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

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. And you can even do so independently.

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

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

How to Travel to Cuba Legally

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

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

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury

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

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

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

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

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

No topic was off-limits.

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

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

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

Casas particulares and paladares

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

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

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

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

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

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

What you are banned from doing in Cuba

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

Many are hotels, so pay attention!

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

Is Cuba safe to visit?

Absolutely.

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

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

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

Is Cuba open for travel right now?

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

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

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

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

Accessing Money in Cuba: 2023 Updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting WiFi in Cuba

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

In short, no.

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

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

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

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

Highly recommend one of these !

Can you check in online for flights to Cuba?

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

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

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for Your Cuba Trip

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

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

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

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

Read more Cuba travel guides:

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

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Hi, I'm Sarah

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

What Americans need to know about traveling to Cuba

Making sense of the new travel policies and rules..

This year, Cuba ranked as the top trending destination in the 2023 Travelers' Choice awards , meaning Cuba-focused pages on Tripadvisor are seeing an increase in year-over-year activity.

But having swung back and forth throughout the last three American presidencies, the rules about visiting Cuba can be confusing, and it can be hard to keep them straight. Here’s what U.S. travelers need to know about planning a trip there now.

How has travel to Cuba changed in recent years?

American tourism on Cuba has been limited for decades, but in 2016, former President Barack Obama propped the door open, allowing everyday Americans to plan "people-to-people" trips—trips to visit with Cubans and learn about Cuban culture—on their own. (Previously, travelers could only visit with approved tour operators.) After decades of pause, cruises and commercial flights also resumed service to Cuba in 2016.

The following year, former President Donald Trump reversed that policy , eliminating the people-to-people option and organized group travel; banning cruises; and prohibiting U.S. airlines from flying into any other Cuban city besides Havana. Trump did, however, leave the door open for travel under the broad banner of "Support for the Cuban People," which, per The Washington Post , "required more direct aid to locals on the ground."

In 2022, President Joe Biden announced plans to resume people-to-people group travel in Cuba in a new capacity, though concrete details have yet to be released. (Individual travel is still restricted.) Biden also greenlit commercial flights to Cuban cities other than Havana to resume (though cruises are still banned).

What about now? Can Americans actually go to Cuba?

Yes. But not in typical tourist fashion, meaning you can’t fly to a beach resort and flop down the way you can in other Caribbean countries. But per the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Americans are allowed to travel to Cuba for a dozen state-sanctioned purposes, including family visits, journalistic activity, educational or religious activities, humanitarian projects, and Support for the Cuban People. It’s precisely that last banner under which many Americans travel to Cuba, and those types of trips must have a full-time schedule of activities sponsored by human-rights organizations or other organizations that promote democracy and/or civil society in some way. The activities must "[e]nhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people's independence from Cuban authorities," per the CFR . Again: no lazy days on the beach.

Rules put in place by the U.S. government prohibit Americans from interacting with businesses owned by or affiliated with the Cuban government; to do so would be a violation of a decades-old trade embargo. That makes many hotels—which, in Cuba, are largely government-owned or government-affiliated—off limits (you can find the list of banned hotels on OFAC's restricted entities list ).

Instead, Americans are required to stay in casa particulares , civilian-owned, guesthouse-like private residences, dine at privately owned restaurants ( paladares ), and shop at privately owned stores owned by non-state-affiliated proprietors ( cuentapropistas ).

Which visa or documents do I need to travel to Cuba?

Cuba requires that all visitors have a visa before arrival. If you're visiting under the "Support for the Cuban People" category, you will need a tourist visa—also known as a tourist card—which grants up to a 30-day stay. (The visa options are listed out on the Embassy of Cuba website .)

The most common way to acquire a tourist visa is through your airline; you can purchase visas (usually between $50 and $85) at the airport before the flight. Because policies vary, be sure to confirm the details before your trip. You can also purchase Cuban tourist visas online through third-party companies or in-person at some Cuban consulates (call ahead to find out whether the nearest consulate offers them). Keep in mind: You will need to prove, typically in the form of a return plane ticket, that you’re planning on exiting Cuba before the visa expires.

Cuba also requires travelers to purchase non-U.S. health insurance, which is typically provided by your airline and included in the airfare. Otherwise, you can purchase it at the airport upon arrival in Cuba. Because of the pandemic, you must also fill out a health declaration form .

All of these rules can change quickly—and sometimes without warning—so it’s important to confirm policy specifics with the Embassy of Cuba before your trip.

On the U.S. side of the equation, there is no paperwork and you don't need to apply for a special license if you plan to travel to Cuba under one of the 12 approved categories. But you must carry an itinerary with you at all times that proves the purpose of your visit. You must also retain documentation of every transaction you make in Cuba for five years after your visit, which you may have to provide to OFAC if requested. Because these rules can change at any point, confirm them with the U.S. Department of State and OFAC before your trip.

Which US airlines fly to Cuba?

In June 2022, Biden opened air travel to other Cuban cities besides Havana , including the beach-resort town of Varadero and historic city of Santiago de Cuba. Today, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines all run flights to Cuba from the U.S. Gateway cities with nonstop flights include several Florida cities, including Miami, as well as Houston and New York City.

What about currency and connectivity in Cuba?

• There is Internet in Cuba, but it's widely known to be limited and slow. You will likely have to pay by the minute, and prices vary.
• Many U.S.–based cell phone providers offer roaming coverage in Cuba, but check with your specific provider.
• Credit and debit cards issued by American banks are not widely accepted in Cuba, and many businesses may not have an infrastructure to support international transactions, so you should bring cash and exchange it upon arrival at the airport, a bank, or a casa de cambio (CADECA) exchange house.
• The only currency in Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP). The Cuban convertible peso (CUC) ended circulation in 2021. That said, many businesses accept euros.

What else about Cuba should travelers be aware of?

In July 2021, during an extreme economic crisis, Cubans staged public demonstrations, protesting their lack of access to essentials like food, medicine, and electricity, as well Covid-19 restrictions. The government retaliated by detaining hundreds of protestors, some 700 of which were still imprisoned a year later . Protests continue to flare up, even as recently as this fall .

According to Human Rights Watch , "The Cuban government continues to repress and punish virtually all forms of dissent and public criticism. At the same time, Cubans continue to endure a dire economic crisis, which impacts their social and economic rights."

Given these circumstances, Cuba is facing the largest migration crisis in the country's history. In 2022, some 250,000 Cubans —a full 2 percent of the country's total population—left the country for the U.S., marking the largest exodus since the 1959 Cuban Revolution. As of this month, the United States has restarted visa services at the U.S. Embassy in Cuba and plans to issue 20,000 visas to Cubans a year. Follow updates from the Department of State to be aware of the latest travel advisories .

The best time to visit Cuba

Jan 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Find the perfect time for your visit to Cuba with this seasonal guide © Lidia Llovera / Getty Images

Known as the no-winter island, Cuba cycles through mild to warm to hot-as-hell weather with the changing seasons.

With its gorgeous beaches and tropical climate, sunbathing is possible in Cuba year-round. The summer months of July and August see the warmest weather, but check the weather forecasts before booking your trip, particularly during the June to November hurricane season.

Schools in Cuba shut down in July and August, making this a busy time for local tourism, while cultural festivals and live music fill the calendar all year.

Here’s the lowdown on the best times to visit Cuba, the Caribbean ’s biggest island.

November to March bring crowds (and more costly accommodation)

Between November and March, Cuba is invaded by holidaymakers as families escape the cold North American winter. Prices are at their highest for hotels and homestays, rising even higher around Christmas and New Year. 

Peak tourist season makes reservations essential for accommodations and car rental. The weather is mild but usually dry and sunny. Cold fronts bring cooler evenings in January and February so you might want to pack a jacket.

In December a film festival takes over Havana while provincial festivities and traditional events called parrandas and charangas see locals go firework-crazy.

If you visit in January, expect jam sessions in cities such as Havana and Santiago de Cuba  during the start-of-the-year jazz festival, Festival Internacional de Jazz, which draws musicians and fans from all over the world.

February is the best time to go for diving and snorkeling on Cuba’s south coast. It is also perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. 

An incredible variety of migratory birds – more than 260 species – use Cuba as a temporary staging post at this time of year. 

These migratory birds mingle with resident species making March the best month for birdwatching, especially in the wetlands of Ciénaga de Zapata and Peninsula de Guanahacabibes in Pinar del Río.

July and August are the hottest times to visit Cuba

The summer months of July and August are the liveliest time of the year to visit Cuba but also the hottest, and there's a fair amount of rain. Local schools are closed and it's the height of the domestic tourism season, so expect jam-packed beaches and busy hotels in popular tourist destinations such as Varadero and on fringing islands such as Cayo Coco .

Be sure to book accommodations and activities in advance. Santiago de Cuba hosts Carnaval, one of the nation’s liveliest festivals, with colorful parades, rhythm and dance.

Still peak summer, August fills the island with music as Havana organizes its carnival and Varadero hosts a fantastic music festival that combines the best of both worlds: jazz and son cubano – a Cuban music genre considered to be the foundation of modern salsa. Hotel rates start to come down after August 25.

April and October are best for fewer crowds

By April, the weather in Cuba is already warm and it's less rainy than in the upcoming months of early summer. Beaches are also less crowded than they are during summer’s peak season, except during Semana de la Victoria (Victory Week) when Cubans vacation to celebrate the island's victory over anti-Castro forces at Playa Girón in 1961. This event sometimes overlaps with Easter week, which sees a surge in foreign visitors on vacation.

October is still hot but not as muggy as the summer, and it's the best time to catch a good deal before peak season hits. Be aware that there's a risk of severe tropical storms before the hurricane season ends in November.

The best months for budget travelers are May, June and September

It’s rainy and hot at the start and end of the Cuban summer, but the low season is the best time to take advantage of hotels and casas particulares (private homestays) offering the lowest prices. Always check the weather forecast before you depart: June to November is hurricane season, and there's always the chance of a strong storm.

In May, Romerías de Mayo brings music fans to Holguín , and Mayo Teatral in Havana is great for lovers of theater and drama. One of the best months for budget travelers also coincides with a three-week celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community, the Conga Cubana contra la Homofobia y la Transfobia, a music parade that showcases colorful dances throughout Havana’s La Rampa (Calle 23).

Expect performances of conga – a style of Cuban rumba that is danced while walking – alongside educational workshops, concerts and conferences.

June might be the start of hurricane season, but that doesn't stop you from soaking up warm days on the beach with few other visitors. This month is a good time to avoid the crowds and enjoy provincial festivals... before hurricane season really gets going. 

This article was first published November 2021 and updated January 2024

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The Complete Guide to Traveling to Cuba as an American

Everything you need to know about traveling to cuba as an american.

Didn’t think you could visit Cuba as an American? Well, I’m here with some good news! President Biden lightened restrictions on Trump-era policies for Americans entering Cuba so it is perfectly legal to visit Cuba in 2023, provided you meet a few requirements. I traveled to Cuba from the USA in February 2023 from Philadelphia to Havana with a layover in Miami so here’s what I learned from my trip. Just like visiting Myanmar with confusing travel regulations, the key is to know what exactly to prepare in advance traveling to Cuba as an American. Now let’s get to what you need to know:

Traveling to Cuba Legally As an American

There are restrictions traveling to Cuba on:

➡️ All US Citizens and Permanent Residents

➡️ Any person traveling from the USA to Cuba (directly or in transit)

US Citizens and permanent residents cannot visit Cuba explicitly as “tourists.” The difficulties surrounding travel to Cuba as a US passport holder is imposed by the US Government as a consequence of the US Embargo against Cuba.

One of my meaningful activities was taking a private cooking lesson with Hostel Milagros in Trinidad. It even doubled as a Spanish Language Exchange.

If you like cooking classes in different countries, read about my experience booking a Cooking Class in Nyaungshwe, Myanmar.

So, if you want to travel to Cuba, your trip must fall under 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba known as a general license. Most Americans’ trips will qualify under the “Support For The Cuban People” reason. In order to meet this guideline, you must have a full schedule of activities that demonstrates you are meaningfully interacting with local people and that you are supporting private businesses (and under no circumstances can you support any government-run entities). It will also be your personal responsibility to keep a record of your daily activities while in Cuba, including the names of the businesses you visit and your expenditures, as the US government reserves the right to audit your trip for up to five years. Also, bear in mind that as an American, you can only fly to Cuba. You cannot enter the country via a cruise ship.

This trip to Cuba exceeded every expectation I had for it! I’m so glad I went and all the prep work was worth it!

Checklist: What to Prepare for Your Trip to Cuba

✅ Roundtrip Ticket or Onward Flight ✅ DViajeros QR Code ✅ Affidavit for Travel ✅ Turista SIM Card ✅ Cuban Tourist Card (Cuban Visa) ✅ Booked Accommodations ✅ US Dollars in Cash (~$100 per day) ✅ A Copy of your Itinerary ✅ Valid US Passport with 6+ months

Buying a Flight to Cuba from the USA

You will need proof of return for visa purposes so make sure to buy a roundtrip ticket or have onward travel from Cuba if you are buying one-way. All flights from the USA will include travel insurance. Travel insurance is a requirement for all visitors entering Cuba.

Pro-tip: You cannot check-in online if you have a ticket to Cuba so make sure to go to the front desk and show all your paperwork in advance.

I flew with American Airlines but you can also fly with jetBlue, United, and Southwest. Delta will resume operations in April 2023.

The Cuban Tourist Card

Traveling to Cuba as an American requires a Cuban Tourist Card (the equivalent of a visa). This can be ordered in advance and they do overnight shipping. Or you can get it right at the gate, with the “Cuba Ready” tourist card stand popping up an hour before boarding. I traveled with American Airlines to Cuba and paid $100 for the visa at my gate. It took less than 5 minutes since I had a “Cuba Ready” green sticker on my ticket from showing all the required documents at check-in. No joke, this was the easiest visa process I’ve ever been through and you don’t need extra time at the airport to get your visa. Flights from the USA receive a pink visa that you will fill out yourself.

The tourist card is what is stamped upon arrival and you must keep the two tourist visas with you at all times since this is what is collected upon departure. The best way to figure out your visa needs is through the airlines’ website. DO NOT   call an airline call center about the Cuban visa due to misinformation.  See the following carriers’ websites for accurate details on purchasing your visa:

✈️ American Airlines ✈️ jetBlue ✈️ Southwest Airlines ✈️ United ✈️ Delta will resume flights beginning April 10, 2023

This is what my boarding pass and the pink Cuba Tourist Card looks like for Americans.

Money and Finances

Start withdrawing USD well in advance. I budgeted around $100 per day and brought $200 as emergency funds. I cannot stress this enough–bring more money than you think you need!!! As an American, you will not be able to pay using a credit card or debit card and you will not be able to withdraw money from the ATM as well. In fact, you won’t be able to access any financial accounts from Cuba, even with a private VPN. This includes mobile banking applications, Paypal, Venmo, CashApp, etc. Make sure to notify your banks about your Cuba travel dates to avoid fraudulent activity while you’re out of the country and cannot access your accounts.

Pro-tip: If you have access to withdraw from Chase ATMs, they allow you to choose the types of bills you need. I found that $5 bills went the furthest in Cuba for tips, meals, and shopping. Locals cannot really use $1 bills so they’ll ask to exchange money with you too for $5 notes.

This is what $100 USD looks like in CUP, the Cuban peso also known as moneda nacional. Having enough cash to last the trip is crucial, especially if you’re traveling solo or without a tour group.

Accommodations

When checking into your flight, you will be asked to provide an address of where you’ll be staying in Cuba. You will most likely stay at a Casa Particulares (i.e. a homestay), which is great not only for the cultural exchange aspect, but you’ll also be giving money directly to a Cuban person. Make sure you have the address of your casa screenshotted for quick reference. Americans are not allowed to stay in hotels as they are typically government-owned entities.

The Puerto del Sol Casa in Cienfuegos

The rooms at Casa Neyde in Vinales. All the casas I stayed at in Cuba had private bathrooms and air conditioners.

DViajeros Immigration QR Code (48 hours before departure)

As of January 2023, filling out the Cuba immigration and health declaration form is MANDATORY. This form is found on the DViajeros website . The form will only be active 48 hours before your departure so if you do it before that time, it will not work.

When filling out the form, here are some helpful tips:

• The QR Code is the most important thing to have in hand. Once you complete the form, screenshot the confirmation page with the QR code as the website sometimes doesn’t send the confirmation page to your email.
• Some airlines will ask for the QR code prior to boarding. In my experience flying with American Airlines, having the QR code along with my return flight and the address for my casa right while I was checking in afforded me a green sticker saying all my documents were verified and therefore made it that much easier to get my tourist visa right at the gate.
• In the upper right hand corner under ‘Lenguaje,’ you can change the website to English.
• Unless you are bringing items for commercial purposes or $5,000 worth of “gifts” (avoid using the word donations), you will not have anything to declare

Don’t forget to screenshot the QR code page just in case you don’t get the email!

Affidavit for Travel

The affidavit for travel is essentially a letter that clearly states your purpose for traveling to Cuba as an American. I like Copa Airlines’ easy template but if you opt to book with a tour group, they  should supply you with a template as well.

If you’re looking to purchase a tourist SIM card at the airport, you must order it in advance from SuenaCuba at least 24 hours before your departure. The Cubacel Tourist SIM Card is the only SIM card for tourists and is $35 for 6GB of data, 100 min talk time, and 100 SMS messages. The SIM card is good for 30 days after activation. You can top up mobile data online only but not calls or SMS. As a reminder, your phone must also be unlocked.

To pick it up, you must present your passport and the 12-digit confirmation code that is emailed it to you. There are three spots to pick up your SIM card in Havana:

📍 At Jose Marti Airport in Terminal 3, you’ll see the Infotur stand to your right before you pass immigration in the baggage claim area. This stand is open 24/7 (according to the website). 📍 The Etesca Office right across the airport entrance next to the parking lot. 📍 At any Etesca commercial office in the city (open 9 AM to 4 PM).

When they installed my SIM card, they had to tinker with the settings by adding login credentials on my iPhone 11 to get service. If you have the same issue, go to “Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network” and insert these login credentials to activate your service:

This is what the login credentials looked like in my iPhone.

Pro-tip for IOS Users: The SIM card doesn’t play nicely with iphones so don’t bee too dependent on it. Also make sure to turn off cellular data on background applications, especially iCloud photo uploads or it will use all your GB. You have been warned! The data you get from your cellphone is basic data and is very unstable but it is enough to contact family and friends, as well as check emails and social media.

How  I Planned My “Support For The Cuban People” Trip

I booked an 8 Day Tour for Women through Cuban Adventures to ensure my itinerary focused on local and cultural immersion and that I supported independent economic activity, particularly those of female entrepreneurs. Cuban Adventures is one of the longest running Cuba travel specialists and they are very well-connected in the country. Not to worry, you can travel independently; but most important thing to know is which businesses are on the US government’s Restricted List .

The Cuban Adventures Women’s Only Tour works with female entrepreneurs in Cuba.

Give me a shout-out on Pinterest pretty please?

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Millette Stambaugh

Filipina-American Millette Stambaugh is a thirty-something former expat who has traded her nomadic ways for Philadelphia living. Corporate worker by day, content creator by night, Millette specializes in visual storytelling and joyful journeys and wants to help others find their "next somewheres." Follow her escapades on Instagram, Youtube, and Tiktok @thenextsomewhere.

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SamH Travels

There is a lot to think about when visiting Cuba and this really useful post ensures that we have it covered. Thank you for sharing

This is such a helpful post! I have never been to Cuba before, but if I ever visited, this post would be so helpful. I love your pictures too! Thanks for sharing.

That is a lot of very useful information in planning a trip to Cuba. I have never been there. But someday this might be really helpful for me.

Great photos! I love the colors 🙂

I’ve always known that Cuba was tough to travel to but this post is so helpful in case if I do want to go in the future! Thanks for sharing!

These photos are cuteeeee, but more than that the information is so helpful for anyone planning a Cuban getaway!

This was so helpful. I am traveling solo in April and was concerned about the limited Wifi thanks for explaning how to get data!

My pleasure! So happy to hear that this post cleared up any confusion! Believe me, it’s hard to get a clear answer of the wifi experience but I also realized that wifi is more readily available in some cities than others. Like for example in Trinidad, most casas and restaurants have free wifi but in Havana, you have to find the wifi spots at the parks and have your Etesca WIFI card.

also going in mid april…..PLEASE contact my dear friend who we visit more than twice a year. I am American Roberto is Havana born. Previous he was VIP concierge for visiting diplomatics. Contact ROBERTO IBARRA on wazup or or messenger PHONE (53) 5253 0653, contact me if you have any questions….

Thank you for the heads up regarding the mandatory immigration & health declarations. Headed to Havana next month & almost have all my ducks in a row.

I’m so happy to hear that Lizzie! You’re going to have the best time!

Lizzie, this is the best summary of the requirements that I have found. The link to the Copa Airlines declaration didn’t work but I was able to find it by searching Google for “copa airlines cuba template”. Do you know of any templates I might copy for my itinerary?

Thanks for the very helpful post! I have question. We know many Americans travel only for the tourist purposes. What would be the best category to use if the visit is for a week and there are only some dance classes in the tour plan( which is clear is for fun) what kind of document we need to show to the U.S . Officials?

Hi Mary! If you’re doing dance classes with locals, you would list your category as “Support for the Cuban People.” It’s always smart to bring your itinerary to show that the dance class you’re doing is with an local vendor and also make sure you’re staying at a casa particulare. Please refer to the “Checklist: What to Prepare for Your Trip to Cuba” section to see what documents you need 🙂 PS – I also did a dance class too and LOVED it!

Awesome blog! Love the details. Can you tell us more on how you got around (transportation wise) and any Covid regulations you had to deal with throughout your trip.

Hi Jennifer! There weren’t any covid regulations in place but I would say that any traveler going to Cuba should bring a basic medical kit (e.g. nyquil + dayquil, tylenol, etc) since western medicine is pretty impossible to find and it’s great to giveaway. And transportation was included in my tour package but I do have the number of a for-hire driver. In Havana, you’ll see plenty of taxis although popular areas much later at night, you’ll find taxis harder to come by. Just make sure you negotiate a cost in advance before taking your ride so you don’t get taken advantage of.

Hi there, I’m a male. Do you have any links that can help me, especially with the “support for the Cuban people” part? I’ll like to visit as a solo traveler. Thanks!

Best regards, Manny

Hi Manny! Here’s a great link that shows you what type of activities you can do so that you meet the requirement of Supporting The Cuban People: https://hometohavana.com/blog/support-the-cuban-people-itinerary-activities .

Hoping to travel there with husband and two very little ones this coming year. Any tips for traveling with kids and/or recommendations for your operators beyond the one you used? Thanks!

I unfortunately don’t know much about family travel in Cuba but I will say that I did see a ton of families visiting with little ones. There aren’t many sidewalks which makes strollers quite difficult to maneuver so I saw most parents carrying their children in carriers. The beach destinations like Varadero and Trinidad are great for visiting families. Milk is scarce in the country so if you have children, prepare for foods and snacks because basic amenities are hard to come by. Hope this helps Sarah 🙂

This was so detailed! Very helpful. Thank you!

So happy to hear you found this useful! Enjoy your trip!

Link for Affidavit for Travel is broke, new link: https://www.copaair.com/assets/Affidavit-for-Travel-to-Cuba-7-aug-2023-EN.pdf

Thank you so much for letting me know it’s broken! I appreciate your help keeping this information updated 🙂

thank you so very much for this post. i look forward to booking a trip with the ladies tour group this year. I appreciate your efforts to help us have an awesome trip.

Hi Millette!

Thanks for the great post! My Dad and I are planning to visit Cuba next month (we are Americans, I live in Miami).

You mentioned being able to travel independently, however, you were with a tour group. If we book a place to stay through AirBnb and the local excursions through AirBnb Experiences, is that OK and holds up as supporting the local Cuban people? We don’t plan to use a tour group, but do plan to book tours with locals, but am hoping AirBnB as an OK medium to do so!

Thanks for any tips!

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Weather & Climate

Best Hotels in Havana

Public Transportation

Neighborhoods to Explore

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One Week in Cuba

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Things to Do in Havana

Best Beaches

Museums to Visit

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Foods to Try

Best Restaurants in Havana

Nightlife in Havana

What Americans Should Know

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Cuba

It’s pretty much summer all year long in Cuba, but some months are hotter, stickier, and more uncomfortable than others. The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April. These are not only Cuba’s driest months but also good bets for 70 degree blue sky days made for exploring cobblestone streets and lounging on secluded postcard-perfect beaches.

While December through February are Cuba’s coldest months, temperatures are usually in the 70s. Lows might dip into the 60s, but you’ll never need a coat, hat or gloves. Winter days are long, with nearly 11 hours of daylight even in December, and there are few better places to escape the winter back home than a Caribbean island nation where summer lasts all year long.

Peak Season in Cuba

Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s are popular travel times in Cuba. Hotels, flights, and tours can book up ahead of time, and prices may increase slightly as well. Snowbirds seek out Cuba throughout the winter months when temperatures are far cooler and often accompanied by snow, ice, and strong winds back home.

Cuba’s Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are rare in Cuba, but to further minimize the possibility of trip disruptions, avoid planning travel to Cuba in August and September. While hurricane season officially runs from June through November, Caribbean hurricanes most frequently occur in August and September.

June through August are the hottest months of the year in Cuba and the country’s summer season. Average temperatures are in the 80s but don’t be surprised by a 90-degree day. Summers in Cuba can also be humid, making for a hot, sticky, sweaty vacation that’s more uncomfortable than it needs to be. Cuba’s rainy season stretches from April through November and could cramp your Cuban summer beach style.

But summer brings some of Cuba’s most exciting festivals, and Cubans are more likely to be off from school and work for summer vacations, making some destinations more lively than at other times of the year.

Events to check out

• Late June brings a celebration of bolero music to Havana and bolero concerts to Santiago de Cuba and other cities across the country.
• July brings Fiesta del Fuego, a sizzling celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture, to Santiago de Cuba, a Spanish settlement in southeastern Cuba that’s known for its colonial architecture, revolutionary history, and Afro-Cuban cultural influences. The event draws speakers, guests, and musical acts from across the Caribbean.
• July also brings one of Cuba's marquee celebrations, Carnival, to Santiago de Cuba, considered the most African city on the island. Carnival floods Santiago de Cuba's streets with masked partiers and lengthy conga lines. Carnival migrates to Havana in August, though the capital city's celebrations are generally more muted than in Santiago de Cuba. Still, you're sure to find plenty of street parties and open-air concerts to keep you busy.
• In August, Havana also hosts an international hip hop festival. Temperatures may be sizzling, but so is the hip hop scene in Havana at this time of year.

September and October can still be muggy and hot in Cuba, but temperatures start cooling off in November. October is one of the slowest months in Cuban tourism and provides additional opportunities for bargains and enjoying this country without the crowds.

• September may still be muggy, but this is when Cuba honors its national saint, the Virgin of Cobre. Pilgrimages to her altar occur in the small Cuban town El Cobre and celebrations in her honor are held across the country early during the month.
• October brings the Days of Cuban Culture, a chance to celebrate Cuba's anti-colonial spirit and rich Afro-Cuban culture.
• Also in October: the Matamoros Son music festival in Santiago de Cuba, an International Ballet Festival in Havana, and an International Fishing Tournament, held at Jardines del Ray beach.

Winter is the best time to visit Cuba. These months may bring bone-chilling temperatures to much of the world, but Cuba remains a paradise from November through February. Temperatures are in the 70s, the water is warm, and it’s like winter isn’t even real. Do be aware, Christmas and New Year’s are popular travel times in Cuba. Hotels, flights, and tours can book up ahead of time, and prices may increase slightly as well.

• By December, the temperatures in Cuba have cooled to idyllic 70-something degrees. Still, the International Festival of New Latin American Film is likely to coax travelers indoors with a packed schedule of films showing over 10 days in early December.
• Late December brings Las Parrandas, an extravagant Christmas Eve Carnival with late-night parades, ornate floats and lots of fireworks.
• January in Cuba is for jazz lovers and when Havana—a hotbed for Cuban jazz music—hosts an International Jazz Festival .
• February brings the International Book Fair, focused on Spanish language texts, to Havana. Havana's international book fair is considered to be among the top book fairs in Latin America.
• Havana hosts the Habanos Festival in February, as well. This is one you'll want to visit if you're a cigar aficionado with a penchant for a Cuban stogie.

Spring can also be a pleasant time to visit Cuba, but April and May have the potential to bring rainy days. Cuba’s rainy season begins in April and runs through November with the wettest months seeing rain for an average of nearly 11 days a month. Temperatures are quick to climb, so don’t be surprised to find hot, muggy weather already settling in during April vacations.

• Mid-march is when you'll want to visit Cuba if you can't get enough of the country's exquisitely maintained classic cars. Havana hosts a weeklong celebration of classic cars each March to celebrate the Detroit dinosaurs that fill its streets. There's usually at least one caravan of classic cars from another Cuban city.
• To experience something truly unique, plan your visit in May when Cuba hosts its May Day parades and public gatherings across the country. The biggest of these events occurs in Havana's Plaza de la Revolución and draws upwards of 100,000 people. May Day is the traditional socialist observation of Labor Day.
• Late May brings the International Blue Marlin Tournament, a big-game fishing competition held at Marina Hemingway.

The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April when the weather is dry and temperatures are cool and pleasant. In the winter, daily temperatures typically fall between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 77 degrees Celsius.)

The rainy season begins in April and lasts until November, coinciding with hurricane season which begins in June.

August is the hottest month in Havana with an average high temperature of 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and an average low temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Havana, Cuba Year Round." Retrieved March 10, 2021.

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What is Cuba Really Like? Busting the Tourist Myth

What is cuba like for a holiday i often get asked this. i’ve spent a month in cuba, over two visits, and had a wonderful time, but it’s not all smiling, cigar smoking locals, drinking mojitos, here’s an insight into what to expect from a holiday in cuba..

I feel like Cuba is the most mysterious of all the Caribbean islands, yet, still, it draws people in. As tourists we’re given one version of the country, but I wanted to settle the question of what Cuba is really like, and whether you’ll enjoy it for a holiday. 

Before I went to Cuba I imagined I’d arrive in a land filled with colour.

From the old cars, to the different hues of houses, to the local people – a mix of Asian, African and Spanish descent. I pictured my days filled with wandering the streets and taking photos of happy crazy locals and their ad hoc dancing.

Imagining I’d drink Mojitos, sup on daiquiris and substitute water for Cuba Libres.

I fantasised about walking down the Malecon before being intercepted by a laughing Cuban surrounded by friends playing trombones, tubas and trumpets to the beat of a drum. He would take my hand and show me a few salsa moves before spinning me out into the arms of my boyfriend.

It’d be hot and I’d lay on the beaches, cooling off on the sand with yet another daiquiri.

On the negative side I’d been told repeatedly the food in Cuba was rubbish, to be careful in some neighbourhoods and that the locals were not allowed to fraternise unnecessarily with the tourists. That included restaurants, buses and on the streets.

It turned out my assumptions were approximately 80% correct.

I spent two weeks in Cuba in May – exploring Havana, Trinidad and Cienfeugos. I felt like in those two weeks, I got a good idea of what Cuba is actually like for us tourists to visit. 

First impressions of Cuba

On arrival at 10pm on a Friday, the roar of people from the Malecon was overwhelming.

Our hotel was one block back in one of the poorer districts of Havana and when you opened the balcony doors it was as if they were in the room with us. We stayed in and slept. 

– Getting into the spirit in Cienfuegos

The next day we wandered around our neighbourhood. We were invited to parties, pleaded with to buy milk for starving babies and asked where we were from a little over 15 times. All we wanted to do was explore in peace, but the locals wouldn’t leave us alone.

I was there with my boyfriend at the time. He originally from Sudan, and me from England – this alone caused more attention from the locals than either of us had wanted. 

We found solace in The Nacional Hotel, isolated above the neighbourhood and sat back from the Malecon. It was obvious I was out of practice travelling. We felt like we were accosted at every turn and were unsure who was just friendly and who wanted something out of us.

It took a few days to settle in and get used to the harassment on the streets and the Cuban way. After meeting the group for the Havana Club Gap Year project I was working on for my work at gapyear.com, I was assured that the people here were generally good.

I was told I should just relax and understand that people just wanted to talk, or be our guides and show us around the city for a fews CUCs (the tourist currency). Apparently I could just say a firm ‘no’ and they’d leave us alone – but I wasn’t so sure it would work that way.

– A true look at what Cuba is really like

What is Havana really like?

As part of my work, my first few days in Havana were to work on a project for Havana Rum. Basically they’d run this huge competition worldwide and the finalists were in Havana to compete against each other. I was there with a few others to judge. The winner was going to get a whole year of incredible adventures and amazing things to do and see all over the world, but starting in Havana. 

It was an absolutely incredible money can’t buy prize, and there was a lot to play for. 

The Havana Club Gap Year finalists were tasked to go out and capture the ‘spirit of Havana’ in three minutes with their iPad Minis. Most of the group came back with stories of smiling locals who more than happy to show them around their homes and their city. They were full of how these people who ‘had nothing, but were so happy’ had changed them – made them more determined and appreciative and inspired them to be better people.

I was swept up in the romanticism of this ‘colourful Cuba’ and easily believed all that they were saying.

READ MORE 

• 12 Cheap Things to Do on a Day Trip to Havana
• 52 Coolest Things to Do in Havana 
• 13 Essential Tips for Travelling to Havana
• Food in Cuba : Tasted Good to Me!

Exploring the ‘real’ Havana

It wasn’t until two days later when the excitement of the competition that I’d been wrapped up in had subsided that I began to see Cuba, Havana in particular, in a different light.

Walking up Lamparilla Street camera in hand all I saw were grim staring faces. Spanish was hurled across the street, but my ignorance meant I had no idea what they were saying. I know I felt intimidated though.

By day locals just sat staring from their doorsteps, kids stood by the pizza stands rubbing their bellies and asking for money and at night groups loitered on the streets with music blasting from their houses.

Shrivelled hands stretched out for money, they belonged to old women in ragged clothes. Her look was so childlike – pulled up socks, dolly shoes and sweet clips in her hair.

The more business-minded oldies had gotten hold of a huge fat cigar, colourful trinkets and made themselves up to charge tourists like me money for posing. At the other end of the scale I saw an old woman who’d tried to fashion a cigar out of some brown paper and had hit so far off the mark of these successful ‘posers’ it was painful to watch.

Locals just doing what they can to earn some money. 

Interesting video from the Washington Post about the current situation in Cuba

The happy photos you see of bands playing never relay the group following up with a sweep of the bar guilt-tripping tourists into buying their CDs or adding a CUC or three to their begging tray. Too often these bands would also have a vagrant or two hanging on and dancing around them to then demand money from tourists too.

For the entertainment. 

Tourists vs locals in Havana 

In one particular incident I was watching a Cuban woman dancing what appeared to be a mixture of line dancing and crunk. I’d seen her a few times doing the same around the squares of Havana.

A tourist came along and she took his hand to dance with him for what could have been no more than 30 seconds. His friends laughed, took a photo on his super fancy DSLR and then he pulled away to carry on with his day, without giving her any money.

She shouted after him in the middle of the square and he just shrugged back at her. It was obvious dancing with tourists was this woman’s job – she went and sat in the shade visibly upset and massaging her feet. Obviously this guy never asked for her to do it, but he did take the photo, and I think should’ve understood there’d be a fee for this. 

So, what is Cuba really like?

I saw a different Cuba to the tourist ideal.

Like the cars that are buzzing around, on the surface Cuba looks beautiful, but the most beautiful things rarely are underneath. Actually get in one of the cars and you’ll see the ripped upholstery, the carpet missing from the floor and the dashboard cracked and broken.

In my eyes Cuba was the same.

After eight days in Havana I’d got closer to it, especially after hanging out with more locals than the average tourists thanks to the project I was on. 

After that, travelling six hours through the country to Trinidad and then back through Cienfuegos further opened my eyes to what Cuba is really like.

Life in Cuba is hard

From what I’ve read, heard and seen with my own eyes life in Cuba is hard . 

The people, the houses and the essence of Cuba seemed desperate to me. Redevelopment is focused on the tourist areas – when Old Havana is revamped it will be stunning, but to the detriment of those living in the poorer residential areas. There is so much to say about such a fascinating city, but that’s my point. Cuba is not just the simple, colourful, photographer’s dream you imagine and see at first look.

Turn a corner and you could be hit in the face by the stench from the bins, visit the parks and you’ll see prostitutes and drunks sprawled on the floor in their own sick, look in the windows of the houses and see nothing but a basic bed frames, and sometimes just a stash of blankets in the corner.

When I found out at the finale party that many of the finalists had been charged for their ‘local experiences’ I understood the friendliness on the street. They’d spotted young tourists with fancy cameras, ‘befriended’ them to come for dinner or a ride, and then sent them a bill at the end. 

The trouble is, the young filmmakers weren’t adding that to their stories, they were making out like it’d been an all-authentic experience, complete with a local who’d been ‘so friendly’ and ‘ so open hearted’ they’d shown them round with the goodness of their hearts. 

And so the false perception of what Cuba is really like, is perpetuated. 

Currencies in Cuba 

Cuba has two currencies – one for the locals and one for the tourists. Tourists use Cuban pesos, while locals use Convertible pesos. This gives the government more control on who is spending what and where. 

Unfortunately it also means that state workers like doctors and teachers are on considerably less than entrepreneurs who deal with tourists. 

The locals in Cuba earn the equivalent of $17 a month and operate on a rationing system. Getting their hands on the tourist money is key. It’s this desperation that triggers the ‘taxi’, ‘taxi’, as soon as you emerge from your hotel, it’s also the same reason you will be asked the time, or ‘where you’re from’ or whether you ‘want to go to a party’ on an hourly basis.

Entrepreneurial workers know you have the money and there are only a few ways they can get it.

What is Cuba like now?

I absolutely loved Cuba, please don’t misunderstand me.

It’s beautiful and charming and I have post after post I want to write about how incredible the country is, but with this post I wanted to give you the full picture of what Cuba is really like.

The ‘twee’ idea of Havana, of smiling faces dancing in the streets and everyone having a gay old time is a myth. Don’t fall for it. 

Just remember, the popular tourist streets are the Cuban’s office and you’re their client for a range of services from taxis, to tour guide to cheap cigars. Cuba is a wonderful place for a holiday, but those smiles come at a cost. 

For more practical  Cuba travel information , check out this handy guide from Surfing the Planet. 

Pin this insight into what Cuba is really like for later

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

43 Comments

An interesting and eye opening post. I myself am interested in going to Cuba and I will but it’s good to see the “hidden” things in Cuba and I didn’t know they had two currencies

Oh it’s such an interesting place to visit – you’ll have a great time!

I live in Canada but grew up in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, so I’m not really surprised about Cubans locals hustling tourists for tips. I saw the same thing back home all the time. So when my wife and I visited Verodero in 2017, we pretty much knew from our own experience of growing up in a third-world tourist town of what to expect from day one…as well as what to avoid.

I was totally impressed with how Cuban mechanics were able to keep these old, vintage cars still running on the road well past their life expectancy. I was also impressed how Cubans take the mantra of “reuse and recycle” to the next level. That’s something ever other country on the planet can learn from.

The facade of happiness didn’t fool us one bit though. It was obvious from the grim faces that life was hard. We could actually feel the unhappiness of the locals and the resentment they had towards visitors for being able to live in a far more prosperous “bourgeois” economy. It seemed to me that the Cuban government treated their own people as if they were children. Even the average Jamaican is way better off than the average Cuban.

At the risk of sounding like I’m schilling for my homeland, while life can be challenging in Jamaica for the locals too, you’re not going to feel the same sense of unhappiness and despair that we could feel in Cuba. And, of course, you won’t have to travel with your own condiments to put on the local food when you visit Jamaica 😉

There is one thing I have to give the Cubans though: Anti tourist-harassment enforcement. The Cubans are absolutely anal about tourists not being harassed while in Jamaica, the issue is treated like a joke.

I noticed too that the locals were beginning to get access to the internet. The Cuban firewall filters out pornography (and seriously, who needs to see that?) but pretty much lets most other websites through, including Social Media. I said to myself: ‘I hope the Cuban government realizes that access to the internet is a genie that will not go willingly back into its bottle after Cuban young people see what life is like outside of Cuba.’

A poster mentioned that life in Cuba was hard because of The Embargo. I respectfully beg to disagree. That may have been true in the 60’s and 70’s when America was the world’s manufacture. Today, that’s China’s job; and the China is only too happy to do business with Cuba …as long as the Cubans can come up with the cash. The reason Cubans are so poor is their own dysfunctional, centrally planned, Marxist economy. Heck, even Karl Marx himself died in poverty.

Thank you SO much for this comment Peter. Very interesting to read your perspective, which obviously comes from a different place than mine. I find it very annoying how the media likes to publicise Cuba as a happy colourful place, when in fact that’s just the few people who work in tourism in the centre. The limitations their government puts on the civilians means it’s hard to earn a good wage and work your way up. It’s a fascinating place and I’d recommend for everyone to visit, but I think it’s very different at it’s heart, than it is to visit as a tourist, obviously.

Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment.

Love Cuba, I’ve been twice now and still not done Havana, next time for sure. Hoping to photograph another wedding in Cuba soon.

Ah Cuba is amazing isn’t it? I’ve been twice now and loved my time there. Hope you do too!

This post is a great way to see Cuba in the eyes of a visitor. Definitly to know what this country really is you have to experience it, live it and share with Cubans. We are proud that you loved your trip!

Oh I loved that trip to Cuba! It was great to have a good look around and really use the two weeks to explore. I’d definitely recommend Cuba to anyone looking for a cool place to go on holiday.

Super interesting read! I’m visiting a friend in Yucatan, Mexico next year and want to visit Cuba when I’m over there. All I knew about Cuba before this post was that they had all those old cars and colourful houses. It’s very nice to know a little background before I get there..!

Oh I’m glad I’ve given you a little extra information – it’s definitely a cool place to visit but there’s definitely more going on than just colourful cars, dancing and mojitos, although they’re all fun too!

$17 a month??? That’s crazy! I live in South East Asia known for low salary but our minimum pay is way way higher than that.

Amazing article. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

I’m signing up to your blog so look forward to your updates!

Best wishes

Wow, I just watched a program on Cuba and it was very much as I expected. They have finally opened their doors to tourism from the US as well as other countries. Instead of being content with the government programs that kept everyone poor but moderately provided for, they see there can be more. Did we just spoil on of the last countries that had some innocence of the 50’s and 60’s left? Sad, life was easier then. Family means nothing now. I wonder how long it will take for the Cubans to decide Grandparents are useless?

wow it has been great reading this post and comments. I live in Australia and am looking at going to Cuba next Christmas and doing a tour around the whole island. not cheap but Cuba sounds fascinating to me. I would travel independently but would like compaby, hence the tour. Do you think a tour is an ok option? What I am looking at is a 3 week Tucan (company) tour? Thanks, would appreciate your feedback? Jacqueline

Hey Jacqueline, I’m afraid I haven’t done a tour so don’t really know. In my experience of travelling independently with my ex boyfriend I’d say that if you’re travelling solo a tour could be a good idea. There aren’t any hostels so I don’t know where you’d meet people. You’d also have to pay for a double room in most places so actually, yeah, a tour might be a good idea!

Great article! I just got back from a 2 week trip in Cuba and I agree with you that life is hard. It was also hard for my boyfriend and I who were very short on cash due to being at the end of a 6 month trip around Central America. Out of necessity, we used the local moneda national currency wherever we could and found that living on very little money gave us a real insight into real Cuban life. We ate at the pizza stands and actually found the pizza to be delicious!! It was only 10 pesos which equals 40 cents. We went to the local bakery and bought biscuits and rolls for very little as well. Sometimes when I was lining up at the pizza stand, locals and children ordering as well would look at me as if they were surprised that I was there. I felt out of place. They must have thought I was a rich tourist, but really I was only just scraping by just like them.

I really respect the Cuban people – the casa particulare hosts we stayed with were so nice, happy and accommodating. By staying in local homes we saw a glimpse of real Cuban life. Money is definitely tight. But this in turn encourages them to be creative, incentive and not waste anything. I saw the most sturdy coathanger hand made out of metal that was built to last.

After my time in Cuba, I really appreciate things I previously would have taken for granted. Cubans don’t have a lot of things we do, but what they do have they look after, they appreciate. Cubans know what it is like to go without, to almost starve due to lack of food, but they value the important things like family, they are proud of their country and the revolution, and they are happy and vibrant.

I tried that pizza too, it was incredible! I only tried it for my last meal so was pretty gutted not to be able to have it again. I was amazed at how creative the people could be, in using whatever there was available rather than just buying a replacement. Thanks for your comment, it’s really interesting to hear someone else’s view of life over there too. I’m hoping to go back this year!

This is Ron. We traveled to Cuba as a family of 5, from the U.K. in October 2014. Vicky’s comments are far more negative than mine would be. We got the impression that the Cuban people were kind, helpful & happy, in the main. We did get ripped off by one couple to the tune of about $20, put it down to experience, don’t fall for the same thing twice. Go to any Caribbean country & you will find people who try to take advantage of tourists. Also in Europe, Africa, Asia & no doubt even in parts of the U.S. Please don’t forget that a lot of Cuba’s problems are down to the U.S. embargo. It’s my understanding that, home of the brave, land of the free, U.S. citizens are banned from spending their hard-earned dollars in Cuba. How do you get round that?

I have to say that I can relate to everything you have said. Compared to other third world countries I have traveled in, I found Cuba to be the most annoying because someone always wanted something from you… mainly $$. When you interact with them and they are being nice you sense that they have an ulterior motive. One just has to watch a bartender and see how he treats the various patrons …. i did tip but I also despised the fact that they were treating me well because I left a tip … the behaviour to me is pretentious, it is not real it is phoney … it sucks.

Hmm, I wasn’t really saying it in a negative way about Cubans. It’s more that tourists are following this Cuban dream that doesn’t actually exist. A lot of countries (think USA) will treat you better if you tip more – that’s why I hate tipping!

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Hello, im looking at going to cuba! Im a painter and I think photographing some areas like Trinidad and Camaguey would really influence and help me work!

Althought I have found cheap (ish) deals for a 2 week trip, flight and all inclusive hotel I cant seem to find any cheap ways of traveling around the island?!

Just an hours flight from Havana to camaguey is coming up at hundreds, and I cant seem to find much on buses etc!

I was just wandering if you could help me, do people often offer lifts? is transport easier when out there?

Any help would be great 🙂

I seem to remember that even the Cubans struggle to travel around Cuba. Everything is in short supply in Cuba and that includes public transport. If you struggle to find information on public transport, that is because there is very little to be had.

Oh really? I remember we found it quite easy – we just booked a coach with the front desk at our hotel and went from Havana to Trinidad, for around £20. And then we also travelled independently to Cienfuegos, and again to Playa Ancon. We used the Viazul buses.

Great article. I love how you painted such a clear picture of what Cuba is really like… It’s great how an experience can change and become that much more meaningful from digging just a little deeper. Hoping to get to Cuba one day!

This is a great article. I have always been fascinated by Cuba and, being passionate about photography, I have always dreamed of going there to take the amazing pictures you always see around the net. At the same time, I have always suspected that what you said here would be the case, just like many other places I’ve been. If you travel to popular travel destinations, especially in developing countries, you will always be seen as easy money and fair enough I suppose…they don’t have a lot of money. I tend to get annoyed lately when I’m in places like this, sick of being hounded and seen as a walking dollar sign but you have to step back and realize the story behind it. Everyone’s gotta make money and I suppose if we were in their situation, we’d see tourists as an easy way to earn an extra dollar or two, too.

Really interesting to hear about Cuba. It’s a place I’ve always wanted to go, and definitely one of those countries you can learn a lot from if you take the time to read about its history.

Yeah, definitely. I’ve got a post coming up on books about Cuba actually. Reading them before I went taught me a lot about the country and enabled me to put what I saw into perspective a bit more.

Hello Arya,

Thanks very much for your comment. I’m really happy to hear from a Cuban that you agree with my interpretation of what I saw. That means a lot. I’ll always remember my two weeks in Cuba as an incredible experience. Thanks for sharing it 🙂

My goodness, what a great article. I have mixed feelings, since I’m Cuban myself, and it’s really sad to read such things about your country, but it was great to see a tourist that was able to see beyond the beauty facade the country shows, and see the reality below of it. It’s impressive how much you understood about the country in just two weeks. I’m passing the article to my Cubans friends, I know they’ll love it as well.

I really hope that, at the end, you’d remember your trip as a good experience.

This is a great summary of your experience in Cuba. I would like to get there before the end of this year so it is good to know what to expect.

Do you know if it is easy to find out about volunteer opportunities there? A holiday is great but being able to give a little something back to the community would make it extra special.

Hmmm, I’m not sure actually. You could try workaway.info? I didn’t hear of any while I was out there – but I’m sure there will be opportunities out there. Sorry I can’t be more help 🙂

@Victoria @ My Daily Cuppa,

There is a Che Guevara work brigade that is a wonderful volunteer opportunity. It might be Canadian but I am sure anyone could join up.

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Debunking 9 assumptions I had about visiting Cuba as a U.S. Citizen

Is Cuba safe for Americans? Is it nice? Is it even worth visiting? Do Cubans event want Americans to visit? What is modern Cuba actually like?

One of my favorite travel habits is Assumptions vs Reality journaling . I write down (without judgement) any assumptions or expectations I have about a destination, culture, or people before a trip. I reflect on the journal entry later after I’ve actually been there and formed an opinion. The exercise always shows me the way we all have unconscious biases and can be so wrong about people and places until we go see them ourselves.

Before I did this exercise for my trip to Cuba I didn’t realize I was brimming with preconceptions! Fueled by American history classes, stories of Cuban-American immigrants to the U.S., social media, and general lack of knowledge.

Are you interested in traveling to Cuba, but have some of the same assumptions? Let’s debunk them together! Here's how my assumptions stacked up against the reality on my recent trip with Intrepid Travel . 

It's really difficult for Americans to get a visa to visit Cuba.

Assumption:.

“How hard is it to get a visa to Cuba?” is a top Google search for the country for a reason. I don't know why, but I think we've all heard getting a visa is difficult, rare, and somewhat shady process for Americans.

I think it's somehow tied to this “air of mystery” Americans have for Cuba in general (myself included! Which is why I'm making this post!)

The answer is, no, it's not. I bought a little pink piece of paper right before literally getting on my flight to Cuba at the gate. It was $60, and as simple and them checking my passport and swiping my credit card.

I also got a lot of questions wondering if travel to Cuba will affect travel to other countries, and if a Cuba stamp in your passport is like a huge, glaring red flag. Luckily, he reality is that your passport isn't stamped at all. They stamp your boarding pass, and Cuban visa which you must keep until you leave the country. Tourists would have a huge issue visiting Cuba at alll if this were the case, so don't worry! However, I recommend going to Cuba on a group trip with Intrepid Travel for this reason. For Americans to visit Cuba we need to be “Supporting the Cuban People” (technically, it's not allowed for American citizens to visit Cuba for pure leisure). On a group trip, it's already clearly organized and set itinerary, and they can assist you with applying for and organizing your visa because you'll be a part of an educational tour. This Reddit post is extremely accurate as far as what to really expect in the process to travel to Cuba for Americans. But summary: it's not as complicated or scary as we think.

Cuba isn’t really worth visiting because it’s so similar to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

Cuba often gets lumped together with other Caribbean destinations like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Because Americans have unique regulations to visiting Cuba because of the U.S. embargo, many Americans might think “Why visit Cuba, when I can visit similar countries nearby?”

While there are cultural and geographical similarities, Cuba's sheer size took me by surprise. It's much bigger than both countries combined, offering a diverse landscape that keeps unfolding as you travel across the island.

The Reality:

Indeed, I saw certain similarities in Caribbean features between Cuba its neighbors, having been to other Caribbean destinations like Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the British Virgin Islands in recent years.

But Cuba’s sheer size—10x as big as Jamaica, and 4x bigger than Puerto Rico!— allows it a lot more room to blend urban experiences, mountainous terrain, and picturesque beaches. To me, Cuba's diversity extended beyond the typical Caribbean blueprint.

Cuban beaches are rocky and not worth visiting

Before my visit, I pictured Cuba's beaches as rocky, somewhat unwelcoming shores. I’d heard this in passing from other travelers who told me not to visit Cuba if I was looking for stereotypically Caribbean white sand beaches or luxury.

Reality Check

A lot of Cuba does have rocky shores. Because of the lack of infrastructure, Cuba hasn’t been able to widely invest in aesthetic beaches like it’s neighbors. But just because they’re not Sandals resorts on every corner doesn’t mean there aren’t beautiful Cuban beaches.

Trinidad’s soft, sandy beach Playa Ancon , took my breath away. A true slice of paradise that debunked every rocky beach stereotype I had with soft sand, a stunning sunsets, and abundant cabanas and island cocktails for less than $1.00 USD a pop. 

Even the Cuba’s rocky beaches reminded me of some of the best swimming spots in Turkiye—

Cuban food is bland (and bad)

This was the most common assumption said to me when I asked around which was a shock to me! “I heard the food has no flavor”, “The food is bad”, “The food isn't good” were the only comments I heard before my trip.

Firstly, Cuban is limited in the food that's available to them through importation. This can effect availability of ingredients, restaurant s that can open, and what can be served, obviously.

That said, I personally enjoyed Cuban food! I found it similar to Jamaican food with red beans and rice, yuca (cassava), and plantain as a staple for every meal. Maybe that's why I liked it—because it felt like a familiar, filling, home-cooked meal. On the trip we learned the country was full of eco-farms and many of our meals were at farm-to-table restaurants. I'm a huge seafood fan so I also really enjoy how much I found in the Cuban palette! I've never had so much lobster—lobster ceviche, lobster sushi, grilled lobster… I was in heaven!

That being said, I agree that Cuba is not a mecca of culinary innovation, layered spice, or bold flavors—it was one of fresh vegetables and simple, hearty meals.

Cuban Spanish is more difficult to understand than other dialects

I braced myself for a challenging linguistic experience, expecting Cuban Spanish to be hard to comprehend.

To my relief, I found Cuban Spanish to be quite clear and understandable. If you know Spanish basics, the language barrier will hardly a barrier at all. Knowing Spanish is absolutely an advantage in Cuba and will open up the country and it's people for more profound connections with locals.

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Cubans are disconnected from the world

Media often paints Cuba as a disconnected place stuck in time. We see images of classic cars, 1950’s design themes in hotels and architecture such as Hotel Nacionel and El Floridita (well known as Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar!).

In modern times we hear about the lack of job opportunity in Cuba and how visitors have no wifi-connection and tend to disappear off of social media while in Cuba.

Where do they go? What are they doing? This air of mystery Cuba tends to have made me, and many others, assume it would be a land lost to time….

It's wrong, but it's also complicated.

In 2024, it’s not uncommon for major hotels in Havana to have wifi. You can buy a SIM card at the Havana airport when you land, and eSIM services like Airalo work fine in Cuba. On my wifi was available in our accomodations. It’s not free wifi like in the U.S.: you need a SIM card or Wifi Card to access it. And it wasn’t always very strong. But it available if you could pay for it!

This is the real dilemma for Cubans: paying for it. Our local Cuban guide told us that the average Cuban might make something around $15 USD per month working a standard job (Cuba has a centralized socialist economy). 1GB of data while in Cuba cost $15 USD.

While internet and media are not regularly accessible to all Cubans, the assumption that the country is a “stuck in the 1950’s” isn’t true at all. Many of the Cubans my age (in their 20’s) had Instagram accounts, are obsessed with streaming the latest Cuban songs, and seemed pretty in tune with news and social media. Almost all older Cubans are keenly tuned into the latest American politics becaus it affects their lives so much.

Tourists are watched under a microscope while in Cuba

Because Americans know Cuba to have a socialist economy, I think most Americans imagine even modern Cuban society as something similar to George Orwell's 1984 — with “Big Brother” watching everyone's every move and the average person's life being extremely stressful because of the government's presence.

I don’t speak for the Cuban people’s experience because it’s impossible to truly know unless you live there recently—especially as Cuba has changed so much in the last 50 years, and in more resent years due to the pandemic.

But as a tourist I can say that “Big Brother” was far from my experience. In fact, I found Cuba to be have a lot less obvious police presence than most cities in the United States. I saw a lot of security guards, but almost no police on patrol and certainly not harassing tourists or watching our every move.

Businesses, even small private businesses, are regulated by the Cuban government. But the average Cuban citizen seemed able to share their views on their government in Cuban Society somewhat freely in casual conversation.

Cuban’s hate Americans, and don’t want to see American tourists.

To be fair, many countries have a valid right to have negative feelings toward the United States for centuries of cimperialism in the America’s. I thought Cuba no different, especially after learning more about the very active embargo. Americans definitely fear that we are ethically unwanted visitors.

The reality I saw during my 2024 trip to Cuba this was not the case, in a truly surprising way.

Because of Cuba’s economic state, any tourist is a good tourist. I encountered tourists from Canada, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Vietnam, Mexico, and more. Tourists from the U.S. are treated the same as the rest. Because of the hardships of Cuban life, many Cubans dream of coming to the U.S. for opportunity, so for that reason they were curious about us and our lives.

I also tried to find the opinion of specifically younger Cubans—waiters, students, friends I met at dinner. I think most Cubans seem to have a clear separation of the American governments actions and the opinions and beliefs of American people.

Huge New Year's Eve fiestas!

I assumed all Caribbean countries had massive New Year's Eve celebrations. Fireworks, parties, fun—I especially know Cubans for their influence in reggaeton so I assumed there'd be huge parties surrounding music, dance, and ron !

Cut the fireworks and salsa music. Cuban New Year's Eve turned out to be a heartwarmingingly intimate event.

Instead of grand parties, families gather to celebrate in a more personal, communal way. I found Cuban New Year's Eve to be surrounded by ritual and some very interesting traditions . We celebrated in Cienfuegos. The locals explained to us that in this region there are 3 main traditions: tossing a bucket of water out of your house into the street, burning a life-sized doll in the middle of the street (to represent saying goodbye/cleansing the past year), dancing around it and singing.

On my trip, the locals welcomed us into their celebrations without hesistation and we danced around the fires with a group of local kids singing, and salsaing.

There was some ron involved, but the night was more wholesome, calm, and beautiful than I imagined.

My journey through Cuba was an eye-opening experience, challenging my assumptions and replacing them with a nuanced understanding of this beautiful country. Cuba is a land of contrasts and surprises, rich in history and culture, far different from what many of us have been led to believe. It's a reminder of how travel can broaden our horizons, shatter stereotypes, and connect us more deeply with the diverse world we live in.

Did you have any of these assumptions too? Did this blog post help you? Are there any questions I can answer as an American tourist who has recently visited Cuba? Ask them in the comments below, I'll respond there!

Liked this? Check these out!

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Great read, thank you!

An excellent article. Thanks. I don’t think we can truly understand humanity and all it’s divergent cultures without actually seeing it

Thanks for reading, Kent!

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

Beach resort in Varadero

Photo: Shutterstock

In the heart of the Caribbean, close to the equator, Cuba is warm all year round.

Are you planning a trip to Cuba for the coming year? From its tropical beaches to internationally-renowned classical ballet performances, this curvy tropical island has fun activities for every taste. But as you try to narrow down your itinerary while in Cuba, you may wonder what the best time to visit Cuba is.

Will the weather allow you to do everything you want? Is there a festival that would put your experience on steroids? Read more here!

Cuba Climate: What To Expect Around the Year

The first thing that will change depending on the month of your visit is the weather. Like the rest of the Caribbean, Cuba is a land of “endless summer” – at least at first glance. While you can definitely find outdoor activities around the year, some months will have cooler climates, sunnier skies, or even lower prices.

Church of the Holy Trinity overlooking Plaza Mayor, Trinidad

Seasons in Cuba

Cuba doesn’t have the traditional four seasons that temperate regions do. Instead, it has just two: a “dry” season and a “rainy” one.

The dry season lasts from November to April, and it is characterized by less frequent rain, although it’s far from completely dry. During December and January, average temperatures also dip slightly (but never reach “cold” levels under any definition), and the air gets a bit drier, which helps the air feel cooler overall.

The rainy season lasts from May to October. Expect short showers nearly every day and full-blown rainy days at least once a week during this season.

As local legend would have it, the first rains of May are particularly auspicious, as they can relieve chronic diseases and cleanse your spirit from impurities.

Hurricanes in Cuba

So what about hurricane season? Technically, hurricane season overlaps with the end of the rainy season, between June and November. During this time, the sky can go from bright to gray in a matter of minutes.

As for actual hurricanes – they rarely hit the island, and they are unlikely to affect your safety or your belongings. Cuban citizens like to joke that nothing works as well in Cuba as the Civil Defense office. You may need to spend a day safe indoors, but on the other hand, you will be able to experience one of the quintessential “island experiences.”

High versus low season

Let’s talk about tourism seasons, as they will affect the ease with which you book and the final cost of your trip.

There are two peak tourism seasons in Cuba. The first one goes from late December until March (or from Christmas to the Easter break). This is also the sunniest and coolest time of the year when the beaches are at their most enticing (and if you come from the Northern Hemisphere, that’s exactly what you’ll be needing).

The second “peak” covers most of July and August. During this time, Cuban schools will be on recess, so expect longer lines at many nature parks and museums, and you may need to share the beach with other humans.

The low season goes from early May to late June (prices drop as temperatures rise) and between September and October (tourism slows down at the start of hurricane season). During this time, expect lower prices, quieter beaches, and the opportunity to stroll around museums at your own pace.

Street musicians in Havana

Dealing With the Tropical Heat

If you live in a cooler or temperate country, you may be worried about handling Cuba’s tropical heat. The sharp temperature change can be a bit disconcerting, especially if you travel during your winter. Don’t worry! In my twenty-something years of living on this island, I’ve gathered a few pro tips that will help you handle the heat waves as the locals do:

• - Make sure you wear sunscreen of at least SPF 50. Even if you don’t “burn and peel” easily, a mild sunburn will leave you with a permanent cloud of heat around your body the next day.
• - Wear loose, thin clothes with long sleeves in cotton or linen. Try to keep the handcuffs and waistlines loose to allow air to flow around you.
• - Remember, “siesta” was invented for a reason! Just because we all seem to disappear right after lunch doesn’t mean we are truly sleeping. Between noon and 3 PM, it’s best to plan an indoor activity (preferably somewhere with A/C)
• - Check if your hotel room has A/C. If you’re staying at a rented apartment or home, look for one that has a sun porch or terrace and embrace the island schedule.

Dance performance in the streets of Havana

Festivals and Celebrations

Cuba is much more than its countryside. Its cities host a variety of festivals, summits, and parades that can be just as fascinating – it all depends on what you are looking for. From street parties to the chance of experiencing the biggest stars of vintage rhythms, it all depends on when you come.

Here are some of the highlights to look forward to:

January: The year kicks off with the country-wide celebrations for the Anniversary of the Revolution. In Havana, this is followed by the International Jazz Festival, which brings some of the genre’s biggest stars to the city.

February: The Habano Festival is all about one of the country’s top exports. You can visit Cuban cigar factories and tobacco farms, attend seminars, or book special cigar dinners that blend signature aromas with the right food pairings.

March: The largest Carnival on the island is held at Santiago de Cuba. Parades can easily last until 3 AM, but the party usually continues until sunrise.

April : The International Biennial of Graphic Humor, held at San Antonio de Los Baños, gathers cartoonists and satirists worldwide.

May : The Romerías festival combines a Spanish harvest festival with religious rituals. The town of Holguín dons its best clothes for a series of free concerts, parades, and a collective pilgrimage atop the local hill.

June : Head to Trinidad for the Fiestas Sanjuaneras or San Juan fest , which marks the longest day of the year. Dance to some of the oldest forms of African music still alive and beating.

July : During the Fiesta del Fuego (Fire Festival), the city of Santiago de Cuba loses itself in revelry to welcome back the Nzambi Congo , an ancient African deity, who is then paraded through the streets.

August : Havana’s International Hip-Hop Festival (Urban Potaje) takes place on the second week of August, just as the Havana Carnival cools down on the 7th.

September : The Feast of Our Lady of Charity (La Virgen de la Caridad) offers an unusual window into the island’s traditional religious fervor. As she is the island’s Patroness, expect her Feast to open the gates of every colonial church in Havana.

October : The International Ballet Festival of Havana may provide a window for traditional dancers, but in the smaller city of Matanzas, you can dance to the faster rumba rhythms during the Rumbero Bailador Fest.

November : In Majagua, the Red and Blue Bands Party divides the population into two teams for sports competitions, food fairs, and traditional dances.

December : In the city of Remedios, Christmas carols are replaced with Parrandas, loud and boisterous competitions in which each neighborhood prepares a special “surprise” while trying to spoil their rivals’.

Mountain biking in Viñales

Outdoor Activities

If you need sunshine and fresh air to recharge, you may have a harder time choosing the ideal dates for your trip – especially if you are booking months in advance. These activities will depend heavily on the day’s weather, which is particularly unpredictable in Cuba.

However, that doesn’t mean that some dates won’t increase your chances of success. Here are a few considerations:

• - Planning to hike, camp, or mountain bike? Then try to come during the dry season. During the rainy season, trails may be muddy, and some parts of the countryside may be inaccessible just as you’re passing by.
• - Snorkeling and scuba diving technically just need a sunny, beach-worthy day. Try to leave a couple of “free” days on your schedule so you can rebook any activities.
• - The fishing season in Cuba goes from March to June. If you’re interested in a specific species, check with your tour operator, and expect to “capture and free” your catch!
• - If you want to sail or surf, avoid hurricane season. Even if no hurricane is headed for the island directly, one passing through a nearby island could make the Coast Guard keep you ashore.

Written by Liz Lezcano.

Published October 2022.

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