LILA JOURNEY TO CUBA

January 19-26, 2026

A 7-Day Immersive Experience into the Music, Spirit, and Living Traditions of the Island.

Join LILA for an immersive week exploring the music, movement, and living culture of Cuba. From Santería ceremonies and rumba drumming to salsa nights, Afro-Cuban jazz and son traditions, this journey offers a rare opportunity to experience Cuba through its most vital force: music.

This isn’t just a tour of Cuban music history — it’s a living encounter with the artists, traditions, and communities keeping it alive today. Through intimate workshops, private concerts, rooftop jam sessions, and sacred rituals, you’re invited to engage with the full spectrum of Cuban sound: spiritual, celebratory, and constantly evolving.

YOUR HOSTS

Dayramir Gonzalez

Pianist • Composer • Oshun Priest • Cultural Bridgebuilder

Omar Aena

Founder of LILA • Event Producer • World Music DJ

GUEST ARTISTS

  • Yanet Valdes

    Vocalist of Jazz, Filin & Afro-Cuban Traditions

  • Jenny Galata

    Cuban Folkloric Dance Master & Cultural Ambassador

  • Musician, Congas player and Drumming Instructor

    Adel González

    Musician, Congas player and Drumming Instruction

  • Cuban Son & Salsa Dance Instructor

    Dayron Pedroso

    Son & Salsa Dance Instructor

“The best trip I've had in my whole life. Masterfully organized and curated.”

 - Carlos M.

WHY TRAVEL WITH LILA?

  • Not Your Average Tour: We collaborate with local communities to offer authentic experiences not typically accessible to most travelers.

  • Deep Spiritual Exploration: These experiences can bring about transformation through music, dance, and sacred rituals, connecting you with yourself and the Divine.

  • Intimate Group Size: Small groups allow for exclusive access to spiritual rituals, local artists, master musicians, hidden locations, and deeper, more personalized experiences.

  • Purpose-Driven Travel: Your participation supports the preservation of endangered cultural traditions, helping them thrive for future generations.

JOIN THE PRE-LAUNCH WAITLIST TO BE THE FIRST TO RECEIVE DETAILS

“I’ve traveled around the planet for many years, but I couldn’t have even wished for such a rich experience!

- PJ

WONDERING IF THIS TRIP IS A GOOD FIT FOR YOU?

TESTIMONIALS

  • “I’ve traveled around the planet for many years, but I couldn’t have even wished for such a rich experience!

    This trip was by far was the most remarkable journey into a foreign land that I’ve ever had; it gave us the opportunity to have a deep connection of the culture, it’s music, people nature, and the Spirit of this magical land.

    Looking forward to the next journey!”

    PJ

  • “From the heart: This wasn't just a tour -- it was a total immersion into the rich cultural, musical, and spiritual gifts that this country has to offer. I feel so grateful to have had so many amazing new experiences there.”

    Simi M.

  • “My experience was thrilling, authentic and deep. Omar and the guides did an impeccable job curating the experience for us, and above all that, staying present and attentive throughout every step of the journey. I’d recommend this experience for anyone! Particularly those looking to explore an enchanting place in the company of deep souls, who enjoy traveling within a group that feels like home, and who feel called to touch and taste the essence of a place that rests beneath the TripAdvisor seafoam on the surface”

    Emily S.

  • “The best trip I've had in my whole life. Masterfully organized and curated.”


    Carlos M.

  • “The kind of journey you’ll remember for a lifetime. Curated with the help of local insiders, the team carefully planned an itinerary of authentic cultural activities, musical gatherings, healing modalities, educational opportunities and leisure time to discover breathtaking historic sites. The accommodations are comfortable, food is delicious, and overall, their passionate team does a great job with complex logistics. A genuinely respectful approach, and constant communication, ensures the group feels safe and honors the heritage we are exploring; while sharing the experience with enthusiastic locals. I would highly recommend this trip for anyone looking for a conscious group travel adventure at the intersection of history, music, culture and dance.”

    Beatriz Z.

  • “The Sacred Music Journey was as culturally expansive as it was inspiring of introspection and personal reflection. The thoughtful itinerary allowed the group to visit a wonderfully diverse set of places and spaces. Experiencing different parts of the country and each one’s unique expression of the music and culture deepened my appreciation and understanding of its heritage and history. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have gotten to know such a magical part of the world while connecting more deeply with myself and the broader group traveling together.”

    Cole B.

  • “This trip enriched my life, made it fuller, and will stay with me forever.”

    Sallie S.

PREVIOUS LILA JOURNEYS

  • New List Item

FAQ’S

  • Yes. Most travelers will need a Cuban Tourist Card (Visa), which we will provide guidance on securing after registration.

  • Yes. Our program qualifies under the “Support for the Cuban People” travel category, which is permitted for U.S. travelers.

  • Book your flight into José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana.

  • The most reliable direct routes are from Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), and Tampa (TPA). These are served by major airlines including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest.

  • We’ll be staying in a 4.5‑star hotel in Havana, with double occupancy rooms (private rooms available for an additional fee).

  • Daily breakfast is included, along with opening and closing dinners. Other meals are enjoyed together at curated local restaurants and are at participants’ expense unless specified.

  • Yes. Please let us know in advance, and we’ll work with restaurants and hosts to accommodate your needs.

  • The trip involves daily walking tours and dance workshops. Most participants find the pace comfortable, but please bring comfortable shoes and expect some light movement each day.