🎣 Fishing Cuba's Ciénaga de Zapata National Park
Welcome to Fly Fishing in Cuba – An Angler’s Paradise
Discover Cuba’s endless flats and extraordinary marine life in one of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and least-fished destinations. From crystal-clear flats to vibrant coral reefs, Cuba offers a truly unparalleled fly-fishing experience.
The heart of this adventure is the 150-square-mile Parque Nacional Ciénaga de Zapata, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2003. This pristine national park is a sanctuary for bonefish, permit, and tarpon—a fly fisher’s dream. With its intact ecosystems and robust biodiversity, it’s the perfect setting to cast in harmony with nature.
Join master angler Felipe Rodriguez Alonzo and his expert English speaking guides on these legendary waters, fishing from single-angler or double Beavertail flats skiffs with lean bars. Each day on the seemingly endless flats punctuated by abundant mangroves offers bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook, jacks, barracuda and other species. Alternatively, the nearby Hatiguanico River offers tarpon chasers a jungle-river experience with abundant silver kings from 10-120 pounds. It's everything from battling tarpon in a mangrove phone booth to ‘poons rolling in open-water on this 30-mile coastal river.
Evenings are filled with warm Cuban hospitality, home-cooked meals, and rich cultural experiences in music, art, and local traditions. This is more than a fishing trip—it’s a journey of connection and conservation. By participating, you’ll be directly supporting the Cuban people and contributing to the preservation of their extraordinary natural heritage.
Come for the catch. Stay for the culture. Leave with memories that last a lifetime.
Exceptional Highlights
World-Class Fly Fishing: Fish in the pristine flats of Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, home to Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, and more.
Cultural Immersion: Explore Havana’s historic streets, ride in a classic American convertible, and enjoy Cuban music and cuisine.
Support Local Communities: Contribute to Felipe Rodriguez’s Youth Fly-Fishing School, empowering the next generation of anglers and conservationists.
OFAC-Compliant: This tour is fully approved under U.S. regulations for Support for the Cuban People.
Tour Details
2025-2026 Dates: January through May - September through December (Custom dates offered)
Group Size: Maximum of 8 anglers
Custom Itineraries Available and Welcomed!
Day 1: Welcome to Cuba
Arrive at José Martí International Airport in Havana.
Transfer to a casa particular (private lodging) in Habana Vieja or Playa Larga.
Enjoy a welcome drink and dinner at a family-run paladar (privately owned restaurant).
Take a leisurely walk through Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or relax by the sea.
Overnight: Casa in Habana Vieja or Playa Larga.
Days 2-6: Fishing in Ciénaga de Zapata National Park
Daily Fishing Excursions: Explore the pristine saltwater flats of Ciénaga de Zapata, one of the most productive fishing locations in the Americas.
Target Species: Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Barracuda, and Snook.
Expert English Speaking Guides: Fish with master angler Felipe Rodriguez Alonzo and his team of skilled guides.
Conservation & Education: Learn about Cuba’s aquatic ecosystems and Felipe’s Youth Fly-Fishing School, which teaches conservation through fishing.
Birdwatching: Spot some of Cuba’s 28 endemic bird species in this world-class birding area.
Evenings: Relax and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals at your casa particular.
Overnight: Casa in Playa Larga.
Day 7: Explore Havana
Return to Havana and tour the city’s iconic landmarks.
Ride in a classic American convertible and chat with the owner about its restoration.
Visit the Cigar Museum to watch expert rollers at work and learn about Cuban rum at the Rum Museum.
Enjoy free time to explore museums like the Museum of the Revolution or simply interact with locals.
Celebrate your trip with a farewell dinner and live music performance by the world-famous Buena Vista Social Club.
Overnight: La Posada de Chacón in Habana Vieja.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to José Martí International Airport for your flight home.
Tour Cost:
3 Days Fishing: $3,999 per person
4 Days Fishing: $4,499 per person
5 Days Fishing: $5,499 per person
Single Supplement: $500
Included in Your Tour
Accommodation in casas particulares in Havana and Playa Larga.
Cuba Visa
Guided fly fishing in Ciénaga de Zapata National Park.
All breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners.
Full-time professional bilingual fishing guide.
Local ground transportation/airport transfers to Playa Larga.
Cultural activities in Havana, including a classic car tour and museum visits.
Not Included in your Tour
International Airfares (Mariah Travel will assist with the best flights)
Meals not described in the itineraryPersonal expenses
Personal expenses
Drinks during meals, hotel extras and personal spending.
Tips to guides and hotel staff
Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended USI Travel Insurance Services)
https://www.mariahtravel.com/travel-insurance
Supporting Cuba’s Future
A portion of the proceeds from this tour will be donated to Felipe Rodriguez’s Youth Fly-Fishing School in Jaguey Grande, Cuba. This initiative teaches young Cubans about aquatic conservation and fly fishing, providing them with valuable skills and a deeper connection to their environment.
Why Choose This Tour?
This adventure combines world-class fly fishing with authentic cultural experiences, offering a unique opportunity to explore Cuba’s natural beauty and vibrant heritage. By staying in casas particulares and dining at paladares, you’ll directly support local communities while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of the Cuban people.
Book Your Adventure Today!
For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Mariah Travel:
Phone: 1-406-222-5660
Email: info@mariahtravel.com
Website: https://www.mariahtravel.com/fishingcubatour
Cuba’s pristine waters and vibrant culture await—join us for the fishing adventure of a lifetime!