 9-day itinerary combining Cancún, Mérida, and Havana, designed for cultural immersion, comfort, and legal travel compliance.

✈️ Why Travel to Cuba via Mexico?

Mexico is one of the most popular and convenient gateways to Cuba for American travelers because:

• Frequent flights from Cancún to Havana

• Flexible schedules and competitive fares

• Easy compliance with U.S. travel regulations

• Opportunity to enjoy two countries in one trip

🗓️ Suggested Itinerary (8 Days – Flexible 7 to 9 Days)

📍 Day 1 – Arrival in Cancún, Mexico

• Arrival at Cancún International Airport

• Hotel or boutique stay near the beach

• Relax after travel or enjoy the Hotel Zone

🛏️ Recommended stay: Cancún beach hotel or downtown boutique

📍 Day 2 – Cancún → Mérida (Yucatán)

• Morning transfer or short flight to Mérida

• Explore colonial streets and historic plazas

• Evening food tour or cultural show

🛏️ Stay in a colonial hotel or guesthouse

📍 Day 3 – Mérida & Mayan Heritage

• Optional excursion to Chichén Itzá

• Visit cenotes and traditional villages

• Enjoy Yucatecan cuisine

This day adds strong cultural value to the trip.

✈️ Day 4 – Mérida / Cancún → Havana, Cuba

• Flight to Havana (HAV)

• Arrival and immigration process

• Transfer to casa particular

🛏️ Stay in Old Havana or Vedado

📍 Day 5 – Havana City Experience

• Guided tour of Old Havana (UNESCO site)

• Classic American car ride

• Visit local markets and museums

📍 Day 6 – Culture & Daily Life in Havana

• Cultural exchange activities (OFAC compliant)

• Art studios, music venues, and community visits

• Optional cooking class or dance lesson

📍 Day 7 – Beach Day or Viñales Valley

Choose between:

• 🌴 Playas del Este

• 🌿 Viñales Valley (tobacco farms & nature)

✈️ Day 8 – Havana → Cancún

• Return flight to Cancún

• Final night near the airport or beach

📍 Day 9 (Optional) – Departure from Cancún

• International return flight to the U.S.

📌 Legal Travel Considerations for U.S. Travelers

Traveling to Cuba via Mexico is legal when travelers:

• Select an authorized OFAC travel category

• Keep travel records and itinerary

• Participate in support-for-the-Cuban-people activities

Staying in casas particulares and using local services helps meet these requirements.

🏡 Where to Stay in Cuba

• Licensed casas particulares

• Centrally located apartments

• Local hosts offering cultural experiences

Many casas also help arrange:

• Airport transfers

• Tours and excursions

• Meals and transport

💡 Why This Tour Works So Well

✔ Avoids direct U.S.–Cuba flights
✔ Combines beach, culture, and history
✔ Fully customizable (7–9 days)
✔ High comfort + authentic experiences
✔ Ideal for couples and first-time visitors

✨ Final Thoughts

A Cuba–Mexico multi-destination tour offers the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and legal peace of mind for U.S. travelers.

From the beaches of Cancún to the colonial charm of Mérida and the vibrant streets of Havana, this journey delivers two countries, one seamless experience.

🔗 Discover accommodations, tours, and travel tips at
blog.casaparticular.com