Program Highlights

• Authentic experience with traditional healers 

• Extensive, experiential learning of Cuban politics, history and culture

• Peer-to-peer exchange with Cuban medical students 

Herbal medicine is an integral part of Santeria and other Afro-Cuban religions practiced on the island. Students will learn about Afro-Cuban traditions and practices through visits to community projects and temples, as well as conversations and workshops with healers and herbalists. They will also meet with someone from a community of people who cure themselves only with local water. They will meet with medical students in an informal setting and visit a medicinal farm. At the end of the week the group will not only gain authentic insight to the Cuban way of life, its diverse culture, and storied history, but also understand how alternative and traditional medicine plays an important role in everyday life in Cuba.

Itinerary

Day 1

Midday arrival, transfer to Viñales with stop at natural swimming area; Check into homestays; Welcome dinner

Day 2

Meeting with Los Acuaticos - water as medicine

Medicinal farm visit and workshop

Day 3

Guanabacoa, Municipal Museum - Afro Cuban Culture

Cooking class and lunch - food and wellness 

Visit Babalawo (shaman) house - spiritual health

Day 4

Market visit with a herbalist, Medicinal teas workshop

Car and Walking Tour of Old Havana 

Day 5

Afro-Cuban Community Project Visit and Experiential Activity

Alternative Medicine Clinic Visit 

Day 6

Free time in Old Havana

Meeting with medical students  

Farewell Dinner

Day 7

Departure