Things To Do
in Fomento
Fomento, Cuba is a small, agricultural town tucked along Cuba’s central north coast, offering a laid-back vibe and a window into everyday rural life. The town features a modest historic core with colorful storefronts, a central plaza, and a slower pace compared to the major tourist hubs. Surrounding fields and waterways shape daily life here, with family-run eateries and traditional crafts giving visitors an authentic glimpse of regional Cuba.
As a base for day trips to nearby coastlines and natural areas, Fomento blends cultural charm with access to natural scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh Cuban bread and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic streets of Fomento, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street life. Make sure to stop by the local market to experience the hustle and bustle of daily Cuban life.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo Municipal to gain insights into the rich history and culture of Fomento. Spend some time exploring local art galleries that showcase the work of talented Cuban artists. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a refreshing drink at a nearby bar, soaking in the picturesque views of the town.
As night falls, dine at a traditional Cuban restaurant where you can savor classic dishes like Ropa Vieja and Tostones. After dinner, enjoy live music at a local venue, immersing yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa and son. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, taking in the starry sky above.
Begin your beach day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before heading to Playa Fomento. Upon arrival, find a perfect spot on the sandy shore to bask in the sun. Take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters to start your day off right.
In the afternoon, engage in exciting water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking along the coastline. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the sound of waves crashing nearby. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the scenic beauty.
As the sun sets, savor a beachside dinner at a local seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish and other local delicacies. Participate in a sunset yoga session on the beach to unwind and connect with nature. Conclude your day with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee and snack | $2-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $18-35 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Cuban town experience
- Good base for rural and coast day trips
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer direct international flight options depending on season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Fomento
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial buildings, shade trees, and a lively central square ideal for candid street photography.
A historic church with simple Neoclassical lines and tranquil interior spaces.
Riverside promenade with reflections at sunset and local boats docking along the bank.
Rusty remnants of a once-busy sugar mill offering industrial-era textures and history.
Food in Fomento
Fomento Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef in a tomato-fueled sauce, typically served with rice and beans.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked with black beans and sofrito, a staple pairing with stews and meat.
Roast pork often found in family-run eateries; pairs well with tostones or plantains.
Fried plantain slices served with a garlicky lime sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small central market offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and local snacks.
Casual stalls selling tostones, empanadas, fruit, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a handshake; address elders with señor/señora and use polite language in public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people; many locals are welcoming, but some may decline.
Tipping for service is customary; carry small bills for flexibility.
Safety
Tipping in Fomento
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (about 5-10%) for service in restaurants and casas particulares is appreciated.
Cash is commonly used; some places accept Cuban cards or mobile payments, but always carry pesos and small denominations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sea breezes; afternoon showers are common. Seek shade, stay hydrated, and go early or late in the day for outdoor activities.
Mild to warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
June to November can bring tropical storms; monitor local weather alerts and have indoor alternatives ready.
November through April tends to be drier with pleasant daytime temperatures and fewer rain interruptions.
Fomento at Night
Hiking in Fomento
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills and scenic viewpoints; moderate difficulty with rewarding vistas.
Easy to moderate trails suitable for a relaxed hike with opportunities to observe birds and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Fomento by plane.
Closest major airport offering international connections to several destinations in the region.
Havana's primary international gateway with broad flight options.
Eastern Cuba gateway with regional and some international flights.
Varadero area airport serving domestic and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Cuban families and retirees with a rural-urban mix; close-knit communities and family networks.
A small number of travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Cuban experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national pastime; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and schools.
Popular in community centers and schools; games are a social activity here.
Part of Cuba’s strong boxing culture; you may encounter local boxing gyms or events in larger towns nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fomento.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Cuba by focusing on beans, rice, plantains, vegetables, and cheeses; communicate dietary needs in Spanish (Sin carne).