travel to usa and cuba

• Search Search Search …
• Search Search …

All about the US ESTA and CUBA [ESTA After Visiting Cuba]

Many visitors to the USA travel there on the ESTA Visa Waiver program.  However, a change by the US Government on 12 th January 2021 means that if you have visited Cuba since then you may no longer use the ESTA Visa Waiver Scheme.  This article goes through the details of the changes, relevant dates, and what you’ll need to do if you (as an ESTA user) want to visit the United States.  I’ll also cover the most frequently asked questions about the US ESTA and Cuba.  Here’s our guide to the USA ESTA after visiting Cuba.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

There’s a lot of detail in this article, and I’ve answered a lot of questions in it, so it’s best to read it in its entirety and then if you have questions afterward, either send an email or ask in the comments.  It can seem complex at first glance, but the rules are pretty simple now.

Why is the USA ESTA Visa Waiver Scheme relevant to visiting Cuba?

Citizens of 41 countries around the world can use the United States ESTA Visa Waiver scheme to visit the US for business or pleasure.   It involves completing an online form, paying a fee, and (if granted) removing the need to apply (in person) for a US Visa at an embassy or consulate.

However, on 12 th January 2021, The United States Government added Cuba as a country to the list of State Sponsors of Terrorisms.  That meant that visitors to Cuba were no longer able to visit the USA using the ESTA Visa Waiver Scheme.  It does NOT mean that you cannot visit the USA.  It simply means that to visit the USA after a trip to Cuba you’ll need to apply for a regular visa, at an embassy or consulate of the United States.

The enforcement of this policy came in October 2022, and since then if you plan to visit the United States after visiting Cuba, then, even if you have an existing ESTA it will be invalidated. You are not eligible for an ESTA if you’ve been to Cuba.

The ESTA Application was updated on 6 July 2023 to include specific questions about travel to Cuba.  Previously it had simply referenced “the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism”.  The other countries on this list are Iran, North Korea and Syria.

Why the US ESTA cancellation is an issue for long-haul visitors to Cuba

Aside from the issue that you now need a visa to enter the United States, there’s another issue with ESTAs being canceled upon your visit to Cuba.

If you’re visiting Cuba from Europe, Australia, or New Zealand, then it’s highly likely that you may be flying via the United States.   That means you likely want to fly home via the United States.

There’s no “in transit” in the United States

The United States does NOT have the concept of “in transit” for connecting flights.  You must, even if you’re just getting off one plane and getting onto another, go through immigration and “enter” the United States, before then leaving again to get on your next flight. There’s more from the DHS here.

And if you’re relying on an ESTA to get you through this immigration process then you CANNOT.  If you’ve flown into Cuba via the United States, then it’s likely that you’ll be stopped in the USA and told that your ESTA will be canceled if you continue with your onward trip to Cuba and that you will not be allowed to fly back via the United States.

If you want to visit the USA again after Cuba, you’ll need a full visa

If you plan to visit the USA after your trip to Cuba (or indeed if you’ve been there since 12 January 2021), then you will need to go through the full visa application process.  This generally means getting an appointment at your local US Embassy or Consulate and obtaining a full US visitor’s visa (B1/B2), which is both expensive and time-consuming.

Am I trying to put you off visiting Cuba?

I just want to clear up, with this article, a lot of misinformation and ensure that you do not get stuck, or book flights via the USA that you will be unable to take.

Does visiting Cuba mean that I won’t be able to get a visa for the United States?

Not at all.  If you’re ineligible for an ESTA, then the US Department of Homeland Security states that it does NOT mean that you’re ineligible for a regular visa.

Practical Steps to Take on Visiting Cuba

Here are several practical steps to take that can help you with regard to the ESTA after visiting the United States.

Make sure you don’t try and fly home via the United States

You’ll want to start by making sure that your return flight is NOT via anywhere in the United States unless you already have a regular B1 /B2 Visa for the United States.

The Cuban Government, since October 2022, is NOT stamping passports, unless you specifically ask them to, so there will be nothing in your passport to state that you’ve been to Cuba.  However, lying to the American Government – aka making a false declaration to US Immigration Services can have serious consequences for your future travel, and not just to the United States.  It’s just not worth it.

Apply for a US Visitors Visa

If you plan to visit the United States for business or pleasure, or if you’re a regular visitor, then you can apply for a 10-year visa.  You can get a B1 Visa (which is mainly for business) or a B2 Visa which covers you for both business and pleasure.  These are generally valid for 10 years.  The time taken to process these visas will differ depending on your embassy, so you’ll want to allow plenty of time.

Investigate a USA Transit Visa If you Want to Fly Long Haul home via the USA

Thanks to Alan Crocker of Australian Travel Agency PleaseYourselfTravel who contacted us at Cuba’s Best and made us aware of the US Transit Visa. Also known as a “C” visa, it can be used for transiting the USA. Wait times at US embassies tend to be shorter for this type of visa, compared to the B1 or B2 visa.

Now what I don’t know is if this visa can be used to transit the USA after visiting Cuba. I’d recommend that you ask your local US embassy. And let us know what you hear, it could help other long-haul visitors to Cuba.

Keep your fingers crossed for change from the US Government

I’m a big believer in the phrase “Hope is not a strategy”, but perhaps a little hope would help here.  The current US administration recently announced that visa processing will resume in the Havana Embassy “soon”, which is a good sign that there is always hope that Cuba could be removed from the State Sponsored Terrorism list.

Frequently Asked Questions about the US ESTA and Cuba

Here are just some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Cuba and the impact it has on ESTAs.

Can I get a different passport and then apply for an ESTA after visiting Cuba?

The question on the ESTA Visa Waiver Form is “Have you traveled to Cuba”? A different passport makes no difference to this answer.  A different passport makes no difference at all to your eligibility for the ESTA Visa Waiver Scheme.

If I fly into Cuba visa the USA and they don’t tell me about this can I fly back?

No.  Without a valid visa for the United States, you will be unable to board a plane out of Cuba going to the United States.  Even if your flight is a transit flight.  There’s no concept of “in transit” in the United States, so you have to go through immigration.

How long does it take to get a B1 or B2 Visa for the United States?

You’ll need to check timeframes with your local embassy as times differ depending on the country, time of year, and staffing.

If I traveled to Cuba before 2021 can I still travel to the USA on an ESTA?

Yes.  The cut-off date is 12 January 2021, if you traveled to Cuba AFTER this date, then you are ineligible for the ESTA Visa Waiver scheme. 

If I’ve already got an ESTA and go to Cuba what happens?

The Department of Homeland Security states “If an ESTA has already been approved and it is later determined that the traveler has been present in Cuba or holds dual nationality with both a VWP country and Cuba, the ESTA will be revoked. Ineligibility for an ESTA is not a bar to travel to the United States.”

Does Cuba Stamp Passports?

No.  Cuba does not stamp passports, it’s the Cuban Tourist Card ( which I wrote about here ) that’s stamped.  However, a passport stamp, whether it’s there or not, is irrelevant to the situation with an ESTA.

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Final Words on the USA ESTA after Visiting Cuba

This is a difficult but important article to write.  After all, Cuba’s Best is all about promoting why you should come to the country!  However, the elephant in the room must be addressed, and it’s only fair that you have all the information before traveling to Cuba.  If you plan ahead, understand the rules, and manage your travel with them in mind, this is a minor inconvenience, but one you must be aware of.  I am in no way suggesting that you do not visit Cuba, but simply that you are aware of the situation and are therefore able to plan around it. 

Cuba’s Best is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates .

Sarah Carter

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

2 thoughts on “ All about the US ESTA and CUBA [ESTA After Visiting Cuba] ”

• 2 Comments

Hi Sarah, thank you for this information. Would it be possible for you please to send me the Viazul timetable for February, 2024? Thank you in advance

Hi Derek, I’ll send it to you now, but be aware its all changing. Prices are going up as of March 1 and there’s no online availability for March onwards at this time. Sarah p.s. I’ll send updates once the new timetable is out too.

Privacy Overview

clock This article was published more than  1 year 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 .

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

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.

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.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• 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.

Share this page:

Cuba Travel Advisory

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 .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, 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:

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

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.

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

Marabana – havana’s annual marathon.

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

Six of Havana’s Coolest Independent Hotels

Explore the best hotels in Havana through our curated list,

Five of the Best Beaches in Cuba

Discover the best Cuban beaches making a splash in the

Visit the Museo de la Revolución, and Relive the Fight for Cuba

Havana’s Museo de la Revolución offers a thorough look at

Dance to Your Own Beat at Havana World Music 2022

Havana World Music: Are you ready to break beyond the

Five Cuban Clothing Brands to Shop for in Havana

Take a look at the emerging Cuban dress wear brands

Cuba’s Top Destinations For Your Next Mountain Bike Adventure

Get to know the 5 best spots for mountain biking

City Guide: Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos is a picturesque coastal town with laid back charm

Tarará Beach – Havana’s Best Kept Secret

Tired of typical tourist spots? Get to know Tarará beach,

Explore the Glittering Caves of Bellamar

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

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

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

 Kriangkrai Thitimakorn / Getty Images 

Travel to Cuba for American citizens has been a back-and-forth battle over the past few decades, and as of June 2019, tighter restrictions have been placed on travelers and tourists hoping to visit this Caribbean island.

Travelers must now declare themselves as making a trip that falls under one of 12 categories of travel. This means that tourists may no longer travel to Cuba in the "people to people" category, and those that do make it to Cuba are no longer allowed to support businesses that help fund the Cuban military. Additionally, the Trump administration further banned cruise ships and ferries from transporting Americans to the islands in June of 2019.

In order to book a flight to Cuba or lodging in the country now, you must now declare which category of travel you'll be making first, and as Americans still cannot simply book a flight and head to Cuba, most U.S. citizens will have to go through a process to make it to this country—unless they are part of a protected group still permitted to travel there.

New Legislation and Getting a Visa: Who Can Travel

Legal individual travel has always required that citizens fall under one of the 12 categories of permitted travel to Cuba, a rule already in place before Trump's November 2017 edict. Now, however, the requirement is legally binding and you'll need to document your activities to prove you were there for legitimate reasons (other than tourism).

According to the  U.S. Embassy in Cuba's official website , trips may be completed for: 

• 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 information materials
• Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines

In order to get a travel visa to Cuba, neither the U.S. Embassy in Havana nor the U.S Department of State in Washington, D.C. process applications, so you'll instead need to apply through the Cuban Embassy in D.C.

Booking Hotels and Logistics of Visiting Cuba

Because of the Trump administration's policy banning American support of military-funded establishments, paired with hurricanes that ravaged the island in 2017, booking a hotel room can be a challenge.

According to officials from the Trump administration, these new restrictions in Cuba were not meant to stop tourism of the country but to "direct money and economic activity away from the Cuban military and security services" and toward businesses owned by Cuban citizens.

Essentially, these new laws hope to encourage visitors to eat at local restaurants, stay in local hotels (or private homes), and buy from local businesses—just make sure you never go to any restricted businesses or you could be fined or arrested upon return to the United States.

While Trump has discouraged travel to Cuba with these new restrictions, it's still possible to go and enjoy the rich culture of this island. However, since relations between the United States and Cuba are suffering under the Trump administration, be well prepared before you go. Be sure to bring enough cash for your entire trip as accessing American funds in Cuba—as well as exchanging them to the Cuban peso—is rather difficult.

Going Solo to Cuba

Although the 2017 restrictions still allowed cruise ships and authorized tour groups to arrange hotels, transportation, meals, and an itinerary that complies with federal regulations, the 2019 edict prohibited these from arranging travel for tourists seeking to visit Cuba as tourists.

Going solo now, you'll need a passport and a reason for being there that doesn't involve tourism. You'll need to make your own hotel and transport arrangements, of course, and a working knowledge of Spanish can help, too. However, the island nation already has experience handling international tourists, so there is more than minimal tourist help already in place.

The changes in Cuba policy don't apply to travelers from elsewhere in the world, and Cuba is among the most popular Caribbean destinations for travelers from Canada and Europe. A number of international hotel companies, such as  Riu ,  Iberostar , and  Melia , have built large resorts in Cuban destinations like Varadero that meet the expectations of savvy global travelers. More than two million tourists now visit Cuba annually.

Traveling by U.S. Commercial Airlines

Although some top U.S. airlines bid over the right to fly to Cuba in 2016, the 2017 restrictions have all but eliminated commercial airline travel between the two countries. Charter flights that largely originate in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and Tampa still remain travelers' best option for getting to Cuba by air from the U.S. It is highly unlikely that Cuba's airlines will begin offering flights to the U.S. anytime soon, as they would have to overcome significant regulatory hurdles in order to do so. Beginning in late 2019, U.S.-based carriers will only fly in and out of Havana. To visit other Cuban cities, you will have to travel by land within the country.

Flying From Canada, Cancun, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica

If you don't want to wait for U.S. airlines to start flying to Cuba, or you want to combine a visit to Cuba with a trip to a different Caribbean island, you have options, and not just to Havana but also a wide range of  Cuban destinations .

Currently, Air Canada flies between Toronto and Havana and Varadero, Cuba, while Cubana—Cuba's national airline—has service between Toronto and Montreal and Havana, Varadero, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Holguín, and COPA Airlines also has daily Toronto-Havana flights.

Cancun  has long been the gateway of choice for Americans looking to visit Cuba without attracting the attention of U.S. Customs officials, and even though restrictions have tightened, you can still fly Cubana from Cancun to Havana. Cayman Airways also has flights to Havana from  Grand Cayman  and  Jamaica .

Using the Havana Embassy

The  U.S. Embassy in Havana  reopened in August 2015, as full diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States have been restored. Although the relationship is now strained thanks to the Trump administration, this embassy will still help American citizens in Cuba in a variety of different ways.

Services offered at the U.S. Embassy in Havana include processing applications for new U.S. passports, renewing expired passports, or replacing stolen passports as well as registering U.S. citizens living in, traveling to, or born in Cuba.

The U.S. Embassy also provides federal income tax forms, services to notarize documents to be used in the United States, and limited assistance to U.S. citizen prisoners in Cuba as well as assistance in the shipment of remains of deceased U.S. citizens back to the United States or coordinating medical evacuations for U.S. citizens.

In an emergency situation, the U.S. Embassy will also assist in wiring money to citizens, but don't count on this option to help you if you simply run out of funds while visiting Cuba.

Cubas Capital City of Havana

Travel to Cuba for United States Citizens

Cuba Travel Restrictions and Warnings: What You Need to Know

The Most Difficult Countries for Americans to Visit

What Americans Traveling to Cuba Need to Know

Top Cuba Tour Operators for Americans

Hundreds of Hotels in Cuba Now Prohibited for U.S. Citizens

What to Do in an Emergency in Mexico

The Bahamas Is Closing Its Borders to Americans—Unless You’re Willing to Pay Up

5 Neighborhoods to Explore in Havana

These Countries Are Inviting US Citizens to Live and Work Remotely

Gay and Lesbian Friendly Destinations in the Caribbean

Cuba Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Travel the World for Free Using Miles and Points

How the U.S. Presidential Election Could Change Travel

What Documents Do I Need for Mexico Travel?

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

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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)

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!

Read more Cuba travel guides:

• Cuba Pre-Departure Checklist
• What to See and Do in Cuba (Havana and Viñales)
• At Dusk in Havana, I Fell in Love
• Havana, the Art Sanctuary
• When It Destroys, It Starts with Us
• The Elephant in the Room: Socialism in Cuba

Save on Pinterest

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Hi, I'm Sarah

Welcome to my oasis! I am a writer and budding entrepreneur with a love for caffeine, capital gains, and seeing the world. If I'm not writing, you can find me reading a good book, trying out a new vegan recipe, or adding to my coffee mug collection. My goal in life? To see every country in the world. Come along for the ride!

• Travel Advice
• General Information

Traveling to Cuba as a US Citizen: 2024 Complete Guide

Last Updated: December 15, 2022 January 3, 2024

Cuba has been a country shrouded in mystery and wonder for many Americans. Just 90 miles off the shores of Key West, it’s no surprise why many Americans wonder if they can visit Cuba. With continuous changes to travel restrictions and policies regarding Cuba, Squaremouth has compiled a detailed overview of everything you need to know, updated with the latest information regarding Cuba entry requirements , travel advice, and much more.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? 

In short, yes, it is possible for Americans to visit Cuba. However, the country still remains off limits for tourist activities. This means U.S citizens currently cannot visit Cuba when the sole purpose of their trip is to sightsee, go to the beach, and explore.

In 2024, Americans that wish to travel to Cuba must fall into one of the 12 approved categories of travel, determined by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) .  Visiting Cuba is not as straightforward for Americans as it is for citizens of other nations, like Canada or the United Kingdom. U.S citizens can apply for a general license under one of the authorized categories, which can take anywhere from four to six months to process, according to regulation experts . The 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba include:

• Family Visits
• Journalistic Activity
• Professional Research and Meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious Activities
• Public Performances, Clinics, Workshops, Exhibitions, Athletic and Other Competitions
• Support for the Cuban People
• Humanitarian Projects
• Activities of Private Foundations, or Research or Educational Institutes
• Official Business of the U.S. Government, Foreign Governments, and Certain Intergovernmental Organizations
• Exportation, Importation, or Transmission of Information
• Authorized Export Transactions

To apply for a license, or to learn more about the different categories of approved travel, visit the official OFAC website .

Cuba Travel Restrictions & Requirements

The U.S Passport is welcome and accepted at the Cuban borders. Most of the policies in place that prohibit tourist travel to Cuba come from the United States. Below are some of the main travel restrictions and requirements to keep in mind when traveling to Cuba.

Cuba Entry Requirements 

To gain entry to Cuba, Americans are required to possess specific documents upon arrival. It’s important to start gathering these documents as early as possible to avoid issues at the border. Below is a simplified list of entry requirements, compiled by Cuba Unbound . 

• Return Travel Documents: Travelers must show proof of entry and departure dates in order to receive a valid visa. 
• Valid Cuban Tourist Card/Visa: U.S citizens traveling to Cuba must acquire a valid Visa, also known as a Cuban Tourist Card. These cards can be purchased online for $50-$100, are valid for 30 days, and take roughly 48 hours to process. 
• Certification of Travel Form: This document outlines the approved category in which U.S citizens are traveling to Cuba. 
• Valid Passport : Americans are required to have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay. 
• Proof of Travel Medical Insurance : Cuba requires all foreigners to purchase medical insurance prior to entry.

Cuba Travel Insurance Requirements 

Since 2010, the Cuban government has required all visitors from abroad to provide proof of medical insurance when visiting the island. While there are no requirements on the amount of coverage travelers need, U.S citizens visiting Cuba must purchase a policy that includes Emergency Medical coverage, as well as Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth recommends travelers visiting Cuba consider a travel insurance policy with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage, and at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth’s Cuba Travel Insurance page provides more information and specific policy recommendations for travelers planning to visit the country.

Typically, single trip travel insurance premiums will equate to 5-10% of a traveler’s total insured trip costs. According to Squaremouth data, the average Cuba travel insurance policy cost travelers roughly $200.

Visiting Cuba From the U.S.

For more than 60 years, U.S travel to Cuba has been a complex issue. With that said, there are plenty of reasons why Cuba, home to more than 400 white-sand beaches and over 3,500 miles of coastline, has remained a desirable destination for American travelers. In relation to neighboring Caribbean countries, many of which are consistently among the most popular destinations for Americans, Cuba has a relatively low crime rate. With that said, the U.S Department of State’s Cuba Travel Advisory recommends exercising increased caution when visiting the island due to petty crime, such as theft, sometimes targeted towards tourists.

What Airports Fly to Cuba From the U.S?

Regardless of the complexities of traveling to Cuba as a U.S citizen, there are still multiple airports and airlines that provide non-stop flights to Havana, the nation’s capital. According to Simple Flying , eligible U.S citizens traveling to Cuba can find non-stop service from the following airports: 

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Texas
• Tampa International Airport (TPA), Florida
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Florida
• Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida

For those interested in which airlines fly directly to Cuba, SkyScanner shares that American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, jetBlue, and United all provide such services to eligible U.S citizens. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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). 

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 February 2022 and updated January 2024

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Jan 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Travelers often have questions about the visa process for Cuba and whether US citizens can even visit. Here’s our guide to Cuba’s visa requirements.

Jan 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 7, 2024 • 10 min read

Jan 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 4 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 7 min read

May 6, 2023 • 9 min read

Jan 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Jan 5, 2023 • 8 min read

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

8 Things You Need to Know About Going to Cuba Now

The Trump administration continues to change the rules for Americans traveling to Cuba, but it has not closed down tourism.

By Shannon Sims

On October 25, the Transportation Department announced that i t would suspend flights from the United States to nine airports in Cuba beginning in December. The policy will sever air service to every international airport there except the one in Havana. This list has been updated to reflect this change of policy.

1. You can still go

The American government, as part of its ongoing economic embargo of Cuba’s socialist government, announced in June new rules for Americans traveling to Cuba, which included a ban on cruise ships. It also eliminated one of the 12 categories under which travel to the island has been allowed, the educational and cultural trips known as “people to people” trips. However, Americans can still visit the island under the “support for Cuban people” category, either independently or on an accompanied tour. That category requires you to spend money at Cuban-owned businesses throughout your trip, something you are certain to do, even without trying.

2. Air service from the U.S. is restricted to Havana

Starting Dec. 10, 2019, air service from the United States, which allows travelers to fly into 10 airports in Cuba, will be restricted to the Havana Jose Marti International Airport . This new policy, announced in October by the Transportation Department, demonstrates continued efforts by the Trump administration to rollback decisions made by the Obama administration to restore relations between the two countries.

3. You can get your tourist card at the airport

The process is simple. Most commonly, when you buy a plane ticket, the airline will ask you to select the reason for your visit (for most people, “support for the Cuban people”). Arriving at the airport, you’ll go through customs to your gate, as you would for any other international flight. At your gate, there will be a booth where you can purchase your tourist card, the equivalent of a visa. The fee will depend on which airline you fly. (Some tourist cards can be bought earlier and delivered online or through the mail.)

4. Some hotels are restricted

Americans are not supposed to stay in hotels owned by the Cuban military, which is most of the big hotels. But Cuba has a thriving Airbnb industry, where the money goes to the local homeowner, which is allowed. It is best to book and pay for your lodgings from the United States.

5. You need to bring a lot of cash

United States dollars are not accepted in Cuba. There are no A.T.M.s in Cuba that accept American-issued cards, and almost no businesses anywhere on the island accept United States credit cards (much less a debit card or a check). That means that you need to bring all of the cash you think you will spend during your trip. Enough for every meal, tour, taxi, tip and bottle of rum.

If you run out of cash, you have one emergency option: you can have someone wire you money via Western Union. The catch is that it must be wired to a Cuban citizen, who must pick up the money at a Western Union for you in person. Although you can get the cash within an hour in many locations, when you consider the effort involved and the fee, which can be significant, this should be a last resort.

6. Don’t forget to factor in the exchange rate fee

When United States visitors exchange dollars they are hit with a fee of at least 10 percent. Carriers of Canadian dollars and euros are not charged the same fee. So don’t forget to add 10 percent to your spending calculations. Or you can exchange dollars for euros or Canadian dollars while still in America, but bank fees may eat up any savings.

7. There are two currencies in Cuba

Cuban nationals use the Cuban Peso Nacional (CUP), or, more commonly, “moneda nacional,” and prices in stores and restaurants that locals use are posted in CUP. Visitors and the businesses they frequent use Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), more commonly called “pesos.” One CUC equals $1, which is very handy for visitors trying to understand the cost of things.

8. You already have Cuban health insurance

In major cities there is usually a Clinica Internacional set up to treat visitors. Built into the price of most airline tickets is a $25 fee that pays for Cuban health insurance while you are on the island. Keep a printed copy of your ticket with you (or a digital one on your phone) to show the clinic if you end up needing to go to one.

52 PLACES AND MUCH, MUCH MORE Follow our 52 Places traveler, Sebastian Modak, on Instagram as he travels the world , and discover more Travel coverage by following us on Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter : Each week you’ll receive tips on traveling smarter, stories on hot destinations and access to photos from all over the world.

An earlier version of this article referred incorrectly to health insurance for travelers in Cuba. It is built into the price of most airline tickets, not all. 

How we handle corrections

Simple Flying

How to fly to cuba from the usa: 5 top tips.

Flying to Cuba via the United States involves specific considerations. Here's what you need to know.

• US citizens can travel to Cuba under 12 approved categories, excluding tourism.
• Keep up with political changes affecting US-Cuba relations for smooth travel planning.
• Respect Cuban customs, be aware of restrictions, and have necessary documentation.

Americans cannot visit Cuba for tourism due to the trade embargo under the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of 1963 . However, since late 2016, when the first commercial flight to Cuba from the US in over 50 years took off, legal travel to Cuba is possible by complying with Cuban and US government regulations.

Among the US carriers currently flying to Cuba are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The country's flag carrier, Cubana de Aviación , does not fly to the US, but instead connects Havana's José Martí International Airport (HAV) with Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), Buenos Aires (EZE), and Caracas (CCS). Though it has become easier recently, traveling to Cuba from the US still requires careful planning. Here are five tips you should consider before starting your journey.

1 Understand US-Cuba Travel Restrictions

Us citizens need to qualify for a "general license" under one of 12 approved categories.

Travel to Cuba for tourist purposes is prohibited by US law , but exceptions exist through general licenses issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). These licenses cover 12 travel categories, including family visits, journalism, education, and humanitarian projects. Specific details on Cuba's sanctions regulations and the application for an OFAC license can be found on the Department of Treasury's website .

The most popular category currently is "support for the Cuban people," which requires travelers to engage in activities contributing to Cuba's local economy. This includes staying in locally run guesthouses, visiting Cuban-owned businesses, and participating in cultural activities.

In 2022, the US State Department announced measures to ease Cuba's travel restrictions for US citizens. It also planned to reinstate the Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program and expand consular services for Cubans seeking to join their families in the US.

However, the State Department lists restricted entities associated with the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services. The US Embassy does not process visa applications for Cuba, and U.S.-Cuban dual citizens should be aware of certain restrictions and obligations imposed by the Cuban government, including the requirement to use a Cuban passport when entering or departing Cuba.

Despite US Sanctions Cuba Has Never Been So Well Connected

2 consider people-to-people (p2p) exchanges, biden reinstated the general license category for p2p group travel to cuba in 2022.

In May 2022, the Biden Administration reinstated the general license category for People to People (P2P) group travel, which had been eliminated by the Trump Administration in 2019. However, individuals under US jurisdiction are prohibited from traveling to Cuba for "people-to-people" educational exchanges. Just group people-to-people travel for educational purposes is generally allowed, with certain conditions.

People-to-people travel requires a full-time schedule of activities that involve meaningful interaction with the Cuban people. Cuba Educational Travel is the premier People to People tour operator, organizing and conducting thousands of meaningful cultural exchanges for US travelers to Cuba over the last decade.

As of June 9, 2022, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has amended regulations to permit group people-to-people educational travel organized by US organizations promoting such exchanges, provided a representative of the sponsoring organization accompanies travelers. Authorized travel must involve activities intended to foster contact with Cuban people, support civil society, or promote independence from Cuban authorities and must result in meaningful interactions.

Cuba Travel Restrictions To Be Eased By The United States

3 obtain the necessary documentation, the cuban tourist card or visa can typically be obtained through your airline or a travel agency specializing in cuban travel.

Traveling to Cuba requires specific documentation, including a valid passport, a Cuban tourist card or visa, and health insurance coverage valid in Cuba. It's essential to arrange these documents well before your trip to ensure a smooth journey.

The Cuban tourist card or visa can typically be obtained through your airline or a travel agency specializing in Cuban travel. Health insurance coverage is often included in the cost of your airline ticket or can be purchased separately.

In January 2023, Cuba also implemented a new requirement for passengers traveling to the country to complete an online pre-arrival form called D'VIAJEROS , replacing the previous paper form. The form collects passport information, travel plans, customs declarations, and COVID-19 information. Once submitted, passengers receive a QR code for easy identification upon arrival. This system aims to streamline entry procedures and is mandatory for all passengers.

Similar electronic travel authorization systems exist in countries like the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and the EU's upcoming ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). The move aligns with global trends toward digitizing travel processes and enhancing border security.

World's Last Commercial Operator Of Ilyushin Il-96

4 stay updated on political developments, there hasn't been a clear trend in recent years, with different decisions contrasting with each other.

Given the evolving nature of US-Cuba relations, staying informed about any political developments or changes that may impact travel between the two countries is crucial.

In 2021, The US State Department, led by former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo under the Trump administration, placed Cuba back on the list of state sponsors of terrorism. This decision reversed a move made during the Obama era toward normalization. Pompeo cited reasons such as Cuba's sheltering of US fugitives and Colombian rebels, as well as its support for Venezuela's regime.

Why The New US Travel Rules Are Bad News For Travellers From Cuba

A year later, under President Biden's administration, the White House eased some restrictions on Cuba, such as expanding US flights, reinstating a family reunification program, increasing visa processing, and removing the remittance cap for families.

However, in 2023, the US deported over one hundred Cuban nationals back to Cuba in the first deportation flight since the pandemic began. This decision followed a surge in Cuban arrivals at the southern US border, reaching nearly 221,000 in fiscal year 2022, since Cuba faces a severe economic crisis, with skyrocketing inflation, increasing food prices, and other expenses. Also, if Trump is reelected, there may be a return to more restricted travel policies.

5 Respect Local Customs and Regulations

Personal effects are allowed, but gifts exceeding $53.61 incur customs tax.

Cuba has unique customs and regulations that travelers should know before visiting. From respecting local traditions and customs to adhering to photography and internet access regulations, being respectful and mindful of your surroundings is very important. Additionally, travelers should be aware of restrictions on bringing certain items into Cuba, including electronics and medications, to avoid any issues at customs.

The Cuban customs system aims to protect citizens, industry, and the environment while combating illicit activities like smuggling and drug trafficking. Controls exist at entry and exit points, such as airports and ports. Visitors must have health insurance, a valid passport, a visa, a return ticket, and a lodging address upon entry. Personal effects are allowed, along with gifts up to 1287 CUP (Cuban Pesos) ($53.61); items exceeding this value incur customs tax.

A Brief History Of Cubana de Aviación

Prohibited items include drugs, weapons, pornography, and anything endangering citizens' safety. A customs declaration is required for permanent imports carrying over $5000. Upon departure, travelers can export cigars, cash, liquor, and cigarettes within specified limits. Artworks require documentation; with it, travelers can leave with them. An official seal is necessary for purchasing art items from the National Registry of Cultural Assets in Havana.

Have you ever been to Cuba? Which airline did you fly with? Let us know in the comments below.

Beyond the Ban: A Guide to Americans Visiting Cuba in 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 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? 

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

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

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.

Share Article:

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

64 comments.

Assuming we meet all the other qualifications, is there no way for an American to go a beach in Cuba?

Hi Kat, Unfortunately, Americans are not allowed to simply go to the beach. I also don’t see going to the beach as an activity covered by any of the 12 travel categories. Honestly, if you go to the beach, it is unlikely that you will be fined since it’s hard for an US official to know that you did. However, it is not permitted.

Hola, queria saber si mi novia con ciudadania estadounidense y salvadoreña tiene que pedir algun tipo de visado especial ? Yo soy cubano con pasaporte cubano aun vigente.

Hi we booked our tour package from Canada, flight plus stay at the resort. I understand that my husband (Canadian citizenship) won’t have any problems, but for me (US Citizenship, Canadian resident) do I need to book separately a casa particulares to get into the country? And when i get in there, can I stay with my husband at the resort?

Hi juju, According to the regulations, you shouldn’t. First, you need to make sure that the resort is not on the restricted list . Secondly, keep in mind that Americans are not allowed to go to Cuba only for tourism purposes. Therefore, you should have an schedule of activities that fall under any of the 12 general licenses to travel to Cuba, as explained in the article.

The question: “Do you need a password to Cuba?” Should be: Do you need a PASSPORT to Cuba?

Fixed. Thanks a lot!

Thank you for the great information , very helpful . As an European flying from Miami to Havana with a valid ESTA visa could I enter back the USA with on the same Esta visa . Not easy to get as answer on the official us pages . Thanks .

It appears that you will need to apply for a visa to re-enter the United States. Read more here .

I tried to buy the pink visa on easy tourist but almost at the end my country is not on the list. Puerto Rico is part of USA but can’t complete the order. They wrote me but do not get the problem of the country. Where else can I buy online?

Hi, I’m Italian and I would like to travel to Cuba via Miami, but it seems the nationality doesn’t matter because we need to declare a specific category. But what if I just need to go to Cuba from USA with a one-way flight and I will come back home directly from Cuba to Europe?

How did it go? Where you able to do the trip as mentioned?

I am an adult I was born in the US. Lived here my whole life.

My mom and dad were born in cuba, came to America in the 90s, and got their citizenship over 8 years ago.

I believe for my parents to travel to cuba they may need a Cuban passport because I read that cuba does not recognize them as American, just Cuban.

However, I also read that because both of my parents were born there, I am the daughter and I too am a Cuban citizenship under Cuban law

I’ve read that a few times in a few pages and I wanted to know if it was true. And if I would need to get a Cuban passport myself

Please let me know! Thanks .,

Hi Aileen, If you were born in the US, you don’t need a Cuban passport to enter the country.

In your article, when quoting OFAC, the text “during his or her four-day trip” was included. Are visits to Cuba limited to four days?

I am a professional orchestral and choral conductor and composer, and my associate is a full-time jazz pianist and composer. We want to visit Havana to listen to Cuban salsa, jazz, etc, and to engage in one to one conversations with Cuban musicians—and maybe even join in playing, if invited! Six to eight hours per day would hardly be enough for us: we’d start at 17:00 and leave when everybody goes home—and that’s just the evening. Which category would you recommend for us? EXCELLENT website! Thanks so much!

kayak wont quote flights to me as of today siting regulatory issues…. has something changed?

Hi Danial, That’s correct. It appears that Kayak is not quoting flights to Cuba currently. I suggest you use Skyscanner instead.

So to be clear. We still can’t bring back any alcohol or tobacco from Cuba back into the US? I read in this article that there Is now no value restrictions like there used to be.. Can you advise please?

Hi Mark, No, legally, you cannot bring Cuban tobacco or alcohol to the US.

Ummmm damn I guess I’m the only one with this problem. Can felons go? Not on parole and the case is over and done but I know some counties trip and some don’t. So what’s cubas stance on it?

Hi Mike, According to Felony Record Hub , felons can enter Cuba as long as they don’t have an outstanding felony warrant or are not on a no-fly TSA list. Hope it helps!

Hey great information!! Thank you

When you say you have to declare your license(which mine would fall under the 12) during booking, what does that mean? How do you declare it?

Hi Orlando, Usually, travel providers will provide you with a form where you have to select the license you are using traveling to Cuba. You don’t have to get an “actual” license. That’s it 🙂 The only licenses that do require a physical license from OFAC are: – Professional research and professional meetings. – Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.

Hello! This is a great article. I am a US citizen considering sailing my boat from the Dominican Republic to Cuba and then on to Belize. Some of our crew (US citizens as well) may fly directly back to the US from Cuba. Is this plan legal and possible? Will the Cuban authorities have a problem with this plan? Will the US authorities have a problem with it once we return?

Hi Christopher,

Did you ever find out if you can go to Cuba by private boat?

Thanks, Sarah

My fiancée from Ukraine suggested we take a winter trip to Cuba. Since she is booking through a Ukrainian travel agency our stay and flight – is it okay to stay as her guest at a prohibited resort and when would I declare my travel intent/licensing? We would otherwise try to use up 6-8 hours per day supporting the local economy.

Hi Gerald, Usually, travel service providers (airlines, travel agencies, booking sites, etc.) ask you to declare your travel category while booking the trip, not after. I’m not sure at what point the Ukrainian travel agency would ask you about it or if they will do it at all. Unfortunately, if you are a US citizen, you shouldn’t stay at a prohibited accommodation in Cuba, regardless of where you are flying from.

my concern is nobody writes how long does it take to get permit to travel there, on one of our government pages it says up to 6 months ??

Hi there, You don’t need to apply for an actual license unless you are traveling under any of these two categories: – Professional research and professional meetings – Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.

I just found this concerning my question on banks in Cuba from US government site. Wonder what the alternative/s is to have funds in Cuba?

U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. The Cuban Central Bank announced new restrictions on the use or conversion of U.S. dollars beginning June 21, 2021. U.S. dollars in cash cannot be converted to local currency, may not be accepted for payment, and cannot be used to pay fees or taxes at the airport. 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.

Great article, but severely lacking in one area, at least for me. You have nothing on banking inside Cuba. I don’t like to carry large sums of money. Do the banks there work for US banks for ATM’s? Are they few (only in banks) or difficult to receive money from such as small limits for withdrawals?? With limited internet there, I’m assuming if someone changes around to different home casa’s then cash is the only way to purchase rooms? ATM again. Thx!

We actually wrote a whole guide to using money in Cuba as a tourist. Check it out here – https://www.tourepublic.com/blog/cuban-currency/

But I think you figured out the answer to your questions: U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba.

Are you currently operating tours given the political climate in Cuba? Today is November 15, 2021 and there were planned protests etc.

Thank you, Ash

Hi Ashley, At the moment, we are not operating tours in Cuba.

Are the covid restrictions still in place?

Hi MZ, They are, but most will be lifted on November 15th, 2021 (next week!). We will update the article accordingly.

Hey MZ. Just wanted to give you the heads up that we updated our guide to the latest Cuba travel restrictions . Check it out!

I want to travel to Holguin Cuba to visit friends I have dual citizenship USA-Uruguayan. If I leave from Uruguay do I need to do all of these activities? What happens if I don’t book tours i visiting friends what do you recommend

Hi Alicia, Unfortunately, the current US travel restrictions to Cuba apply to all persons subject to US jurisdiction, regardless of where that person is residing. Therefore, if you are a US citizen, you will need to follow the US regulations to travel to Cuba, even if you use an Uruguayan passport. Follow the steps and advice outlined in the article and you should be fine. I believe that Support for the Cuban People is the right category for you -unless you have family in Cuba- but then again, we can’t offer legal advice.

I am a retired dentist and would like to visit hospitals and dental clinics in Cuba. I would like to professional Oral surgery to people of Cuba. Can I get any information?

Hi Peter, I think you should contact the US embassy in Cuba for more information – https://cu.usembassy.gov/ Thanks,

Why don’t you give advise for foreign tourists who fly to miami then onto Cuba. What can we do and what can’t we do as non Americans. I plan to visit Cuba in febuary/march 2022 via miami/fort laudedale.

Hi, I have the same problem as you. I’m Italian and I would like to travel to Cuba via Miami, but it seems your nationality doesn’t matter, we need to declare a specific category. But, if we choose the ‘Support for the Cuban People’ category, when we have to declare all the activity that we have done? And I didn’t understand if they will check every day’s activities or we just need to show them some of the activities done in the week.

Hi Alessia, You won’t need to declare all the activities you will do in Cuba. You only need to choose the Support for the Cuban People category, and that’s it. In Cuba, no one will monitor what you will be doing. Hope it helps.

So essentially it’s the U.S. government enforcing these restrictions and calling it “Support for the Cuban People” when it really means interacting mostly with civilians likely to oppose the Revolution and tell a one-sided narrative about what it’s like to live in Cuba. U.S. travelers are being carefully kept away from actually supporting Cuba as a sovereign nation whose government has made remarkable progress in health and education, putting the U.S. to shame. This explains why the few friends who went to Cuba come back with a story about happening to run into a Puerto Rican who disses the Cuban government. It’s all a set up, and extremely lame on the part of the U.S. Get over it–Fidel defeated your and overthrew your puppet dictator. Stop this ridiculous embargo and these stupid sanctions.

you’re 100% right, Ann. it’s embarrassing

The U.S. will do anything to make Cuba look bad and undo the revolution. I was looking to travel there to actually learn from and support the Cuban people, not support the counter-revolutionaries

Grow up Ann. Stop trying to aggrandize La Revolución. Many of us who actually lived in Cuba under the regime know the truth.

The problem with fanboys and fangirls (like you and Anthony) is the same as the problem with haters: instead of objectively evaluating things, they just say what feels “truthy” to them.

For instance, a “hater” will say that the Cuban government has not accomplished anything in education or healthcare. But a fan has the opposite problem: they oversell it. So to them—to you—Cuba’s 14.4 average years of education and life expectancy of 73 or so “put to shame” the 77 year of life expectancy and 16 or so years of education of the United States. Someone looking at the situation might give the government some credit by pointing out that this is notably better than the average for the Caribbean or Latin America, without feeling the need to exalt the government with incorrect statements.

I might also mention your assumption, and that of Anthony, that staying at someone’s house means interacting with someone who does not support the Cuban government.

I’m noticing Kayak and Expedia aren’t showing any flights from Boston to Cuba – do you have any info on this? Any other suggestions on how to find flights from Boston to Cuba

Hi Michaela, Sadly, I don’t have much information on this. Did you try Google Flights? I played a little with dates for BOS-HAV flights and found one-stop flights with JetBlue in May, but nothing else 🙁

Hello, I understand that we are able to stay at hotels that are not on the restricted list. Except for the first two days (48 hours) of quarantine required after arrival till receiving PCR test results, if we participate in local guides, local shopping visits, local business services during day activities, hire cuban local to spend time with beach activities, but without staying at Casa Particular, do these qualify for Support for Cuban People license?

Hi there, I am a dual national British and American. I have a UK passport and an American passport. I live in the UK, and my partner (British) and I want to go to Cuba in May 2020. We will be using airmiles from British Airways/American Airlines to get there. There is no availability from Cancun…we tried. As I will be going from the US to Cuba, can I still use my British passport and avoid all of the legal hoopla – and restrictions, or do I need to go on my American passport (since we will be leaving from the US) and comply fully. Don’t want to get turned away at the airport after planning/booking the trip.

Hi John, According to the UK’s government advice on traveling to Cuba , it seems that you will have to comply with the US law if you are traveling to Cuba from the US, regardless of the passport you use. It means that you will have to declare a travel “license” and cannot be for tourism purposes.

This might seem like a dumb question but can I pack my smokes & take them w/me?

I’m wondering if participating and supporting (both economically and artistically) a starting art project would be considered in the “Support for the Cuban people” category. Thank you.

It could be considered as such as long as you have a daily full-time schedule of activities (6-8 hours) to support the private art project. Also, document everything you do while in Cuba. For more specific legal advice, I would suggest you talk to a legal specialist.

I was born in Cuba and would like to take a cruise there. I came to the states in 1961 at the age of 5. I am an American Citizen and was told I need to get a form H-11 from the Cuban Embassy in the U.S. in order to travel to Cuba. I have tried to contact them via email and phone several times, but I’ve not heard from them. Do you have any suggestions?

Best to use an agency rather than try to communicate directly with the Cuban consulate – especially after the US government expelled most of those who work in the visa section.

World Nomads is no longer providing (ar least Canadians) insurance for Cuba. Please suggest another all encompassing insurance provider? Thank you

Hi Dylan, Thanks for the heads up! They for Americans, but haven’t confirmed if their plans are also available for Canadians. Another popular travel insurance provider for Cuba is RoamRight . UPDATE: It seems that they don’t offer insurance for Canadians either. We will do some research and get back with some alternatives. Thank you again!

Can we book a family and friends group to Cuba, intending to do all the required activities?

Yes! You can do it Bee, as long as those activities are covered by the travel license that you declare.

You might also like

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

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

What to Bring to Cuba: The Ultimate Cuba Packing List (2024 Update)

Other stories.

Get a taste of the real Cuba on a legal tour for Americans.

Legal Cuba Travel

We've the latest information you need as an American citizen on Cuba travel licenses, Cuba tourist visas, flights to Cuba, and advice to plan your Cuba trip, safely and legally.

Our Cuba Tours

Our Cuba tours are compliant with U.S. Government regulations. We offer 9, 11 & 15 day options, with groups limited to 12 travellers.      

Flights to Cuba

Choose your own flights to Cuba! All of our Cuba tours start and end in Havana. This gives you the freedom to choose the route to Cuba that is most convenient and economical for you

The Cuba Tourist Visa (or Tourist Card) is a document you need to enter Cuba. Read about what it is and how to obtain it!

" Our trip with Cuban Adventures exceeded all of our expectations. We normally do not travel on group tours but we are so glad we did. We learned so much from the guide about the history and the culture and the local hot spots to go to for food, drink and dancing. Thank you for making our trip to Cuba Amazing! We will definitely be back."

Cuba Tours & Vacations

Behind the hum of vintage cars, pastel hues of 16th-century buildings and wafts of cigar smoke, the real Cuba shines bright.

A country caught in a cultural time warp,   Cuba   is a bright snapshot of the mid-20th century; a true feast for the senses. Watch as Cadillacs roll down the coastal boulevards, walk through traditional tobacco plantations in Vinales and see cigar production in full swing, laze on the shores of the   Caribbean   on some of the world’s whitest sands, and feel the sultry and spicy vibes of salsa as you dance the night away in Havana. With all of this on offer in one of the world’s best climates, what’s stopping you from checking out Cuba’s kaleidoscope of color and charisma?

Our Cuba trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Cuba tour reviews

Filter by rating

The art of Cuban casa hopping

10 things you’ll only know if you’ve travelled in Cuba

The top 7 destinations for travel in March 2024

A teen’s eye view of Intrepid family tours

Why you should say yes when your friend asks you to travel

How to avoid scams and Havana bad time in Cuba

Which style of Latin dance suits you?

I went to Cuba for the cars and cigars, but it’s the people that’ll stay with me

Cuba at a glance

Capital city.

Havana (population 2.1 million)

11.3 million

(GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Cuba

Culture and customs.

With   Spanish ,   African   , and Creole influences, modern Cuba is home to so many cultural components – some of which don’t feel super ‘modern’ at all!

You won’t be surprised that Cubans love music and dancing – with everything from Afro-Cuban rhythms to classic melodies filling the air in clubs, bars, restaurants, and on street corners. The modern arts are also alive here, with ballet, contemporary dance, and film rising in popularity – so much so, Havana is now home to internationally recognized film, literature, and music festivals.

Living in a Communist country means Cubans sometimes go without the luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer goods not available. Despite this, events like birthdays, holidays, and marriages are celebrated with gusto, with special meals, music, and dance featuring. This love of life is also evident in the street parties, festivals, and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year. Coffee, cigars, and rum flow freely, and people dance to the sound of trumpets and guitars in city streets.

Life in the cities and life in rural areas can be quite different, but the pace of living is consistently Cuban – you’re on local time now, so go with the flow. Experience Cuban culture on our 8 day Beautiful Cuba trip.

History and government

Ancient history.

Before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, Cuba was home to Mesoamerican cultures, including the indigenous Guanajatabey and Taino people. The Guanajatabey were hunter-gatherers and fishers, and Taino communities also harvested yuca, cotton, and tobacco. Spanish colonialist Bartolome de las Casas estimated that Taino populations in Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th century.

By then, Christopher Columbus had landed in Cuba and claimed the land for   Spain, naming it Isla Juana. In 1511, Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded Baracoa, the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, and three years later what’s now known as Havana was built.

20th century

In 1902, after periods under Spanish, British, and United States rule and involvement in the Spanish–American war, Cuba got its independence. Despite the economy booming, leaders at this time ruled through corruption and control. This was until revolutionary Fidel Castro led a 9000-strong guerrilla army into Havana in 1959, forcing military dictator Fulgencio Batista to flee. Castro became the leader and his brother, Raul, his deputy. What followed was an attempt by the United States to overthrow Castro’s communist rule at the Bay of Pigs, and tension and trade embargoes following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Standing alongside Castro as an equally prominent political figure, Che Guevara (although Argentinean) holds a very important place in Cuban history. A revolutionary, author, doctor, and military leader, Guevara played a pivotal role in the guerrilla campaign leading up to the Cuban Revolution and the defense of the Bay of Pigs, as well as in diplomatic relations, up until his death in 1967. It’s impossible not to notice the reverence for Guevara when visiting Cuba, with street art, statues, and museums dedicated to the man Cubans simply call ‘El Che’ found all over the country.

In April 2011 Fidel Castro was succeeded as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba by his brother Raul Castro. Cuba’s political relationship with other countries, including its close neighbors, is ever-evolving, with the US recently beginning to ease restrictions on trade, tourism, and other industries. But a snapshot of 50 years of isolation remains in the cars, architecture, and culture that is a contemporary Cuban street. Learn about Cuba's fascinating past on our 15 day Best of Cuba adventure.

Eating and drinking

Cuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other   nearby destinations. Regardless, there are some Central American favorites that are definitely worth trying. Try out the local cuisine on our 8 day Cuba Highlights tour.

What to eat in Cuba

Pastelitos These small pastries can be either sweet or savory. Cream cheese, guava, and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Think empanadas, Cuban style.

Cuban sandwich Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders. Ham, pork, cheese, mustard, and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like?

Ropa vieja Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain, and even the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans, and rice.

Fritura de maiz These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba. A great choice for vegetarians; throw a couple of these back and you’ll be feeling the Cuban spirit.

Moros y cristianos

Rice and beans is ot just rice and beans. Black beans and white rice are added to a base of peppers, garlic, and onion and simmered with herbs, creating a flavorful addition to any meal and served up at virtually every Cuban restaurant you'll come across.

If you're a little bit peckish and are on the go, seek out some tostones. These twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin America countries and are an easy (and often cheap) snack.

Although flan is known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert, Cuban flan has a slightly different spin. It's made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than fresh milk varities. Get ready for a seriously delicious sugar high.

Coppelia ice cream Line up with locals to savor a sweet scoop from Coppelia ice cream parlor. This Cuban institution serves tried and true flavors like chocolate and vanilla as well as exotic favorites like mango and coconut.

What to drink in Cuba

Rum The tipple of choice in Cuba is rum, obviously. Savour some Havana Club straight up, have it mixed in a minty mojito, or sip on a Cuba Libre – rum, cola, and lime.

Coffee Cuban coffee is of legendary quality, so be sure to get your caffeine hit with a small but rich cup of liquid gold. Drink it like the locals do, as a cafecito or Cafe Cubano. This type of espresso-style coffee is usually sweetened with raw cane sugar and stirred in with the first drips of espresso to get the best result.

Geography and environment

This island nation sitting in the Caribbean Sea is home to a diverse range of environments: rolling hills to tobacco plantations, beaches, and coral reefs to tropical rainforests. With more than 20% of the island covered with natural parks, there's incredible biodiversity, making it a great place for eco-adventures, hiking, snorkeling, and diving.

Large cities like Havana evoke a time gone by. Grand buildings dating back to the 1950s exude a fading beauty, which makes for great photographs but can also make daily life quite difficult. Due to a lack of building materials, new housing, and infrastructure are rare, making living conditions quite cramped for Cuban city dwellers. Rural life offers more space and a quieter pace, but reduced access to services. Regardless of where you holiday in Cuba, the people are generally kind and hospitable in both the big cities and small towns. Wander the magnificent landscapes, both natural and manmade, on our 8 day One Week in Cuba adventure.

Cuba may not be known for its shopping, but look closely and you’ll find lots of unique souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your holiday. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import some items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws. The United States also has restrictions on the amount of tobacco and alcohol that can be brought back from Cuba.

What to buy

Art Cuba has a keen appreciation of the fine arts, so it’s not hard to find unique artworks by up-and-coming local artists being sold at galleries and markets. It also makes for a meaningful memento of your time away.

Cigars The cliche is unsurprisingly true – cigars are everywhere in Cuba. Be sure to buy cigars from authorized sellers, as fakes are common. Purchasing straight from the factory is usually best.

Coffee Cuban coffee is top quality, so stock up before you leave to enjoy a taste of Cuba in the comfort of your own home. Do check, however, if your country of origin allows plant-based materials to pass through quarantine.

Music With such a rich musical heritage, Cuba is a great place to pick up a hand-crafted instrument or, if traveling light, a CD or a local artist’s info to add to your playlist.

Do some serious souvenir shopping on our 8 day Premium Cuba tour.

Festivals and events

Havana international jazz festival.

Local and international artists head to Havana every January to become a part of the happening jazz scene. From the impressive Teatro Nacional de Cuba to the city streets, the sweet sounds of jazz fill the air of Havana for the duration of the festival.

Habanos Cigar Festival

In February, cigar connoisseurs gather to celebrate their love of the best cigar in the world – the Habano. With tastings, visits to plantations and factories, master classes, and cigar-rolling contests on offer, this festival will intrigue curious travelers and delight cigar enthusiasts.

Santiago de Cuba Carnival

Watch this historic city come alive in July with street parades full of vibrant costumes, drums, and dancing. This epic public celebrations date back to at least the 17th century and are held all around the country, but Santiago de Cuba hosts the biggest, brightest, and most traditional of them all.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Cuba but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to Central America and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your holiday in Cuba, check out these books:

• Our Man in Havana   – Graham Greene
• Before Night Falls   – Reinaldo Arenas
• Broken Paradise   – Cecilia Samartin
• Take Me with You   – Carlos Frias
• Adios, Havana   – Andrew J Rodriguez
• Blessed by Thunder: Memoir of a Cuban Girlhood   – Flor Fernandez Barrios
• Conversations with Cuba   – C Peter Ripley
• Havana Fever   – Leonardo Padura
• The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love   – Oscar Hijuelos

Cuba travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Cuba?

Cuba's subtropical climate is ideal for exploration, with most places catching the cool trade winds that blow in from the coast, providing pleasant year-round temperatures. June, July and August are usually the hottest months – the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Even in the rainy season, downpours are short and shouldn't impede travel plans. Tropical storms and hurricanes are more prevalent in September and October but rarely cause problems for travelers.

Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

Tourists of most nationalities require a 'Tourist Card' which is similar to a tourist visa. These can be obtained through travel agents in your home country, or directly from Cuban embassies and consulates. Depending on the airline you are traveling with to Cuba, you may also be able to purchase the tourist card at the airport from the airline on the day of your departure – please check with your airline for more information. 

If you are a US citizen, American permanent resident, or hold any type of American Visa and are considering traveling to Cuba, please refer to the US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website –  travel.state.gov  – for the latest advice.  

We recommend traveling to Cuba via Canada, Europe, and South or Central America. Travelers who have been to Cuba are ineligible to participate in the ESTA Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a tourist visa to enter or transit via the United States.  

Remember to check the entry requirements for any destinations you will travel or transit through both to and from Cuba. 

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 14/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Cuba?

As most Cubans live modest lifestyles, leaving a tip for good service is a great idea and welcomed.

There is almost always free entertainment in bars and restaurants; the musicians and singers are usually not paid by the venue, so we encourage you to tip when you have enjoyed the performance. Tour leaders, restaurant workers, hotel porters, cleaning staff and taxi drivers will appreciate a small sum – but be sure to tip in Cuban pesos as foreign currency isn’t easily exchanged in Cuba.

It’s important to carry around small denominations of currency to leave tips during your holiday, so you can tip an amount you feel comfortable with.

What is the internet access like in Cuba?

Internet access isn't widespread throughout Cuba, but availability is improving. The internet can sometimes be accessed from government departments and larger hotels, and main squares in many cities now have wi-fi accessibility. You will need to purchase an internet card from certain hotels and outlets to gain access in any location, including in public areas.

Please note that although connectivity is improving, the connection may still be slow, some websites may be censored, and the cost is typically quite high.

Can I use my cell phone while in Cuba?

Your cell phone may or may not work while in Cuba, depending on what type of phone you have. Before leaving your home country, ensure roaming is activated with your provider, but be aware that your phone may not get reception due to Cuba having the lowest cell phone network penetration in Latin America.

If you intend to activate global roaming while in Cuba, be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur when using this option, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Cuba?

Public toilets are rare in Cuba, but western-style flushable toilets are available in hotels, bars, and restaurants. Bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer is recommended as often these are not provided. Due to import restrictions, toilet seats can be considered a luxury and may be missing from some facilities.

What will it cost for a...?

Cuba's unit of currency is the peso (CUP). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Can of soft drink or bottle of water = 1-2 CUP
• Cup of coffee = 1.50 CUP
• Cocktail = 2-5 CUP
• Meal in a nice restaurant = 120+ CUP
• One hour of wi-fi = 25 CUP

Can I drink the water in Cuba?

It's not advisable to drink water from the tap in Cuba. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water if you can – your group leader will provide larger and less disposable water containers for refills on private transport days when they have the resources available. It's also best to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Cuba?

Some credit cards are accepted in Cuba (Visa and Mastercard are usually more widely accepted), although some cards linked to US banking institutions won't be accepted. Debit cards (even Visa debit) generally have problems working. We recommend you bring multiple cards from different banks to be sure you have access to funds. Ensure you also have enough cash and other forms of payment, as credit card facilities may not always be available.

What is ATM access like in Cuba?

ATMs are accessible in large cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba but are rare and almost non-existent in other parts of Cuba. Ensure you have other payment options available in case you cannot access an ATM while traveling.

What is the weather like in Cuba?

Cuba enjoys Caribbean vibes all year round, and sits below the Tropic of Cancer, so you’ll enjoy a tropical climate with north-easterly trade winds that blow year-round.

May to October is usually considered the wet season, with higher maximum temperatures each day (around 90°F) and more sunlight each day, averaging 10 hours. September and October is hurricane season in the region, and this time of year is usually hot and overcast, with a higher chance of rainfall.

November to April is usually the drier season in Cuba, with maximum temperatures sitting around 79°F and an average of 8 hours of sunlight each day. The winter months are clearer, slightly more humid, and more comfortable than summer.

What public holidays are celebrated in Cuba ?

• 1 Jan:   Liberation Day
• 2 Jan:   Victory of the Armed Forces
• 1 May:   Labour Day (International Workers' Day/May Day)
• 25–27 Jul:   National Revolutionary Festival
• 10 Oct:   Independence Day
• 25 Dec:   Christmas Day
• 31 Dec:   Year End Celebration

Other dates to look out for:

• 28 Jan:   Anniversary of Jose Marti’s birth
• 19 Apr:   Bay of Pigs Victory
• 8 Oct: Anniversary of Che Guevara’s death
• 28 Oct:   Anniversary of Camila Cienfuegos’s death
• 7 Dec:   Anniversary of Antonio Maceo’s death

Please note,   Cuba public holidays may vary.

Is Cuba safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Cuba has made some significant steps in recent years to ensure LGBTQIA+ rights in the country. Homosexuality is legal and accepted in Cuba, and there are some anti-discrimination laws in place for employment, service provisions, and gender identity. However, same-sex marriage recognition is still pending, and stigma still remains in some parts of society, especially in rural areas.

The Cuban National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX) works to support the LGBTQIA+ community in Cuba and hosts rallies to educate and advocate.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Last edited: 14/11/2023

Is Cuba accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As Cuba has not had the same infrastructure development as other countries, you may find some mobility challenges when traveling. Havana’s streets are often crowded, and sidewalks can at times be rugged or even nonexistent. This is the same with other cities and towns around the country. Also, a lot of public transportation isn’t geared toward travelers who use a wheelchair, so private travel may be the only option to get around.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Accessibility Links

Can I go to the US if I’ve been to Cuba?

You may not be eligible for an esta if you’ve been to cuba. here’s what you need to know.

C uba is one of the most vibrant destinations in the Caribbean. You can go to soak up the history, or spend your days lounging on the beach then salsa the night away, all with a mojito or two in hand. The UK places no restrictions on entering Cuba — and it’s easy enough to get to as a tourist. However, you may not be able to enter the US on an Esta after you visit Cuba, even in transit; instead you’ll need a more expensive visa. Here’s what you should know before booking a Cuba or US trip.

Main photo: travellers at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (Alamy)

What’s the background?

The frosty relationship between Cuba and the US is long and complicated but can be traced back to 1959, when Fidel Castro came to power. By establishing the country as a socialist state, strengthening its ties with the Soviet Union and introducing tariffs against US imports, Castro distanced Cuba from the US. In the context of the Cold War, these actions ultimately led to a trade embargo being imposed on the country by President Kennedy — one that’s remained in place since.

Relations thawed somewhat under President Obama, with cruise ships and regular flights restarting between the two nations. US travellers were also able to visit the Caribbean island for tourism purposes for the first time. But under President Trump, the US policy toward Cuba was reversed and the ban on tourism to Cuba was reinstated. While President Biden has yet to formally abandon the sanctions against Cuba, moves have been made to ease travel between the two nations in certain circumstances.

I’ve been to Cuba — am I barred from the US?

The UK doesn’t have any sanctions against Cuba but British passport holders are still affected by US policy if they want to travel there after visiting Cuba. This is because Cuba is currently on the US’s State Sponsors of Terrorism list . And under the terms of the Esta (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), you cannot enter the US using an existing Esta, or apply for a new Esta, if you’ve previously visited a country on this list. This ban includes transit, where you’re flying on to another country.

Advertisement

You’re not barred from entering the US altogether. But instead of a $21 Esta, you’ll have to apply for a tourist visa through the US embassy, which will cost you a hefty $160.

However, because Cuba was temporarily taken off the State Sponsors of Terrorism list before being reinstated, if you visited the country before January 1, 2021, you should still be eligible for an Esta. If your visit was on or after this date, you will need a visa to enter the US. Having an Esta doesn’t guarantee you entry into the US though, so you should contact your nearest US embassy if in doubt.

Could other countries cause problems for visitors to the US?

There are currently three other countries on the State Sponsors of Terrorism list: North Korea, Iran and Syria. If you’ve visited any of these countries in the past, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa to enter the US.

• Best hotels in Cuba • Best things to do in Cuba • Best Caribbean islands

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

Trinidad: an elegant old town in southern Cuba

Trinidad attracts plenty of tourists despite being far from Havana

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Set in the foothills of the Escambray Mountains, close to Cuba's southern shore, Trinidad is one of the island's most perfectly preserved towns, says Claire Boobbyer in The Times . 

It is a full four hours' drive from the capital, Havana, on the north coast, but still attracts plenty of tourists. They're drawn partly by the town itself, with its cobbled streets, old churches, and "sherbet" mansions with red-tiled roofs and wrought-iron balconies. But they also come for its densely forested, mountainous surroundings. There are some wonderful b&bs in town, and last year a new resort, the Meliá Trinidad Península , opened beside a beach just 15 minutes away. It is the first five-star hotel on Cuba's south coast. Founded by the Spanish in 1514, Trinidad grew rich from sugar production between the mid-18th and mid-19th centuries. Some of the sugar barons' mansions are now open to visitors, including the Palacio Brunet, which houses the Museo Romántico, a magnificent collection of furniture from the colonial era.

Roughly 15,000 slaves were brought here from Africa to work on the plantations, the remains of which you can visit in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, where there is still one functioning refinery. The melding of African and Spanish cultures has left a "rich" heritage of music, craft and folk art in Trinidad, which has been named a Unesco Creative City owing to its "distinctive" workshops, music venues and galleries.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

The Península hotel is a self-contained world of luxury restaurants and swimming pools, but also offers some cultural engagement in the form of history talks, dance classes, cigar-rolling workshops, and so on. And there are plenty of other interesting places to visit along the coast to the west, including the elegant city of Cienfuegos (founded by French immigrants in 1819), and the Bahía de los Cochinos – or Bay of Pigs. Famed as the site of a thwarted invasion by CIA-backed, anti-Castro Cuban rebels in 1961, this beautiful spot is also the best place for bird-watching on the island.

Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox

A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com

Today's Newspapers A roundup of the headlines from the US front pages

By The Week Staff Published 16 April 24

The Week Recommends April is National Poetry Month

By Scott Hocker, The Week US Published 16 April 24

the explainer The gap in care is especially glaring compared to how men are treated

By Theara Coleman, The Week US Published 16 April 24

Features Featuring a four-level Shaker barn in Hartland and a Scandinavian-inspired home in Stowe

By The Week US Published 16 April 24

Feature The linguist recommends works by Mary Roach, Alice Carrière, and more

Feature The author recommends works by Patricia Highsmith, Shirley Jackson, and more

By The Week US Published 9 April 24

Feature Featuring a suspended fireplace in Arizona and a marine-themed home in Maine

By The Week Published 9 April 24

The Week Recommends Forget the potatoes for this gnocchi made of the 'classic combination' of spinach and ricotta

By The Week UK Published 7 April 24

Feature The best-selling author recommends works by Stephen King, Sara Gran, and more

By The Week US Published 2 April 24

Feature Featuring a 1925 art deco high-rise in San Francisco and a factory-turned-home in Los Angeles

The Week Recommends Haidt calls out 'the Great Rewiring of Childhood' phenomenon

By The Week UK Published 1 April 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise With Us

The Week is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Credit card rates
• Balance transfer credit cards
• Business credit cards
• Cash back credit cards
• Rewards credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Checking accounts
• Online checking accounts
• High-yield savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Car insurance
• Home buying
• Options pit
• Investment ideas
• Research reports
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Cuba calls on US to ease sanctions on eve of migration talks

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

By Nelson Acosta

HAVANA (Reuters) - Cuba on Monday said it would insist the U.S. ease sanctions and end special treatment of Cubans illegally entering its territory at high level migration talks slated to begin Tuesday in Washington.

The twice annual meetings resumed in 2022 after being suspended during the U.S. presidency of Donald Trump and amid a record surge of around half a million Cubans illegally entering the United States beginning in 2021, according to U.S. authorities.

Cuba is mired in a deep economic crisis characterized by shortages of basic goods, run-away inflation and blackouts.

The talks' stated aim is to promote safe, legal and orderly migration between the two countries.

Johana Tablada de la Torre, deputy director for U.S. affairs in Cuba's foreign ministry, expressed frustration at not reaching those goals while stating the talks remained important as one of the few points of contact under the administration of President Joe Biden .

"The blockade (sanctions) ... is what most weighs in on the bilateral migration situation," Tablada told a press conference in Havana.

Cuba's Communist government has long blamed U.S. sanctions for strangling the island's economy and the 1966 Cuban Adjustment Act, which grants special entry rights to Cubans and support upon arrival, for encouraging its youth to emigrate.

The United States - the top destination for Cuban migrants – counters that a lack of civil liberties and human rights in Cuba have combined with a state-dominated economy to force its citizens to migrate.

The Biden administration has increased legal pathways to migration for Cubans, including visa access in Havana, family reunification and humanitarian parole programs aimed at stemming illegal migration.

Tablada said the measures would not solve the problem as long as sanctions remained in place.

(Reporting by Nelson Acosta; additional reporting by Marc Frank; Editing by Josie Kao)

Recommended Stories

How the jury is being selected in trump’s hush money trial.

Dozens of prospective jurors are being questioned inside Manhattan Criminal Court, where a panel of 12 jurors and six alternates will ultimately be chosen to decide the former president’s fate.

Yahoo News/YouGov poll: 57% of Americans — a new high — say Trump’s alleged crimes are ‘serious’ as hush money trial begins

The survey found similar increases in the perceived seriousness of Trump’s other alleged felonies as well.

Stock market today: Stocks wobble as earnings roll in, Powell comments on inflation

Stocks eyed a broader comeback from a steep sell-off as investors digested results from Bank of America and other heavyweights.

Rafael Nadal wins first clay court match in 681 days, defeating Flavio Cobolli in Barcelona

Injuries have kept Nadal away from clay for nearly two years, but now he's back and ready

IMF expects central banks to cut rates in second half of 2024 as inflation falls

Global central banks will begin cutting interest rates in the second half of the year as inflation declines, according to a new outlook from the IMF.

Indiana lands top-ranked transfer Oumar Ballo from Arizona

Oumar Ballo averaged a double-double last season with the Wildcats while leading them to the Sweet 16.

How much will Xavier Worthy’s 40-yard dash record influence NFL Draft? Why talent evaluators might care more than you think

Ahead of next week’s NFL Draft, teams are debating: How much does the 40-yard dash actually translate to today’s game, and how much should they thus let it influence their draft boards?

Bay Bridge Ventures is raising $200M for a new climate fund, filings show

Climate investor Bay Bridge Ventures is raising a new $200 million fund, TechCrunch has exclusively learned. Bay Bridge filed paperwork Monday for the new climate fund with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The raise comes at a time when venture investors are increasingly bullish on climate tech.

Apple will now let users in the EU download apps through web sites, not just the App Store

Apple is opening up web distribution for iOS apps targeting users in the European Union starting Tuesday. Developers who opt in — and who meet Apple's criteria, including app notarization requirements — will be able to offer iPhone apps for direct download to EU users from their own websites. Apple's walled garden stance has enabled it to funnel essentially all iOS developer revenue through its own App Store in the past.

Tesla job cuts: workers in U.S. and China, 'some really good players too'

Tesla's global job cuts include reducing staff in the U.S. and China, the automakers' two biggest markets, across sales, tech, and engineering.

Biden takes aim at 'runaway interest' in new student debt cancellation plan

The Biden administration aims to tackle "runaway interest" as part of a new student debt relief measure. If successful, it could bring relief to 23 million borrowers.

Consumer tech investing is still hot for Maven Ventures, securing $60M for Fund IV

When prolific venture capital firms Andreessen Horowitz and Lerer Hippeau announced in early 2024 they were pivoting away from consumer tech, it sparked a social media debate about whether there are still opportunities. Scheinman, founding managing partner, is even credited for coming up with the Zoom name. As to the notion that no one wants to invest in consumer tech anymore, Scheinman told TechCrunch “it’s not true.”

The 25 best gifts for your brother that he'll reach for daily

Find a mix of stylish and practical buys for your brother who has it all.

The Kasa Smart Plugs Mini EP25 four-pack is down to its lowest price yet

The four-pack of Kasa Smart Plugs Mini EP25 four-pack is down to $32.50 thanks to a discount and added coupon.

Atlas shrugged: Boston Dynamics retires its hydraulic humanoid robot

Now that humanoids are all the rage in the robotics industry, Boston Dynamics on Tuesday officially retired theirs. Boston Dynamics has been focused on commercializing technologies for a number of years now. Boston Dynamics was, of course, well ahead of the current humanoid robotics curve.

Biden uses new speech to argue Trump's tax plans are a political liability

Donald Trump’s tax plans have already proven a hit with billionaires. What Joe Biden is hoping is that those same plans will be politically toxic in the swing states that will decide the election this fall.

Tesla layoffs hit high performers, some departments slashed, sources say

Tesla management told employees Monday that the recent layoffs -- which gutted some departments by 20% and even hit high performers -- were largely due to poor financial performance, a source familiar with the matter told TechCrunch. The layoffs were announced to staff just a week before Tesla is scheduled to report its first-quarter earnings. The move comes as Tesla has seen its profit margin narrow over the past several quarters, the result of an EV price war that has persisted for at least a year.

Mortgage rates today, April 16, 2024: It could be a good time to buy a house

These are today's mortgage rates. Rates shouldn't plummet anytime soon, so it could be a good time to buy if you're financially ready. Lock in your rate today.

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Drive Review: Brief taste shows promise, but 1958 questionable

Our mostly off-road first drive reveals a well-executed off-roader with cool style and a high-quality interior. Well, not so much the interior in the 1958.

Meta's Oversight Board probes explicit AI-generated images posted on Instagram and Facebook

The Oversight Board, Meta's semi-independent policy council, is turning its attention to how the company's social platforms are handling explicit, AI-generated images. Tuesday, it announced investigations into two separate cases over how Instagram in India and Facebook in the U.S. handled AI-generated images of public figures after Meta's systems fell short on detecting and responding to the explicit content. In both cases, the sites have now taken down the media.

10 Cities to See in Cuba

Y ou may wonder, where is the best place in Cuba to visit outside of Havana? Let’s explore the top cities to see in Cuba. You can hop into a vintage car for a luxury cruise around town, puff the legendary Cuban cigar, or ‘invade’ one of the beautiful old buildings and discover the country’s colonial cities. Cuba is no ordinary Caribbean country, and whichever way you choose to explore it, rest assured this little heaven will have you thrilled! Lots of timeless colonial cities throw back to vintage architecture that tells tales of opulence to miles and miles of coastline, dazzling with beauty, and Cuba is love. Welcome to a country reeling from an economic embargo abolished in 2015 – a country fast opening up to throngs and throngs of adventure-hungry tourists.

Cuba has already charmed and wowed A-listers and the “who-is-who” in the global celebrity industry, including Madonna, Rolling Stones, Barack Obama, Kim Kardashian, and Pope Francis. Beyond its pristine beaches, soul-stirring carnivals, and eclectic architecture, you’ve got thousands of reasons to visit Cuba. This little paradise is more than the indefinable magic it embodies. This fantastic destination charms and dazzles beyond its shabby facades like a prince in a peasant’s coat. It is restoring its status amongst the greats of global travel destinations.

Best time to visit Cuba?

The best time to visit Cuba is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when you’ll find the most pleasant weather, with warm sunny days and comfortable temperatures in the 70s and low 80s (Fahrenheit). There’s also less chance of rain and humidity, making it the best time to go to Cuba to explore Cuba’s vibrant cities, relaxing on its stunning beaches, or hiking its lush landscapes.

Cuba remains one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations. And for a little vacation, the following are the best tourist attractions in Cuba,

1. Havana, the Capital

Hands down, there’s no better way to kick off your Cuban tour than with the first stop at the country’s capital, and by extent, its heartbeat. And as mesmerizing as this city is, Havana perfectly lives up to its reputation as one of the top cities to see in Cuba. It is one of the modern cosmopolitan cities in the Caribbean that’s yet to lose its colonial mid-century flair.

Let’s start with a little stop at Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a slice of the country’s well-preserved history. A day of strolling down its cobbled streets with a brief stop inside the grand Baroque and Neoclassical buildings should just wow you.

Discover the two Cathedrals and perhaps dine at one of the legendary restaurants in Habana Vieja. There’s also a 35-meter observatory for a 360-degree view of the city!

But it would be an unforgivable mistake to explore Havana and miss visiting its best-kept gem, the Malecon seafront promenade. Like Old Havana, this 7-km stretch is a history junkie and a sightseer’s paradise. Woe unto you if you visit the Malecon without a camera!

Havana’s Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) is an absolute must-visit. The vast and impressive collection of past and present-day Cuban and international art will leave you flabbergasted. There are lots of 17th-century masterpieces from as far as Greece, Rome, and Egypt.

What about a trip to two of Havana’s greatest fortresses: the Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro and Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana? These 16th-century and early 17th-century gems tell the truest story of Havana’s past, including when it was the region’s most expensive fortress. I’d highly recommend you stop by the museum inside.

Lastly, on your brief Havana trip, visit the famous Plaza de la Revolucion, specifically the grand 109-meter gray tower. It is a historical tower because of the country’s greatest revolutionary and because it has hosted several global greats, including Pope John Paul II.

Directions: To get to Old Havana, the Malecon seafront promenade, the National Museum, and Castillo de Los Tres Reyes del Morro, there are tourist jump-on-jump-off buses to catch. But you can also use a taxi. The Closest airport is José Martí International Airport

Read the Havana Airport Guide

Read Travel Tips for Cuba

2. Trinidad

After having an epic trip around Havana, you should be ready to soak up the lively ambiance of the country’s second-best city – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets amidst centuries old, but beautifully restored buildings will feel like a step back in time.

Trinidad, a top tourist attraction in Cuba, mesmerizes with colorful 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries blocks that pay homage to a city whose rise was fueled by ancient sugar and slave trades. Of importance during your visit will be Plaza Mayor whose neo-Baroque buildings and the Neoclassical Church of the Holy Trinity (Iglesia Parroquial de la Santisima Trinidad) attract millions annually.

To be honest, Trinidad is perfect for an adventure-filled trip only if you love history. And so, I’d suggest you bring along your camera, primarily if part of your itinerary would involve riding a horse to the magical 19th road to Sancti Spiritus.

Directions: From Havana, you can get to Trinidad by bus; several bus companies offer to-and-fro daily trips, even though this 6-10-hour trip has no direct buses. But you can also grab a “collectivo taxi” and head straight to Trinidad.

3. Varadero

Visit Cuba’s most famous beach and soak up the Caribbean sun, as you grab terrific views of the Atlantic Ocean and her turquoise waters. From Havana, Varadero is a few miles drive, and immediately you arrive at this gorgeous destination, be ready to bump into celebrities.

To give you an idea as to why Varadero is on the list of the best places in Cuba to visit. There are over 50 top-rated hotels and resorts, botanical gardens, beautiful lakes, bridges, and marine parks. It also has some of the planet’s best beaches and a massive natural cavern system; the Bellamar Caves.

Directions: The closest airport serving Varadero is Juan Gualberto Gomez Airport. However, you can find a taxi from the airport to Varadero or go for Viazul Bus.

4. Cayo Largo del Sur

On your Cuban vacation, this little gorgeous jewel should be an absolute must-visit. Located off the mainland of Cuba, it is one of those uncrowded beaches that a few tourists love retreating to. The best thing about visiting Cayo Largo is its beautiful powdery white sandy beaches, serene exclusivity, and laid-back ambiance. Just a lot of sun, a handful of sunbathers, and lots of resorts to chill in.

Directions: Those flying to Cayo Largo del Sur land at Vilo Acuña Airport. However, you can use a taxi or hop on a bus to get to the city center.

5. Parque Nacional Viñales

Cuba also has one of Caribbean Island’s greatest national parks, and one among them is a picturesque valley with a dramatic landscape characterized by steep limestone hills, little plantations, and fantastic hiking trails. Fidel Castro’s favorite retreat spot, Parque Nacional Viñales is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular site for freshly rolled cigars.

This national park is perfect for an off-the-beaten-path kind of adventure. It’s even better if you are an intrepid traveler, love hiking, or even want to try some boat riding. If you’d love to visit where they manufacture the iconic Cuban cigar, be sure also to visit Parque Nacional Viñales.

Directions: Havana airport is the closest to Parque Nacional Viñales. However, to get to the park, you can use a bus, a taxi, a train or hire a self-driven car.

Baracoa is a tourist attraction in Cuba in the North. Baracoa should feel a lot more hospitable. At the country’s oldest city, you will feel the charming ambiance of its colonial architecture, lush countryside, and amazing beaches and waterfalls.

But there’s more to Baracoa than just age-old adventure. The ‘First City’ remains in its ancient condition, all buildings pristinely kept. And if you’ve always wanted to hike El Yunque, stop by Baracoa. It’s just 30 minutes from the beach.

Directions: Gustavo Rizo Airport serves Baracoa and the entire region. To get to Baracoa from Havana, you can fly, take the Viazul or simply find a taxi.

7. Maria la Gorda

You probably know about Maria la Gorda, the fantastic scuba diving destination, west of Havana, already. This little-known jewel on the far western tip of Cuba is a hot tourist destination and attracts plenty of visitors throughout the year. Key attractions in this small town, besides scuba diving and snorkeling, include guided trips in the sea, exploring the underwater marine life and relaxation away from the buzzing Havana.

Directions: The closest airports are La Coloma Airport (the closest), Pinar del Río Airport, and Cancun International Airport. But to get to Maria la Gorda from Havana, you can catch a taxi, train or bus.

8. Jardines del Rey

Despite this archipelago remaining largely undeveloped, Jardines del Rey is a tourist attraction in Cuba that attracts thousands of vacationers. The vast chain of tiny islands connected by simple bridges brings together little-known islands, including Cayo Coco, Cayo Paredon Grande, Cayo Romano, and Cayo Guillermo.

Jardines del Rey is situated north of the mainland, Cuba, but has some of the country’s most beautiful and best-kept beaches. For all-inclusive resorts, far away from the capital, browse for offers from hotels found in the Gardens of the King.

Directions: there’s the Jardines del Rey Airport to serve Jardines del Rey – a 4h 20m flight from Havana. However, you can use the train, fly, or simply use the bus or taxi.

9. Santiago de Cuba

You can’t go to Cuba and fail to visit the country’s eastern region, specifically the popular coastal city of popular Santiago de Cuba. The city is as popular amongst sightseers as it is a historic town. And all of its magnificent architecture of bygone eras says it all. From Parque Cespedes to the magnificent Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, most of its 17th-century wonders say it all.

Apart from visiting the town’s greatest wonders, there’s a bevy of cultural highlights to visit, including where the remains of Cuba’s famous military figures are kept. Away from the town, you can also drive to the World Heritage Biosphere Reserve for a little tour of the country’s coffee plantations or even catch a panoramic view of the mountains and the sea.

Directions: The nearest airport is Antonio Maceo Airport. You can, however, take the train, use the bus or hire a taxi.

10. Cienfuegos

There’s a huge reason why your Cuban trip shouldn’t end without a trip to the country’s only French-founded city. Welcome to Cienfuegos, the Pearl of the South. It is a must-visit, even if you’ve never appreciated mid-century architecture.

In La Perla del Sur, there are lots of well-kept 1950s mansions, art galleries, and grandiose architecture that are only exclusive to Cienfuegos. The Paris of Cuba, as it is locally called, boasts a unique atmosphere. It is the only place you can “legally” take a French language lesson, dine line a Spaniard, or meet your fellow curious Europeans.

Directions: From Havana to Cienfuegos, you can take the bus or taxi as it is within Havana.

There is so much beauty and things to do in Cuba. You have a variety of places to choose from as the best place in Cuba to visit.

The post 10 Cities to See in Cuba appeared first on Work Hard Travel Well .

Cuba Calls on US to Ease Sanctions on Eve of Migration Talks

Johana Tablada, Cuba's deputy director of U.S. affairs, addresses the media in Havana, Cuba, April 15, 2024. REUTERS/Alexandre Meneghini

By Nelson Acosta

HAVANA (Reuters) - Cuba on Monday said it would insist the U.S. ease sanctions and end special treatment of Cubans illegally entering its territory at high level migration talks slated to begin Tuesday in Washington.

The twice annual meetings resumed in 2022 after being suspended during the U.S. presidency of Donald Trump and amid a record surge of around half a million Cubans illegally entering the United States beginning in 2021, according to U.S. authorities.

Cuba is mired in a deep economic crisis characterized by shortages of basic goods, run-away inflation and blackouts.

The talks' stated aim is to promote safe, legal and orderly migration between the two countries.

Johana Tablada de la Torre, deputy director for U.S. affairs in Cuba's foreign ministry, expressed frustration at not reaching those goals while stating the talks remained important as one of the few points of contact under the administration of President Joe Biden.

"The blockade (sanctions) ... is what most weighs in on the bilateral migration situation," Tablada told a press conference in Havana.

Cuba's Communist government has long blamed U.S. sanctions for strangling the island's economy and the 1966 Cuban Adjustment Act, which grants special entry rights to Cubans and support upon arrival, for encouraging its youth to emigrate.

The United States - the top destination for Cuban migrants – counters that a lack of civil liberties and human rights in Cuba have combined with a state-dominated economy to force its citizens to migrate.

The Biden administration has increased legal pathways to migration for Cubans, including visa access in Havana, family reunification and humanitarian parole programs aimed at stemming illegal migration.

Tablada said the measures would not solve the problem as long as sanctions remained in place.

(Reporting by Nelson Acosta; additional reporting by Marc Frank; Editing by Josie Kao)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Join the Conversation

Tags: United States , Cuba

America 2024

Health News Bulletin

Stay informed on the latest news on health and COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

Cartoons on President Donald Trump

Feb. 1, 2017, at 1:24 p.m.

Photos: Obama Behind the Scenes

April 8, 2022

Photos: Who Supports Joe Biden?

March 11, 2020

The Week in Cartoons April 15-19

April 16, 2024, at 3:47 p.m.

Justices Weigh Jan. 6 Obstruction Charge

Lauren Camera April 16, 2024

Johnson Draws New Threats With Aid Bill

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton April 16, 2024

New Home Construction Slumps

Tim Smart April 16, 2024

High Court to Consider Jan. 6 Charges

The FBI and NTSB Bridge Collapse Probes

Laura Mannweiler April 15, 2024

To Duke Alumni homepage

Havana ~ featuring the afro-cuban experience.

View other trips

Date: Fri, March 7, 2025 - Fri, March 14, 2025

Trip Status: Taking Reservations

Price: From $5,495 if booked by 6/25/2024

Activity Level: Moderate

Region: Central America & the Caribbean

Arrangements: Alumni Holidays International

Join us on this immersive program that reveals the profound influence of the African diaspora throughout Cuba. Stay for seven nights in a privately owned boutique hotel in Havana’s beautiful Vedado neighborhood. Daily excursions will broaden your perspective of Cuba while benefiting and supporting the local people. Enjoy Havana’s lively jazz and art scenes, ride in a vintage convertible along the Malecón seashore, visit rural Cuba, and discover the storied Afro-Cuban roots of Matanzas, Guanabacoa, and Regla. Tour the National Museum of Fine Arts focusing on Afro-Cuban artists. Experience Cuba through meaningful exchanges with entrepreneurs, dancers, artists, community leaders and more. Visit Matanza’s “slaves’ route” and see the Monument to the Slaves’ Rebellion for a glimpse into Cuba’s African legacy. Plus, local experts add a further enriching layer with discussions about compelling topics. This exclusive itinerary, developed by AHI Travel, is operated in accordance with a People-to-People general license established by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control. This small-group program includes a generous meal plan and round-trip flights between Miami and Cuba.

Reservations and Information

To reserve, complete a registration form in the brochure and mail to Duke Travels, Box 90572, Durham, NC 27708, or call (919) 684-2988 to reserve conveniently over the phone and let us know you are mailing your reservation form to hold your space. To learn more about our travel program or any of our upcoming trips, please contact us at [email protected] or 919-684-2988

Duke Leaders

Mode of Travel

World News | The World Daily Brief: Israel considers…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

Baltimore Sun eNewspaper

• Anne Arundel County
• Baltimore City
• Baltimore County
• Carroll County
• Harford County

Breaking News

World news | watch live: gov. wes moore’s news conference on key bridge collapse recovery, world news | the world daily brief: israel considers response after iran’s unprecedented missile attack.

International News

Iran and Israel

• Israel’s war cabinet will meet Monday to discuss its response to Iran’s unprecedented attack on Saturday night, an Israeli official has told CNN. READ MORE
• The attack by Iran on Israel early Sunday ratcheted up regional tensions, confirming long-held fears about the Israel-Hamas war spiraling into a broader conflagration. But Iran, Israel, the United States and Hamas also walked away with some gains. READ MORE
• Israeli leaders on Sunday credited an international military coalition with helping thwart a direct Iranian attack involving hundreds of drones and missiles, calling the coordinated response a starting point for a “strategic alliance” of regional opposition to Tehran. READ MORE
• The U.S. believes concern is enough to restrict travel within Israel for U.S. government employees and issue travel warnings for private U.S. citizens. Israel is taking the warning seriously too: it’s canceling leave for soldiers and disabling sensitive GPS that adversaries could use to support attacks.  READ MORE 
• There’s a new bargaining chip on the table for Israel-Gaza negotiations: Israel is currently restricting the ~90% of Gazans crowded into the south of the strip from moving north – even if they live in the north and are only displaced in the south – but would consider letting 150,000 of them return with no security checks under the latest ceasefire proposal. READ MORE
• In return, Israel wants a list of female, elderly, and sick hostages who are still alive. Hamas has thus far refused to give a full list of its hostages – though its officials said it was having trouble locating 40 living hostages who fit those criteria for an exchange. READ MORE
• Bloomberg reported that U.S. and Venezuelan officials met secretly in Mexico last week to try to align on an extension to oil sanctions relief measures enacted in October that expire April 18. READ MORE
• Pres. Maduro didn’t help his case for sanctions relief: right after relief measures were announced in October, he promptly reneged on pledges to let the opposition compete against him in a fair election. READ MORE
• Ukraine passed a new mobilization bill designed to quell the public discontent that bubbled up when Pres. Zelensky signed a bill lowering the draft age recently. The new mobilization measure aims to refresh Ukraine’s fighting forces without a draft by adding financial incentives for those who volunteer to fight and penalizing those who evade service. READ MORE
• Russia destroyed Kyiv’s largest power generation plant in a missile attack yesterday, and Zelensky blasted the West for “turning a blind eye” to his requests for more air defenses to intercept Russian missiles. READ MORE

Niger and Sahel

• Local broadcaster Tele Sahel shared a clip of a Russian transport plane landing at Niamey airport and said it and the trainers and technicians aboard were there to “install an air defence system…to ensure complete control of our airspace.” READ MORE
• It’s been less than a month since Niger’s junta revoked the military agreement its civilian predecessors signed with the U.S. As of a couple weeks ago, the U.S. still had troops at its $100 million drone base in Niger and was quietly trying to convince the junta not to evict them. I believe they’re still there while U.S. and Nigerien officials negotiate what the Pentagon called a “dynamic” situation.
• Meanwhile, the WSJ recently reported that the U.S. is also in talks with Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Benin – currently fairly stable West African countries with far less risk of a coup than Sahel nations like Niger – to use their airfields for drone operations. READ MORE
• Vietnam sentenced real estate tycoon Truong My Lan to death in a show trial for its largest-ever fraud case: Lan was convicted of fraud totalling $12.5 billion, which is almost 3% of Vietnam’s 2022 GDP – but still around a quarter of the $44 billion in loans she took out from the bank she used to run. READ MORE
• The court ordered Lan to repay her former bank $26.9 billion, and some analysts noted that the purpose of the death penalty – as opposed to a lengthy prison sentence – was perhaps to incentivize her to return as much money as she can scrounge up to get her sentence commuted. READ MORE

The World Daily Brief is composed daily by former CIA and Intelligence officers.

Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

More in World News

Iran’s attack on Israel raises fears of a wider war, but all sides have also scored gains

Former US ambassador sentenced to 15 years in prison for serving as secret agent for Cuba

World News | The World Daily Brief: Israel’s latest proposal asked Hamas; Iran smuggles arms to West Bank, officials say

US intelligence finding shows China surging equipment sales to Russia to help war effort in Ukraine