CUBA TRAVEL PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Cuba is not a place you simply visit, it is a destination you feel. Whether you’re drawn by culture, photography, nature, architecture, food, or meaningful interactions with local communities, Cuba delivers a depth of travel found nowhere else in the Caribbean. This is what makes Cuba unforgettable.
Money and Payments
Cuba’s currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP).
U.S. debit and credit cards do not work in Cuba, so travelers must bring cash, preferably USD or EUR.
It is recommended to bring a mix of small denominations. Many private businesses accept USD directly, while small exchanges into CUP can be made when necessary.
Accommodations
Private homes (casa particulares) are the preferred and most compliant option for U.S. travelers. They offer air-conditioned private rooms, private bathrooms, breakfast options, and a higher level of personal hospitality. Staying in private homes supports the Cuban private sector and aligns with U.S. travel regulations.
Hotels are available throughout the island, but many are restricted for U.S. travelers. The U.S. State Department maintains a list of prohibited hotels, resorts, and government-affiliated lodgings that cannot be used by Americans.
Official U.S. Restricted Hotels List:
https://www.state.gov/cuba-sanctions/cuba-prohibited-accommodations-list
Because of these restrictions and variable service levels, private accommodations remain the most reliable and recommended option.
Transportation
Private drivers are the most comfortable and dependable option for transfers and excursions. Classic cars are excellent for city tours but are not recommended for long-distance travel. Taxis are widely available and should be negotiated before the ride. Domestic flights exist but have limited availability.
Entry Requirements
Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their travel dates.
A Cuba Tourist Card (visa) is required for all visitors. Pink visas are used for travelers departing directly from the United States, while green visas are used for those entering from other countries.
U.S. travelers must travel under one of the 12 authorized travel categories. Support for the Cuban People (515.574) is the most commonly used for cultural and private-sector travel, but it is not the only option available.
Safety
Cuba is widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. Violent crime is uncommon, and visitors generally experience a high level of personal security, even when walking in major cities. Most safety concerns tend to be minor and situational, such as petty theft in crowded areas or busy tourist zones. As with any international destination, basic awareness, securing valuables, and using reputable transportation are recommended.
Health and Medical Considerations
Travel medical insurance is required for all visitors, and airline tickets from the United States typically include basic Cuban medical coverage.
Bottled water is recommended, and travelers should avoid ice from unverified sources.
Dining and Food
Privately owned restaurants (paladares) offer the highest-quality dining experiences in Cuba, with creative menus and better service than state-run establishments.A gratuity of 10–15% is customary.
Shopping and What You Can Bring Back
Popular items include art, handmade crafts, books, and leather goods. Cuban cigars and rum cannot be brought back to the United States. U.S. regulations prohibit the import of Cuban-origin tobacco and alcohol, even for personal use.
Weather and Seasons
Cuba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season, from November to April, offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This period is considered the peak travel season for most visitors.
The wet season, from May to October, brings higher humidity and periodic tropical showers. Travel remains fully feasible during these months, especially for cultural and city-based itineraries.
Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November, with the highest activity typically in September and October. While major storms are not frequent, travelers visiting during this period should remain aware of potential weather advisories and plan with flexibility.
Apps and Digital Tools
WhatsApp works reliably. Google Maps should be downloaded offline. Instagram, TikTok, and most social platforms function well with Wi-Fi or mobile data. There are no rideshare apps such as Uber or Lyft; travelers rely on taxis or private drivers.
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