cuba travel to mexico

Why Some Travelers Fly to Cuba from Mexico (And How)

Citizens of the United States were thrilled when restrictions for US travelers visiting Cuba were relaxed in 2015. For the first time in over 50 years, it was easy to legally visit Cuba . In mid-2017 and again in 2021, changes were made to these policies, but it is still very simple to legally travel to Cuba . You just need to understand how to navigate the situation.

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners—Heroes —who build work with travelers to create customized itineraries highlighting local culture. Get started .

Table of Contents

Why fly from mexico, so what changed in 2015, is it still easier to just enter cuba from mexico, why fly from mexico post-2015, some popular budget routes into havana from mexico include:, finding flights, recent changes, just make sure to bring an itinerary.

Before 2015, because of the US embargo on Cuba from the 1960s, there were no commercial flights from the US to Cuba. So, before the 2015 changes , Americans traveling to Cuba would fly into Cuba from another country, like Mexico.  Note:  It was only the United States that banned their citizens from visiting Cuba . The rest of the world has been able to visit. 

While in theory travelers could be fined for traveling to Cuba, it never really happened. Thousands of American citizens visited Cuba illegally every year through Mexico. The Cuba customs office would even stamp a piece of paper instead of your American passport.

In 2015, it became possible to travel to Cuba for one of 12 government-approved reasons , all on the honor system. 

Interestingly, this was always the situation — you needed a government-approved reason to visit. However, in 2015, they stopped requiring endless paperwork and now you simply check a box when booking a flight or lodging.

Still have questions? One of our local trip planners in Cuba can help you figure out which category your trip falls under.  Don't hesitate to start messaging—for free! 

Long story short: No paperwork.

Some people think it is still easier to fly into Cuba from a country like Mexico and avoid this situation entirely. However, this is no longer the case. Anyone who purchases a flight into Cuba from Mexico is asked if they are a citizen of the United States. They are then asked if their trip falls under one of the US government's 12 permitted travel categories . There have also been reports that gate officers now stamp US passports coming into the country. So, traveling to Cuba from Mexico in the old, “sneaky” way no longer avoids the problem.

Why would you fly into Cuba from Mexico when it is now possible to fly directly from the US? Even if you won’t skirt around US restrictions when flying through Mexico, there are still some benefits. It's possible to find really cheap deals on flights. Like really cheap, especially if you fly into an airport other than the main Havana airport.

International airports in Cuba include:

HAVANA – HAV / MUHA – Jose Marti Airport VARADERO – VRA / MUVR – Juan Gualberto Gomez Airport HOLGUIN – HOG / MUHG – Frank Pais Airport SANTA CLARA – SNU / MUSC – Abel Santamaria Airport CAYO COCO – CCC / MUCC – Jardines del Rey Airport CAYO LARGO DEL SUR – CYO / MUCL – Vilo Acuna Airport CAMAGUEY – CMW / MUCM – Ignacio Agramonte Airport CIENFUEGOS – CFG / MUCF – Jaime Gonzales Airport SANTIAGO DE CUBA – SCU / MUCU – Antonio Macoa Airport MANZANILLO DE CUBA – MZO / MUMZ – Sierra Maestra Airport

Additionally, because so many tourists are flooding Cuba, service for tourists at the Havana airport can't always keep up. It can sometimes hours to go through immigration and customs. It may save you time to fly to another airport and then book a car into the city.

Aeromexico > Cancun (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)   

Avianca > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)

Interjet > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Varadero (Cuba)   

Cubana > Cancun (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)   

Another benefit of entering Cuba through Mexico is the price of Tourist Cards .  US travelers are required to get a tourist card before visiting Cuba (basically your "visa" for the trip).   If you're traveling from the US, this card is pink. If you are traveling from outside the US (like from Mexico), this card is green. Predictably , pink tourist cards sold at US airports are more expensive than the green cards sold abroad—which work the same but are cheaper.

Of course, the easiest way to get your Cuban Tourist Card is online in advance through sites like Online Tourist Card (for pink cards) or  Easy Tourist Card  (for green cards) . Buying your Tourist Card ahead of time means not waiting until the last minute to secure your necessary documentation, and allows you to avoid the confusion of buying your Tourist Card at the airport.

The best way to find flights to Cuba is by going to the official sites of the airlines that fly there— JetBlue , American Airlines , and Delta —rather than searching on Kayak or other flight search sites. Kayak continues to restrict Cuba flight searches, displaying a vague statement about legal restrictions. 

Cuba-US tourism was in the news again in 2017 because of new policy changes , but in 2022, most of these changes were reversed and aside from cruise ships, Cuba travel restrictions returned to what they had been before. Due to the previous restrictions and the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines had reduced or eliminated flights, but since June of 2022, the number of flights has been increasing once again. 

This guide on the recent policy changes  lays out the whole situation.

The easiest way to ensure your trip to Cuba is legal and stress-free is to have one of our  Cuban travel experts help design your trip for you. 

Under the current rules, it's important that all American travelers create a detailed, daily itinerary for their trip to Cuba. This itinerary should list everything: cities you’ll visit, where you'll stay , cultural activities you’re participating in, when you'll have leisure time, etc. This is  very important  since it proves that you are complying with the travel restrictions and legally visiting Cuba.

And for more about traveling to Cuba, check out: 

• Cuba Info for Americans
• How to Get a Cuban Visa

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory January 5, 2024

Cuba - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to crime information.

Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to  crime .

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

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

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

If you decide to travel to Cuba:

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

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

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

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must have six months validity at the time of entry.

Two pages are required for entry/exit stamps.

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

None. See CDC for recommendations.

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

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

Embassies and Consulates

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

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

Destination Description

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

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety and Security

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We can: 

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

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

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

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

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

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

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

Cuban penalties for the following are particularly severe: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

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

For emergency services in Cuba, dial: 

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

Ambulance services are

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

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

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

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

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

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

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

The following diseases are prevalent: 

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

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

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

Further health information:

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

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

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

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

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

General Health Issues

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

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

Travel and Transportation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public Transportation: 

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

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

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

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

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

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

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Cuba should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts .  Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warn ings .

For additional travel information

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

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

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Cuba Or Mexico: Which To Choose For A Vacation

Cuba or mexico, which is better for a holiday comparing overall vibe, cost, beaches, activities, sights, nightlife, food, and lodging.

Travelers trying to decide whether to choose Cuba or Mexico for their vacation are generally comparing the Yucatan Peninsula (Cancun and the Mayan Riviera area) with Cuba, both on the Caribbean Sea.

The Pacific Coast of Mexico, with Puerto Vallarta as a famous tourist destination, while very nice, is a different beast and can’t really compare with Cuba for beaches. In this post, I’ll mainly focus on comparing vacationing in Cuba vs Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.

Table of Contents

Cuba or Mexico: short answer

Here’s a nutshell comparison of Mexico (Riviera Maya) vs Cuba:

• Mexico generally has more touristic sights and better tours, such as ecological parks, Mayan ruins, scenic Yucatan villages
• Mexico has superior lodging options for a similar rating – e.g. 4-star resorts in Riviera Maya are often better than similar resorts in Cuba
• Food in Mexico is much closer to US standards than in Cuba
• Telecommunications are cheaper and better in Mexico than Cuba
• Nightlife is much better in Mexico (e.g. Cancun) than in Cuba
• Cuba is more affordable than Mexico
• Locals in Cuba are generally more authentic and friendlier than locals on Mexico’s Mayan Riviera
• Cuba is generally safer than Mexico, e.g. Varadero is much more secure than Cancun
• Cuba has a more authentic real-life experience vs Mexico’s more touristic experience

Cuba or Mexico: what travelers say

• Travelers generally agree Cuba has better beaches and seawater compared to Mexico (Riviera Maya). However, many choose Mexico because of tourism infrastructure , quality of services, food, and shopping. Cuba offers a different experience, more authentic but often less comfortable – many think Cuba has a long way to go.
• Varadero , Cuba’s most popular beach resort, is often seen as better than Mayan Riviera beaches. Varadero’s beach is gorgeous and great for swimming, walking, snorkeling, and laze around. Cuba often wins for the quality of its beaches.
• Playa Del Carmen , however, one of Mexico’s most popular beach resorts on the Riviera Maya, is also beautiful and has excursions in the Yucatan Peninsula which are more interesting and better run than those in Cuba, e.g. snorkeling (e.g. to Akumal) and ruins excursions.
• Cuba is more affordable than Mexico, so it’s great for trying something new on a budget. You can sometimes book an all-inclusive 4 or 5-star resort for as low as $400 in Cuba, which is not possible in Mexico. The quality of resorts , however, is a bit higher in Mexico, even though the beaches are typically not as great.
• Cuba has very limited shopping compared to Mexico. Mexico also has better food (Cuba has restrictions on imported foods) and a more luxurious tropical environment.
• Most travelers find Cuba to be extremely safe and very visitor-friendly . In contrast, some beach resorts in Mexico’s Yucatan coast are protected by armed security guards, which some travelers feel uncomfortable with. 
• There are more touristic activities in Mexico than in Cuba, though pricier. However, Havana is Cuba’s main cultural attraction. Cuba is sometimes described as an adventure, while Riviera Maya more of a vacation. Cuba tours often combine these two aspects by offering a few nights in Havana and one-week in a Varadero beach resort.

Cuba or Mexico: vibe & people

Cuba has a unique charm and is very different from other destinations. It’s also likely to change in the near future when the US allows its citizens to travel there freely and foreign money starts pouring in.

Cuba is also one of the safest countries for travelers – although a place like Cozumel in Mexico is also considered very safe (see this post for a comparison of Cozumel and Cancun). Single female travelers, namely, feel totally safe in Cuba but not in Mexico.

Travelers often appreciate Cuba for its simpler, more spiritual and less materialistic vibe, something not generally found in Mexico’s Yucatan coast.

The Cubans are often described as genuine, kind, and generous . They are seen as warm, loving people with a great sense of humor. While many travelers also enjoy their experience with the locals in Mexico, Cuba generally wins for meeting great people. Also, hassles from vendors touting tourists are much less frequent in Cuba than in Mexico.

Mexico’s Mayan Riviera is probably a better option for going to an all-inclusive resort and spending most of your time there, or enjoying the restaurants, bars, and tourist activities around it. Cuba, on the other hand, is typically a better choice for visiting authentic cites and towns, going off the tourist path , and meeting locals. You’ll get a very different experience of Cuba if you leave your Varadero sandbar resort.

In Mexico, most travelers go to a resort area around Playa del Carmen. If you’re driving, you can access completely empty beaches in the biosphere near Tulum, and go on short trips to the natural sights and Mayan ruins.

Cuba or Mexico: beaches & activities

In Cuba, Cayo Coco , Cayo Guillermo , and Cayo de Santa Maria (the Cuban keys, small islands off the mainland) are often considered as having some of the most gorgeous and pristine beaches in the Caribbean (and in the world), with fine white sand and shallow clear water. The beaches on the Cayos are secluded areas.

Many travelers find the hotels there very welcoming and with great service. There are few activities though, other than some jungle/mangrove and boat tours. To explore Cuban culture, you need to travel further. The Cayos are mostly great for a stress-free tropical break.

Cuba’s Varadero peninsula also has one of the most impressive beaches in the region. The peninsula has a string of all-inclusive hotels and spas, as well as a golf course. Hotel employees in Varadero tend to be quite aggressive in pursuing tips.

In Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, Playa del Carmen is a beautiful white sand beach and the most animated center with many things to see and do. Some travelers, however, are not so fond of the crowds, the music, the hustlers, and the erosion which is slowly eating up the beach.

The beaches near Tulum and on Isla Mujeres are really stunning. Tulum is close to the Mayan ruins. Akumal is a great beach to snorkel and swim with turtles. Between Playa del Carmen and Akumal is Xpu-Ha , another postcard-like beach. Tulum and Akumal beaches are relatively close to Playa del Carmen where you can go for abundant shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.

Cuba or Mexico: sights and culture

In Cuba, taking at least a 2-day trip to Havana is a must. Among many things, you can admire the sunset on the Malecon promenade, go see Hemingway ‘s house, visit the Revolution Museum and the El Morro castle. You can just walk around the city to enjoy the architecture, and eat at a casa instead of a state-run restaurant (much better and cheaper food).

Havana is a beautiful city to visit with great sights, but it does have its share of pickpockets and scammers. A good option is to hire a driver to drive you around.

The city of Trinidad in Cuba also has fantastic sights – most Varadero resorts propose day trips to visit it. You can also get off the beaten track and trek up the mountains. Other common day trips include the Bay of Pigs, Vinales, and Santa Clara.

Cuba also has many ecological sites in and outside the Varadero peninsula – you can easily join an ecotour.

While many Cuban excursions (other than Havana) revolve around the sea, Mexico’s Riviera Maya has many opportunities for fun mountain excursions around the Sierra Madre .

Mexico’s Yucatan also offers astonishing natural sites, including over 6000 cenotes . Cenotes are underwater sinkholes similar to small ponds, with extremely clear and clear water that coming from rainwater and filtered in through the ground. Yal-Ku close to Akumal is one example, with many ancient sculptures on the path to the water.

Other cultural sights in Mexico include Mayan ruins such as the Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza ancient Maya cities.

Cuba or Mexico: food & nightlife

As mentioned, travelers generally find the food options in Mexico much more compelling than in Cuba – those who put food high on their list tend to choose Mexico.

It’s worth noting that the water in Cuba is clean and drinkable, while typically not in Mexico – some travelers report getting sick from swallowing even a slight amount of water while taking a shower.

Playa del Carmen, for example, has a plethora of good dining options. Restaurants in Cuba, on the other hand, often tend to offer dishes primarily based on potatoes, rice, carrots, and meat. In general, food is Cuba’s resort areas is considered lagging behind compared to Mexico.

That said, Cuba’s Varadero does have some nice restaurants and bars with live Cuban music. Some travelers feel that in top tier Cuban resorts such as Iberostar or Melia Varadero, the gap with Mexico regarding food quality tends to narrow considerably.

Outside of resorts, the city of Havana also has some nice places to eat well and inexpensively.

Cuba or Mexico: lodging

Here are a few popular resorts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya travelers often recommend:

• Catalonia Riviera Maya : highly recommended. Located on Xpu-Ha beach. A 10-minute walk from a nice marina and dolphins, a 15-minute free bus ride to Playa del Carmen for shopping and going out. See reviews and prices in Booking.com
• Riu Palace Riviera Maya : a great resort for special occasions such as a honeymoon. 30-minute walk or 5-minute cab ride to downtown Playa del Carmen. See reviews in Hotels.com
• Barcelo Maya , like Riu Palace relatively inexpensive and offering very good quality. See it here in Booking
• Bahia Principe is frequently recommended as being a wonderful place. See it here on Booking
• Sandos Playacar : fantastic location, lovely beach, good food. See it on Hotels.com or Booking

These are following are some of the most frequently recommended places in Cuba:

• Iberostar Laguna Azul Varadero : maybe not the best beach in Varadero – the resorts in town have much better beaches – nevertheless, the Iberostar is often described as one of the best hotels in the Caribbean. See it on Booking
• Sol Palmeras is a nice hotel, though not in the same league as Mexican resorts. Booking
• Royalton Hicacos in Varadero: beautiful adults-only resort. Not much animation but a nice place to rest and relax. See it on Booking
• Paradisus Rio de Oro Resort and Spa (Guardalavaca near Holguin): many travelers warmly praise the place. See it here
• Barcelo Solymar on the Varadero sandbar: fantastic beach, good varied food. Within walking distance to the Varadero town. good entertainment with nice local staff. Some travelers go back regularly. See it on Booking
• Memories (Breezes) Jibacoa – Jibacoa beach in Habana. Nice resort, food comparable to Mexico. Not for everyone though, a little secluded and older crowd. See it on Hotels.com
• Sol Luna Mares on Playa Esmeralda in Holguin. Relatively quiet and secluded but plenty of day trips. Holguin has a retro feel with animal-powered carts used for transportation. Go to Melia website
• Casa de Ania in Havana is a decent hostel and a good place to meet other travelers. Booking

As mentioned, Cuba’s capital Havana is beautiful and should be visited if you go to Cuba. For visiting Havana, staying in Varadero is a more convenient option than staying in the keys (Cayos) or Holguin.

*** Photo credits: (1) Featured: “ Playa Del Carmen and Cancun Mexico Vacat ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  jarnocan (2) “ Playa del Carmen in Mexico ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  dronepicr (3) “ Havana ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  szeke (4) “ Cayo Coco May 2009 – 0379 ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  oknidius (5) “ Tulum-Ruins in Riviera Maya ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  Grand Velas Riviera Maya (6) “ Havana ” ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) by  szeke (7) “ Varadero, Cuba ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  madmack66

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About the author.

Jesse Massard

I'm Jesse, I've lived in and traveled to many different countries, and each time around I've done tons of research on the different places I could visit. I've always loved comparing cities before (and after) see them. Apparently I'm not alone, so I decided to make a website out of it and share my experiences and research. All packed?

The rules for Americans visiting Cuba in 2022

May 20, 2022 • 5 min read

It may soon be easier for Americans to visit Cuba © Matt Porteous / Getty Images

The Biden Administration took several steps toward thawing US-Cuba relations on May 16, 2022, after five years of tightened restrictions. While the measures don’t fully restore the openings of the Obama era, they mark an encouraging start for struggling Cubans and aspiring US travelers.

What has changed?

Of direct interest to US travelers is the Biden Administration’s promise to expand authorized travel in support of the Cuban people. This includes opening up flights to airports beyond Havana (which were closed to US aircraft during the Trump era) and reinstating group people-to-people travel and other categories of group educational travel. Both measures will be good news to US travel agencies who have battled with increased red tape since 2017.  

As yet, there is no word that the US will reinstate individual people-to-people travel, the category that led to a huge influx of US visitors to Cuba between 2016 and 2017. Nor have any Cuban state entities been removed from the US’s restricted list, meaning it’s still difficult for Americans to legally stay in Cuban hotels.

The directives have also lifted limits on family remittances (previously capped at $1,000 a quarter) to provide help in facilitating family reunions and supporting independent Cuban entrepreneurs.

Getting to Cuba from the US

Flying to Havana is one of the easier parts of the Cuba conundrum. As of May 2022, there are approximately a dozen flights a day between the US and Havana departing from the Florida cities of Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Operating airlines include American Airlines , Southwest Airlines , and JetBlue .

More Cuban airports will likely open up to US flights in the coming months.

The 12 categories of travel licenses for US citizens

US law states that US citizens can only travel to Cuba on a ‘general license’ based on one of 12 different approved categories , which include family visits, educational and religious activities, public performances and exhibitions, and the vague sounding 'support for the Cuban people.' Licenses are self-qualifying (there’s no long-winded paperwork), but you’ll be asked to state your category of choice in a signed travel affidavit when booking travel to Cuba. More details are available online from the US Treasury .

The vast majority of current visitors are Cuban Americans entering under the ‘family travel’ category. Independent travelers with no affiliations can qualify under the conveniently vague ‘support for the Cuban people’ category, which is the easiest option for people looking to explore the island. However, bear in mind that before you travel, you’ll need to draw up a detailed itinerary of your plans. Additionally, on your return, you’ll be required to keep all your travel receipts for five years.

The Cuba tourist card

To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed Tourist Card — which serves a similar function to a tourist visa. These are usually available through your airline (ask when booking). Alternatively, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85, including processing fees.

Health protocols for travel to Cuba

Pre-travel COVID-19 tests and vaccination certificates are no longer required to enter Cuba from the US. Random COVID-19 tests may still be administered at the airport but there’s no mandatory quarantine unless you test positive. Departing US passengers will need a negative rapid-antigen test to re-enter the US. Tests can be procured at Havana’s José Martí International Airport before departure.

All arriving travelers must fill out an online D’Viajeros form containing information relating to public health and immigration.  You’re also required to take out medical insurance that includes cover for COVID-19; this may be included in the cost of your air ticket from the US. Health officials make spot checks at the airport.

Booking travel to Cuba through a travel agency

If it’s your first time traveling to Cuba, it is highly recommended that you enlist the services of a specialist US-Cuba travel agency. Both Cuban Travel Services and Marazul offer comprehensive on-the-ground information and can help organize flights and accommodation.

Alternatively, you can join an organized trip, which takes a lot of the hassle out of traveling to Cuba. Long-time US-Cuba specialists, Insight Cuba are offering a three-night ‘Weekend in Havana’ and a seven-night ‘Classic Cuba Tour’ in 2022.  

Where to stay in Cuba

American citizens are not currently allowed to stay in Cuba’s government-run hotels or use most state-owned enterprises. Instead, it’s best to opt for private accommodation such as apartments, B&Bs and homestays (known in Cuba as casas particulares ). Airbnb has lots of listings of accommodations that are open to US citizens.

For restaurants, stick to private paladares (family-run restaurants, often in the owner's home) where the food quality is better. To get around, use private guides and taxis. In doing so, you’ll be enthusiastically ‘supporting the Cuban people.’

Money tips for Cuba in 2022

Credit cards linked to US banks don’t work in Cuba and the US dollar was taken out of circulation in June 2021. American travelers are best off arriving with plenty of cash in a non-US currency – the euro is the most favored foreign currency and is accepted by most private businesses, from casa particulares to restaurants and taxi drivers, meaning you won’t have to buy many Cuban pesos (which are worthless outside Cuba).

Beware: The Cuban economy is in a state of extreme flux. The current euro-peso black market exchange rate is over four times that of the banks.   

In November 2021, Cuba introduced a tarjeta prepago (prepaid card) designed primarily to aid US travelers with American credit cards. You can purchase and pre-load a tarjeta prepago at a bank in Cuba or at the airport and use it to buy goods that can otherwise only be paid for with a credit card, such as medical services, cigars, and bus tickets. Cards can be loaded with amounts equivalent to US$1000, US$500 or US$200. However, you can only pay for the card in a non-US currency. Euros, Canadian dollars, and pounds sterling are all accepted, cash only.

This article was first published December 2020 and updated May 2022

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Cancun to Havana Cuba – The Best Way to get there 2023

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

Categories Caribbean , Cuba , Mexico , North America , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides

Tulum and Cancun are already some of the hottest destinations in the world. But why not take your vacation to another level by taking a trip back in time to 1950s-era Cuba which has recently reopened to the public?

From Cancun to Havana Cuba is just 275 nautical miles or a quick 1 hour 10 minute flight.

The pandemic’s toll on the global tourism industry continues, our go-to airline in Mexico – Interjet – has ceased operations to stave off bankruptcy but expects to resume operations in 2022. For the most up-to-date flight information we start our search  here . 

Cancun to Havana Cuba in 2022 Cancun to Havana flights in 2022 : There are daily flights from Cancun to Havana year-round. Only Interjet airlines flies direct from Cancun Mexico to Cuba. In the peak months in Cancun (December to March) there are 3 direct flights per day. As such, flights do sell out in advance but we scored flights for less than $150 USD two weeks before flying.   2022 Update: As of January 2022, there are no direct flights from Cancun to Havana. The quickest way to visit Havana from Cancun is to fly via Mexico City (or even via Miami, though we discuss why we don’t recommend flying via Miami below). Viva Aerobus flies direct from Mexico City to Havana Cuba daily. The travel situation in Cuba is changing quickly and direct flights from Cancun may open up any day, so we recommend using Momondo to find cheap flights to Cuba. Cancun to Havana ferry in 2022 : There are no ferries from Cancun, Mexico to Cuba. Unless you’re smuggling Mezcal to Cuba or cigars back into Mexico save time and fly to Cuba.  Where to Stay in Havana : We traipsed all over town to identify first-hand the safest and best neighborhoods in Havana to stay and the best hotels, apartments and homestays “Casa Particulars” near all the best attractions with wifi that actually works. Are you planning to visit Cuba at a good time?: Avoid hurricane season and the unbearably hot months of the year with our guide to the best time to visit Cuba and also read about things to pack for Cuba .  

On this page

Flights from cancun to havana, what is the best airline to fly from cancun to havana.

• Ferry from Cancun to Cuba
• Cuba Visa (Tourist Card)
• Havana Airport to Havana town

Map of Havana Airport

• Essentials to know about Havana

Recommended Hotels near Cancun Airport

• Recommended Hotels near Havana Airport

* 2022 Update * The fastest way to get from Cancun to Cuba is now a flight via Mexico City or Miami. We recommend flying via Mexico City as the Cuba visa fee is less than half of the cost from the US (not to mention an easier process). Viva Aerobus flies to Cuba from Mexico City daily.

Even in peak season there are only a handful of flights per day from Cancun to Havana. Airfare for Cancun to Cuba flights will cost between $79 and $200. Flying time from Cancun to Cuba is 1 hour 10 minutes. Flights depart from Cancun International Airport 10 minutes from Cancun Old Town or 20 minutes from Cancun Hotel Zone. Flights arrive in Jose Marti International Airport, La Habana, Cuba located 20 – 30 minutes drive from Havana City.

Momondo is the website to search for flights from Cancun to Havana.

Interjet Airlines has 3 flights per day in high season from Cancun to Havana. All “light” fares include 55 lbs (25kg) checked baggage allowance as standard on flights to Cuba. The first flight of the day typically departs Cancun at 8:15am and the last flight at 17:50. Flights around midday and early afternoon are the most popular. 

If you are travelling from Mexico and don’t wish to visit Cancun there are direct flights to Havana from Mexico City and Merida. Search Momondo for available flights. Interjet has the cheapest flights from Mexico to Havana but Aeromexico also services the route.

What Airlines Fly from Mexico to Cuba?

Interjet offers direct flights to Cuba from Monterrey, Mexico City, Merida and Cancun. AeroMexico offers direct flights to Cuba from Mexico City. 

Copa Airlines offers indirect flights to Mexico from Cuba.

Interjet Airways is the cheapest airline which flies from Mexico to Cuba. Although it is cheaper than Aeromexico, it really shouldn’t be classified as a budget airline like WizzAir , Ryanair or SkyAirways . 

Cancun to Havana by Boat or Ferry

Despite their close distance, there is currently no (legal) ferry or boat to transport you from Cancun to Havana.

How to Get a Cuba Visa (Tourist Card)

Visitors to Cuba from pretty much every country in the world will need a visa to visit Cuba.

Known as officially as a “Tourist Visa Card” there are two types of Cuba Visas – a green tourist card and a pink tourist card.

A pink tourist card applies to anyone flying to Cuba from the United States and it costs over $100.

The good news for travellers flying from Cancun to Cuba is you only need a green visa which costs much less.

There are two ways to get a Cuba visa in Mexico:

1. Buy an Interjet Tourist Card for Cuba at the Airport

You can purchase a Cuba visa at the airport from the Airline customer service counter.

The price is around 250 mxp ($13) which is the cheapest Cuba visa around.

That said, the thought of being denied entry to Cuba because things have changed, or simply because Mexican authorities don’t have enough forms on the day worried me.

So, I called our airline Interjet to inquire about whether we could buy a Cuba Visa from the airport in Mexico City ahead of time. 

We were told we couldn’t do this but we were reassured it would be no problem at all buying a visa from Interjet at check-in in Cancun.

Fast forward 2 weeks and we found ourselves without a visa as we arrived to check-in to our flight. As we approached the line an Interjet staff member asked (in English) for our Cuba Visa.

When we said we didn’t’ have one he whipped out one which we could purchase for 400 MXP or $25 USD (cash only). 

He then took our passports and wrote in our information which is great because it’s  his problem if he writes the information incorrectly and needs to start again.

So we can tell you first-hand as of February 2020, it’s perfectly safe to buy an Interjet Cuba Visa at Cancun Airport.

2. Buy Cuba Visa Online

If you think buying a Cuba visa at the airport seems risky – we share(d) your thoughts.

The cheapest way to get a Cuba visa is from this agent . 

You simply enter your details into the form and they will send you a Visa within 1 business day.

Note this only applies for visitors (including US citizens) travelling from Mexico.

If you’re travelling from a US airport you will need to obtain a pink tourist card from a Cuban embassy .

Essential Information for Visiting Havana

Entry Requirements include the aforementioned Tourist Card, which allows you to stay in the Cuba for 30 days and is valid for only a single entry.

You will also need to have:

• A passport valid for 2 months beyond the length of your proposed visit.
• Proof of a confirmed return flight and booked accommodation.
• Proof of accommodation for at least the 1st night in Cuba.
• Travel insurance which covers medical expenses.

Remember, June is the rainiest month in Cuba – so be sure to pack the umbrella! Read about the best time to visit Cuba .

Here’s a fun fact about flying into Cuba: shortly before landing cabin stewards walk down the aisle to spray bug spray into the air to decontaminate the plane before landing.

This aircraft disinfection” is a stipulation of the World Health Organization for inbound aircraft to Cuba.

It won’t hurt and won’t kill you, so don’t be alarmed. At least now you know what they’re doing and why.

Don’t be alarmed when you get the bug spray treatment

Havana Airport to Havana City

After arriving in Havana Airport and passing through immigration, head straight our the doors and turn left. Ignore all the touts offering you

About 100 metres away you will see a rank of yellow taxis which are the official taxis in Havana. Before jumping in a taxi make sure to agree on the fare because meters are not usually used.

A taxi from Havana Airport to Havana centro costs between 25 – 30 CUC (pesos cubano convertible) which is roughly $25 – 30 USD. The drive from the airport to Havana is about 30 minutes.

We paid $30 cuc for a maxi-taxi for four people to Vedado which is a suburb 10 minutes drive from Havana Vieja (aka Old Town).

For the return journey from Havana Old Town to Havana Airport we paid $20 cuc. Next time we visit Havana, if there’s just the two of us we’ll try to negotiate $20 cuc for a taxi to the center of town.

These are the best hotels near Cancun Airport with a free airport shuttle:

Courtyard by Marriott Cancun Airport : The closest hotel to Cancun Airport. Restaurant & Gym. Free shuttle to it’s beach club. 

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott : Second closest hotel to Cancun Airport. Restaurant & Gym. 

Things to do in Cuba

Visiting Havana was the highlight of our time in Cuba. Walking the old town feels like you’ve fallen into a time machine set to 1940s. It’s amazing. 

A few bucket list activities you can’t miss (which we’ve taken from our list of the 50 best things to do in Havana ) are:

• take a city tour in a classic American car (preferably a pink convertible)
• sip a Mojito or Cuba Libre in one of the famous hotels frequented by stars of the 40s including Frank Sinatra, Errol Flynn, and the writer whose now famous for drinking at bars from Paris to Havana to Key West: Ernest Hemingway
• take a day trip to Vinales where you can ride horseback and roll a Cuban cigar

Riding in a pink vintage car around Havana Old Town is an essential activity on every Cuba itinerary

Where to Stay when you get to Cuba?

There are not many hotels in Cuba and the ones that are there are run by the government.

If you choose not to stay at one of these hotels, your other option is to stay in a Casa Particular aka someone’s apartment.

While this is a fun and very local experience, for Western comforts we would recommend booking one of the few hotels in Cuba, especially if it is your first time visiting:

• Hotel National De Cuba – a clean and comfortable 5 star hotel in Havana
• Hotel Plaza – a beautiful 4 star hotel in Havana Cuba
• Hotel Carribean – a budget, air conditioned hotel in Havana 

Read our guide for to get the run down on the best neighborhoods in Havana plus tried and tested hotels where the wifi actually works.

Yes this means wifi in Casa Particulars rarely works, no matter what the Airbnb reviews say based on our personal experience after spending hours trying to find a good Airbnb with wifi.

Summary: How to Get from Cancun to Havana Cuba

Flying is the only feasible way to get from Cancun to Havana. Flights take 70 minutes and cost between $80 – 250 USD.

We paid around $150 USD (including 23kg / 50lb checked-in bags) for relatively last minute flights between Cancun to Havana.

Hope this answered your burning questions on how to get from Cancun to Cuba. If you have any questions, we are always here to help, drop us a line below.

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

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Thursday 4th of August 2022

This is so helpful! Thank you! Do you happen to know if US passport holders flying from CUN-HAV qualify for the green tourist card? I am planning a trip for December and would love to know if I can get the visa I need in Mexico or if my US passport will require a pink card.

Thanks again! Happy travels :)

Saturday 25th of December 2021

Hi there, thanks for the great information here. I’m wondering if you know a way to currently book airfare from Cancun to Havana. Since we are in the United States, none of the booking sites will allow me to book this leg of the trip because of “regulatory reasons.” I’m willing to book the tickets once we are in Cancun, but of course worry about not being able to get such a last minute flight. Any info would be great. Thank you!

coupletraveltheworld

Sunday 9th of January 2022

Yes, this does appear to be a problem for many travelers. It has become increasingly difficult to travel to Cuba post Covid. Let us know if you find out any more information as a lot of people are in the same boat.

Mark Sweetman

Thursday 2nd of December 2021

Great review and detail.....but for whatever reason when we were looked we simply could not get flights from Cancun to Havana. The airline you recommend looks like it is now bankrupt and other airlines don't seem to have service.

Hi Mark, oh you are right Interjet has now folded. Thank you for that information, we will update the article. What you are experiencing seems to be a problem for many travelers during COVID. Did you find any solution? We would love to update the article if you did.

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

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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?

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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

Watch CBS News

Top Cuban official says country open to more U.S. deportations, blames embargo for migrant exodus

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

April 18, 2024 / 4:22 PM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Cuba's government is willing to accept more deportation flights from the U.S. of Cuban migrants, who have traveled to the southern border in record numbers over the past three years, a top Cuban official told CBS News in an exclusive interview. 

After a two-year pause, the U.S. restarted deportation flights to the island last year. Since then, the U.S. has been sending one flight with Cuban deportees to Havana each month.

But in an interview with CBS News this week, Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío said Cuban officials are willing to accommodate more than one flight per month.

"We're open to having more" deportation flights, said Fernández de Cossío, who visited Washington this week to meet with Biden administration officials for the latest round of migration talks between the two countries.

Since the 1959 Cuban Revolution, the U.S. and Cuba have had a deeply contentious relationship. The Cold War-era rivals still bitterly disagree on many issues, from Cuba's human rights record and its ties to China and Russia to the decades-long American embargo on Cuban imports and exports.

But Washington and Havana have worked together on immigration, including by signing the 1994 U.S.-Cuba Migration Accords, which officials from both nations are discussing this week. The two countries' work on immigration has intensified in recent years amid the record arrival of hundreds of thousands of Cubans to the U.S.-Mexico border.

Since the start of fiscal year 2021, the U.S. has processed more than 450,000 Cuban migrants at the southern border, according to Customs and Border Protection data. The flow of Cuban migrants to the U.S. border has slowed since last year, when the Biden administration created programs that have allowed some Cubans to fly into the U.S. legally or appear at an official border crossing.

In the interview this week, Fernández de Cossío blamed the exodus from Cuba in recent years on the U.S. embargo and other American policies, including the 1960s Cuban Adjustment Act, which created a special pathway to permanent U.S. residency for certain Cuban migrants. Only Congress can change that law.

Fernández de Cossío said the U.S. is "aiming at destroying the Cuban economy" through its sanctions. He did not concede that economic mismanagement and repressive policies by Havana have also driven Cubans to flee the island, as the U.S. government has argued.  

"You can speak about other factors, but if you have a consistent policy by the most powerful economy in the world to try to destroy the livelihood of a whole population, 11 million Cubans, it is logical to expect people, a segment of the population, to want to leave the country," he said.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security assessed that "Cuba's deteriorating economic conditions and political repression continue to increasingly drive Cubans out of their country."

Fernández de Cossío also cited the lack of some legal channels for Cuban citizens to come to the U.S. for illegal crossings along the southern border by Cubans.

He urged the State Department to resume the processing of tourist and short-term visas in Havana. The Biden administration restarted immigrant visa processing in Cuba, but short-term visa seekers in Cuba still have to travel to a third country to have their cases processed. 

Fernández de Cossío said U.S. officials informed him they would resume full visa processing in Cuba in the future.

Representatives for the State Department did not respond to requests to comment on Fernández de Cossío's remarks.

Fernández de Cossío expressed some concern about additional U.S. sanctions if former President Donald Trump is elected in November. During Trump's tenure, the U.S. had a more aggressive stance towards Cuba, reversing the Obama administration's attempt to normalize relations with Havana.

"Of course we're concerned if there are additional economic measures [against] Cuba, regardless of who wins the election. The Biden administration has very faithfully applied the policies put in place by the Trump administration and added some," he said. "So we would not [be] surprised they would do it. It would be unfair, and we believe it would be immoral, but we have to acknowledge that would happen and [it] gives us room for concern."

Camilo Montoya-Galvez is the immigration reporter at CBS News. Based in Washington, he covers immigration policy and politics.

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This page contains information about exporting hatching eggs, germplasm (semen, embryos, oocytes), and live animals other than pets from the United States to a foreign country or territory. If you're looking for information about taking a pet to another country, visit Pet Travel.

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International regulations for animal exports (iregs).

IRegs provides exporters with our best understanding of importing countries' requirements for live animals, including hatching eggs and germplasm. Please select the country of destination from the drop-down menu below, and then click "View Requirements."

If your country is not listed, the requirements for that species are not known. Exporters who want to ship live animals to a country whose requirements are not listed should apply for an import permit from the appropriate authority of the destination country, either directly or via the importer or buyer in the destination country. The import permit should outline the specific conditions that must be met to ship. 

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Looking for the latest country requirement updates? See the History of Requirement Updates for Live Animal Exports .

Want to receive email updates from APHIS about live animal exports? Sign up and select the "Veterinary Services - IREGS Live Animals Updates (Exports)" topic.

Live Animal Export Resources

Find answers to common questions about exporting live animals.

Use our self-search tool to find an accredited veterinarian in your State.

USDA-accredited veterinarians can use VEHCS to complete (issue) export health certificates for live animals and submit them to APHIS, all electronically.

Learn what countries accept health certificates digitally endorsed (signed) by APHIS.

(PDF, 1 MB)

Learn more about APHIS' regulations for exporting live animals (livestock) from the United States.

Find additional resources on exporting aquatic animals.

Export Trade Services (by State)

APHIS has animal health officials available nationwide with expertise in export requirements for animals. Contact your nearest office for questions about endorsing an export or health certificate for live animals. 

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Speeds and device compatibility vary based on location and roaming partners’ network frequencies. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks. Voice call destinations may be limited in some areas. Rates vary by plan and location.

Speeds vary based on roaming partners’ network; high-speeds not available in all locations. Maps do not depict exact coverage and display the general availability of roaming partner networks. Coverage not available in some areas. We are not responsible for the performance of our roaming partners’ networks. Voice call destinations may be limited in some areas.  Simple Global Destinations:  High-speed data, where available, may be included with qualifying plans or require purchase of international pass. Check your plan at  www.T‑Mobile.com/customers/data-pass  for details.  Mobile Without Borders Destinations (Canada/Mexico):  Up to 5GB of LTE speeds included with qualifying plans. Non-qualifying plans require purchase of high-speed data pass. Check  www.T‑Mobile.com/customers/data-pass  for details.

NEED INTERNATIONAL CALLING?

Boost your international plan with a data pass.

Get unlimited calling and even more high-speed data with daily, weekly, or monthly plan add-ons.

Qualifying plan required.  See full terms

More benefits from departure to arrival.

Stream, surf & text from 30,000 ft.

With qualifying plans.  See full terms

Unlimited international calls for just $15/mo.

Call landlines in 70+ destinations and mobile lines in 30+ destinations. Qualifying service required. Get full terms

Explore all travel benefits.

Save up to 40% on travel.

Visit T‑Mobile TRAVEL site for details.  See full terms

Got questions about international roaming?

• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations:  Go5G Next, Go5G Next Military, Go5G Next 55, Go5G Next First Responders, Go5G Next Puerto Rico, Go5G Next DHH, Go5G Business Next, Go5G Military Business Next, Go5G First Responder Business Next, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Next, Go5G DHH Business Next, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® MAX (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Plus, Magenta ® MAX for Business, ONE Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate, and Magenta ® Amplified.
• Up to 5GB of high-speed data in 11 European countries:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Magenta ® (including 55+, Military, and First Responder), Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, and Magenta ® for Business. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.
• Unlimited data speeds up to 256kbps:  Go5G™, Go5G Military, Go5G 55+, Go5G First Responder, Go5G DHH, Go5G Business, Go5G Military Business, Go5G First Responder Business, Go5G Puerto Rico Business, Go5G DHH Business, Go5G Plus™, Go5G Plus Military, Go5G Plus 55+, Go5G Plus First Responder, Go5G Plus DHH, Go5G Business Plus, Go5G Military Business Plus, Go5G First Responder Business Plus, Business Unlimited Ultimate+, Go5G Puerto Rico Business Plus, Go5G DHH Business Plus, Magenta ® , Magenta ® MAX, Magenta 55+, Magenta ® MAX 55+, Magenta ® First Responder, Magenta ® MAX First Responder, Magenta ® Military, Magenta ® MAX Military, Magenta ® Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® MAX Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Magenta ® Amplified, Business Unlimited Select, Business Unlimited Advanced, Business Unlimited Ultimate, Magenta ® for Business, and Magenta ® MAX for Business rate plans. Simple Choice, Select Choice, and ONE plans are also included.

Everyone on a T-Mobile Essentials™ plan gets unlimited texting and calling at $0.25 per minute in 215+ countries and destinations.

Essentials™ plans get free texting in 215+ countries and destinations. If you need data, purchase International Passes to get high-speed data and unlimited calling for 1, 10, or 30 days.

If you’re a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, you can add an International Pass to get more high-speed data and unlimited voice calling in 215+ countries and destinations.

• 1-Day (512MB) International Pass: 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 24 hours, for $5.
• 10 day (5GB) International Pass: 5GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 10 days, for $35.
• 30 Day (15GB) International Pass: 15GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling, to be used up to 30 days, for $50.

Use your International Pass high-speed data however you’d like throughout the designated time. You’re not restricted to a certain amount of data per day.

If you’re a primary account holder or authorized user, get an International Pass by using your T-Mobile app, logging on to My.T-Mobile.com, or following the link in the welcome text message you get when you enter an eligible country. Also, you can call our Team of Experts ® before your trip by dialing 611 on your mobile device.

Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries that gets free data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

You can check your cruise coverage  here . We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a US port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network, and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage. Once you're out to sea, you can turn roaming back on and pay for the data, text, and voice you use.

International roaming is a service allowing you to continue using your mobile phone or other mobile device to browse the internet, as well as send and receive: emails, voice calls, and text messages while visiting another country.

The price you pay for Wi-Fi calls to international numbers when you're outside the US, depends on your international roaming option. The good news is, with most of our international roaming add-ons, you'll pay less for these calls than you did before. All Wi-Fi calls to US numbers are free of charge.

Our most popular plans include international texting from home and while traveling. Click here  to see if you’re traveling to one of the 215+ countries and destinations that gets data and texting as part of your eligible plan.

Great news, while roaming internationally, you won't be charged for voicemails left in your inbox if your phone remains powered off or in airplane mode. However, you will be charged for the following:

• If you answer an incoming call, you will be charged for the duration of the call.
• If your phone is on when you get an incoming call, even if you don't answer it and it goes to voicemail, the call is charged one minute for the call coming into the phone, based on the  international roaming rate  of the country you’re in. (There are no charges at all if your phone is turned off.)
• If you call your voicemail from your mobile phone to listen to messages while traveling internationally, that call will be charged at the international roaming rate of the country you're in.

Check out our international roaming checklist for everything you need to know before traveling abroad.

If you are a T-Mobile customer on qualifying plan, we have you covered with free data and texting in 215+ countries. There are some countries in which international roaming benefits do not apply, and international data passes cannot be used, you can check the list of those countries here .

A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a way to help keep your connection secure, even while traveling. Be aware, that while on Wi-fi and connected to a VPN, your Internet usage goes through the VPN network you are connected to, wherever it's located. This means that while connected to a U.S. based VPN network, Wi-Fi calls made to non-US numbers, while outside the U.S., will be charged at international long-distance rates. See more details here .

Heads up! Many VPN services may connect automatically, or even be included in other services such as AdBlockers. 

Qualifying plan and capable device required. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network before international use. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Go5G plans: Up to 10GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps. Go5G Next and Go5G Plus: Up to 15GB high-speed data in 215+ countries and destinations, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included. Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network . Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls in 215+ countries and destinations, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data, then unlimited at up to 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.  Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network.  Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Calls, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico, and Canada). Up to 5GB high-speed data in select Central European countries; otherwise, standard speeds approximately 256 Kbps. Additional charges apply in excluded destinations; see www.T‑Mobile.com for included destinations (subject to change at T‑Mobile's discretion). Qualifying postpaid plan and capable device required. Taxes additional; usage taxed in some countries. Voice and text features for direct communications between two people. Communications with premium-rate (e.g., 900, entertainment, high-rate helpline) numbers not included.  Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network.  Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Coverage not available in some areas; we are not responsible for our partners’ networks.

Qualifying plan required. Speeds and coverage vary based on device and location. Check www.T‑Mobile.com for details. After allotment, data slows to plan speed (up to 128Kbps for plans without international data service). Activating a new pass ends remaining benefits of prior pass. Usage rounded up to the nearest MB each session.

Qualifying plan. On US-based airlines; Wi-Fi Calling functionality, valid e911 address, and one prior Wi-Fi call with current SIM card required for messaging. Where available on select US airlines.

International calling from U.S./Canada/Mexico to landlines in over 70 countries and destinations, plus unlimited calling to mobiles in over 30 countries. Qualifying service required. Calls must originate on our U.S. network or in Canada/Mexico; otherwise international roaming rates apply. Must be direct communication between 2 people; certain numbers not included. See T‑Mobile.com for countries and rates; subject to change at our discretion.

Receive up to 40% off available accommodation bookings in the US including AK, HI, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands and bookings for international travel. Discount is applied to price of room before taxes and any fees, including additional fees collected by the property at check-in. Reservations can only be made up to eleven months in advance of stay and are based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the property and may not be able to be refunded, see individual location for details. Not valid for existing reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

Receive up to 40% off pre-paid ("Pay Now") rental cars. Pay Now savings up to 30% discount is automatically applied to the Pay Now price if you select a Pay Now rental option. Up to 10% T‑Mobile Exclusive discount automatically applied to select Pay Now vehicle rentals. Discounted pricing is displayed at the time of booking compared to equivalent Pay Local/Later prices. Reservations can only be made up to twelve months in advance. Pay Now rates and vehicles based on availability. All reservations are subject to the terms of the supplier and may not be able to be refunded; see individual supplier for details. Not valid on existing car rental reservations, or with any other promotion, offer, discount, or coupon.

Cultural News and Events

Cuba Tourist Board of Canada

• REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADIANS PASSENGERS TRAVELING TO CUBA (updated as of Nov 2, 2023)
• Travelling from Canada to Cuba, you just need a valid Canadian passport, if your passport is from another country, you need your Canadian resident card or a work or study permit that includes a multiple-entry permit attached to your passport. For Cuba, you need the tourist card (the tourist card is included in your plane ticket and is issued by the airline on board)
• All passengers arriving to Cuba from a direct flight from Canada, do not need to present a vaccination passport.
• Medical insurance is required for Cuba, medical insurance must cover any type of medical emergency including COVID-19, so in case of a medical emergency the tourist is responsible for paying the costs, for this reason, Cuba suggests having medical insurance for all types of medical emergencies including covid. If you are unable to obtain insurance in Canada, you can purchase medical insurance in Cuba at the airport or visit www.cubatravel.cu. For more information on what the insurance includes, contact the representative at the Insurance desk at the airport in Cuba.
• Since January 1, 2022, travelers must complete the customs and health declaration form, this is done online and the website to visit is: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu . All travelers must complete this information online 48 hours before traveling to Cuba. Once the form is completed, you will receive a QR code by email. You must show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to the authorities upon arrival. If you have any problems and you can't fill out the form online because you don't have internet access, the printed form will be available on arrival at the airport in Cuba to fill it out.
• CURRENCY: The local currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). The convertible peso has been discontinued and is no longer accepted in Cuba. US and CAD dollars are  accepted anywhere in Cuba.  At tourist areas which includes hotels, restaurants and shopping malls, payment is only accepted with debit/visa cards or visa / mastercard credit cards from Canadian banks . Customers who do not have a credit card can buy a prepaid card in Cuba at the airport or at any money exchange kiosks at hotels . Payments outside the tourist areas are all in Cuban pesos (CUP); We recommend exchanging Canadian dollars for pesos as needed and only if you plan to travel OUTSIDE of tourist areas, since you will not be able to change the remaining pesos into Canadian dollars at the end of the holiday.

For additional information, please contact Cuba Tourist Board at:

E-mail: [email protected] TL : 416 362 0700

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