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“CANNON SHOT CEREMONY” Tour

HAVANA, Cuba
“CANNON SHOT CEREMONY” Tour
Overview

“CANNON SHOT CEREMONY” Tour

Cannon Shot Ceremony in Havana

Step back in time and witness one of Havana’s most emblematic traditions: the Cannon Shot Ceremony, a centuries-old ritual that continues to captivate visitors with its history, symbolism, and theatrical flair.

Every evening at 9:00 p.m., the mighty roar of a cannon echoes across the city from the San Carlos de la Cabaña Fortress, the largest Spanish colonial military complex in the Americas. This ritual dates back to the 18th century, when the shot signaled the closing of Havana’s city walls and gates, protecting its inhabitants from pirates and intruders. Today, it remains a living reenactment of Cuba’s colonial past.

The ceremony is performed by soldiers dressed in traditional 18th-century military uniforms, complete with drums, torches, and a dramatic march that recreates the atmosphere of bygone times. As the cannon fires, visitors are transported to another era, experiencing firsthand a tradition that has been preserved for more than 250 years.

Beyond the ceremony itself, the setting is breathtaking. The fortress offers spectacular panoramic views of Havana’s skyline and the shimmering lights of the Malecón, making the experience both cultural and romantic.

Attending the Cannon Shot Ceremony is not just about watching a performance — it is about immersing yourself in the spirit of Havana, connecting with the stories, rituals, and heritage that continue to define the city. A must-see experience that blends history, culture, and spectacle in an unforgettable night.

  • Pick up in the hotel;
  • Departure to San Carlos de La Cabaña fortress to see the Cannon Shot Ceremony;
  • 21.00 hrs Cannon Shot Ceremony;
  • Free time to visit the areas in the fortress;
  • Return to the hotel.

Departure days of the excursion: Daily.

• Code dressing: Casual. • Recommended: light clothing, tennis, sandals or comfortable shoes and photographic camera. • For the tour we recommend a water bottle.

More Information

  • 2.00 hrs
  • 19.30 hrs
  • Tour guide included
  • Family friendly
  • Offered inSpanish, English, French, Italian, German, Russian, and Portuguese

Options and Availability

Showing 5 options

Collective tour

Tour in collective bus with specialized guide service in several languages. The best price.
Air conditioned busDaily departures
$59.00

Collective tour + Dinner

Tour in collective bus with specialized guide service in several languages. Dinner in a local restaurant. The best price.
Air conditioned busDaily departures
$108.00

Private tour

Tour by private car or minibus with exclusive specialized guide service in your language. Pick up time and program development according to their own interests.
Modern car or microbusDaily departures

Private tour + Dinner

Tour by private car or minibus with exclusive specialized guide service in your language. Dinner in a local restaurant. Pick up time and program development according to their own interests.
Modern car or microbusDaily departures

Entrance to the Cannon Shot Ceremony (Only entrance fee)

Only entrance fee to the San Carlos de La Cabaña fortress and enjoy the Cannon Shot Ceremony
Without transportationDaily departures

Policies and Conditions

• The collected may be delayed up to 15 minutes depending on the number of hotels and punctuality of customers. Customer should be informed on sales desk to avoid disagreements. • This tour operates with a minimum of 8 passengers. Holiplus will reconfirm 48 hours prior to the departure of your tour. If the provider decides to cancel, due to not reaching the minimum number of passengers required, Holiplus will offer you an alternative tour or fully refund the cost of your tour.

Cancellation and no show policy:

• Cancellations more than 72 hours before the tour: No penalty applies. • Cancellations between 72 hours and 48 hours before the tour: a penalty of 50% of the total value of the excursion applies. • Cancellations less than 48 hours before the tour: a penalty of 100% of the total value of the excursion applies. • NO-SHOW: a penalty of 100% of the total value of the excursion applies.er.