travel to havana cuba 2022

Yes, Americans Can Still Travel to Cuba. Here’s How

Is it legal for u.s. citizens to travel to cuba what types of travel can they take and what are cuba tourist cards here’s what you need to know about visiting cuba..

Copy Link copied

A classic 1950s car outside row of two- and three-story pastel-colored buildings

Havana, Cuba’s capital city, is known for its vintage cars and historic architecture.

Courtesy of Spencer Everett/Unsplash

Cuba is a beautiful Caribbean island with a complex history and rich culture. But for decades, it’s been just beyond the reach of many Americans. In addition to several difficult years involving devastating hurricanes, pandemic-era travel restrictions, ever-changing U.S. State Department travel advisories, and frequently updated trade and tourism regulations , it’s not surprising that many Americans may be confused about whether and how U.S. travelers can legally visit Cuba .

As of early 2024, the short answer is: Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a U.S. citizen. There are, however, some hoops you’ll need to jump through, because (technically speaking) travel to Cuba for pure vacationing isn’t allowed. For U.S. citizens interested in planning a trip to Cuba, here’s what you need to know before you go.

Can you travel to Cuba?

The relationship between the United States and Cuba has been tumultuous, to say the least. Following the Cuban Revolution during the 1950s and the subsequent rise of Fidel Castro’s regime, diplomatic ties between the two nations deteriorated rapidly. In 1960, the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuba, effectively severing most economic and political connections.

In the time since, travel between the two countries has been heavily restricted by the U.S. government, which has implemented various policies to discourage or prohibit its citizens from visiting Cuba. Making matters more complex, those policies often changed with each presidential administration. The island nation was more accessible during the Carter, Clinton, and Obama years and more closed off during the G.W. Bush and Trump years.

In 2014, it became significantly easier for Americans to visit Cuba after President Obama announced a series of measures aimed at normalizing diplomatic ties and loosening travel restrictions to allow Americans to visit for certain purposes (more on that later). Additionally, in 2016, commercial flights between the United States and Cuba resumed for the first time in more than half a century.

However, the Trump administration made it significantly harder to visit Cuba. During his time in office, President Trump enacted more than 200 measures against Cuba , which included limiting what Cuban airports flights from the U.S. could fly into, banning cruises from stopping in Cuba, and eliminating the most common visa category under which U.S. citizens planned legal visits to Cuba (known as “people-to-people” travel).

Then in May 2022, President Biden’s administration announced it would undo many of the Cuba-related restrictions enacted under Trump and would work on expanding authorized travel. Under the new order, regular passenger and charter airplanes are again allowed to fly to any Cuban airport (and airlines announced new flight paths ). And officials said that the “people-to-people” category of travel, under which many tours and organized travel companies bring U.S. travelers to Cuba, will ultimately return, though there is no timeline on when that will happen.

Several musicians on the street in Cuba in front of a turquoise building

Cuba’s music scene is also a big draw.

Photo by Shutterstock

How to travel to Cuba as an American citizen

U.S. law states that those who want to go to Cuba need to qualify for a “general license” based on one of 12 approved categories.

The 12 categories currently authorized by U.S. government, for travel to Cuba are:

Family visits
Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Journalistic activity
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
Support for the Cuban people
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
Certain authorized export transactions

Licenses are self-qualifying, meaning that when you purchase your airline ticket, you’ll be asked to state your category in a signed affidavit before checkout.

When former President Obama first eased travel restrictions to Cuba , the move allowed leisure travelers to pursue self-led trips under the “people-to-people” educational activities category. Today, the “support for the Cuban people” category is the most popular because it’s the broadest.

What the “support for the Cuban people” license entails

To adhere to the requirements for independent travel under “support for the Cuban people,” travelers must first declare the category (when prompted) while booking flights and lodging. As part of the license, travelers are also expected to prepare an itinerary outlining how their trip will fulfill the category’s terms and contribute to Cuba’s local economy. (This itinerary could be—but isn’t always—requested on arrival to the country.)

An appropriate “support for the Cuban people” itinerary could including staying in casa particulares (locally run guesthouses), visiting Cuban-owned businesses, going on tours (like classic car rides or architecture walking tours) run by Cubans, visiting independent museums and galleries, partaking in cultural dance and music classes, and eating at locally owned restaurants and markets. (For specific recommendations and local resources, check out AFAR’s Cuba Travel Guide .)

Travelers can visit independently under that category, though it’s important you keep a record of your itinerary and your receipts: The U.S. government can ask for them up to five years after the trip.

Can you still travel to Cuba with organized tour operators?

Even though the Trump administration’s tightened restrictions on travel to Cuba prohibited organized “people-to-people” tours entirely, many tour companies have switched their approach to adhere to the “support for the Cuban people” license, according to Tom Popper, president of U.S.-based tour operator InsightCuba . Other tour providers that offer “people-to-people” trips, such as GeoEx Adventure Travel , Flash Pack , Intrepid Travel, and G Adventures, have similarly transitioned their program itineraries in order to offer legal trips to Cuba that comply with the regulations.

Challenges and considerations for travel to Cuba

Despite the easing of restrictions, traveling to Cuba as an American still presents some challenges. For example, there are limited banking services available to U.S. visitors, and American credit and debit cards are not typically accepted (as noted on the website for the U.S. embassy in Cuba ), so it’s important to bring plenty of cash. Similarly, internet access in Cuba is limited —expect connections to be patchy .

How to get a Cuba Tourist Card

The terms Cuba Tourist Cards and Cuban visas are sometimes used interchangeably.

Courtesy of Easy Tourist Card

Regardless of the license under which you travel to Cuba, you’ll still need to organize a few important documents before you go.

The Cuban government requires that all travelers entering the country provide a valid passport and proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation by air. In addition, all U.S. travelers—adults, children, and infants—must purchase a Cuba Tourist Card , which grants visitors a maximum stay of 30 days on the island. Tourist Cards are valid for 180 days after purchase, which means you will need to travel within six months of obtaining the document. Note that the terms Cuba Tourist Card and Cuban visa are sometimes used interchangeably; they’re the same thing.

There are several ways to buy a Cuba Tourist Card: Many U.S. airlines with direct service to Havana—among them United Airlines , JetBlue , American Airlines , Delta , and Southwest —offer Tourist Cards either online or at the gate; prices and purchase locations vary among carriers, so it’s important to check in advance.

Websites like Easy Tourist Card allow travelers to apply for and purchase Tourist Cards online with two-day international shipping. Those who plan to fly to Havana directly from the United States will need to purchase a pink Tourist Card at a rate of $100, while those departing from non-U.S. airports can purchase a green Tourist Card for $37, even with a U.S. passport.

“U.S. travelers should note that travel to Cuba has been regulated since 1963 and has changed under each presidential administration since that time,” states Popper of InsightCuba. “Cuba travel has always been a hot political topic, and you never know when the rules are going to change. I always tell people to go now—while you can.”

This article was originally published in 2018. It was most recently updated on March 21, 2024, to include current information.

Palm trees leaning over a light blue ocean in the Seychelles.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism.

If you are a US citizen, you can still visit Cuba in 2024. However, unlike your neighbors traveling from Canada , you will be subject to specific regulations from the US government.

For example, doing “tourism,” like staying at a resort on a Cuban beach , isn’t allowed. Your trip must fall into one of 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba. You must also comply with certain financial restrictions while on the island.

This article offers our first-hand experience organizing trips from the US to Cuba for over seven years. We will answer all your questions about going to Cuba as an American, including the entry requirements, the 12 categories of authorized travel, People-to-People travel, the Support for the Cuban People license, and much more.

In this guide, we cover all of it.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024?

How to travel to Cuba - Cuban giving thumbs up from balcony (1)

The simple answer is yes. It’s perfectly legal for Americans to travel to Cuba, except for explicit tourism purposes.

Americans can’t go to Cuba for tourism thanks to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of July 8, 1963, which imposed a trade embargo on the island.

However, you can travel legally to Cuba if you comply with certain Cuban and US government regulations.

Specifically, the Cuban government asks you to bring the following documentation:

The Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Visa).
Health travel insurance.
Customs and health declaration forms.

On the other hand, the US government requires you to:

Self-certify under one of the 12 travel categories of authorized travel to Cuba
Avoid spending money at certain restricted businesses.
Keep your travel receipts and records for five years.

Does that sound like a lot? In the sections below, we explain how to meet these requirements so you can travel legally to Cuba from the US.

The Cuban Tourist Card

The Cuban Tourist Card is a tourist visa that almost everyone traveling to Cuba for tourism must bring. They come in two colors: pink and green.

In most cases, US citizens must get the pink Cuban Tourist Card because they fly directly from a US airport to Cuba. However, if you plan on leaving from a non-US airport, you will need the green version.

In any case, we suggest you purchase the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline or on EasyTouristCard.com .

Buy it From Your Airline

The cost of the Cuban tourist visa is usually bundled into the ticket price. However, in some cases, you will need to purchase the visa separately. Prices range from 50 to 80 US dollars, depending on the airline.

Please note that only a few US airlines fly to Cuba. Check out Skyscanner to find all available flights from the US to Cuba.

Purchase it on EasyTouristCard.com

If you can’t get the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline, the best alternative is to purchase it online from Easy Tourist Card , a widely trusted provider.

The pink version costs about 100 US dollars, while the green version sells for roughly 35 US dollars.

Mandatory Travel Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is an entry requirement to Cuba.

Your policy must cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. The Cuban government won’t allow you to leave the country with outstanding medical bills!

Based on our assessment of the most popular travel health insurance providers for Cuba , we recommend Insubuy .

On Insubuy , coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation starts at 8 USD per week per person and is pretty comprehensive.

Customs and Health Declaration Forms

Cuba requires all travelers to bring a Sanitary Statement and a Customs Declaration form.

You can complete the documentation at D’Viajeros , the government’s website. It will save you time and annoyance at the Havana Airport !

The 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Selection of 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

A “category of authorized travel to Cuba” is also known as a “travel license” or “general license.”

Confusingly, even though it’s called a license, it is not a physical or digital document. It’s a self-certification you need to do when travel providers, such as airlines and hotels, ask you about it. In most cases, it’s just about ticking a box.

Obviously, before you tick that box, you should review whether you meet the criteria for traveling to Cuba under your chosen category.

There are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba , as defined by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC):

Family visits
Official business for the US government, foreign government, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
Support for the Cuban People
Exportation, importation or transmission of information or informational materials
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Certain export transactions

In 90% of the cases, a US citizen will travel to Cuba under either the Education Activities or the Support for the Cuban People categories.

Educational Activities (People-to-People Travel)

People-to-people travel falls under the Educational Activities category. This license aims to promote people-to-people contact, support civil society in Cuba, and encourage the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities.

You can travel under this license provided that your trip is:

Organized by a US travel company (the “sponsoring organization”).
Escorted by an employee of the sponsoring organization.

People-to-people travel is the best option for Americans who want to go in a group and prefer to avoid the hassle of planning an itinerary in compliance with the US-Cuba travel regulations.

However, not everyone likes the crowds or having a chaperone around. Besides, traveling to Cuba independently is still legal, easy, and safe . For those, there is the Support for the Cuban People category.

The Support for the Cuban People Travel Category

The Support for the Cuban People category intends to promote US travel to Cuba to strengthen civil society on the island. It covers activities that:

Foster closer connections with the Cuban people,
Contribute to the development of Cuban civil society, or
Advocate for the independence of the Cuban people from the government; and
Involve meaningful engagement and interaction with individuals in Cuba.

American travelers love this category because it’s pretty vague. You have lots of wiggle room and can pretty much do many of the activities you would in any other country.

Here are examples of activities that can “strengthen Cuban society”:

Visiting museums and historical sites.
Eating at locally-owned restaurants (paladares).
Taking Cuban cooking classes.
Taking salsa dancing lessons.
Touring a tobacco farm and learning how to roll Cuban cigars.
Taking a tour through the best of Havana .
Volunteering with a local organization or non-profit.

How does it sound?

However, we must remind you that you still can’t do tourism in Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People license. In fact, you should spend about 6-8 hours on a schedule of activities actually supporting the Cuban people.

That said, it’s not like an American official will call you daily to verify your schedule, so don’t stress too much about it.

You can also support the Cuban people in less subtle ways by:

Bringing inexpensive items as gifts for locals . Most essential products you take for granted (toiletries, hygiene products, etc.) are hard to come by in Cuba. Bringing a thoughtful gift will show your appreciation and may meet your hosts’ vital needs.
Tipping . The base wage for workers in Cuba is the equivalent of a few US dollars a month. Therefore, locals expect and highly appreciate tipping.

Finally, considering that the Internet is limited in Cuba , you should arrange your activities before you land on the island.

Restricted Businesses and Accommodations

The US Treasury Department doesn’t like Americans spending money anywhere in Cuba.

The Treasury keeps a list of businesses to which Americans must refrain from giving money. Most of these businesses are owned by the Cuban military or security services, with which the US still has a frosty relationship. You can see the full, updated list here .

The US government also forbids Americans from staying at specific accommodations listed in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .

To be safe, we recommend renting a room from Cuban Airbnbs , also known as “casas particulares.” These privately owned and highly affordable accommodations can provide you with an authentic Cuban experience.

Check out Skyscanner for the latest listings of “casas particulares” and hotels in Cuba.

Travel Receipts and Records for Five Years

The US government can ask you for your travel records and receipts for up to five years after your Cuba trip.

This sounds spooky, although anecdotally, it doesn’t happen very often. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, so keep your records safe for five years if you’re questioned about your trip.

Bonus Tip for Americans Traveling to Cuba: Stick to Private

How to Travel to Cuba - African Cuban Woman

Generally, you should purchase most travel services and products from Cuban private businesses.

We know you can’t always stick to this principle because the Cuban government owns most of the travel facilities and services on the island, including hotels, car rental companies , tour agencies, and souvenir shops.

But whenever you can support Cuban entrepreneurs, please do so. You will strengthen the legality of your trip and genuinely help Cuban society.

Besides, if you want to cut your trip to Cuba costs , purchasing from locals will get you more bang for your buck. Not only is it more affordable, but you will likely pay in Cuban currency , the Cuban Peso, which is hugely devalued compared to the US dollar.

This includes:

Booking tours from local guides .
Staying in “casas particulares.”
Eating at “paladares” (check out our food safety guide for Cuba ).
Riding in private taxis, including “almendrones,” Cuba’s old classic cars .
Buying souvenirs directly from local sellers.

For more tips and tricks you can pull in your trip to the island, read our 58 travel tips for Cuba .

US Legal Travel to Cuba, Summarized

If you are an American traveling to Cuba, you can break down the process into five relatively simple steps:

Choose the best travel category to Cuba based on your travel purpose. If you are going in a group, it will likely be Educational Activities (People-to-People travel) or Support for the Cuban People if you travel independently.
Ensure your itinerary has a full schedule of activities covered by your chosen travel category.
Avoid booking an accommodation included in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .
Do not spend money on the specific prohibited businesses in Cuba .
Keep your records and receipts for five years.

Once you overcome the legal (but easy!) challenges of traveling to Cuba, you will see that the effort was well worth it. If you feel ready but don’t know when, check out our guide to the best time to travel to Cuba .

Have you traveled to Cuba as a US citizen? We want to hear from you. Please share your experience in the comments below!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card – If your Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa) isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through EasyTouristCard .

Travel Health Insurance – Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack – Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

First aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Water bottle with filter
Mosquito repellent
Pin adapter (for Europeans)
Travel guide
Spanish-English phrasebook
Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations – Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight – Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

Applying for The Cuba Tourist Card: Colors, Prices, and Requirements

Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

Sand Fleas and Mosquitoes in Cuba: The Survival Guide (2024)

Choose your language

Getting Around

Entry to Cuba: Visas & Travel Requirements

Traffic by the Capitol building, Havana

Photo: Shutterstock

Stay updated with the latest travel information for your trip to Cuba!

Embarking on a journey to Cuba? Here's your guide to the latest visa requirements and travel protocols. Whether you're coming from North America, Europe, or elsewhere, we've got you covered.

Cuba visa application form

What are the visa and entry requirements to Cuba?

US Citizens

Planning a trip to Cuba as a US citizen? There are special regulations you need to be aware of. While tourism trips to Cuba aren't yet authorized, general licenses have been issued for a variety of travel categories. If you meet the requirements of the general license under which they plan to travel, you won't need to apply for another permit from the OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Treasury Department) for your trip.

However, it's important to note that the US Embassy in Havana and the State Department in Washington D.C do not process visa applications for trips to Cuba. If you need to apply for a visa or have any questions regarding your specific case, you should contact the Cuban Embassy in Washington D.C.

And remember, certain activities may not be allowed, so it's best to check with the US embassy for information on organizations or businesses in Cuba that U.S. citizens are not allowed to engage with due to economic sanctions or other legal restrictions.

Canadian Citizens

As a Canadian citizen, you'll need a valid passport for the duration of your stay in Cuba. Make sure your passport's expiration date isn't near to avoid any travel hiccups. Depending on your trip's purpose, you may need different types of visas. If you're traveling as a tourist, you'll need a tourist visa, which can be obtained from tour operators, airlines, or a Cuban government office in Canada.

European Citizens

If you're a European citizen planning to travel to Cuba, remember that visa protocols can vary depending on your country of residence. For most European citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. Some countries, like Spain, require the passport to be valid for at least 6 months.

It's also important to note that if you plan to travel to the United States after visiting Cuba, you'll need a visa. This is because the electronic system for travel authorization (ESTA) is not sufficient for those who have traveled to Cuba before. This visa must be obtained at the Consulate General of the US Embassy in your place of residence.

Given the varying requirements, it's a good idea to contact your tour operator or travel agency to understand the specific visa requirements for your travel.

Latin American Citizens

For Latin American citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. You'll also need to obtain a tourist visa or tourist card for your trip. This can be processed at tourism agencies or airlines, which usually handle its issuance.

The visa is generally issued for about 90 days and can then be extended. It's also important to note that you should have travel insurance with medical coverage.

Visa Costs: What to Expect

Visa costs can vary depending on where it's issued. Generally, prices range between $20 and $80. If you apply online, additional charges may apply, and prices can range from $110 to $150.

Jose Marti International Airport in Havana

What items can I bring to Cuba?

When packing for your trip to Cuba, you can bring personal effects, including personal phones and computers, free of charge. The range of objects you can bring to Cuba is quite wide, from musical instruments to televisions. However, some items may be subject to charges depending on Customs regulations.

Some items can be brought into the country without having to pay any import taxes. These include used personal objects, art and literature books, music discs, manufactured pharmaceutical products, and wheelchairs, among others.

However, it's crucial to be aware of prohibited items. While some of these, like explosives, drugs and narcotics, and blood derivatives, may seem obvious, others might surprise you. For instance, literature, articles or objects that are considered obscene, pornographic or that attack the general interests of the nation are also prohibited.

If you attempt to bring into the country articles that are not allowed for import, the General Customs of Cuba can exercise administrative sanctions. This means that Customs can seize those imported articles whose entry is prohibited in Cuba, as well as products that have been entered with a fraudulent declaration.

Travelers on a beach in Varadero

Photo: Unsplash

Health and Vaccinations

Before you embark on your journey to Cuba, it's important to ensure you're up to date with routine vaccines. This includes vaccines against chickenpox, tetanus, influenza, rubella, and polio. In the current climate, being vaccinated against COVID-19 is also essential.

Additionally, consider getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. If your trip to Cuba includes exploring nature or venturing into rural areas away from the city center for activities such as outdoor camping, the rabies vaccine is also recommended. Travelers are also advised to consider the typhus vaccine.

Can I bring my pet to Cuba?

If you're planning to bring your pet to Cuba, there are a few requirements you need to meet. Make sure your pet has the necessary vaccines and an official health certificate. You'll also need to request a travel certificate for your pet from the Consulate or Embassy of Cuba in your country.

Written by Teresita Padrón .

Published July 2023.

Explore Top Destinations in Cuba

Five of the most instagrammable cafes in havana.

Havana is full of gems to start your morning on

Best Spots for Fishing Around Cuba

Largely untouched and diverse, Cuba is one of the most

Marabana – Havana’s Annual Marathon

The Marabana, Havana’s annual marathon, is a unique opportunity to

Five Cuban Clothing Brands to Shop for in Havana

Take a look at the emerging Cuban dress wear brands

Find Hidden Oases in Havana’s Parks & Gardens We Love

Explore the lesser-known parks and gardens of Havana and dive

City Guide: Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos is a picturesque coastal town with laid back charm

The Top Five Best Bakeries in Havana

Sweeten-up your life with some of the most exquisite pastries

Explore the Glittering Caves of Bellamar

Dive into one of Cuba's most dazzling adventures in the

Five of the Best Beaches in Cuba

Discover the best Cuban beaches making a splash in the

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

Planning a visit to Cuba? The island offers sunny skies

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox

I would like to get Visit Cuba newsletters in my inbox

Paradise for Your Inbox

Travel Advisories |
Contact Us |
MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory January 5, 2024

Cuba - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to crime information.

Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to crime .

Country Summary: Petty crime is a threat for tourists in Cuba. Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.

Travel outside of the Havana area for U.S. Embassy employees requires a special notification process which may affect the Embassy’s ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Cuba.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cuba.

If you decide to travel to Cuba:

Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad:

Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Cuba.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must have six months validity at the time of entry.

Two pages are required for entry/exit stamps.

Yes. Travel to Cuba for tourist activities remains prohibited by statute. See 31 C.F.R 515.560 and OFAC's Frequently Asked Questions .

None. See CDC for recommendations.

U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. You should bring U.S. dollars or Euros to Cuba and exchange them for Cuban Pesos (CUP) at authorized banks, CADECA offices, airports or hotels. Travelers should confirm alternative payment options before traveling, as policies concerning the use of U.S. dollars in Cuba are subject to change. The Cuban government requires that travelers declare cash amounts over the equivalent of 5,000 USD.

When departing Cuba, we advise U.S. travelers to spend or exchange CUP to a foreign currency well before reaching airport security checkpoints. Currency exchange houses in the departure area at airports are currently closed and Cuban pesos are not internationally convertible outside of Cuba.. International airlines flying to the United States include departure fees and taxes in the price of airline tickets. U.S. dollars are not accepted for payment of any additional products purchased at the airport. Under Cuban law, travelers may export up to the equivalent of 5,000 USD out of the country. Anyone wishing to depart Cuba with more than this amount of cash must demonstrate evidence that the currency was acquired legitimately from a Cuban bank.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Calzada between L and M Streets, Vedado, Havana, Cuba Telephone: + (53) (7) 839-4100 (Monday- Friday 0830-1630, except holidays) Emergency after-hours telephone: + (53) (7) 839-4100 and dial 1 to speak with the emergency operator Fax: + (53) (7) 839-4247 Website: https:cu.usembassy.gov

Email: [email protected] (for concerns with U.S. citizens)

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Travel to Cuba from or transiting through the United States by persons under U.S. jurisdiction (defined as [BE1] U.S. citizens located anywhere, and anyone located in the United States regardless of citizenship and nationality) , is regulated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. All travelers falling under U.S. jurisdiction must comply with these regulations. Individuals seeking to travel to Cuba are not required to obtain licenses from OFAC if their travel is covered under the 12 travel categories authorized by a general OFAC license. If travel is not covered by a general license, you must seek OFAC authorization in the form of a specific license . Travelers who fail to comply with regulations may face penalties and criminal prosecution. For travel-specific questions, please see 31 C.F.R. 515.560 and OFAC’s Frequently Asked Questions .

Visit the Embassy of Cuba website for the most current visa information.

Cuba requires visitors to have non-U.S. medical insurance, which is usually included in airline ticket prices on flights originating in the United States. If you do not have insurance, it can be purchased upon arrival to Cuba at an airport kiosk. Asistur Medical Insurance is the official company that airlines contract. Please confirm your coverage with your airline prior to arrival in Cuba and seek additional medical insurance if needed.

Cuba does not recognize the U.S. citizenship of Cuban-born U.S. citizens who maintain residency status in Cuba. The Cuban government requires Cuban dual nationals to enter and depart Cuba using Cuban passports. Cuban-born U.S. citizens who maintain their residency status in Cuba will be treated as Cuban citizens and may be subject to Cuban restrictions and legal obligations.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Cuba. Foreign students on scholarships are required to test for HIV/AIDS. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Cuba before you travel.

Information about dual nationality , the prevention of international child abduction , and customs regulations can be found on our websites.

Cuban Requirements for Authorized Travelers: Attempts to enter or exit Cuba illegally, or to aid the irregular exit of Cuban nationals or other persons, are prohibited. Entering Cuban territory, territorial waters, or airspace without prior authorization from the Cuban government may result in arrest. Immigration violators are subject to prison terms ranging from four to thirty years.

Temporary Sojourn License: Most aircraft and maritime vessels on temporary sojourn to Cuba are no longer eligible for an Aircraft, Vessels, and Spacecraft (AVS) License Exception. See 15 C.F.R. § 740.15. If you are planning to enter Cuba with a U.S. or foreign-registered aircraft or maritime vessel on temporary sojourn, you must meet the criteria set forth in 15 C.F.R. § 740.15. Please see the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security website for additional information.

In addition, a vessel of the United States, as defined in 33 C.F.R. §107.200, may not enter Cuban territorial waters without advance permission from the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard provides permission information at (305) 415-6920.

Safety and Security

The security environment in Cuba is relatively stable and characterized by a strong military and police presence. Demonstrations are infrequent but can draw violent responses from government forces. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational without warning. Avoid demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times. Demonstration Alerts are posted on the Embassy’s website . Review the Cuba Travel Advisory .

The Cuban government has detained U.S. citizens suspected of engaging in activities perceived to undermine state security. The Cuban government may detain individuals for activities that would not be considered criminal or offensive in the United States.

Crime: With the recent influx of travelers, there has been an increase in the number of property crimes. Crimes of opportunity, such as pick pocketing, purse snatchings, and car break-ins, are on the rise. Exercise vigilance everywhere . Do not display large amounts of cash. Do not leave your valuables unattended. Carry money in your front pockets, hold your purse and cellular phone securely and be mindful of purses or bags when dining out.

Do not leave a beverage unattended or accept beverages from persons unknown to you.
Locations such as Habana Vieja, Playas del Este, Varadero, and other attractions tend to have a higher incidence of property crime than other parts of Cuba.
Be wary of misdirection schemes where someone attempts to gain your attention while another comes from behind to steal your purse, wallet, or other valuable items.
If confronted by criminals, do not resist, try to remain calm, clearly display your hands and do not make any sudden moves that could be interpreted as resistance.
Carry a cell phone with Cuban cellular service for emergency communications and travel in groups if possible.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or when traveling in an unfamiliar area.
While in your car, place valuables out of sight or in a locked trunk. When unattended, avoid leaving items in the car, especially on the seat or in plain view.
Only use marked taxis.
Carry a copy of your passport and secure the original.
Beware of scam artists, who may speak English and appear friendly.
When exchanging currency, use the state-run offices known as CADECAs or official banks.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: We strongly urge U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 106 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +53 7839-4100. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can:

help you find medical care
assist you in reporting a crime to the police
contact relatives or friends with your written consent
provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
provide a list of local attorneys
provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are strongly encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, even basic medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens should maintain health insurance in Cuba. If stays exceed 30 days, [CM1] U.S. citizens should purchase medical insurance when they process their visa extensions.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Cuban penalties for the following are particularly severe:

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs.
Suspicion of assisting Cubans to leave the country illegally.
Drivers involved in accidents that result in injury or death, regardless of fault.
Importing weapons or ammunition.
Photographing military or police installations or personnel, or harbor, rail, or airport facilities.
Crimes against minors.

The Government of Cuba does not recognize the U.S. citizenship of Cuban-born U.S. citizens who maintain residency in Cuba and may not allow U.S. consular access to Cuban-American prisoners.

Telecommunications: Many U.S. mobile service carriers provide roaming services in Cuba. Your U.S. mobile phone will work in Cuba if your mobile phone is capable of roaming in Cuba and your mobile service provider has an international roaming agreement with ETECSA, Cuba's state-owned telecommunications provider. Currently AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, and T-Mobile have roaming agreements with ETECSA. Wi-Fi is often slow and unreliable. Be sure to confirm your carrier’s coverage before traveling.

SIM cards with a data plan can be purchased at Havana-José Martí International Airport (HAV) and local ETESCA telecommunications offices. To ensure family and friends can reach you in Cuba, check with your mobile provider about roaming options and cost or purchase a Cuban SIM card. See the FCC Travel FAQs for more information.

Cuba-related Travel Transactions: Only persons whose travel falls into the 12 OFAC approved travel categories or who have received a specific license from OFAC are authorized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to travel to, from, or within Cuba. Direct financial transactions with certain entities and sub-entities under the control of, or acting for or on behalf of, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services are also generally prohibited. For more information see the Department of State’s ﷟ Cuba Restricted List . Additionally, lodging, paying for lodging, or making reservations on behalf of others to lodge, at certain accommodations in Cuba are prohibited; for a full list of such accommodations, see the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List . For more information about licenses, visit OFAC’s Cuba Sanctions website . Additionally, lodging, paying for lodging, or making reservations on behalf of others to lodge, at certain accommodations in Cuba are prohibited; for a full list of such accommodations, see the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List . For more information about licenses, visit OFAC’s Cuba Sanctions website .

Licenses for Remittances: In June 2022, OFAC published updated Cuba-related regulations . The new regulations eliminated a cap on remittances to family members in Cuba, and authorized remittances to non-family recipients as well. Certain Prohibited Officials of the Government of Cuba , Prohibited Members of the Cuban Communist Party , and the close relatives of these two groups, are not eligible to receive remittances. For information on remittance authorizations, see OFAC’s Cuba Sanctions website .

What May Be Brought Back From Cuba: Importation of Cuban merchandise for commercial purposes is restricted, with very limited exceptions. Certain imports of goods produced by independent Cuban entrepreneurs are authorized, as set forth on the Department of State’s Section 515.582 List (see 31 C.F.R 515.582). There are no limits on the import or export of informational materials. For more information related to imports, including merchandise entering the United States for personal use as accompanied baggage, please see the CBP Public Notice .

Cuban law requires foreigners to obtain authorization to remove souvenir paintings and sculptures out of Cuba. Most authorized points of sale, such as galleries and art studios, should be familiar with this process and should provide the proper documentation at the time of purchase. You can also apply for an export permit via the Cuban Fund of Cultural Assets. Travelers without a valid export permit may have their items confiscated at the port of departure. The U.S. Embassy cannot assist in these cases. For more information, please contact the embassy of Cuba .

Travelers may purchase alcohol and tobacco products while in Cuba for personal consumption in Cuba, but may not enter the United States with alcohol and/or tobacco products acquired in Cuba. Persons subject to United States jurisdiction may purchase or acquire Cuban-origin merchandise for personal consumption, including alcohol and tobacco products, while in a third country, but may not import such products into the United States. For a complete description of what this general license authorizes and the restrictions that apply, see 31 CFR § 515.585(c) and (d).

Storm Season: Tropical storms and hurricanes between May and November can produce heavy winds and rain. See our page on disaster and crisis preparedness for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Cuba, and on September 26, 2022 Cubans passed the referendum legalizing same sex marriage.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance . Individuals with mobility issues are likely to find accessibility difficult . Few facilities or services are available, and information is limited. Most roads and sidewalks are poorly maintained.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Currency Restrictions: Be advised that policies concerning the use and convertibility of U.S. dollars in Cuba are subject to change. Obtaining U.S. dollar cash is nearly impossible through official channels. The Cuban Central Bank prohibits certain U.S. dollar cash transactions, including conversion of U.S. dollars to Cuban pesos, the use of U.S. dollars for cash payments, including in government-run establishments such as hotels and restaurants, and the purchase of pre-paid debit cards.. U.S.-issued credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. Travelers should bring sufficient cash for the duration of their trip, and consider bringing multiple currencies, such as Euros.

For emergency services in Cuba, dial:

104 for an ambulance or contact the nearest hospital directly
105 for fire
106 for police

Ambulance services are

not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas
not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment
not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment

Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Hospitals and doctors in Cuba do not accept U.S. health insurance. Most hospitals require payment up front before services are rendered.

Medical Insurance: Ensure your airline ticket includes health insurance. Cuba requires all U.S. airlines departing the United States to pay for health insurance for each passenger. The health insurance from airlines is valid for 30 days upon your arrival in Cuba. If you are planning to stay in Cuba for more than 30 days, you will need to extend your coverage before you can extend your visa. It is important to keep a record of your arrival into Cuba, such as your airline ticket, so that the Asistur agency can coordinate with the hospital on payment MEDEVAC flights from Cuba are difficult to arrange, with costs starting at $15,000 U.S. dollars. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Ensure you have all medicine you require for your time in Cuba. Medicine (prescription and over the counter) is not readily available in Cuba. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the embassy of Cuba to ensure the medication is legal in Cuba. Note: This site is in Spanish only.

Diarrheal illness is common among travelers, even in luxury accommodations. Travelers should wash their hands, drink bottled water, and avoid street and undercooked food.

The following diseases are prevalent:

Dengue Fever
Hepatitis-A
Traveler’s diarrhea
Chikungunya
Typhoid
Rabies
Zika Virus

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific medical issues in Cuba .

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals here . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Even the most common over the counter medications are unavailable in Cuba. Other medication, medical equipment or supplies are also unavailable on the island. If you are able to find medicine, exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Counterfeit medication may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Water Quality: Tap water is not potable. Bottled water is often unavailable for purchase and you should be aware that some restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

General Health Issues

There are severe shortages of food, potable water, medicine, medical supplies, etc. throughout Cuba.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Cuba.

Air Quality: Air pollution is a problem in several major cities in Cuba. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road accidents, many involving pedestrians and bicyclists, are Cuba’s leading cause of death. Cuban authorities may prohibit drivers from leaving the country until claims associated with an accident are settled. Drivers found responsible for accidents resulting in serious injury or death may receive long prison sentences. U.S. citizen drivers are often found at fault for accidents they are involved in.

Drive with extreme care. Major streets are generally well-maintained, but secondary streets are not. Major potholes and obstacles are common on all roads. After heavy rains in 2022, several bridges collapsed. Damaged bridges may not be well marked.

Outside of major cities, avoid driving at night as many roads are unlit. Emergency lights or signals are rare, making it virtually impossible to detect hazards after dark. Street signage is insufficient and confusing. Many Cuban cars are old, in poor condition, and lack reliable safety equipment. Heed caution throughout the country as there are rolling blackouts which may leave streets dark and without traffic lights, even in major cities.

The principal Cuban east-west highway is in good condition but extends only part of the way from Havana to the eastern end of the island. Hazards – including unfenced livestock and farm vehicles – are common.

When traveling by road, you should carry a printed map of the area, as electronic (smartphone) maps frequently fail due to connectivity issues.

Traffic Laws: Speed limits are sometimes posted and passengers in automobiles are required to wear seatbelts, if available. All motorcyclists are required to wear helmets. Traffic from major roads generally does not stop when entering roundabouts. Use care at intersections: stop signs are often hard to see.

Public Transportation: Buses designated for tourist travel, both between and within cities, generally meet international standards.

The public bus and rail system in Cuba is under-resourced and in poor condition. Public buses used by Cubans, known as "guaguas," are crowded, unreliable, and are sometimes preyed upon by petty criminals. There is a heightened threat of pickpocketing on crowded buses and trains. Embassy personnel are advised not to use public transportation.

Avoid using informal taxis or hailing private vehicles for rides as they are unregulated, the vehicles are often in disrepair, and usually do not have normal vehicle safety equipment such as seat belts and air bags. “Cocos,” smaller, yellow ball-shaped “tuk-tuk” style vehicles, are not safe, and the Embassy advises its personnel not to use them.

Rental car agencies provide roadside assistance to their clients as a condition of rental contracts. Travelers should not permit unauthorized persons to drive their rental vehicles.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Cuba, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Cuba’s Civil Aviation Authority under its International Aviation Safety Assessment program (IASA) for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s IASA website. The U.S. Embassy in Havana prohibits U.S. government personnel from using any commercial airline for domestic flights within Cuba due to safety concerns. The Embassy does not authorize government personnel to travel via Cubana Airlines.

Maritime Travel: The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of Cuba.  Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers traveling through the ports of Cuba should exercise caution. Mariners planning travel to Cuba should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warn ings .

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Cuba . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Cuba Arrival and Departure Procedures in 2022

February, 2022

Contributor: Sarah Arizaga

Part one of this article covered all the prep work I did for my trip to Cuba in late January 2022. This is what I experienced traveling to and from Jose Marti Airport in Havana.

Check-in Process

The hardest part of this journey was getting everything packed and ready to go. Check in was a breeze, although American Airlines doesn’t allow online check in for Cuba so I made sure I arrived two hours in advance.

A note about luggage. I’m not used to packing to full capacity so I was confused by the Cuba luggage restrictions. This trip I was taking advantage of Cuba customs fee waiver for medical, food, and hygiene products by bringing donations and requests. Basically, being a mule (coffee and vitamins were the most popular requests). I brought maximum luggage which is: 1 carry on, 1 personal item, 2 check in items which are allowed to be up to 70lbs each, although they charge insane excess bag fees for anything over 50lbs. Total cost of luggage $95.

At check-in in SMF I was asked to show my:

Vaccination Certificate - no longer required as of April 6, 2022 PCR Results - no longer required as of April 6, 2022 Passport Cuba QR Code

I had a very short layover but it doesn’t take much time. There is a Cuba Travel Services stand in the boarding area where they checked my visa and stamped by boarding pass “Cuba Ready”. If you need to buy a visa, that’s where you’ll do it, it takes less than 5 minutes. Boarding my flight to Havana they checked my passport and stamped boarding pass (this also serves as proof of medical insurance). Normally at some point during the check-in process I am asked to verbally state my category of general license, oddly, this time no one asked. American Airlines used its big dog for this flight, the 9-seats across plane and it was full.

Arriving at Jose Marti Airport

The good thing about flying Jet Blue or American is that the flight arrives at the modern terminal – Terminal 3 . This is convenient for picking up my Tourist SIM because the Etecsa office is right outside. In that same complex is the Ecotur office you’d visit in case you didn’t find your Cuban Adventures airport greeter. If I’d have flown Southwest, I’d arrive in Terminal 2, a taxi ride from Terminal 3 so I’d have either asked the driver to make an extra stop to pick up my SIM or go to an Etecsa office in town.

I treated myself to the Airport VIP service so I didn’t have to deal with the baggage claim, I paid $25 in cash. There was a line of VIP escorts offering the service right when I walked off the jet bridge. My VIP escort Manuela* guided me to immigration where my QR code and passport were checked and my visa stamped. I was asked about the countries I recently visited, and then photographed sans all hat, glasses and anything else on my head. Sometimes I am also asked why I’m visiting; this is not the time to say Support for the Cuban People (that’s a US thing). I’d tell them tourism, sightseeing, going to the beach, etc.

Next stop, security x-ray (shoes stay on, no belts, scarves, or jackets). Much to my surprise they now have a body scanner! Yikes.

Then Manuela led me to the VIP lounge where I was offered drinks (even beer and rum!) and snacks. Time to sit back and relax and watch bad TV while Manuela looked for my luggage. It took about an hour, but I was comfortable and I’ve waited nearly 3 hours before so I was happy.

Everyone is supposed to get a half hour free wifi in the Jose Marti Airport (both terminals) but it wasn’t working at the time. There is a smoking room in the lounge for those that need it (leave your marijuana at home).

Once Manuela found my luggage, she loaded it on to a cart and guided through customs where I showed my QR code again to exit the airport. Normally when I’m bringing a lot of stuff my luggage gets flagged for inspection, and I have to explain that everything is a gift. I think Manuela worked a bit of magic. I tipped her a $5.

view of exterior of the Jose Marti Airport

Getting to Havana

Outside the airport there were plenty of cabs , both yellow taxis and classic cars, all of which should charge the same price. If you don’t have airport pickup, there are lots of people asking if you need a ride. Some are the drivers, and some are just spokespeople for the drivers and will lead you to the driver when you accept the offer. The first time I came this made me a bit nervous, but now I know it’s just how it works. I paid $25 for the 30-minute drive to Centro Habana, same price to all tourist neighborhoods.

Traffic shown out of the window of a taxi

I arrived in the middle of the coldest period in Havana history where Cubans don’t leave the house unless absolutely necessary, which means the streets were even more deserted than usual. In all fairness, it was pretty darn cold. Who knew it could get down to 40-something degrees in Cuba? Havana was changed but still wonderful, read about my experience.

Leaving Cuba

To get back to the US, residents must have either the Antigen test or a doctor’s note that confirms recovery from Covid within the past 90 days.

Travelers wait in line for a rapid test in Terminal 3 Jose Marti Airport

Because my video antigen test experiment had failed, I would have taken the rapid test at the Siboney Clinic kiosk in the airport (available at both terminals) and I would have been able to report back exactly how long I waited, how much, and payment method. But because I was hobbling on sprained ankle by then, I didn’t want to be on my feet any longer than necessary so I went the doctors note route. I can only say that the testing line wasn’t too long, the process seemed to go smoothly, and I have heard it costs $30 and by some miracle, they accept US credit cards. I’d give myself an extra hour to do the antigen test at the airport (so, arrive at least 3 hours before flight). If you’re on one of our tours, the guide will help arrange the test.

Instead, I handed over my doctors note, and a just-in-case printout of the CDC rules. The airline agent seemed taken by surprise and went over the paperwork very carefully (I had to explain that an E-Signature is a signature), but it worked!

Then it was just a matter of going back through immigration (they take your visa so make sure you don’t lose it), security (this time no shoes, my water always makes it through) and on to my flight back to Miami.

Back in the U.S.

This was my 17th trip to Cuba, and I’d say about 6 times I’ve been asked more than the perfunctory “Why were you in Cuba?” question, to which the answer is always “Support for the Cuban People” . This lady wanted to know how I supported the Cuban people, where I stayed, what I did all day, and of course, whether I brought back alcohol or tobacco. I answered her questions easily: bringing donations and supporting private businesses, stayed in a casa particular, interacted with locals, no alcohol or tobacco. Satisfied, she waived me through.

The Trump Era prohibition on bringing back alcohol and tobacco is a real bummer because I had to turn down a gift from a friend who had very kindly bought cigars for me to take back for my father-in-law and husband. But, as with all processes run by humans, the enforcement of this rule is arbitrary, because I saw a woman with duty-free bag of rum who had clearly made it through immigration. The whole process to re-enter US will vary, but for most people, coming back from Cuba is not much different than coming back from Mexico or the UK.

Home sweet home and eager to go back to Cuba! If you have any questions drop them in the comments section!

Be the first to comment!

An in-depth explanation of what Trump has changed to the Cuba travel rules and regulations in June 2019 and why.

Going Vegan or Vegetarian in Cuba? Here is a restaurant guide for finding the best plant-based food in Cuba.

Sarah gives her tips on where to eat in Havana when you just can't deal with Cuban traditional food anymore.

Ultimate Guide to Travel to Cuba (2024 Update)

Cuba is well known for its white sand beaches, delicious rum, and world-famous cigars… but you might be surprised learn just how much Cuba has to offer travelers. From incredible hiking destinations and wildlife preserves to fascinating historical sites and modern art galleries, Cuba is so much more than most visitors expect.

Unfortunately, there is a lot of confusion about who can travel to Cuba (hint: yes, Americans can travel to Cuba ! ) and how to travel to Cuba. Thankfully, Cuba travel is easy for just about anyone.

In this ultimate guide to travel to Cuba, we’re covering a ll the details about how to travel to Cuba, the best things to do in Cuba, and why you need to add Cuba to your travel bucket list .

Plus, keep reading for all the inside tips we’re sharing about what to pack for your trip, and what to leave at home.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our disclosure policy .

Cuba at a Glance

Who can travel to cuba.

Everyone can travel to Cuba! – even U.S. citizens or citizens of other countries traveling through the United States. U.S. citizens are required by the United States government to only spend money at private businesses (rather than government-run establishments) while there – which is quite easy to do.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Travel to Cuba from the United States

Cuba uses the Cuban peso , valued at 24 pesos to $1 USD . However, since 2021 Cuba has been experiencing high inflation, and the official exchange rate is much lower than the one you’ll find if you exchange your money with a moneychanger.

Read More: Currency in Cuba: Ultimate Guide to Changing and Using the Cuban Peso

Spanish is the only language spoken in Cuba, with English occasionally spoken in the tourism industry . Download Google Translate before your trip to help. Check out our guide to the apps you’ll need for travel in Cuba for more recommendations.

Cuba is known for being an extremely safe country , much safer than most other places in Latin America or the Caribbean.

Take precautions that would generally when traveling – don’t be excessively flashy with jewelry, hold on to your stuff well in crowded areas, etc. You can find more Tips for Visiting Cuba like these from a fellow traveler here.

Electricity

Some areas of Cuba use 110V electricity while others use 220V electricity , and you’ll find a mix of plug types in different places around the island. We recommend bringing along a universal travel adapter and electrical converter so you can use your devices while there.

Internet in Cuba isn’t everywhere yet, but it is generally easy to access , although slower than you may be used to. We wrote a complete guide to using the internet in Cuba with all the details.

We recommend using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when using the internet in Cuba. Check out our complete guide to using a VPN in Cuba for more details.

Required Insurance for Travelers

Cuba requires that all travelers show proof of travel insurance coverage upon arrival. We recommend Visitors Coverage for American and Canadian citizens and World Nomads for those of other nationalities.

Read More : Ultimate Guide to Cuba’s Travel Insurance Requirements

Our Most Popular Cuba Guides

How to Legally Travel to Cuba from the United States (It’s Easy!)
Ultimate Guide to Havana, Cuba
Ultimate Guide to Varadero Beach, Cuba
How to Get the Tourist Visa to Cuba
Cuba’s Required Travel Insurance: What You Need and How to Get It

Weather in Cuba

A tropical country, Cuba has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season . The heat will generally dip slightly in the winter months (November through April) , but not much.

While the dry season generally attracts more tourists, the weather is perfect for a visit. May is a good time to visit as well, with the weather still nice and fewer tourists.

Dry Season: November – April

Wet Season: May – October

Don’t forget, Cuba occasionally experiences hurricanes . Peak hurricane season is from mid-August through mid-October.

Peak Tourist Season

Peak tourist season in Cuba lasts from early December through the end of March. Peak tourist season generally starts with a huge spike around the holiday season , when many Cubans living abroad come home to visit family.

Visiting around Christmas and New Year is when I’ve seen the greatest price increase in the price of flights and accommodations across the island – try to avoid these weeks if you can.

Best Things to Do in Cuba

Visit havana.

The craziest and most beautiful city in the world in our most humble opinion, Havana is like no other place on the planet.

Many say it’s stuck in the 1950s, but they couldn’t be more wrong – Havana holds on to its history beautifully while moving forward in a wholly modern way that will leave you enchanted.

Some of the best things to do in the city include exploring Old Havana , taking in the view over the city at the Cristo de la Habana , and ending the night with a drink and a show at the Fábrica de Arte Cubano .

Planning A Trip to Havana?

Check out our travel guides for insider information:

Ultimate Travel Guide to Havana, Cuba
Where to Stay in Havana
The Best Airbnbs and Casa Particular Rentals in Old Havana
The Best Airbnbs and Casa Particular Rentals in Vedado
The Best Cafes in Havana and The Best Brunch in Havana

Visit Cuba’s Beaches

Cuba is known for having some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Not only that, but many of them are as close to virgin, untouched beaches as you can still find in the Caribbean, which makes for an unmatched experience.

Check out our guide to the Top 10 Best Cuban Beaches to help you choose which to add to your itinerary.

The Beaches of Holguin

The province of Holguin is home to some of Cuba’s best beaches – Guardalavaca, Playa Pesquero, and Playa Esmeralda. Check out our ultimate guide to Holguin, Cuba for more details.

Varadero is the best-known beach in Cuba due to its proximity to Havana – it’s the perfect getaway from Havana for those looking to spend time in both the city and at the beach. If you’re picturing crystal clear waters and white sand , you’re thinking of Varadero.

While Varadero has a built-up infrastructure so you’ll have everything you’d want at your fingertips, there are also areas of Varadero where you can still get a slice of the beach all to yourself.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Varadero, Cuba

Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo

This incredible pair of ‘cayos’ aka ‘keys’ located on the north shore of Cuba are served by their own international airport and have about a dozen large international hotel chains between them.

They’re some of the most underrated islands in the Caribbean .

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive beach experience, I recommend checking out these two keys and some of the incredible hotels they have to offer. The beaches here are truly pristine – some of the best beaches in Cuba .

Playa Ancón – Trinidad, Cuba

Playa Ancon is known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the southern part of the island, and is close to Trinidad, Cuba , an absolute colonial gem of a city that will take your breath away.

If you’re looking to get outside of Havana and Varadero track, which most travelers visit, we definitely recommend considering Trinidad and Playa Ancon!

Ride in A Classic American Car

The cars in Cuba are absolutely enchanting. While they’ve been kept on the road mostly out of necessity, it makes for a car-lover’s dream to see city streets packed with them.

A ride in a vintage convertible along Havana’s famous Malecón sea wall is a must while in Cuba.

Visit A Tobacco Farm in Viñales

Get up close and personal with one of Cuba’s most famous exports in Viñales , at the heart of the best tobacco-growing region in the country.

Here you can travel by horseback to beautiful tobacco farms where you’ll learn about how tobacco is grown, dried, and formed into world-famous cigars.

Viñales is also one of the most beautiful places in Cuba – this stunning valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Center . It’s an unforgettable way to see a stunning area of the country while this excursion!

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our Ultimate Cuba Packing List to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

Learn About the Cuban Revolution

Cuba is so much more than the Cuban Revolution! The evidence of the revolution is everywhere, certainly, but there is so much more you’ll see and learn here as you meet the people, try the food, and see the art here in Cuba.

Make sure to visit these sites if you’re interested in learning more about the Cuban Revolution:

Plaza de la Revolución in Havana
Comandancia de la Plata in the Sierra Maestra mountains , the mountain base where Fidel and his band of revolutionaries launched their attacks
Museo de la Revolución , a former presidential palace converted into the Museum of the Revolution in Havana. You’ll find American tanks captured in the attack on the Bay of Pigs behind the museum.

Learning more about the Revolution can be absolutely fascinating for visitors, and a great way to understand more of what you’re seeing and experiencing.

Make sure to check out this free walking tour in Havana focused on the Revolution as a fantastic way to learn more about what you’ll see in Cuba!

Want to learn more?

We made a list of a few books to read and movies to watch to inspire your travel and help you learn more about Cuba, past and present. Check them out before you go to learn more about the Cuban Revolution and much more.

Books to Read Before You Travel to Cuba
Movies to Watch Before You Travel to Cuba

Top Activities in Cuba

This list doesn’t even scratch the surface of what Cuba has to offer.

Make sure to check out our complete guide to the best travel experiences and activities in Cuba – totally travel-restriction compliant for travelers from the United States!

Where To Stay in Cuba

Casa particularles.

Casas Particulares – or, guest houses – are a fantastic option for staying in Cuba. You can find an amazing selection of rentals of all kinds, from luxury beach houses to staying with a family in a spare bedroom or renting a simple city apartment.

Not only do rentals usually get you a lot more for your money, but you’re supporting small business in Cuba and you’ll get a much richer cultural experience.

We’ve always had the best luck searching with, ironically, Hotels.com .

Despite their name, Hotels.com actually has a great selection of guest houses, private apartments, and Airbnbs for rent – with the best selection for Cuba!

Casa Particular Guides:

Best Casas Particulares in Old Havana
Best Casas Particulares in Vedado, Havana
Best Casas Particulares in Viñales, Cuba
Best Casas Particulares in Holguin, Cuba

Airbnb is one of the most popular platforms for finding rentals, but plenty of others exist as well and many people rent their listings across multiple platforms.

While we always recommend staying in a casa particular over a hotel, there are more and more amazing options in Cuba these days.

There are several new luxury hotels in Havana and in Cuba’s beach towns, but I recommend the boutique hotels like this one which can be just as luxurious and offer a more personalized stay.

All-Inclusive Resorts

There are many all inclusive resorts in Cuba, especially from companies like Iberostar and Melia , and they’re especially lovely ones located in Varadero and the Cayos – the Keys – on the northern coast of Cuba.

Cuba Accommodation Guides

Where to Stay in Viñales, Cuba
Where to Stay in Holguin, Cuba

Cuba can be a tough place to pack for – you’ll probably be combining time in the city, on the beach, or in the countryside.

Plus, there are a lot of things you just WON’T be able to find in Cuba no matter how hard you look, meaning you need to plan ahead!

We created an ultimate packing list for Cuba – so make sure to click through to this list to see all of our recommendations for packing (for men and women), plus important travel essentials!

Cuba Travel Essentials

CASH – if you’re a U.S. citizen, you won’t have access to debit or credit cards while in Cuba . Check out our guide to traveling with cash in Cuba for more details.
SteriPen – purify water from any source so you won’t get sick!
Water Bottle (with water filter!)
S-Biner locks for backpacks and purses while out and about
Luggage locks
Comfortable and lightweight basics – I love Los Angeles Apparel clothes for travel, especially to Cuba. These high-quality basics are perfect for layering, and mixing and matching for traveling light (PLUS they’re ethically produced in the United States).
Go Toobs are the BEST for bringing toiletries.
Make a mini first-aid kit with a few bandaids, aspirin, triple antibiotic, and alka seltzer just in case!
Reef-safe sunscreen
Light clothing that will keep you cool in the sun
Comfortable shoes – get ready for a lot of cobblestones and uneven sidewalks
Feminine Hygiene Products- I have NEVER been able to find tampons in Cuba – and the period products I have had to purchase there are incomparably bad. Absolutely come prepared, ladies!
A electrical plug adapter and converter
A tablet (we love the Amazon Fire !) pre-download some audiobooks and any TV shows or movies you’ll want to watch while you’re in Cuba… internet speeds in Cuba will make downloads slower than you’re used to or impossible.
A spare memory card for your camera – also something that can be extremely challenging to find in Cuba!
NordVPN or another Virtual Private Network service . Not a physical product, but something you shouldn’t travel without! Check out our guide to using a VPN in Cuba , and our guide to using a VPN for international travel .

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Havana Cuba Travel Guide: +50 Best Things to do in 2023

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: January 31, 2023

Categories Best Things to Do , City Guides , Cuba , Travel Blog Post

Ahh, Havana Cuba – the communist city frozen in time.

People say ‘visit Havana before its too late!’ and now I know what they mean. Cuba is probably the closest you’ll get to traveling back in time.

It certainly is a place to visit ‘before its too late’ and the 1950 movie ambience is gone forever. Imagine Spanish architecture (crumbling), vintage American 1950s cars, delicious mojitos and salsa… that’s Havana Cuba.

A few years ago, when we were doing a cruise to the Dominican Republic , Cuba had just been reopened for American tourism and people were dying to get in.

It was very expensive back then ($5,000 for a cruise to Cuba vs the $299 on a cruise to the DR). Despite the fact we too were dying to go, we simply couldn’t justify the expense to Cuba.

Luckily, it is still not too late to visit and there are now many cheap flights from international terminals including Miami and Cancun. The time has never been better to visit this incredible country!

We traveled from Cancun to Cuba which only set us back around 100 USD a ticket – bar-gain !

For a relatively small island country, we were amazed by how many amazing things there to do in Havana from meandering through the picturesque streets, going for a ride in a classic car, visiting the countryside to dancing the night away in one of Hemingway’s many drinking holes.

This guide contains affiliate links. If you find some of the information helpful, we would appreciate you using the links to book hotels, cars and attractions. There is no extra cost to you but we get paid a small commission.

50 Best Things To Do In Havana Cuba (2022)

After 5 years of full time travel, there are not many cities in the world anymore that blow our mind upon entering.

Well, Havana absolutely blew our mind.

For this reason, we wanted to put together a guide of the best things to do in Havana to inspire you to visit and to help plan your next trip! There are so many things we learnt in during our trip to Havana, it really is a very interesting place both visually and politically.

Let’s start with visually. If you love photography, you will simply adore Havana.

There is something interesting happening on virtually every street corner – from middle age ladies sipping tea outside a crumbling mansion to kids playing soccer on the bustling streets – there is seriously never a dull moment in Cuba.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Havana is perfect. Remember, you have just time traveled to the 1950s. Internet was not invented in the 1950s.

So, if you are a budding digital nomad or have come to spend countless hours on your computer – TURN BACK NOW!!! Don’t say we never do anything for you 😉

If, however, you have come to disconnect for a while from the modern world and want a break from endless work emails in a “world that is filled with imagination”, as Willy Wonka said, you will love Cuba. So keep reading for the 50 best things to do in Havana Cuba – a city unlike any other.

Don’t pack your bags to Cuba without first reading our Cuba Packing List .

Visit the Old Town of Havana

The Old Town of Havana is hard to miss and will probably be the first thing you do when getting into the city of Havana.

One of the best ways to explore the Old Town of Havana and to learn a lot about it is to do a tour with a local .

The Old Town of Havana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so it is definitely the #1 thing to do in Havana.

If you only do 1 thing in Cuba, don’t miss this!

If you are coming from a cruise ship, they dock right in the Old Town of Havana. Yes, if you don’t choose to fly into Havana coming by cruise is also a great way to visit for a day, although we would highly recommend spending at least a few days in Havana if you have the time.

The most beautiful and unmissable area of the Old Town of Havana is the area of Havana Vieja , a picturesque part of the city with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings and quaint alleyways.

This part of the city first took root in 1519 and drew the rich and famous to the area including the likes of famous writer Hemingway to Cuba in the 1940s.

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-vintage-cars

Since Communists took hold after the Second World War, many of the wealthy fled north to the United States abandoning their extravagant homes and leaving these mini-mansions to fall into ruin.

Today, the Old Town of Havana is a mixture of restored homes and un-renovated former mansions, half crumbling to the ground.

As little has been done to the area since the Cuban Revolution and the US stopped trade to the area, the city is frozen in time with hotels left in almost the exact state they would have been in the 1950s, old vintage cars filling the streets and of course no modern conveniences like McDonalds, Starbucks and very little wifi.

You could seriously spend hours meandering the streets of Havana Vieja and never get bored. If you are looking for a souvenir from Cuba, this is a great place to go as there is a souvenir shop on the corner of virtually every street.

In the middle of Havana Vieja you will find Parque Central where you can get a vintage car tour or a horse and cart draw tour of the city.

Note: The Old Town of Havana is very safe and you will have no problem wandering the streets as a solo female traveler. However, you will be stopped continuously as you walk the streets with someone trying to sell you something. Don’t be alarmed, they are mostly harmless.

Explore Plaza Vieja

Within Havana Vieja is a awesome 16th century plaza in Havana known as Plaza Vieja.

It is one of the prettiest squares in the city with a fountain which is surrounding by colourful houses – a truley picturesque square that it not to be missed in the Old Town of Havana.

Plaza De San Francicso

It is amazing how many beautiful squares and churches there are to discover in downtown Havana.

The Plaza De San Francicso features a beautiful 18th century basilica church , the old Havana stock exchange and a statue of José María López Lledín, also known as The Gentleman From Paris.

Admire El Morro Castle

Across the bay from Havana Vieja, you will notice a rather impressive fort and lighthouse known as El Morro Castle or “Castillo del Morro”.

It was built as a fortress in 1589 to protect Havana Bay from pirates. The fortress – thought to be invincible – was captured by the British in 1762.

Inside is a museum where you can learn all the history of Cuba. There is also a small shop where you can purchase cigars and coffee.

It costs $8 CUC per person for entry and will cost you around $10 CUC for a taxi from the city centre to get there. As it is located across the bay, you take an underground tunnel to access it.

Note: taxis all require negotiation in Cuba so never accept the first price they propose or you will likely be ripped off!

Go for a Ride in a Vintage Car

One of the things I was most excited to do when visiting Cuba was to go for a ride in a vintage car. I mean, it is not every day that you get to ride around, wind flying through your hair with no seatbelts, feeling like Marilyn Monroe.

If you want to go for a ride in a vintage car in Havana there are three main ways to do it.

Go for a mini Havana Tour

If you want to go for a ride in a shiny pink (or whatever color takes your fancy really) 1950s American convertible, you will need to go on a 1 or 2 hour tour of the city, where the guide will show you the highlights of Havana.

This is really fun and a great opportunity to take gorgeous photos. If you wish to do this, you will need to put on your best bartering shoes.

The ‘official price’ for a 1 hour tour is 80 CUC. The driver will show you a piece of paper showing you this and immediately follow it up with “But I will do a better price for you!!”. Usually, at this point they will come down to 40 – 50 CUC.

You can negotiate further from there. We snagged a 1 hour tour for 30 CUC which IMO is a bit of a bargain. See how well your bartering goes and let us know in the comments below if you get a better rate than us (I will low key be hella jealous).

The great part about doing one of these, aside from the fabulous photo opportunities, is the opportunity to speak to a local about their life in Cuba.

We learnt some very interesting things about Cuba through talking to locals in these vintage cars.

For example, if you think Cuba is out of communism, think again. If you own a business in Cuba, you have to pay a *very* hefty ‘tax’.

As an example, when Communism came into Cuba, owners of the tobacco fields were required to sign over 90% of the profits to the government or lose the right to their farms altogether.

Of course Communism has some benefits such as free education, free or almost free housing and very good medical facilities (surprisingly, Cuba has some of the best medical facilities in the world!). From what we learnt these benefits come with a price tag however.

For example, sure, you can receive free university in Cuba but it requires you to give back 3 years to the government after your degree on minimum wage.

Oh, and the vintage taxis you see? They are also owned by the government.

I still don’t fully understand the ins and outs of living in communism but taking a tour with the locals definitely gave me a better understanding of a very complicated system.

Go for a ride in a collectivo taxi

The vintage cars which are not convertibles and usually look a little older and a little less shiny (but still very cool and fun nonetheless!!) for a lot less than the Havana tours offered in the very well maintained shiny convertible cars.

These often aren’t government owned cars and are privately passed down generations. Due to the import ban from the US, new cars have only just started to make their way into Cuba. This is largely the reason why people say ‘the time to visit Cuba is now’ before the ambience is spoiled by new and modern importations to Cuba.

Like most things in Havana, you will need to negotiate for a fair price. To give you an idea of price, we got from the city to the Cuban Art Factory (15 minutes drive away) for 8 CUC with a little negotiating. We got a ride to the airport for 20 CUC.

They are called collectivo taxis as often they are shared with other passengers. As we were 4, this never happened to us.

We also took a day trip out to the country town of Vinales in a vintage taxi for 130 CUC (the driver drove us to all the sites and waited for us for the entire day).

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-vintage-cars-collectivo-taxi

Buy a Tour before you go

If you don’t want to have the hassle of bartering with the locals and want to guarantee you get an English speaking Cuban guide, we would advise booking a vintage car tour in advance before you arrive in Cuba.

It is necessary to pre-plan a lot of your activities in Cuba before you go as there is very little wifi so pre organising your activities in advance will be an absolute godsend.

We would recommend this highly rated car tour:

2 Hour Classic Havana Car Tour

We would recommend bringing with you a copy of the Lonely Guide to Cuba with you to Cuba unless you are very organised and manage to plan every restaurant and activity in advance.

Be Amazed at the Tropicana Show

One of the most famous and iconic things to do in Havana is to visit the world famous Tropicana cabaret show.

A tropical version of the Moulin Rouge in Paris, the show is full of dancing with feathers, flitter and glamour galore.

The Tropicana show was one of the favourite activities of Havana’s wealthy in the 1940s who were dazzled by the enchanted Cuban nights where a unreal world of exotic splendor came alive in a exuberant garden

The show will possibly one of the more expensive activities you do in Havana, as the tickets cost $80+ a person for show only with dinner and a show costing $100 + a person for the evening. If you like all things razzle dazzle, it is an unmissable attraction in Havana.

Source: Flickr

Or See a more Alternative Dinner + Show

If you want to see an alternative show, we would recommend the Buena Vista Social Club . It is a similar to the Tropicana show but only costs 30 CUC without dinner.

The Hotel Nacional also offers a smaller Tropicana type show performed in a old theatre outside of the Hotel. A great option especially if you decide to stay at the Hotel.

Go for a stroll along the Malecon

One of the most popular things to do for locals in Havana is to take a sunset walk along the Malecon, a stone wall that places the city of Havana on one side and the ocean on the other.

The Malecon covers 5 miles from the city centre of Havana to the area of Miramar.

If you have seen a picture of Havana it is likely to be of the Malecon, one of the most photographed areas of the city.

On a windy day, you will have to dash and duck along the boardwalk to avoid getting absolutely soaked by a massive wave, but it is all part of the fun!

Along the Malecon, you will get a great view of Castillo del Morro so if you don’t plan on going over to the fort, the Malecon is a great place to spot it in the distance.

You can also admire some of Havana’s best architecture from the Malecon including the most famous hotel in Havana, Hotel Nacional.

Watch the world roll by at Hotel Nacional

If you prefer a slower pace to life, stop by Hotel Nacional the most famous hotel in Havana for a mojito overlooking the Havana seaside and Malecon.

We were seriously impressed with how beautiful Hotel Nacional was. Built in the 1930s and forever stuck in time, this hotel has some serious glam (it also has live peacocks freely walking around the premises) .

If you can afford to stay here for a few nights we would highly recommend it.

If you do you will be joining the list of some very famous guests including Frank Sinatra and Winston Churchill. You can even stayed in the exact rooms they stayed in!

Even if you choose not to stay at the hotel, it is still worthwhile to make a stop here and enjoy a drink with a fabulous view of Havana.

Hotel Nacional is also home to one of the best cigar shops in the city known as La Casa del Habano so it is a good opportunity to pick up a cigar or two.

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-hotel-things-to-do-in-havana-cuba-hotel-Nacional

Explore the Cuban Missile Crisis Tunnels

While you are at Hotel Nacional, go for a walk in the lawn overlooking the Malecon and you will find the Cuban Missile Crisis Tunnels and Cannons.

These tunnels and cannons were set up to defend Cuba from the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Luckily, nothing eventuated but it is still very interesting to see the tunnels and missiles that were set up and aimed at the US in anticipation of a war.

These tunnels provide a better insight into the past tension between the 2 nations and the US trade embargo against Cuba .

Inside the tunnels there are posters with information about the Cuban Missile Crisis and if you are particularly interested you can even take a guided tour through the tunnels. Just go to the tunnels and wait, tours go every 10-20 minutes.

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-Cuban-Missile-Crisis Tunnels

Drink at Hemingways Favourite Spots

Like Key West , Havana was one of Hemingways favourite places. He even had a home just outside Havana which you can visit!

If you are particularly interested in Hemingway, we would suggest taking a guided tour following the footsteps of Hemingway .

Or, you can go on a self guided drinking tour of some of his favourite bars and restaurants, detailed below:

El Floridita – Hemingways Daiquiri Spot

El Floridita is perhaps the most famous of Hemingways watering holes in Havana located in Havana Vieja.

Due to how often he frequented the bar, there is now a statue of him permanently sitting at the bat at El Floridita.

Hemingway is said to have liked the Daiquiri the best here, he claims it is the “best Daiquiri in the world” in fact so be like Hemingway and enjoy a daiquiri at El Floridita.

During the day there is no cover to enter although each drink is a little on the expensive side for Havana and will set you back around 6 CUC. Hey, no-one said Hemingway was cheap!

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-floridita-hemingway

Dos Hermanos

We passed this bar by chance and decided to go in knowing it was another favourite spot of Hemingways.

If you would like a cheaper, less touristic Hemingway bar, this would be our pick as prices were very reasonable with each cocktail only costing around 4 CUC. We did notice the waiter try to overcharge the people sitting behind us at the bar so closely watch your bill!

When we visited there was also live music playing which was a really neat touch.

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-Dos-Hermanos

La Bodeguita – Hemingways Mojito Spot

Just off one of the most stunning squares in Havana, Plaza del a Cathedral, you will find another of Hemingways favourite watering holes, La Bodeguita.

It is said that this is Hemingways favourite mojito spot in the city. There is often live music here too. It gets very crowded due to its prime location in the city.

things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-La-Bodeguita-hemingway

Sloppy Joes

We went to Sloppy Joes for dinner and drinks one evening and subsequently found out that it is another of Hemingway’s favourite spots!

The food and drink were okay but the decor and ambience inside were pretty special.

If you go, we would recommend trying the signature Sloppy Joe burger, it is the best thing on the menu without doubt.

Visit Hemingways House – Finca Vigia

If you are obsessed with all things Hemingway, in addition to visiting all his favourite drinking spots, you can visit the house he lived in, just outside of Havana.

In this house, he wrote some of his best known novels including the Old Man and the Sea.

As it is located outside the downtown area, you will need a taxi or tour if you would like to visit.

Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

If you love art, don’t miss a visit to the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes while in Havana.

The art collection it holds is very interesting as many pieces of art on exhibit at the museum date back to 500 AC.

Visit a Picturesque Beach Near Havana

As we just came from Cancun in Mexico , we were a little ‘beached out’ so we preferred to spend our time in the city and in the countryside.

If you do want to visit a gorgeous beach however, there are some great ones just near Havana Cuba.

The closest beach to Havana is Santa María del Mar, only a 30 minute car ride away.

The downside to this beach is that being the closest beach to Havana it is the most crowded. The upside is that it is by far the most affordable to access.

There are 2 options to access Santa María del Mar. The first is a taxi which costs around 20 CUC each way (barter!). The second option is to take the public bus which costs only 5 CUC a ticket roundtrip.

If you want to take the public bus option, the Blue T3 Transtur air conditioned bus departs every 40 minutes from Parque Central.

At the beach, there are numerous places to eat and drink and beach chairs and umbrellas cost around 2 CUC.

Another popular beach near Havana is Playa Este. You can negotiate a ride or book a pre-organised tour to this beach.

Admire El Capitolio

In my opinion, the most beautiful and impressive building in Havana is the large Capitol building in the city centre known as El Capitolio.

It looks remarkably like US Capitol in Washington DC because the building was based on it. Despite its impressive size, our taxi driver in Havana told us the building only took 10 years to build back in the 1920s.

If you like great photos of your travels, this is one of our favourite spots in the city for photography.

You can also get a 45 minute tour inside the building for 10 CUC which can be purchased at the kiosk on the left side of the grand staircase.

See Havana’s Chinatown

I don’t exactly know why but I didn’t quite expect Cuba to have a Chinatown.

The architecture juxtaposes the rest of Havana and its interesting to see.

If you are feeling like a Chinese meal or are just curious to see keep walking onward down Dragones from the El Capitolio building.

Take a stroll with the locals at Paseo Del Prado

During late afternoons and evenings in Havana we often were found meandering along the Paseo Del Prado, looking for a taxi.

This walk which stretches from the Malecon to Parque Central was particularly interesting to see as it is a local hotspot where locals can be found relaxing, playing soccer or listening to some reggae music.

Listen to Live Music or Go Salsa Dancing

One of the parts we liked most about Havana was the fact that live music was played in almost every bar we visited in the city.

If you prefer piano, visit Hotel Plaza for a drink which has IMO the best wifi in the city at their piano bar. When the pianist was playing one evening, a guest staying at the hotel joined him to sing some opera. She must have been a professional opera singer as she was seriously impressive.

If you would like to try your hand at Salsa, the Cuban Art Factory offers Salsa lessons nightly. It is only 2 CUC to enter the Cuban Art Factory which we would recommend visiting even if you don’t enjoy salsa.

Another good option is Casa de la Musica in Miramar, a very local joint where you can go to dance salsa with the locals.

Note: If you do see locals playing music at one of the bars in Cuba, they are doing so for a tip or to sell their CDs so don’t be surprised if they bring their tip hat around after the performance.

Learn Spanish at the Havana University

If you are staying in Havana for a little longer, you can get some very affordable Spanish lessons

It costs 100 CUC for a week (half day classes) for Spanish classes or 300 CUC for a month. A Canadian lady we met in Havana highly recommended it.

If you have less than a week, the locals were more than willing to speak Spanish with you as mostly their English is quite poor.

It is advisable to have a few basic Spanish phrases up your sleeve before visiting Havana so you can at least get by while you are there.

See the Cannons Fire at 9pm

Each night in Havana since the 18 th century, a cannon is fired from Morro Cabana at 9pm sharp.

Seeing the cannons fire is one of the best free things to do in Havana. If you want to see the full spectacle, get there early as there is a little presentation beforehand with artillery cadets and a drumroll

You always know it is 9pm in the city of Havana as you can hear the cannons go off just about anywhere you are in the city.

Visit Havana’s Christ The Redeemer

Interestingly, and rather unexpectedly to us, Havana has its own Christ the Redeemer constructed of Italian marble sitting on the hillside overlooking the city.

We did not visit the monument but we saw the 20 meters (66 ft) high statue overlooking the city from Havana Old Town.

If you would like to visit the statue can be visited by tax or ferry only 1 CUC pp. We read the ferry driver does not offer change so make sure you have the correct money with you.

See the Headquarters of Che Guevera

If you visit Christ the Redeemer, we would recommend also checking out the headquarters of Che Guevera which is now a dedicated musuem of the life and history of Che with many of his personal photos and possessions.

It costs 6 CUC to enter the musuem and learn more about the life of the iconic freedom leader.

Go for a trip to Vinales

If you want to see the beautiful Cuban countryside while in Havana, we would suggest a day trip out to the stunning countryside of Vinales, a 2-3 hour drive outside of Havana.

Vinales is probably the most popular day trip from Havana due to the amazing countryside filled with tobacco fields and caves.

Why is it called Vinales? Well, it first started as a winery area however, it did not produce great tasting wine. Subsequently, tobacco started being produced in the area which is still the main crop grown in the area today.

One of the best things to do in Vinales is to visit a tobacco farm where you can see the tobacco crop and receive a demonstration as to how to roll a cigar.

If you would like to purchase cigars while in Cuba, this is the best place and cheapest place to purchase good quality cigars in Cuba (4 CUC). We would highly advise against buying cigars from street vendors while in Havana as the cigars are often poor quality.

It is far better to go out to a tobacco farm in Vinales or purchase cigars from one of the official cigar shops in town (our recommendation below)

Aside from tobacco fields in Vinales, there is a lot of other interesting things to do in the quaint countryside town including going for a horse ride and exploring caves where slaves hid from the Spanish in fear of their lives.

As there is quite a lot of great things to do in Vinales, if you have the time, it is advisable to spend a few nights there to soak up the countryside air and get a great feel for the place.

If you choose to spend a few nights in Vinales, it is possible to get a public bus, otherwise, it is best to take a 1 day tour of the town.

If you don’t want the hassle of haggling for a fair price, we would recommend booking this day tour to Vinales in advance.

Otherwise, see our guide of how to travel from Havana to Vinales DIY style.

best-things-to-do-in-Havana-cuba-day-trip-to-vinales

Visit a Cigar Factory in Havana – Partagrás

If you are not making a day trip to Vinales, we would suggest visiting the best cigar shop in downtown Havana known as Partagrás.

Seeing how a cigar is made is a really interesting process and Partagrás, one of the oldest cigar factories in Havans, is one of the few places in Havana city that you can see it.

If you want to buy cigars we would highly recommend purchasing them within this store and not with the street merchants claiming to have the same products outside. These most likely are cheap knock offs and nowhere near the same calibre of cigar.

Take a trip to El Bosque De La Habana

If you don’t want to spend the time to get out to Vinales but want to feel the fresh smell of the countryside rushing through your lungs, we would recommend a trip to Havana’s Green Forest, El Bosque De La Habana.

As it is only a 20-30 minute car ride outside of downtown Havana, it is possible to get a vintage car ride there. If you choose to take the longer vintage car Havana tour (2 hour) it is likely that they will pass through the El Bosque De La Habana.

The Green Forest of Havana is home to some stunning 300 year old banyan trees and the Almendares River.

Visit a Craft Market to Buy Interesting Souvenirs

In downtown Havana you will find many craft markets to find interesting souvenirs to take home with you.

There are a tonne of souvenir shops in downtown Havana but the best deals tend to be found at the markets.

We bought a few little souvenirs at bargain prices in the markets in Havana. Like most things in Cuba, be aware that you will likely have to negotiate to get a fair price.

We also enjoyed looking through a book market in downtown Havana. Most of the books are in Spanish however, they had a lot of interesting vintage posters, photographs and jewellery for sale too!

Eat Locally at a Paladar

In addition to the government run restaurants, the government of Cuba has allowed residents to run local restaurants out of their homes.

In these restaurants, known as Paladars, you can find some of the very best food in Cuba.

Paladars in Cuba often serve the Cuban specialty dish of Ropa Vieja which includes a tomato stew base with shredded beef, vegetables and rice with beans.

It is no secret that restaurants in Havana can be a little hit and miss so it is important to research the best restaurants in town in advance.

Some of the best paladars in Havana include Paladar Doña Eutimia and Paladar Café Laurent.

Paladars can range from very cheap to very exclusive places to eat depending on where you choose to go.

Stay at a Casa Particular

In a similar fashion to Paladars, the Cuban government have let local residents open their homes to visitors.

Basically, there are two choices of accommodation in Cuba. To stay at a government run hotel or in a Casa particular (local house).

Casa particular often include or for a small extra optional fee (around 5 CUC pp) a deliciously local cooked meal in the morning for breakfast.

Casa particulars can be basic or a more luxury experience, depending on the current State of the renovation of the home.

Despite most Cubans being relatively poor, accommodation in Cuba is not cheap as there are hefty taxes that residents are required to pay to the government to run their business (hello Communism!)

Expect to pay 50 – 100 CUC per night for a private, renovated Casa particular close to the Old town of Havana.

One thing we will note is that staying in a Casa particular did not prove to be the same private experience as elsewhere in the world, despite the fact we rented our own apartment.

Our host let herself in numerous times during our stay without warning which we weren’t particularly happy about as we didn’t have the forewarning to close our suitcases.

If you are worried about privacy, we would suggest booking a hotel instead or at least have the forewarning we didn’t to shut your suitcase while you go out for the day.

The other thing to note about Casa Particulars is that 1. Water may turn off randomly without notice and 2. There probably won’t be wifi.

We stayed at 2 Casa Particulars during our time in Havana and water turned off at some point during both stays. This is not the hosts fault per say but just a quirk of traveling to Cuba.

The other thing is wifi. Some Casa Particulars do state that they include wifi but in reality it will be slower than dial up speed. The only way to get decent wifi, short of being getting an expensive 4G sim card for your mobile, is to buy a wifi card and to use it at one of the hotels in Havana.

IMO, it is not worthwhile to pay more for a Casa Particular with wifi as the service will be virtually non existent. Don’t fall for it!

The clean and comfortable Casa Particular we stayed in

Get a great view of Havana

There are a few great places in Havana to get a fabulous panoramic view of the city.

One of the best places to get a view of the city is from the Gomez Vila building in the Old Town of Havana. It only costs a few CUC to access the panoramic view of Havana from the roof of the building.

Another great option is Hotel Ambos Mundos. The hotel itself is really cool and worth a visit. To access the rooftop and receive a epic view of Havana city right over the bay to Morro Cabaña you to use a vintage 1950s elevator with an operator, as would have been seen in the old days.

Hotel Ambos Mundos is free to access but you are required to buy a reasonably priced drink at the rooftop bar. We hoped to get wifi here being a hotel in Havana central but had no luck.

Hotel Kempinski is another great spot to snag an awesome view of Havana including the Capitol Building. What makes this hotel special is the fact that in addition to the lovely view it boasts a gorgeous infinity rooftop pool.

View from Hotel Ambos Mundos

Take a trip to the Fishing Village of Jaimanitas

If you have a little more time in Havana, you could always make a trip out to the Fishing Village of Jaimanitas, only a 25 minute car ride away.

What makes this village special is the mosaic artwork by artist Jose Fuster in the village known as Fusterlandia .

What is cool is that in somewhat similar fashion to Guatape in Colombia , the artwork is weaved into the neighbourhood. Interestingly, the homeowners of the village have allowed Fuster decorate their homes into amazing pieces of art.

Admire the Mansions of Vedado

We were staying in Vedado in a casa particular so each day as we left our apartment we got to see the incredible Mansions of Vedado.

Even if you are not staying in the area, we would highly recommend a trip out to Vedado to admire the huge, luxury albeit now run down mansions in the area. The area of Vedado really highlights how wealthy Havana once was. The architecture of the buildings is simply amazing.

Since the revolution, when the wealthy of the US fled Cuba, these mansions were left abandoned and are now somewhat rundown. These days multiple families live in the insane Mansions of Vedado.

A taxi driver told us that while he is one of the few Cubans who owns a property in Cuba (his Grandmother worked long and hard for the government and was gifted a property). Most Cubans do not own property and live, based on Communism, rent or virtually rent free. He informed us that it costs around 2 CUC a month for rent in Havana if you don’t own a house.

While you are checking out the mansions of Vedado make a stop at Cafeteria Pilon for some seriously delicious Guava Milkshakes.

Cafeteria Pilon

Visit a Jazz Club

If you like jazz, you will love Havana’s jazz club scene.

While you are in Vedado, why not stop in at one of the best jazz clubs in Havana La Zorra y el Cuerro.

Entry is 10 CUC. Outside you can find various snacks to buy including popcorn and sandwiches.

See Cuban Fashion at La Maison

If you are staying in the Vedado area and are interested in fashion, you might also like to visit one of the nightly fashion shows at La Maison.

Visit the Fabrica De Arte Cubano

One of our favourite things to do in Havana, and a hidden gem IMO, was our night time visit to the Fabrica De Arte Cubano.

It has been rated as one of the 100 greatest places of 2019by Time Magazine and we can understand why – this place seriously has pizzazz.

As the Fabrica De Arte Cubano only opens from 8pm at night (Thurs – Sun) we almost missed visiting this attraction after being totally exhausted sightseeing at the end of each day but are really glad we dragged ourselves out, half dead in the evening.

Fabrica De Arte Cubano was founded by famous Cuban musician X-Alfonso in an old warehouse converted into a maze of art, music, performances and salsa.

There are numerous bars throughout the facility and 1 restaurant (meals cost around 15 CUC). Don’t leave without trying one of the delicious frozen mojitos, they only cost 2.50 CUC and are the best mojito I tried in Cuba.

It costs 2 CUC no matter the day of week you visit. If you pay any more than this, it is possibly a scam, as written on the door.

You will have to put your bartering shoes on after leaving Fabrica De Arte Cubano as taxi drivers outside the facility will try to charge you a pretty penny to get home late at night.

We managed to negotiate 8 CUC to our casa particular just outside Havana downtown.

Marvel at the Plaza De La Revolucion

One of the most iconic places in Havana and one of the best things to do is to visit the Plaza De La Revolucion.

You will feel absolutely tiny in one of the largest public squares in the world where Fidel Castro made many of his famous speeches.

Here you will find government buildings including the iconic building artwork of revolution hero, Che Guevara.

The Plaza De La Revolucion is not within walking distance of the old town of Havana so you will need transportation to get there.

We visited during our vintage car tour. Alternatively, you can get there in a normal taxi or on the hop on, hop off bus in Havana as detailed below.

things-to-do-in-havana-Plaza-De-La-Revolucion

Admire La Cathedral De San Cristobal

On our very last morning in Havana we walked into the Plaza La Cathedral De San Cristobal and could not believe we almost missed this stunning gem while in Havana!

This plaza and cathedral is one of the best preserved spots in Havana, you will feel as if you are walking around somewhere in Europe within this square.

In the square you will find interesting things to discover including the Museo de Arte Colonial.

Go for a ride on a pedicab or a cocotaxi

One of the quirky and fun things about Havana is the ability to take such a wide array of different transportation in the city.

Two of the popular cheaper options than a taxi to get around are a pedidab (a bike with two seats mounted to the back) and a cocotaxi, a modified scooter which can fit 3 passengers.

Jump on the Hop on Hop Off Bus

The Hop on Hop Off Bus is one of the most affordable ways to see all the best things to do in Havana.

We read online that it costs only 5 CUC a ticket. Sadly, this is incorrect information and the current ticket pricing of the bus is now 10 CUC a ticket.

If you are not planning to take a vintage car tour, the Hop on Hop Off Bus is a good alternative as it takes you to all the best spots in the city including further our attractions such as the Plaza De La Revolucion where you will need a taxi or tour to access.

Get Instagram Photos at La Guarida Restaurant

If you are interested in visiting an absolutely stunning, albeit a little pricey, instagrammable restaurant in Havana, don’t miss La Guarida Restaurant.

The best place to get your insta pics in on the beautiful grand staircase of the building.

Revolution Museum

If you are interested in the Cuban Revolution, be sure to stop by the Revolution Museum while in Havana.

The museum is one of the many interesting things to do within the downtown Havana area.

One of the parts that interested us the most was the tanks and military equipment used during the revolution.

Inside is also an interesting place to visit. Bullet holes from the attempted assassination of President Fulgencio Batista can still be seen in the central staircase of the building.

things-to-do-in-Havana-Cuban-Revolution-museum

Visit the Gran Teatro de La Habana

Another of the most beautiful buildings in Havana and one not to be missed on a trip is the Gran Teatro de La Habana which dates back to 1838.

It is particularly beautiful inside so if you have the time, we would recommend getting a tour of the inside of the building.

Try Some Unique Cuban Food & Drink

One of the best things to do in Havana is to try some of the very unique and unusual food there is on offer:

Cuban Pizza

One of the most unique things to eat in Havana is the Cuba pizza. On virtually every street corner in Havana you will see a little shop selling Cuban Pizza.

Cuban Pizza is really cheap and normally charged in CUP (local currency) however, in the Old Town of Havana they will also accept CUC.

The trick is knowing where to find the good stuff as a lot of the street pizza is pretty average. Some of the best Cuban pizza joints include La Mimosa and Pizzas Pachy in Havana.

Cuban Sandwich

One of the things we were most excited to eat in Cuba was the Cuban Sandwich.

Well, it turns out that Cuban Sandwich are not really Cuban after-all and something that originated in Miami.

Nethertheless, we managed to eat a few particularly delicious Cuban Sandwiches while in Havana. The Plaza Hotel serves a yummy ham & cheese toasted sandwich (5 CUC) and El Cafe (our favourite cafe in Havana) also does a great toasted sandwich (4-5 CUC).

We also tried the Sloppy Joe Sandwich at Sloppy Joe, a favourite spot of Hemingway which were also pretty tasty.

Although tempting we would advise against eating the street sandwiches while in Havana (only 1 CUC) as at one point we got a little sick and think the street sandwich is the culprit.

Try Guarapo

One of the most famous drinks of Cuba is the Guarapo – a freshly squeezed pure sugarcane juice. You can often see locals making the juice by hand using a giant squeezer.

It is interesting to try, especially if you have sweet tooth like me. Order 1 between 2 to test if you like it. It can get rather sickening after a while.

Try Ropa Vieja

One, if not the most traditional dish in Cuba is Ropa Vieja – a tomato stew base with shredded beef, vegetables and rice with beans.

Rancho Luna is known as the best spot in the city for some particularly delicious Ropa Vieja.

Drink Rum Out of a Box

While looking for milk in Havana, I discovered rum in a box (which looks just like a little bottle of milk). By the way, milk is virtually non existent in Havana – we ended buying some powdered milk for our tea and coffee.

Rum out of a box is one of the locals favourite drinks. You can often see them drinking the little rum in a box as they watch the sunset by the Malecon.

Guava Milkshakes

Guava is one of the best locally produced fruit in Cuba. It is the best Guava I have ever tasted in my life.

A specialty in Cuba is guava milkshakes. They are in virtually every cafe in Havana. Our favourite cafe is El Cafe. They have the most delicious guava milkshakes for 2.5 CUC, ever better with oatmilk (4 CUC).

things-to-do-in-Havana-Cuban-guava-milkshake

How to Get to Cuba?

It has never been a better time to reach Cuba as they have now opened their doors to foreign tourism.

If you are planning a trip to Mexico, Cuba is a fabulous next stop on your itinerary as tourist visas are a lot cheaper than from the US and can be obtained for $25 a person from the check in counter as you go to check in for your flight. Soo easy!

Nowadays, there are many cheap airlines that travel to and from Cuba. We travelled from Cancun to Cuba using Interjet. We travelled out of Cuba using Copa Airlines.

We were able to get in and out of Cuba for around $100 USD + bags each way.

Other airlines that fly to Cuba from the United States are American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Jet Blue and South West to name a few. The most affordable place in the US to access Cuba is from Miami due to its close proximity to the island.

Best Time of Year to Visit Cuba?

If you like warm and sunny weather, it is always a good time to visit Cuba as it is a destination that it is warm and sunny year round.

As it is a hot destination, we prefer to visit in the winter months (Nov – Feb) as the climate is more gentle and yet you can still comfortably relax at the beach. At this time of year, you are at less risk of getting absolutely fried to a crisp in the hot sun.

We visited Havana in February and it was an ideal time of year to visit if you are spoiled for choice as when to travel.

If you want more detailed information, see our month by month guide for the best time to travel to Cuba .

How to Get Around Cuba? (Once You Arrive)

It is very easy to get around Cuba in local buses or taxis once you arrive on the ground in Cuba.

Taxis in Cuba include normal modern cars as well as vintage cars. Bartering is a way of life in Cuba and we would suggest bartering for all your taxi fares while in the country.

It costs between 20-40 CUC for a taxi from Havana Airport to the downtown area of Havana. We paid 30 CUC for a maxi taxi for 4 people to Havana downtown and 20 CUC for a regular taxi for 2 people from Havana downtown to the airport.

If you want a stress free entry to Cuba, you can book an airport transfer in advance .

We would recommend booking any special tours that spark your interest in advance of arriving in the country due to the low connectivity of internet on the ground.

Tours we would recommend:

A tour with a local in Havana
Havana by E-Bike
A day tour to Vinales
The Tropicana Show
A small group walking tour of the Old Town

Where to Stay in Havana?

If you are looking for the most traditional way to experience Havana, we would suggest staying at a Casa Particular in Cuba. You can easily book one of these on airbnb.

As mentioned above, if you are in dire need of wifi 24/7 and the modern conveniences of a hotel with no water shortages (no promises though, after all, it is Cuba), we would recommend staying in one of the hotels in Cuba, which have wifi in the hotel lobbys.

Must Read: Best Places to Stay in Havana (and hotels with wifi which actually works)

If you are going to do the hotel option in Havana, we would suggest staying in at least a mid range hotel in the city as the budget hotel options tended to be a little on the shabby and rundown side.

You can search all hotels in Havana Cuba during your dates here :

Here are some hotels we frequented for wifi in Havana and would recommend investigating for a comfortable hotel stay in Havana.

Mid Range : Hotel Plaza – A beautiful, mid range, 1950s style hotel in the Old Town of Havana with a lot of character. The hotel includes a grand lobby, piano bar and restaurant. We frequented this hotel daily during our time in Havana for wifi.
Luxury: Hotel Sevilla . A stunning hotel right in the centre of Old Havana.
Luxury: Hotel Nacionale – If you have a larger budget or are visiting Havana for a honeymoon or special occasion we would highly recommend staying at the gorgeous Hotel Nacionale

Wifi in Havana?

Cuba is an absolutely amazing country, BUT, I’ll be honest, if you are a budding digital nomad who needs wifi 24/4, you might want to forget Cuba – the wifi is woeful and can really only be accessed within major hotels in the city WITH a wifi card you pay for (2 CUC per hour).

We knew about the wifi situation before entering Cuba and decided to visit anyway for a disconnected holiday in somewhere truly special.

Although having limited wifi pained us as travel bloggers, I’m glad we made the decision to visit Cuba as it is up there in the top 10 countries we have visited.

Even if you don’t plan to stay in one of Havana’s fancy 1950s-era hotels, you can use our guide to where to stay in Havana to find hotels near you with wifi in the lobby.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Havana Cuba?

Havana Cuba is not a particularly large city but as you can see with this article there are still lots of awesome things to do.

How many days you wish to stay in Havana really depends on how many things on the above list you care to tick off.

Cruise ships pull into the city for 1 day and it would be enough to get a good feel for the Old Town of Havana which is very walkable.

We stayed 5 nights in Havana and were very happy with the amount of time we had. We would have been happy to stay a little longer and really soak up the atmosphere but we were also getting sick of having no wifi.

Currency in Cuba

Cuba has a weird currency situation.

Cuba has 2 currencies, the Pesos CUP (which the locals get paid in) and the CUP (the tourist currency). 25 CUP = 1 CUP.

CUP is mainly useful for buying street food and small purchases. It will probably be difficult to get your hands on some CUP while in Cuba and from our experience you really don’t need to. The CUC was sufficient for all our travel needs in Cuba (except at the airport – I will get to that next).

CUC is closely tied to the USD. Roughly 1 CUC – 1 USD however, when we visited we got a slightly worse exchange rate (go figure!)

We read that you needed to bring cash with you however, this is not exactly true (although always a good precaution to take). Upon arriving in Cuba you can get out CUC at the international airport. We also read that you get a better exchange for Euros and Pounds than USD in Cuba however, we did not find this to be the case.

Note : For whatever weird reason, CUC was not accepted at the International Airport in Cuba so get rid of any CUC you have before the airport. Only USD, CUP and some other major international currencies are accepted at the international airport in Cuba.

What to Bring to Cuba? Cuba Travel Essentials

BRING: Travel Insurance. Upon entering Cuba, my Dad was asked to show proof of insurance. I didn’t know this before visiting but the immigration officer informed us that you would be denied access to Cuba without proof of insurance.
BRING: Travel Information. As there is little wifi in Cuba, it is advisable to bring with you notes or a guidebook of all the awesome things there are to do. We would recommend bringing with you a copy of the Lonely Guide to Cuba with you to Cuba unless you are very organised and manage to plan every restaurant and activity in advance.
DON’T BRING: Your drone. Sadly, drones are not allowed in Cuba at this stage. If you bring your drone into Cuba, it will be temporarily held at the airport. You will also be required to pay a fine to get it back.

We hope you have a great time in Havana. It really is a special place. If you have any questions about Havana drop us a comment, we are always happy to help.

Save Things to Do in Havana Cuba to Pinterest so you can find it again later!

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

20 things to know before visiting Cuba

Jan 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Be ready for your visit to Cuba with these top tips on what to expect © Westend61 / Getty Images

To a first-time traveler, Cuba can seem like a confusing jigsaw puzzle, particularly if you’re breaking free of the resorts and traveling around on your own.

The Spanish spoken here is fast and hard to decipher, many streets have two different names and the country’s fickle and highly complicated monetary situation could fill its own guidebook. Yet the country’s pleasures are well worth the research you should do before you set off.

To help you be prepared, here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to Cuba.

1. Double-check your insurance

You are required to have medical insurance to visit Cuba and will need to bring digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are made at the airport. If you arrive without insurance, you’ll be asked to buy a Cuban policy at the airport for US$30.

2. Fill out your passenger information in advance

Cuba uses an online form called D’Viajeros to gather traveler information, including immigration and health data, in advance of travel. Fill out the form digitally up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba.

Friends sit on a coastal wall with their legs dangling over the sea and pose for a selfie

3. Every visitor needs a tourist card

To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed tourist card . It’s usually available through your airline (ask when booking) and included in the price of your ticket.

If not, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85. Citizens of 20 African and Asian countries require a formal visa to enter Cuba. Check the situation for your country before booking.

4. Cash and currency: it’s complicated!

Money in Cuba is confusing, even to Cubans . Since the country abolished convertibles (CUC) in January 2021 and took the US dollar out of circulation in June 2021, there has been massive inflation and the emergence of a rampant black market. The knock-on effect is a bewildering dual economy.

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP), but foreign currencies are also widely accepted, especially by private businesses who need hard cash to buy non-rationed goods in MLC (freely convertible currency) shops.

State-run enterprises and banks use official exchange rates. However, the prices of the superior services offered by private businesses generally reflect black market exchange rates.

Hence a main dish in a private restaurant in Havana will cost around CUP$500 (US$21). That’s an expensive meal if you’re paying in pesos bought from a Cuban bank.

However, most private restaurants will also accept payment in euros using a more favorable exchange rate. Some will even have a separate menu with prices printed in euros.

When buying something from a private business – be it a restaurant, casa particular (private accommodation) or taxi service – it’s usually best to pay in a foreign currency. Always ask upfront what currencies they accept and what exchange rate they use for their published peso prices.

Euros is the most interchangeable currency and the one preferred by Cubans. You can also use and exchange Canadian dollars and pound sterling.

US dollars still circulate on the black market, but we don’t recommend bringing them. The best bet, when you arrive, is to keep most of your money in a foreign currency and only change small amounts into pesos for incidentals like museum entry, concert tickets and tips.

5. MLC is a currency with no cash form

The Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is a currency approved by the Cuban government in 2020 that can be used in certain shops to buy higher-end goods.

The currency doesn’t exist as cash and its value is pegged with the US dollar. It’s used mainly by Cubans with special magnetic cards.

Tourists needn’t worry too much about MLC$, although prices will sometimes be displayed in the currency in state-run enterprises such as cigar shops or airport souvenir stores where you can pay with a non-US credit card.

6. Only some credit cards will work

Credit cards are increasingly popular in Cuba and in many state-run businesses are the preferred (and sometimes only) method of payment.

Despite promises made in the Obama era, credit cards linked to US banks are not accepted. Private businesses almost never have credit card machines, meaning your only option is cash.

A blue classic car passes a cowboy-hatted man on a horse on a dirt road leading into Vinales, Cuba

7. Pack your favorite casual clothes – and men need a shirt

Dress in Cuba is casual, so you can leave your high heels and tux behind. The only real dress code is in cinemas, theaters and nightclubs, where male patrons are required to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves or half-sleeves.

8. Cuban Spanish is fast and often informal

If you speak Spanish, you’ll find that Cubans mostly use the informal tú form of address, rather than usted . In the plural, ustedes is used over vosotros .

If you don’t know someone, it’s best to address them as señor or señora , though you’ll hear Cubans use all kinds of substitutes such as socio , hermano , papa , chica/o and asere .

9. Cuban cities are where the streets have two names

In most Cuban cities , the streets have two names: a contemporary one that is noted on maps and marked on street signs, and a pre-revolutionary one that is still used widely by the locals.

This can become confusing, especially when locals, unaware of the new street names, start giving out directions or addresses using the colloquial nomenclature. Always double-check addresses and, if possible, get two potential names for the street you’re looking for.

10. Understand the local art of queueing

Cubans have to endure a lot of long waits in boring queues, so they’ve invented a way of doing it that doesn’t involve standing in line. In a Cuban queue, you simply roll up at the bakery/clinic/visa office and yell out to the assembled masses, "Quien es último?" (Who’s last?).

Hopefully, someone in a 400m vicinity will answer your polite entreaty with the word, "yo" (me). That person is your yardstick. As long as they’re still around, feel free to go for a walk, sit in the lotus position or buy ice cream. When they get called up, be on your toes, you’re next!

11. Ask questions more than once

Thanks to heavy bureaucracy, answers to simple requests aren’t always straightforward – or even correct. Probe politely and ask at least five different people before you make important decisions.

12. Bring something to keep you warm on a cold bus journey

Cuba has a countrywide state-run bus service called Víazul that connects all of the main cities and some of the smaller towns. Prices are charged in MLC$ (the same rate as the US$) and tickets must be paid for with a credit card either in person or online.

A second service called Conectando, run by Cubanacán, also puts on buses in peak season along some of the more popular routes. Bring a sweater/jacket for long bus rides – the air-conditioning is akin to a chilly day in Vancouver.

Woman with camera in a candid shot in Trinidad, Cuba

13. Cuba is considered a safe place to travel

Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Americas in terms of violent crime. Pick-pocketing is more common but not rampant, and is mostly avoidable if you follow a few basic precautions: Wear a money belt, use safe boxes in hotel rooms and don’t flash your cash in public.

14. Solo female travelers report receiving unwanted attention

Solo female travelers report experiencing a good deal of unwanted attention, but it didn't necessarily spoil their enjoyment of traveling in Cuba.

There is a fine line between being open and friendly and harassment, and some men can cross that line by being overly familiar or asking too many personal questions. Learn some key phrases in Spanish that make it clear when you're not interested.

15. Beware of forgeries

Never change money with unlicensed traders on the streets. You run the risk of receiving estafas (forged notes).

16. Bring your own medicines

On one level, Cuba has a good health system (it invented and quickly distributed three COVID-19 vaccines); on the other, it is perennially short of pharmaceuticals.

Bring all the prescription medications you think you’ll need, as well others you might like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you’d like to donate some medicines to the people of Cuba, it is currently possible to bring in 10kg of medical supplies tax-free (pack them in a separate bag).

Portrait of an Afro-Cuban woman smoking cigar and smiling in Havana, Cuba

17. Avoid dodgy cigars

Cuba has its share of jineteros (touts) spinning elaborate stories about super-cheap, high-quality cigars procured by their brother/mother/cousin from the factory. Don’t believe them. Instead, buy your cigars in state-run shops such as the Casa del Habano chain. Cigars sold on the street are invariably factory cast-offs and not genuine.

18. Driving is not as easy as you think

With light traffic on the road, driving might seem like an easy proposition , but with elevated rental prices and cars often in short supply, it’s not always so.

Add in sporadic signposting, potholed roads and a wide array of hazards – goats, horses, bicycles, kids and slow-moving, fume-belching trucks – and you might want to consider getting the bus or, at least, employing the services of a chauffeur .

19. Bring toilet paper and sanitary products

The pandemic made the provision of antiseptic hand lotion more common, but the same can’t be said of toilet paper. Carry your own roll and/or gravitate to four- or five-star hotels when you’re caught short in the city.

Re-usable pads and silicon cups, or disposable pads and tampons are must-pack items if you're expecting your period while you're in Cuba. These are in high demand here.

20. Don’t drink the water

The water won’t kill you, but it might give you a little queasiness or an upset stomach. Fortunately, bottled water is abundant and cheap. An even better idea is to bring your own filter bottle or water purification tablets.

This article was first published Feb 5, 2022 and updated Jan 5, 2024.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

From Aarhus to Zanzibar, plan your travels for July 2024 with these top places to visit.

Cuba Lifestyle with two Cuban models on the streets of Havana,

Jan 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 9, 2024 • 6 min read

A woman walking along a street in Havana while looking at her phone

Jan 7, 2024 • 10 min read

Jan 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Young woman standing in the Blue Lagoon in Jamaica.

Jan 5, 2023 • 8 min read

Havana, Cuba - january 15, 2016: Young woman tending inside a fruit and vegetable stand in the agricultural market of a populous neighborhood of the city; Shutterstock ID 1177792096; your: Zach Laks; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: Discover

Nov 11, 2022 • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 18, 2022

Home » Travel Guide

La Habana: Cuba's vibrant Capital

The pulsating capital of Cuba is a myth and a place of nostalgia. With a population of over two million, Havana is the undisputed economic and cultural center of Cuba. At the same time, the city is the largest metropolis in the Caribbean. Havana stands for magnificent buildings, its morbid charm and a paradoxical mixture of melancholy and joy of life.

For a long time, »La Habana« was known as the gateway to the New World. The trade in sugar, tobacco and slaves generated great prosperity. The well-preserved, imposing fortifications bear witness to the city's early importance. In hardly any other place in America is the early history of the emergence of the new continent more present. Because of this historical significance and, of course, its beauty, Havana is also known as the Rome of the Caribbean.

Restorations in Havana's old downtown

For decades, the once frequently visited city had fallen into oblivion. However, in recent years Havana is awakening somewhat from its decades-long slumber. Noble restaurants and luxury hotels are opening in formerly dilapidated palaces. The number of visitors from all over the world is continuously increasing. Nevertheless, Havana remains a place of contrasts. Nowhere else in Cuba is the contradiction between decay and construction more evident. More than almost any other place, Havana also embodies the shallow transition from a socialist planned economy to a market economy that is tentatively opening up.

Havana's architectural appearance is characterized by a mix of Spanish Colonial, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Neo-Gothic and Neoclassical styles. This wild mix reflects the city's turbulent history, which is especially evident in the UNESCO World Heritage-protected downtown.

Explore Havana’s Neighborhoods

Old havana: » la habana vieja «.

Havanas historical downtown La Habana Vieja is the world's largest continuous colonial city center. The district looks back on five centuries of eventful history and is clearly one of the main highlights of the capital.

The Center: »Centro Habana«

In the heart of Havana, the Centro Habana district is also of outstanding importance. The Center is the most vital part of the capital. Important sights include the Barrio Chino , a important walking street, the Boulevard de San Rafael and the iconic waterfront, the world-famous Malecón .

The modern Havana

Besides the district in the old center, the new center should be visited as well. Worth seeing parts of the city include the neighborhoods El Vedado and Miramar , which are located a bit west of the historic city center.

Havana like a Habanero

Nightlife in havana.

Havana offers visitors a number of interesting places to go out. From wild to dignified, everyone should find their place. In our guide on the nightlife in Havana, you will learn what the Havana has to offer at night.

The best places to stay in Havana

Newcomers usually first wonder in which part of the city it is best to accommodate. Havana presents itself as a lively metropolis, which can also be quite exhausting in some areas. While for short stays the old city center is best for most, there are other recommendable areas. Find out what areas should better be avoided and what location is the best for your individual needs.

Getting Around Havana

Besides the question of where to stay, you will also need to move around the Cuban capital. Our transportation guide explains, what options of transportation visitors have for getting around in Havana.

Sightseeing Tours

A specialty of the Cuban capital are sightseeing tours in classic American cars . Besides the vintage cars, there are also regular sightseeing busses , that serve three lines. In our guide on sightseeing tours in Havana, you will learn on prices and routes for the different means of transport.

Excursion & Day Trips

If you plan to discover the soundings of the Cuban capital, there are plenty of interesting options to choose from. Find out what to do, from a visit to Hemingway's Finca, over natural sights, to the beautiful city beaches...

Havanas Beaches: Playas del Este

The city beaches of the Cuban capital, the so-called Playas del Este are several very beautiful beaches, that are located just half an hour ride from the city center. Find out about the beaches and the possibilities of transportation and accommodation.

Where to stay in Havana

Playas del Este

Havana City Tours

you're currently offline

Cuba Travel Guide for U.S. Citizens: What to Know Before You Go (Updated 2023)

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

Red classic car parked on a small street in front of a row of buildings

Planning this trip to Cuba was the most challenging thing I’ve done to date in the name of travel. Out of all 26 countries, thousands of miles, from 5 years of traveling the world.

Once we landed in Havana, I knew that this place was unlike any I’d visited before.

Had I allowed the logistical challenge of traveling to Cuba as a US citizen deter me from visiting this country, it would have been my greatest mistake.

This Cuba travel guide for US citizens is up to date as of early 2023, based on my experience traveling to Cuba in December 2022.

In this post, I will cover Cuba travel FAQ and share how to visit Cuba legally as a US citizen or from a US airport.

Before you read, please note that there are sanctions from the U.S. government that restrict travel to Cuba.

It is the responsibility of each visitor to follow all laws and regulations, at home and abroad.

This website has a limitation of liability policy that applies to all posts, which you can read here .

This post contains affiliate links. See more in the disclaimer .

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. And you can even do so independently.

The key is to visit legally, within the confines of OFAC (Office of Foreign Asset Control) regulations due to the embargo and sanctions.

IMPORTANT: These regulations also apply to non-US citizens that are departing from a US airport.

Small red vintage Volkswagen beetle parked on a side street in front of pastel buildings

How to Travel to Cuba Legally

There are 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba under OFAC:

Family visits
Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Journalistic activity
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Athletic competitions by amateur or semi-professional athletes or athletic teams
Support for the Cuban People
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
Certain authorized export transactions

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury

The most common is Support for the Cuban People, which requires the following:

§ 515.574 Support for the Cuban People. (a) General license. The travel-related transactions set forth in § 515.560(c) and other transactions that are intended to provide support for the Cuban people are authorized, provided that: (1) The activities are of: (i) Recognized human rights organizations; (ii) Independent organizations designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or (iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and (2) Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that: (i) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and (ii) Result in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba. (3) The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. Source: Code of Federal Regulations

It will not be a vacation where you go to the beach and prop your feet up, buy things wherever you want, and stay wherever you want.

You must have a full-time schedule of activities that result in meaningful engagement with Cubans.

For us, that looked like many, many art tours and private gallery visits where we connected with local artists and had countless meaningful, deep conversations.

No topic was off-limits.

Everyone opened up (including us) and shared our passions, life experiences, opinions, and learned about one another. And yes, we talked about politics.

We were on the go, all day, every day.

And we didn’t really spend time with other foreigners. We crossed paths with foreigners a couple times, but everyone else we spoke to and spent time with was Cuban.

Casas particulares and paladares

Aside from your full-time schedule, you should also stay in casas particulares and eat at paladares.

A casa particular is a room in someone’s house. It’s been a normal way to travel in Cuba for years. There’s an infrastructure around it. You can find them on Airbnb.

We highly recommend this casa particular in Havana and this casa particular in Viñales.

Paladares are privately-owned small restaurants. Download A La Mesa for a list of restaurants all over the country. Each listing shows if it’s privately-owned.

The app also works offline, which will make your life much easier in Cuba.

Pro tip: If you’re also a vegetarian, make sure you try Camino al Sol ! It’s an all-vegetarian paladar in Havana.

Three enchiladas covered in light green salsa and cheese

What you are banned from doing in Cuba

You cannot spend money in OR interact with any of the places on this list from the US Treasury Department.

Many are hotels, so pay attention!

I copied and pasted these into a list to have on my phone, then accessed it offline while in Cuba to ensure there wouldn’t be any issues.

Is Cuba safe to visit?

Absolutely.

As a young woman who visited 25 countries before going to Cuba, I’ve been in a few…sticky situations. Cuba was amazing.

I never worried about being robbed and just felt at ease the entire time I was there. I tend to be a more anxious person, so that’s new for me.

This is my personal experience and I was not in Cuba as a solo female traveler, so yours could be different.

Is Cuba open for travel right now?

As of late 2022, visitors no longer need to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or testing before entering Cuba. We brought our vaccine cards just in case, but no one asked to see them.

Please refer to this government site for updated information before your visit.

On our way back to the United States, we did have to share contact tracing information with our airlines using a form before we could check in. It was quick and easy.

Although many online sources claim masks are mandatory in certain settings, we did not see any places where masks were required in December 2022.

White coffee cup with a red flower painted on it

Accessing Money in Cuba: 2023 Updates

Everything you need to spend in Cuba must be in cash.

Because of the sanctions, your credit and debit cards will not work in Cuba.

If you try to use them, your bank will probably lock your account and it will take a lot of effort to get it unlocked.

In prior years, you would need to convert money to Cuban pesos before using it. Euros were the best to have because CADECA (the government exchange houses) charged a higher fee on USD exchanges.

As of late 2022, everywhere we went accepted U.S. dollars as payment. This was highly unexpected and deviated from every piece of advice I read online before leaving for Cuba.

However, it is still good to have some pesos for a fairer exchange rate. Some menu exchange rates were awful.

When we were in Cuba, we typically got 150 CUP for 1 USD. The CADECA rate was 110.40 CUP for 1 USD.

We exchanged money at our first casa particular and spent USD on activities, private taxis, and one of our casas. We usually spent pesos on art, food, and coffee.

Make sure you get cash in plenty of small bills. Twenties, tens, fives, and ones were useful. Anything larger than that will be annoying to deal with.

If your bank will only give you large bills, go to Publix and ask the customer service to break them when they’re not busy. Works like a charm!

Hanging moon and star ornaments in a pink room

Is it safe to exchange money on the street in Cuba?

You will be offered money exchange on the street wherever you go in Cuba. Just say “No, gracias,” and move on.

As a general rule of thumb, it is not safe or advised to exchange money on the street. This goes for wherever you are in the world.

The main reason it’s unwise to do this is forged currency. If it came from some random person, it may be counterfeit.

A local friend taught us how to know your Cuban pesos are real. Hold the bill up to the sun, and check the watermark.

The watermark will have a number on it, and that number must match the value of the bill.

If it’s a 100-peso bill, the number in the watermark should say 100.

Again, I do not recommend exchanging money in the street. We didn’t on this trip because we were able to get pesos from the front desk of our casa particular.

If you’re ever concerned about any bills you were given as change, use the tip from our friend for some peace of mind.

I also want to make it clear that we were never given counterfeit bills as change while in Cuba, but these things can happen anywhere.

You’re more vulnerable as a foreigner, because you don’t know exactly how the money is supposed to look.

Pink and orange flowers beneath a dark blue sky

Getting WiFi in Cuba

If a travel guide says there are only one-hour WiFi cards, it is outdated.

Now, you can access WiFi on a one-hour or a five-hour card.

WiFi is now cheaper in Cuba—it was $5 USD per hour; now, it’s $1 USD per hour.

We only needed one 5-hour card per person for the whole week.

Instead of waiting in the ETECSA line, we bought them from our first casa particular .

Overall, our Cuba WiFi experience was much easier than what we expected.

Don’t expect to be online all the time, but WiFi access is not as difficult as prior years.

Pro tip: The two main apps I highly recommend to download BEFORE you leave for Cuba are A La Mesa and Maps.me . Both work well offline and will save you such a headache.

On Maps.me specifically, also download the maps of each city/town you will visit in Cuba. In our case, I downloaded the maps for Havana and Viñales. When you have Internet access, put your casa particular addresses in a Note on your phone, so you copy and paste them into Maps.me whenever you need to. Same goes for any attractions you know you want to see.

If you want (and if your phone is unlocked), you could get a Cuba sim card, which comes with data. I don’t see the point for a one-week trip, but to each their own.

You can reserve those online in advance from Suena and pick them up at the José Martí airport (in Havana). If you go this route, you want the Tourist SIM Card from the top menu.

Yellow building with Cuban flag and green car in front

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

In short, no.

There was bottled water for sale everywhere on our trip in December 2022, but I read online before leaving that you can’t bank on that.

Instead, I bought this LifeStraw to have filtered water and it was the best travel purchase I’ve made. Ever.

Our Viñales casa particular hostess took one look at that bottle and pointed me to her giant drinking water spigot for us to have freely.

She was already familiar with the water situation for foreigners and told me it was smart to bring a reusable filtered bottle.

Highly recommend one of these !

Can you check in online for flights to Cuba?

There are too many documents the airlines must verify before they can issue a boarding pass.

You will also need a paper boarding pass for your Cuban health insurance, often included in your departure airfare.

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

Out of all Spanish-speaking countries I’ve visited, Cuba is the main one you need at least some language skills to visit.

There are people who speak English, especially young people, but it is not the norm.

If you don’t speak Spanish and you’re not traveling with a friend who does, download Google Translate for offline use before you arrive.

It won’t be ideal, but it will work when you need language help.

The best advice I can give is to travel with someone who speaks Spanish fluently. My best friend said many times while we were in Cuba that she would be toast without my language skills.

White star on a red circle, with blue and white stripes coming out of it

Can I bring Cuban cigars and rum back into the USA as souvenirs?

The answer used to be yes, as long as you purchased them from a private shop instead of a stated-owned one.

That answer is no longer the case, as of late 2022.

Now, you cannot bring any rum or cigars into the USA from Cuba, no matter how small the amount is or where they were purchased within Cuba.

When you arrive back into the USA, Customs and Border Patrol will ask if you have any rum or cigars. If you do, assume they will be confiscated.

What to Pack for Your Cuba Trip

I pack carry-on only and found Cuba to be one of the easier countries to pack for. The climate in December was perfect, with 80s in the day and 60s-70s at night.

Here is a short packing list of the things you need before going to Cuba:

Mosquito repellent, because the insects in Cuba will eat you alive (I use these .)
Comfortable shoes for lots of walking
Cardigan or light sweatshirt
Flowy/comfortable clothes (You can see one of the outfits I packed below.)
One active wear outfit for hiking/horseback or bike riding (if you’re going to Viñales)

Woman wearing white floral blouse and jeans standing in front of a heart made from mosaic tiles

I hope this Cuba travel FAQ was helpful for you. I know how stressful it can be to figure out what to do when planning. If you have any questions, comment below and I’ll do what I can to help!

Save on Pinterest

New Requirements for Travelers to Cuba as of Jan. 23

Cuba implements digital form for in advance visitors Customs declarations as well as personal and flight information

By El Toque

HAVANA TIMES – The Cuban government will require, as of January 23, 2023, a digital customs declaration for travelers entering the country. The declaration is part of a more extensive digital form (which also contains immigration and health information) that will be mandatory for visitors, both Cubans and foreigners.st

The digital form called D’ VIAJEROS ―which had been on test since November 2022― was definitively implemented by the Ministry of Transportation. The form is intended to replace the old paper affidavit format that passengers arriving in Cuba must fill out.

The questions on the form are designed to obtain advance information from those who need to enter Cuba and must be completed 48 hours before the trip in order to be shown, in the form of a QR code, to the airline and border authorities. The form can be accessed thr: https://dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio

D’ VIAJEROS demands a series of mandatory data and other things of an optional nature. In its filling out, the visitor will find five sections: one is Customs; another to provide general information (name, surname, gender -it only allows you to choose between male and female-, country of birth, residence and travel document or passport); another for immigration information (arrival date, flight number, point of entry to Cuba and reasons for the trip); another for health data related to COVID-19; and finally the declaration of veracity of the data, which warns that “any omission or inaccuracy violates the provisions of the Cuban authorities.”

Changes in Customs regulations: personal baggage and parcel shipment

Back on August 15, 2022, new measures for the non-commercial importation and shipment of packages to Cuba entered into force. What are the main changes with the new requirements?

After filling out the online form, the site will generate a QR code that will be sent to the email that the passenger provides to the system. The traveler must keep the code in print or on their phone, since the airline’s representatives will request it prior to boarding and, in Cuba, the immigration and customs authorities will request it after arrival.

Cuban Customs approved the use of D’ VIAJEROS to collect the information that the institution needs from each person who enters the country. In the regulations, the institution agreed that the customs declaration, contained in D’ VIAJEROS, will also be available in paper format when the visitor does not have, for some reason, the online form.

The data that will be required on a mandatory basis are: the passenger’s general data, the airline flight data and the list of items to be imported, equipment or others, their quantity and value, and if they have technical authorization from the Ministry of Communications to import telecommunications equipment.

The amount of foreign currency that is brought in is also declared, but only if the amount exceeds five thousand dollars or other currencies or equivalent payment instruments. The possession of weapons of any kind, ammunition, drugs or substances with a similar effect, live animals, equipment or components for wireless telecommunications, products of animal or vegetable origin, articles for commercial purposes, cultural goods and pornography must be declared.

In a press conference, covered by the Cuban News Agency, directors of Cuban Aviation, Customs and the Ministries of Public Health and Tourism specified that the new platform will “facilitate and improve the experience of travelers in their transit through immigration, customs, and public health services, contributes to health controls, reduces the exchange of documents with the authorities, and speeds up procedures at the different air terminals by providing advance information.”

Read more from Cuba here on Havana Times

River at Sunset in Matanzas, Cuba – Photo of the Day
The Communist Party of Cuba’s Best Factory

2 thoughts on “ New Requirements for Travelers to Cuba as of Jan. 23 ”

and what EXACTLY are the questions that relate to covid vaccines? is a negative pcr test required to board an airplane into cuba?

Anyone who knows how things work in Cuba also know the official justification for this digital change is a pile of horse manure.

Comments are closed.

clock This article was published more than 2 years ago

Biden’s revised Cuba policy creates more options for U.S. travelers

The United States just approved flights to airports beyond Havana and will restore the group tours banned under Trump

Americans who want to travel legally to Cuba will have more options after the Biden administration announced it was undoing some of the restrictions President Donald Trump imposed before the pandemic.

While a timeline for all of the changes is not yet clear, travelers should eventually be able to choose from flights to more destinations and take the kind of group-based educational trips that have been off-limits for nearly three years.

Under an order issued Wednesday by the U.S. Transportation Department, airlines will again be allowed to fly to Cuban destinations beyond Havana, an avenue that was cut off in late 2019. Public charter flights will also be permitted to go to airports outside Havana after being suspended in early 2020.

The Transportation Department issued the order rescinding the Trump-era restrictions after a request this week from Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He wrote that scheduled and charter air services could resume “effective immediately” once the department took action.

That formal request followed a May 16 announcement that the Biden administration was taking measures, including allowing the additional flights, to “increase support for the Cuban people in line with our national security interests.”

As Biden eases Trump’s sanctions, Cubans hope for an economic lift

Peggy Goldman, president and co-owner of two travel companies that bring visitors to Cuba — Friendly Planet and Insight Cuba — called the permission to add flights “wonderful news.”

“It makes it possible to enjoy much more of the island, and having these additional flights is a hallelujah moment for us,” she said. She added that her companies have been “badgering” airlines on a daily basis about increasing service.

U.S. carriers that offer scheduled flights to Havana, including American Airlines, JetBlue and Southwest, told The Washington Post this week — before the DOT’s order — that they did not have any additional services to announce. American Airlines flew to five destinations in addition to Havana until December 2019, and JetBlue once flew to three cities beyond the capital city.

“While we do not have any news to share at this time regarding changes to our operations in Cuba, we regularly evaluate new opportunities throughout our network,” JetBlue said in a statement.

Cuba reopened to visitors in November after closing its borders earlier in the pandemic.

Can Americans travel to Cuba? Yes, but it’s complicated.

U.S. officials have said that a popular authorized way for groups of travelers to visit Cuba — called “people-to-people” trips — will be back at some point. The Trump administration eliminated the option in mid-2019. The State Department said it would reinstate the option, along with other categories of group educational travel and some additional travel connected to professional meetings and research.

“We’ll certainly ensure travel is purposeful and in accordance with U.S. law. And we’ll note something that President Biden had said often, which is his belief that Americans are the best ambassadors for democratic values,” a senior administration official said on background during a press call last month. “And facilitating group people-to-people travel will allow for greater engagement between the American people and the promotion of their democratic values.”

The State Department did not release a timeline for reopening that category of travel, but it said in a statement that the administration is “working expeditiously to implement these changes, via regulatory amendments and other steps on an expedited basis.”

Collin Laverty, founder of Cuba Educational Travel, said people-to-people trips were a prominent way to visit Cuba before the Trump administration prohibited them. He described those trips as “having a full-time schedule that involves meaningful interaction with the Cuban people” — though independent tourism is not allowed.

Americans have been allowed to visit the island under categories that remain legal, including family visits, religious activities, competitions, educational activities and professional research, and meetings. After the Trump administration eliminated the “people to people” option, first for individuals and then for groups, most travelers opted to visit under the “support for the Cuban people” category.

Under that option, travelers need to have a full-time schedule of activities that enhance contact with locals, support civil society in Cuba, result in meaningful interaction with residents or promote independence from Cuban authorities, The Washington Post reported in 2019.

2019: Trump administration ends group travel to Cuba by Americans

The two categories were similar, but supporting the Cuban people required more direct aid to locals on the ground. Some tour operators told The Post when the changes were first announced a few years ago that they were skipping attractions such as Ernest Hemingway’s house and famous cemeteries. To keep their programming in compliance, they said, they would meet with craftspeople who make humidors instead of going to cigar factories, and they would visit artists in a studio cooperative instead of going to a museum.

David Lee, founder of Cultural Cuba, has always provided trips that meet the requirements of supporting the Cuban people and calls it “the best way to go by far.” But still, he and others said, the news about Trump restrictions being dropped had led to an increase in inquiries.

“Some of the changes that the Trump administration made definitely made people think they could not come to Cuba,” he said. “If this announcement has people believing, ‘Oh, it’s open again’ — even though it was always open ... and at least leads people to put Cuba back on their list as a destination, awesome.”

Laverty said he expects the return of U.S. travelers to Cuba to be slow, noting that he doesn’t see any regulatory changes that would lead to an “avalanche” in demand.

While the Biden administration’s goal is to expand authorized travel to Cuba, the State Department said the recently announced moves are not a return to the Obama-era policies that allowed cruise ships to visit the island and individual travelers to embark on people-to-people trips.

In Cuba, a desperate search for milk

Other Trump crackdowns prohibiting travelers from staying in military- or government-owned hotels remain in effect. They pose continued challenges to travelers and tour groups who have to find accommodations without those government or military ties.

“With new flights and group People to People programs being announced, more travelers will be able to visit Cuba safely but they will need more safe places to stay,” Michael Zuccato, CEO of Cuba Travel Services, said in an email.

Laverty said the last decade has brought “incredible development” in private-sector lodging, including privately owned apartments, rooms and boutique hotels. His company will sometimes split groups between multiple properties if needed.

“It definitely adds an extra logistical layer,” he said. “Trying to look at the positive side, it’s a really cool experience” where guests get to interact with their host and learn more about what it’s like to live in Cuba.

With economic hardships and severe shortages in Cuba that led to widespread protests last year, Laverty said he was concerned about what the travel experience would be like when his company started bringing Americans back earlier this year.

“What we’ve found over the last few months is U.S. travelers have really been exposed to shortcomings and challenges and also support Cubans through their travel and get an honest picture of the good and the bad in Cuba and still have a really great experience,” he said.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Biden administration easing some US restrictions on Cuba

US says measures, including loosening curbs on family remittances and travel, aim to ‘support Cuban people’.

The United States is easing some restrictions on Cuba, including curbs on family remittances and travel to the Caribbean island nation.

The measures, announced on Monday, comes after a lengthy US government review and ease some of the restrictions imposed during former President Donald Trump’s administration.

They mark the most significant changes in Washington’s approach to Havana since President Joe Biden took office in January of last year.

In a statement on Monday, the US Department of State said Washington reinstate a family reunification programme known as the Cuban Family Reunification Parole and continue to boost the capacity of its consular services.

It will also expand authorised travel, increase support for Cuban entrepreneurs, and “ensure that remittances flow more freely to the Cuban people while not enriching those who perpetrate human rights abuses”.

The changes aim to “support the Cuban people, providing them additional tools to pursue a life free from Cuban government oppression and to seek greater economic opportunities”, said Ned Price, spokesperson for the Department of State.

There were few details on how the new policy would be implemented, but officials said the steps would be implemented over coming weeks.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, in a Twitter post, called the US announcement “a limited step in the right direction”.

“The decision does not change the embargo, the fraudulent inclusion (of Cuba) on a list of state sponsors of terrorism nor most of the coercive maximum pressure measures by Trump that still affect the Cuban people,” he said.

Tensions persist

The announcement comes just weeks after the US embassy in Cuba in early May began issuing visas for the first time in four years.

That came shortly after senior US and Cuban officials held their highest-level diplomatic talks after a severe disruption in ties during the Trump administration.

The discussions in Washington, DC, in April between senior Department of State officials and Cuba’s deputy foreign minister focused on migration, with the US side eager to rein in a growing number of Cubans trying to enter the country.

But tensions between the two nations persist, including over the Cuban government’s crackdown on protests last year and continuing US sanctions against the country.

Cuba’s foreign minister also recently accused the Biden administration of exerting pressure on countries in the region to try to exclude Havana from the upcoming Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, California.

“There is no justification for excluding Cuba or any other country from this event that we have attended the last two editions,” Rodriguez said on Twitter last month.

A US delegation is travelling to Mexico later this week to discuss the June summit, after Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador last week warned that if Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela are excluded, he would skip it and send a representative instead.

In its Monday statement on Monday, the Department of State said the US would lift the cap on family remittances, previously set to $1,000 per quarter, and authorise donative remittances to non-family members.

But it made clear that the US would not remove entities from the Cuba Restricted List, a State Department list of Cuban government- and military-aligned companies with whom US firms and citizens are barred from doing business.

The US will use civilian “electronic payment processors” for remittances to avoid funds going directly to the Cuban government, am administration official said earlier in the day, adding that the US had already engaged with the Cuban government “about establishing a civilian processor for this”.

Washington will aim to issue 20,000 immigrant visas a year, the official said, in line with a migration accord, and expand authorised travel to Cuba, allowing scheduled and charter flights to use airports other than Havana.

It will also reinstate some categories of group educational travel, as well as certain travel related to professional meetings and research.

Individual “people-to-people” travel, however, will not be reinstated. The category was eliminated by Trump officials who said it was being abused by Americans taking beach vacations.

The US will also increase support for independent Cuban entrepreneurs, the Department of State said, aiming to ease access to the internet and expanding access to microfinance and training, among other measures.

Travel to Cuba legal, safe & unique tours

See our brochure, top 10 tips & our full cuba experience video.

TOURS TO CUBA

Travel to cuba with us, click here to see our trustpilot reviews, a taste of cuba culinary tour, custom tours of cuba, sicily, mexico & ireland, cuban music & art tour, city and countryside-havana & the famed cuban tobacco fields, blue note tour: cuba with award winning pianist jorge luis pacheco, international havana jazz festival tour, havana weekend, jet set havana getaway, havana marathon, ireland: discover the emerald isle with ebony, discover mexico city & san miguel de allende, magical mexico city & puebla tour, the white lotus sicily locations tour, taste of sicily-culinary tour.

TESTIMONIALS

What our customers are saying.

Maria Cristina Marrero - Editorial VP at Hola!

I want to thank you so much for making one of our dreams came true. Traveling with you to Cuba wasn’t just amazing it was a life changing experience. Your expertise and the way you mesh like a real local made our trip so meaningful. We are already looking forward to our next adventure with Cultural Island Travel and even making excuses up so we can go back to Cuba soon.We highly recommend you as a tour guide/director. Rest assured that all of our friends will know about your company. So get ready for some more clients! Gracias!

Mitch Glazer - Movie Producer, Writer & Actor

I have always consciously avoided any kind of organized tour — but Cultural Island Travel literally handed me the country of Cuba. Our guide, Patricia, designed an intimate week just for us that absolutely dazzled my family. I have been gushing about Cultural Island Travel’s tour of Havana since we returned two months ago. They showed me the Cuba I had only dreamt existed.

Kristen, I am still mentally not home yet. Very difficult to come right back to work after a 24 year old dream is realized. I have been to 15 countries for pleasure, business and cultural exploration, but Cuba has far surpassed them all. Our guide(s) were excellent. Our drivers were excellent. I have new friends and brothers for life. Every turn of the corner is rich with history and it would be so foolish to walk those streets without guidance. Cuba’s history is a story truly told through its artists. I felt like I was experiencing every decade. Your service is flawless!

DOWNLOAD BROCHURE

Brochure & top cuba tips.

Download our Cuba Tour Brochure and Top 10 Cuba Tips to get a better idea of what to expect when traveling to Cuba on an authentic CIT tour!

Meet Our Staff

From leading music advisers to our tour leaders read about our staff’s vast experience with Cuba.

How is travel to Cuba legal? It is legal for only the 3rd time since 1959. The time to go is now.

Custom Tours

We custom build experiences for VIP clients, corporate tours, special interest tours, families and shore excursions.

Cuba Posts & News

Read about the latest and greatest about travel to Cuba from US on the Cultural Island Travel Blog

Is it safe to go to Cuba? What should I pack? Read more questions about trips to Cuba here.

Customer Care

It’s all about you! Contact us & let’s talk about traveling to Cuba and how you can do it legally!

DOWNLOAD MUSIC

Free cuban music download.

Experience the best Cuban jazz, salsa and son in this vibrant compilation made just for our travelers.

Recent Blog Posts & News

Heiler-Krauss Family Review of their trip to Cuba with their musician grandson

Top 10 Tips for traveling to Cuba!

Havana is the most romantic city in the world-Book your own Cuba photo session with us!

SSL Connection Secured by Comodo

Learn how to Travel to Cuba Legally!

Newsletter sign up.

Quick Links

Testimonials
Refund Policy

For Travel Agents

Cuba Travel Agents

For Corporate

Corporate Travel To Cuba
For Fedex or UPS: Cultural Island Travel PO Box 751145 10628 Queens Boulevard Forest Hills, NY 11375-9997
For USPS mail: Cultural Island Travel PO Box 751145 10628 Queens Boulevard Forest Hills, NY 11375-9997
1-800-494-1945
[email protected]
Like Us On Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Watch Us On Youtube
Follow On Instagram

On our tours to Cuba, discover this Caribbean island filled with rich history, breath-taking beaches and pastel-colored colonial architecture.

September 2024

Showing 1 of 1 tours

Cuba People & Culture: Havana, Trinidad & Cienfuegos

10 days | 13 days with Havana extension

4.7 out of 5 stars

Stay on vacation? Don’t mind if we do.

Save up to $350 on tours, plus save an extra $50 with code EXT50 on tour extensions for 2025 bookings.†

What travelers are saying about our Cuba tours

Traveling with a group?

Bring 6+ friends with you, and your spot is free (including airfare)!

Combine your Club Go credits

Earn rewards for every trip with Club Go’s automatic, free membership.

Already booked? Add excursions!

Add handpicked experiences and stay longer on a tour extension.

Experiential travel made easy

You dream it. We'll take care of every last detail.

Pick your perfect trip

We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

Put just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest- free, monthly installments.

Prep your packing list

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about.

Go far (and get rewarded)

Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.

Not sure which Cuba tour is right for you? We're here to help.

Chat online

Chat instantly with us during our normal hours, or leave a message and we’ll get back to you ASAP.

Schedule a call

Let us know your preferred time to chat and a travel expert will reach out.

We’re available every day from our offices in Boston and Denver at 1-855-590-1161

Travel tips for Cuba trips

Cuba is rich with arts, culture, history, food, and natural scenery, and there’s far too much for travelers to fully experience in just a few days’ time. Our Cuba tours are 10 days long (or 13, if you opt for our extension to West Cuba) to give travelers plenty of time to take it all in.

Thanks to its location in the Caribbean, Cuba is warm all year round. If you’re considering vacation packages to Cuba, keep in mind the country’s wet and dry seasons.

The dry season, which lasts from November through April and peaks in January and February, is an ideal time of year to visit Cuba. Travelers who book Cuba travel packages this time of year will enjoy pleasant weather and little rainfall.
The rainy season lasts from May through October, with August and September typically receiving the most rain. If you plan to travel to Cuba during the wet season, be sure to bring an umbrella and weatherproof clothing.
Regardless of the weather, Cuba hosts lively festivals throughout the year. Carnival, which comes to Havana in August, is among the country’s most colorful and festive events—and an excellent reason to consider Cuba travel packages during that month.

For many travelers, Cuba is one of the most intriguing countries in Latin America . With its preserved colonial architecture, old-fashioned cars, fascinating history, and unspoiled landscapes, it’s no wonder why. Here are several highlights travelers can experience on our Cuba escorted tours:

Old Havana. This historic part of Havana is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to several of the city’s most beautiful and historically significant structures.
Plaza Vieja. When you visit Cuba, this city square and bustling gathering spot in Old Havana is where you’ll find notable buildings, such as the 18th-century Casa del Conde de Jaruco.
Museum of the Revolution. Housed in Havana’s former Presidential Palace, this museum details the Fidel Castro-led overthrow of former dictator Fulgencio Batista’s government.
Guanabacoa. This neighborhood in Havana is known for its Afro-Cuban food, music, arts, and culture, as well as its namesake museum.
Finca Vigía. Literature buffs who visit Cuba won’t want to miss seeing this former residence of Ernest Hemingway in Havana, where he wrote some of his most famous works.
Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Morro. This clifftop fortress, complete with a lighthouse, was built in the 16th and 17th centuries to protect Havana’s harbor from pirates and foreign invaders.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba. This hotel in Havana is considered a symbol of Cuban history, culture, and identity. Travelers on our Cuba tours can explore historical objects displayed throughout the hotel, and enjoy a mojito, Cuba’s signature drink.
Che Guevara Mausoleum. Situated in Santa Clara, this memorial houses the remains of the famed revolutionary fighter Che Guevara. At the site, travelers will also find a statue of Guevara, and a museum that chronicles his life.
Bay of Pigs. With support from the U.S. government, in April 1961 Cuban exiles attempted—and failed—to invade Cuba via this turquoise bay on the country’s southwest coast. The site’s historical significance makes it a popular spot for history buffs on Cuba educational tours.
Cayo Levisa. If you want to enjoy nature when you travel to Cuba, you won’t want to miss this island off Cuba’s northern coast. It’s accessible via ferry and is home to coral reefs, mangrove forests, birds, and marine life.
Trinidad. Cobblestone streets and beautifully restored buildings make the town of Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a must-visit for travelers on our organized trips to Cuba.
Sancti Spíritus. Founded in the 16th century, this city is the oldest in interior Cuba and charms travelers on Cuba vacations with its colorful architecture and narrow streets.
Viñales. This culturally rich area, situated near the western end of Cuba and surrounded by mountains, is a hub of agricultural production—particularly tobacco.

Check out some of staffer Ashley’s favorite ways to soak up culture in Cuba →

Lightweight clothing. Cuba is in the Caribbean and stays warm all year round. Keep cool and comfortable in lightweight clothing made from materials such as linen.
Sun protection. The sun can be quite strong in Cuba. We recommend that travelers going on our trips to Cuba pack brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as clothing and accessories that can shield bare skin from the sun’s rays.
A light rain jacket. We suggest that travelers on tours of Cuba, especially those who depart during the wet season, bring a lightweight rain jacket or small umbrella.
A camera. Cuba is unique for many reasons, including the fact that it’s filled with well-preserved buildings and cars that give the island country its famously vintage atmosphere. If you plan to travel on one of our tours to Cuba, pack your camera so you don’t miss a single shot.
Cash. American credit and debit cards aren’t accepted or usable in Cuba, so be sure to bring cash that you can spend or convert to the local currency.
Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers. Good shoes will help you navigate cobblestone streets, farms, and a variety of other surfaces with ease.
A bathing suit. Travelers who join our trips to Cuba can snorkel at the Bay of Pigs and Cayo Levisa.
Mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes thrive in Cuba’s warm, humid climate. If you book one of our Cuba packages, be sure to bring repellent that will keep them away.
Washcloths. Most hotels in Cuba do not provide them.
Hand sanitizer. Handwashing facilities aren’t always readily available in Cuba. Bring some hand sanitizer just in case.

Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors play an important part in traditional Cuban dishes. Common foods often include pork, chicken, yucca, plantains, beans, and rice. Cuban coffee is also popular and is known for being strongly brewed. Travelers who book Cuba vacation packages can try these signature dishes on tour:

Ropa vieja. This hearty stew, made with shredded beef, tomato sauce, onions, and peppers, and served with rice, is the national dish of Cuba.
Medianoche. Similar to the popular Cuban sandwich, this one is filled with ingredients such as shredded pork, pickles, and mustard, but it’s served on an egg-based bread. Its name translates to midnight in Spanish—perhaps a nod to its popularity as a late-night snack among partygoers.
Vaca frita. To make this dish, whose name translates to “fried beef,” meat is boiled until soft, then shredded, marinated in garlic, lime juice, and salt, and pan-fried for a crispy finish. It’s often served with rice.
Picadillo. The Cuban take on this popular Latin comfort food is made with ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings. Other flavorful ingredients vary by region and can include raisins, olives, and capers. Like many other dishes you’re likely to try on our tours in Cuba, it’s often served with rice.
Plátanos maduros. Ripe, fried plantains are a beloved side dish and snack in Cuba.
For Americans, visiting Cuba is a complex process. Our guided tours make it easy, not just because we plan your itinerary from start to finish, but we also help with all of the necessary entry requirements, such as visas. Ease of travel is just one of four reasons to take a guided tour of Cuba .
Two currencies are used in Cuba. The first is the Cuban Peso, which is used primarily by the locals for basic, staple products. The second is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), mostly used by tourists. The currency you will be using for your tour is the CUC.
Visitors who book Cuba travel packages from USA gateways land in Havana, the country’s historic capital city. In Cuba, you can exchange American or Canadian dollars for CUC at the Havana airport, as well as hotels, exchange bureaus, and in some banks. Currently, there is a 13%–15% surcharge fee for exchanging USD or CAD to CUC.
When exchanging currency, your passport will be required at the time of the transaction. It is also important to note that most places will not accept torn or marked bills when converting to CUC.
Credit cards, debit cards, and ATM cards issued by U.S. banks are currently unusable in Cuba. As such, purchases and payments for services must be made in local currency. You should plan on bringing enough cash with you for meals that are not included and anything else you may wish to purchase.
Although some small businesses and taxi drivers will accept American dollars, paying in CUC is strongly encouraged. Canadian dollars are widely accepted.
Our advice for travelers who book vacation packages to Cuba: Come with an open mind and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. Cuba’s people are warm and outgoing, and they can provide unique insight into a country that remains somewhat of a mystery to many travelers. Don’t be afraid to engage with locals, whether that means chatting about their country’s complex history, or even taking a spin on the dance floor with them during a salsa lesson.

5 out of 5 stars

2nd-time traveler John

I traveled in January, 2024. The countryside is beautiful, as are the cities. The people are friendly, and the food you’ll get is great. It is too bad the Cuban exile community... Read more of I Love Cuba

Traveled in Jan 2024 on Cuba People & Culture: Havana, Trinidad & Cienfuegos

1st-time traveler Tammy

The tour guide was phenomenal, very knowledgeable and entertaining. If the tour team was not so great I could have been wore out with all the bus time on the extension but they... Read more of Worth it

Traveled in Jun 2024 on Cuba People & Culture: Havana, Trinidad & Cienfuegos

1st-time traveler Tamra

Absolutely fantastic!! Go on this tour!

Traveled in May 2024 on Cuba People & Culture: Havana, Trinidad & Cienfuegos

4th-time traveler John

This trip with the guides, driver and people of the group has been one of the best times and trips In have been on. I learned a lot about the country and its people and had so... Read more of One Great Time

1st-time traveler Steven

Gabriel and Jorge were very knowledgeable and personable. Would definitely recommend this trip. Looking forward to more trips with EF Tours.

2nd-time traveler Gillian

With the warmth of the Cuban people and the in depth history shared of Cuba with the various places visited, this was truly an eye-opening experience. What made it even more... Read more of Excellent trip

1st-time traveler Diane

What a different and enjoyable trip. Diverse activities from art and music to baseball and cigars were very interesting. Our guides Lenin and Yaz, were the best! They... Read more of Learned a lot!

1st-time traveler Sally

My mind is swimming with all the information and images we tried to absorb during our 10 days in Cuba! The tour guide and local guide were excellent. Their vast knowledge of... Read more of Experience Cuban Culture

CAU Study Tour: Cuba ~ Afro-Cuban Arts & Culture

On this page, experience cuba, travel with ivy league faculty, your experience day-by-day, register now, you might also be interested in, march 30 – april 5, 2025.

with Dr. Ambre Dromgoole Assistant Professor of Africana Religions & Music

To reserve your space, contact CAU partner, Arrangements Abroad Phone: 800-221-1944 | Email: [email protected] Exclusive to CAU | Limited to 20 people | In support of the Cuban people

“Ambre is amazing! She is brilliant, funny and besides her font of knowledge of the subject matter, she is a fabulous teacher! I would, with great pleasure, take another course with her.” ~Sue Thau, CAU Summer 2024 Participant

Click on “Download the brochure” to access

and more details!

Traveling to Cuba can be aptly described in one word: “life-changing.” Beyond all the sites and experiences you will encounter, this behind-the-scenes tour will help you get to know the true character of the country--a place of great creativity, vibrant community, renowned cuisine, music that moves the soul, and so much more!

Your base will be a charming boutique hotel in incredible Havana, where Cuba's tropical beauty, lively energy, warm hospitality, and abundant charm awaits. From centuries-old plazas to museums filled with historic treasures, you'll explore Cuba’s rich history, as well as the remnants of the 20th-century era.

This tour, more than many others, will invite you into the homes and lives of the citizens through opportunities to hear their stories, build an understanding of their traditions, and develop a deep appreciation for facets of modern Cuban life that most visitors don't see.

Explore the many rich influences of Afro-Cuban heritage in historical or cultural elements emanating from the combination of multiple cultural elements and manifested in religion, music, language, art, religion, and the arts.

As you may know, traveling to Cuba requires a special license. CAU's partner, Arrangements Abroad, takes care of that for you. Without the hassle of planning your own logistics, you can immerse yourself more fully in the experience.

Ambre is an experienced music scholar, artist, curator, and consultant who specializes in subjects relating to music, religion, gender, performance, and popular culture all of which she brings to her role as Assistant Professor of Africana Studies at Cornell University. She received her B.A. in Religion and Musical Studies from Oberlin College and Conservatory, her M.A. from Yale Divinity School and Institute of Sacred Music, and PhD from Yale University. In addition, she holds a certificate in Jazz Vocal Musicianship from Nashville Jazz Workshop. She has presented work for the Association of Black Women Historians, Society for American Music, Academy of American Religion, and the Christian Congregational Music Conference to name a few. She was awarded a Ford Dissertation Fellowship for the 2022-2023 academic year and has previously held fellowships with the Louisville Institute, Center for Lived Religion in the Digital Age at St. Louis University, the Sacred Writes project, the Center for Material and Visual Cultures of Religion at Yale University, and The Revealer magazine. Previous consultancies include: The United Methodist Church , Sound Diplomacy , the National Museum of African American Music , and the Nashville Symphony.

Ambre teaches the popular CAU Summer course Black Gospel and Sacred Music Traditions which debuted in 2024. This will be her first CAU Study Tour.

( Photography of Dr. Dromgoole by Dustin Gavin and Joshua Narcisse.)

"Dr. Dromgoole is a fabulous teacher. I did not know much about this genre of music and learned a lot. I would take any course that she might teach." ~CAU Summer 2024 Participant

Upon your independent arrival in Havana, meet your Arrangements Abroad Tour Manager at the José Martí International Airport and transfer to your boutique hotel, Paseo 206, that will be your home for six nights. This evening, gather for a welcome dinner at a paladar , a privately owned restaurant in the proprietor’s home, largely staffed by family members.

(Meals included: Dinner)

Get grounded in Havana with a lecture and walking tour of UNESCO-listed Old Havana. After lunch at a paladar , discover the colorful murals of Callejón de Hamel, an exciting center of Afro-Cuban art and culture in Havana. Enjoy a live performance of infectiously rhythmic Afro-Cuban music and dance. Later, visit the house of a Babalawo (Santería high priest) to learn about the rituals and practices of Santería, including rich spiritual traditions that have been passed down through generations and trace their origins to the Yoruba religion that West African enslaved people brought to the Americas. Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local paladar , savoring the unique flavors of Havana.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

After a morning lecture by Dr. Dromgoole, go behind-the-scenes to witness a rehearsal at the Rosario Cárdenas Dance Company. Visit the nearby municipality of Regla, known for their deep-rooted traditions in Santería, Palo Monte, and other Afro-Cuban religions. Venture just outside Havana to the picturesque fishing village of Jaimanitas, where you will have an exclusive visit to the house and studio of artist José Rodríguez Fuster and take a walking tour of the mural-decorated village. Explore the renowned 1930 Hotel Nacional de Cuba, designed by the acclaimed New York architecture firm McKim, Mead & White and check out its storied Hall of Fame to see tributes to its many famous guests, including Buster Keaton, Rita Hayworth, Nat King Cole, and Gabriel García Marquez. Enjoy a mojito on a terrace overlooking Havana’s harbor, followed by dinner at a local paladar .

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch)

This morning, join a former Ambassador and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs for an eye-opening discussion on Cuban current reality. Then an independent curator will guide you on a private morning tour of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de La Habana (National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana), Cuba’s largest museum. After lunch, walk down Calle Obispo, Havana’s main shopping street, and explore Dador, a privately owned fashion boutique. Speak to one of the owners about the challenges and advantages of operating a small private business in Cuba. In the early evening, drive to The Ludwig Foundation of Cuba, one of only a few Cuban NGOs, for a presentation on Cuban art. The Foundation’s president will host a cocktail reception and buffet dinner on the penthouse terrace, where guests will include local Cuban artists. Later you may opt to attend a performance at one of Havana’s famed music venues.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Reception, Dinner)

Journey to the captivating seaside city of Matanzas, renowned as a birthplace of rumba and numerous Afro-Cuban folkloric traditions. Delve into the rich cultural heritage of the city with a private visit to the Castillo de San Severino, an 18th-century castle built by African enslaved people. Continue your exploration of Matanzas with a visit to Ediciones Vigía, an artisanal publishing house where skilled craftspeople create handmade books, and meet an artist in his studio. After lunch, ascend the Monserrate hills to La Ermita de Monserrate, a small late 19th-century neoclassical church, where you will witness a special performance by the Choir of Matanzas. Return to Havana for an evening at leisure.

After a morning lecture by Dr. Dromgoole, join your expert local guide for an inside look at the 122-acre Colón Cemetery, a sprawling necropolis often referred to as “Cuba’s largest sculpture park.” Learn the stories of Cuba’s past through the elaborate sculptures, monuments, mausoleums, chapels, and family vaults in varied architectural styles, from Classical Revival to Art Deco. Following lunch on your own, visit NostalgiCar, a private, family-owned classic car workshop. At this garage where some of the city’s finest vintage cars are repaired and refurbished, the proprietor will talk about how he started the business and the challenges of acquiring parts. Before the day’s end, join a curator for a private tour of what Time magazine calls one of “the world’s greatest places,” the Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC), a spellbinding, multilevel cultural space that defies categorization. Is it a performance venue? An art gallery? It’s both and so much more. You’ll have an exclusive look at its spectacular exhibits and installations with an opportunity to purchase artwork. Next door, gather for our rooftop farewell dinner at El Cocinero, a former cooking oil factory transformed into a chic paladar with delicious food and world-class daiquiris.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner)

Depart the hotel this morning for the flight home.

(Meals included: Breakfast)

Disclaimer: The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of Arrangements Abroad. For complete details, please carefully read the terms and conditions at www.arrangementsabroad.com/terms.)

March 30 – April 5 2025

To reserve your space, contact CAU partner, Arrangements Abroad Phone: 800-221-1944 | Email: [email protected] Exclusive to CAU | Limited to 2o people | In support of the Cuban people

June 12 - 19, 2025

Study Tour featuring CAU Summer's dynamic duo, David and Jen Todd.

CAU is your first choice for in-depth, lifelong learning with Cornell faculty in the classroom and around the globe.

We have a big story to tell

Help us celebrate all the good Cornellians can do! Tell us about the areas and organizations you support in your community. ❤️🐻

Stay in touch with the Cornell community

What we can do for you.

We’re here to help you stay connected to Cornell: update your contact information, request transcripts, get email forwarding, get your NetID, and pay class dues.

Ways to connect

Cornell near you
Alumni directory

IMAGES

25 Best Things To Do In Havana For 2022 (Ultimate Cuba Bucket List)
Havana travel guide things to do in havana cuba
The Best Havana Holidays 2022
The perfect 24 hours in havana cuba one day havana itinerary 2022
Havana: The Ultimate Travel Guide (2022)
25 Best Things To Do In Havana For 2022 (Ultimate Cuba Bucket List)

VIDEO

The CUBA they Don't Want You To See
Ultimate Guide to Havana, Cuba 🌴✈️
Travel Havana, Cuba in 2024
What Is CUBA Like TODAY 🇨🇺 HAVANA 2024
Walking The Real Havana, Cuba
4K Driving Through Havana, Cuba (Part 2 of 2)

COMMENTS

The rules for Americans visiting Cuba in 2022
Getting to Cuba from the US. Flying to Havana is one of the easier parts of the Cuba conundrum. As of May 2022, there are approximately a dozen flights a day between the US and Havana departing from the Florida cities of Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Operating airlines include American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue.
Cuba Travel Advisory
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cuba. If you decide to travel to Cuba: Be aware of your surroundings. ... Havana, Cuba. Telephone +(53) (7) 839-4100. Emergency +(53) (7) 839-4100 and dial 1 to speak with the emergency operator. Fax +(53) 7839-4247. Email. [email protected] .
Is it Legal for U.S. Citizens to Travel to Cuba?
Then in May 2022, President Biden's administration announced it would undo many of the Cuba-related restrictions enacted under Trump and would work on expanding authorized travel. Under the new order, regular passenger and charter airplanes are again allowed to fly to any Cuban airport (and airlines announced new flight paths ).
Can Americans Travel To Cuba? [2024 Legal Travel Guide]
American Travel to Cuba. The short answer to the question "can Americans travel to Cuba" is YES, American citizens can travel to Cuba. Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba via the United States as well. American citizens can fly from the United States directly to Cuba, travel independently (no need for a group trip or guided trip ...
Traveling to Cuba
Travel to Cuba for tourist activities remains prohibited by statute. However, the Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued general licenses for 12 categories of travel. ... Please note that neither the U.S. Embassy in Havana nor the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. process Cuban visa applications ...
Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism
Tour Republic January 29, 2024. If you are a US citizen, you can still visit Cuba in 2024. However, unlike your neighbors traveling from Canada, you will be subject to specific regulations from the US government. For example, doing "tourism," like staying at a resort on a Cuban beach, isn't allowed. Your trip must fall into one of 12 ...
Entry to Cuba: Visas & Travel Requirements · Visit Cuba
For Latin American citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. You'll also need to obtain a tourist visa or tourist card for your trip. This can be processed at tourism agencies or airlines, which usually handle its issuance. The visa is generally issued for about 90 days and can then be extended.
Cuba International Travel Information
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.
Cuba's Covid-19 Protocols for Travelers as 2022 Begins
HAVANA TIMES - As new Covid-19 cases began to rise in recent days, official Cuban media announced new rules for travelers arriving to the island as of January 5, 2022.. We bring you the report published by the Cuba Travel Network.. IMPORTANT NOTICE. Updated: December 30, 2021. As of January 5, new controls will be implemented for international travelers.
20 things to know before going to Havana
Ensure your trip to Havana goes smoothly with our top 20 things to know before you go. 1. Bring proof of insurance. Despite Cuba's extensive state healthcare system, visitors are required to have medical insurance to enter Cuba, and you'll need to bring a digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are conducted at the airport; if ...
Cuba Arrival and Departure Procedures in 2022
February, 2022. Contributor: Sarah Arizaga. Part one of this article covered all the prep work I did for my trip to Cuba in late January 2022. This is what I experienced traveling to and from Jose Marti Airport in Havana. Check-in Process. The hardest part of this journey was getting everything packed and ready to go.
Ultimate Guide to Travel to Cuba (2024 Update)
We're José and Carley Rojas Avila, a Havana native and a serial expat turned travel writer. We're the creators of Home to Havana. We love Cuba and use our insider knowledge to help fellow travelers just like you discover all Cuba has to offer. Our ULTIMATE guide to travel to Cuba helps demystify Cuba travel. Written by locals, we share the ...
Havana Cuba Travel Guide: +50 Best Things to do in 2023
50 Best Things To Do in Havana Cuba. 1. El Malecón. 2. Old Town (Habana Vieja) 3.Museo de la Revolución) 4. Museum of Fine Arts 5. ... 50 Best Things To Do In Havana Cuba (2022) After 5 years of full time travel, there are not many cities in the world anymore that blow our mind upon entering. Well, Havana absolutely blew our mind. ...
20 things to know before going to Cuba
2. Fill out your passenger information in advance. Cuba uses an online form called D'Viajeros to gather traveler information, including immigration and health data, in advance of travel. Fill out the form digitally up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba. 3.
Havana: The Ultimate Travel Guide (2022)
La Habana: Cuba's vibrant Capital. The pulsating capital of Cuba is a myth and a place of nostalgia. With a population of over two million, Havana is the undisputed economic and cultural center of Cuba. At the same time, the city is the largest metropolis in the Caribbean. Havana stands for magnificent buildings, its morbid charm and a ...
Cuba Travel Guide for U.S. Citizens: What to Know Before You Go
Getting WiFi in Cuba. If a travel guide says there are only one-hour WiFi cards, it is outdated. Now, you can access WiFi on a one-hour or a five-hour card. WiFi is now cheaper in Cuba—it was $5 USD per hour; now, it's $1 USD per hour. We only needed one 5-hour card per person for the whole week.
New Requirements for Travelers to Cuba as of Jan. 23
By El Toque. HAVANA TIMES - The Cuban government will require, as of January 23, 2023, a digital customs declaration for travelers entering the country. The declaration is part of a more extensive digital form (which also contains immigration and health information) that will be mandatory for visitors, both Cubans and foreigners.st.
Biden's new Cuba policy creates more options for U.S. travel
Biden's revised Cuba policy creates more options for U.S. travelers. The United States just approved flights to airports beyond Havana and will restore the group tours banned under Trump. 7 min ...
Travel advice and advisories for Cuba
Theft from hotel rooms, particularly in private accommodations (casas particulares), and from cars is common. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Don't pack valuables in your checked luggage. Avoid showing signs of affluence.
Biden administration easing some US restrictions on Cuba
The United States is easing some restrictions on Cuba, including curbs on family remittances and travel to the Caribbean island nation. The measures, announced on Monday, comes after a lengthy US ...
Travel to Cuba Legally From US
YES! U.S. citizens can still travel to Cuba legally. Join Cultural Island Travel on our authentic tours to Cuba & see Cuba from an insider's perspective. We have over 20 years experience arranging safe, legal & unique trips to Cuba. Contact us today to plan your dream vacation & learn how to travel to Cuba!
Visiting Cuba in 2023: Here's what you need to know
In 2022, President Joe Biden announced plans to resume people-to-people group travel in Cuba in a new capacity, though concrete details have yet to be released. (Individual travel is still restricted.) Biden also greenlit commercial flights to Cuban cities other than Havana to resume (though cruises are still banned).
Cuba Tours
From colorful Havana to Hemingway's Cojimar, our Cuba tours offer something like no other. Experience culture and meet locals on tour with Go Ahead. ... Let us know your preferred time to chat and a travel expert will reach out. Schedule now. Call us. We're available every day from our offices in Boston and Denver at 1-855-590-1161.
CAU Study Tour: Cuba ~ Afro-Cuban Arts & Culture
Your base will be a charming boutique hotel in incredible Havana, where Cuba's tropical beauty, lively energy, warm hospitality, and abundant charm awaits. From centuries-old plazas to museums filled with historic treasures, you'll explore Cuba's rich history, as well as the remnants of the 20th-century era.