Cuba Travel Guide: Tips and Information

The crystal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the turquoise Caribbean Sea, and the vast Atlantic Ocean are divided by the Pearl of the Antilles, better known as the Republic of Cuba. More than 4,000 islands and cays surround the main island of Cuba, which spans 42,000 miles of soft sand beaches, rolling plains, and multiple mountain ranges. For travelers, visiting Cuba is a cultural and ecological oasis. 

Despite years of travel advisories, Cuba recently welcomed more than 1.6 million international visitors, signaling a new era in travel. However, there are still a few unanswered questions, such as: What are the safety concerns for travelers in Cuba? Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba? Discover all you need to know in today’s Cuba travel guide, from learning local customs to navigating visa requirements. 

Planning Your Trip to Cuba

Tourism is not a valid reason to enter Cuba; however, international travelers who fall under one of 12 categories—including family visits, religious activities, and support for the Cuban people—can be granted travel access.

Visa Requirements

Though tourism is not a permissible reason for visiting Cuba, travelers who fall under one of the 12 categories of authorized travel must acquire a Cuba tourist visa, also called a Cuban Tourist Card or Tarjeta del Turista, to enter the country. While the name can be misleading, a tourist card is simply a means of entry obtained through airlines, travel agencies, and government embassies.

Cuba tourist visas are typically granted for 30 days but can be extended for another 30 days, especially for those entering the country for philanthropic, educational, or religious reasons. Generally speaking, all nationalities must apply for a visa. For American travelers, in particular, you must have a passport valid for six months beyond your entry date into Cuba with two blank pages. 

Best Times to Visit

So, what’s the best time of year to visit Cuba? The best time is during the dry season, which spans from November to April. These months lack the usual tropical rainstorms and feature exciting festivals, like Havana’s Jazz Festival in December. Cuba’s wettest months span from June to October, which—while rainy—are also prime time for cultural events, like Santiago de Cuba Carnival in July. 

Travel Budgeting

A Cuba travel budget depends on your anticipated level of luxury. For example, in the US dollar equivalent, simple public bus transportation can cost $0.40 per day, with stays in casa particulars (private homes) ranging from $20 to $50 per night. More luxury accommodations, like resorts, can range from $110 to $200 per night, with rental cars ranging between $50 and $100 per day. 

Top Attractions and Activities in Cuba

The activities and attractions in a Cuba travel guide are endless. Whether planning a trip for adventure and nightlife, culture and cuisine, or rest and relaxation, discover all you can explore on the Cuban mainland.

Havana’s Historic Sites

No Cuba travel guide is complete without a stroll through Havana, the capital city. Home to Habana Vieja (Old Havana), the birthplace of the country’s most eclectic art deco, baroque, and neoclassical architecture, you can spend entire days wandering Havana’s historical sites. Highlights include the Museum of the Revolution, the Malecón esplanade, and a ride in a classic American car.

[Link to Exploring Havana, Cuba: A Comprehensive Travel Guide for All Travelers when live]

Beaches and Natural Beauty

For those looking for adventure, Cuban natural landscapes offer tons to explore. Of course, Cuba beaches like Playa Paraíso in Cayo Largo, Guardalavaca in Holguín, and Maria la Gorda in Varadero are no-brainers to visit. For nature lovers, a trip to the Viñales Valley in the Sierra de los Órganos mountains offers hiking, horseback riding, and picnics with spectacular views. 

Cultural Experiences

First-time visitors to the island may enjoy cultural tours in Cuba to learn the rich history and customs of the Cuban people. Head to Pinar del Río, the heart of the Cuban cigar industry, for an authentic look at the country’s famous cigar production. Take a spin through Cuba’s nightlife at the public salsa classes in local cultural centers or markets like Mercado de Artesanía for souvenirs and crafts.

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

It’s vital to familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette whenever you travel to a foreign country, and Cuba is no exception. The following best practices will help you make the most of your Cuba trip. 

Understanding Local Customs

The most common languages spoken in Cuba are Cuban, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, with Spanish being the official language. To maintain polite greetings, learn a few basic Spanish phrases, like “Hola” (hello), “Mucho gusto” (nice to meet you), and “Por favor” (please). Casual conversations with locals are encouraged in passing, and tipping for meals and services is customary and appreciated. 

Cuban Cuisine

You’re destined to find recommendations for Cuban cuisine in any Cuban travel guide, especially since tasty Cuban dishes are reason enough to visit the island. Must-try dishes include ropa vieja (shredded beef), congrí (rice and beans), and yuca con mojo (yuca with garlic sauce). Visiting a paladar, or local family-run restaurant, is highly recommended to experience truly authentic cuisine. 

Safety Tips

While the cuisine attracts many visitors, there are still Cuba safety tips for dining. Be cautious with street food and avoid drinking tap water, as the filtering standards often vary. Some of the best Cuba safety tips are to purchase travel insurance from a licensed and admitted U.S. travel insurance company permitted to offer coverage to Cuba, which helps ensure any potential claims will not be denied. 

Practical Travel Tips for Cuba

What should I pack for a trip to Cuba? How will I communicate with friends and family back home? Before departing, gather essential travel gear like durable, reliable footwear, your passport, and the following items. 

Currency Use and Exchange

Cuba declared the Cuban peso (CUP) its official currency in 2021, phasing out previous iterations like the Cuban convertible peso. Curious how to exchange money in Cuba? Exchange currency at local banks and CADECAs (exchange offices), making sure to ask for small denominations to make everyday purchases in your Cuba travel budget. You can also purchase prepaid debit cards at CADECAs, airports, and ports, which is wise as American credit cards are rarely accepted in Cuba. 

Digital Communication

Before visiting Cuba, you must know that internet access is restricted. Internet access is controlled by a state-owned company, Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba (ETECSA), and is typically distributed in city parks and popular hotels. You can purchase a NAUTA card from ETECSA offices for easier internet access or buy a local SIM card to remain in communication with friends and family. 

Transportation Options

There are several Cuban transportation options for getting around the island, from the official taxis—which are metered for accurate pricing—to public transportation like buses. You can opt to rent a vehicle, which can become pricey due to a variety of pre-and post-drop-off charges, but offers a ton of flexibility. You can also check out available bike rentals in tourist-friendly areas to explore at your own pace. 

Cuba Travel Guide: Insurance with Aegis

The island of Cuba offers unlimited activities for incoming travelers. As you budget for travel to Cuba, remember to include the costs of reputable travel insurance. Travel insurance can help protect you from unexpected expenses due to various complications, from medical emergencies and required healthcare to trip cancellations or interruptions, and, ultimately, provide peace of mind while abroad. 

Aegis is one of the few licensed and admitted U.S. travel insurance companies permitted to offer coverage to the Republic of Cuba. When you purchase an Aegis travel insurance policy, you can rest assured that any covered claim will not be denied because your insurance company is not permitted to insure Cuba travel. Explore the Go Ready VIP Plan by Aegis today to protect your trip.