Why has Cuba's Zapata Swamp become a ghost town?

The Zapata Swamp has become a ghost town due to severe daily power outages lasting up to 22 hours, which have crippled the region's tourism industry and left businesses shuttered.

How have power cuts affected tourism in Cuba's Zapata Swamp?

The prolonged power cuts have led to a 56% drop in international tourist arrivals in February, causing hotels and attractions to close and making it difficult for residents to earn a living.

What are the immediate impacts of the energy crisis on Zapata Swamp residents?

Residents are struggling with daily life, scrambling for limited cell phone signals during brief power restorations and facing a dire economic situation with few alternative employment options beyond tourism.

Home / Business and Economy / Cuba's Eco-Tourism Ghost Towns: Power Cuts Cripple Zapata Swamp

Cuba's Eco-Tourism Ghost Towns: Power Cuts Cripple Zapata Swamp

14 Apr

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Summary

Zapata Swamp's tourism industry collapses due to severe power outages.
International tourist arrivals plummeted by 56% in February.
Local residents now search for cell signal when power returns.

Cuba's Eco-Tourism Ghost Towns: Power Cuts Cripple Zapata Swamp

The Zapata Swamp, a former crown jewel of Cuba's eco-tourism, now resembles a ghost town. Daily power outages lasting as long as 22 hours have decimated the region's appeal, leaving its pristine natural beauty overshadowed by darkness and uncertainty. This energy crisis has led to a dramatic decline in visitor numbers, with international arrivals dropping 56% in February compared to the previous year.

Local businesses, from rental homes to hotels and attractions like the Cueva de los Peces, have been forced to close. Residents, who once relied on the influx of tourists for their livelihoods, now find themselves in dire straits. Many are forced to scramble for scarce cell phone signals during brief power restorations to connect with family or seek opportunities.