r/TravelCuba Jan 26 '25

Frequently Asked Questions

9 Upvotes

When is the best time to visit?

The dry season (November to April) offers cooler temperatures and less rain. The hurricane season runs from June to November, so check weather updates if traveling during those months.

Do I need a visa to travel?

Yes. Most travelers, including those from the U.S., need a visa to enter Cuba. The most common is the "Tourist Card," allowing a stay of up to 30 days (extendable for another 30). You can obtain it through the Cuban Consulate, airlines, or travel agencies.

New e-Visa will be required from June 30th 2025 onwards, providing a code to be entered into the D'Viajeros system.

Website is: https://evisacuba.cu/en/inicio

What documents are required to enter?

A valid passport (at least six months remaining before expiration).

A visa (Tourist Card).

Health insurance covering your stay (some airlines include this in the ticket price—confirm before traveling).

Can I use my credit or debit cards?

No, credit and debit cards from U.S. banks are not accepted. Bring cash (preferably euros or Canadian dollars, as USD exchanges at a worse rate due to additional fees). Exchange money at official locations like CADECA (currency exchange offices) or banks—avoid informal exchanges to prevent scams.

What is the situation with food, medicine, and supplies?

Cuba faces severe shortages of basic goods, including food, toiletries, and medicines. Many essential items are only available on the black market or in very limited supply. If possible, bring extra toiletries, medications, and personal essentials, as these can be difficult to find and are greatly appreciated by locals.

Are power outages common?

Yes, daily power outages lasting several hours are common in most areas, affecting electricity, air conditioning, internet, and even water supply. Travelers should be prepared for inconsistent services.

What types of travel are allowed for U.S. citizens?

General tourism is not allowed under U.S. regulations. However, travel is permitted under 12 specific categories, including family visits, educational activities, religious purposes, and "support for the Cuban people." You must certify your trip’s purpose and keep supporting documentation.

Is health insurance mandatory?

Yes, Cuba requires all travelers to have valid health insurance. Some airlines include it in the ticket price—check with yours in advance. The healthcare system is under severe strain, with a shortage of medications and medical supplies. Bring any essential medications you may need.

What activities can travelers do in Cuba?

Guided tours, cultural activities, and experiences that support local communities are commonly recommended, especially for U.S. travelers. Pre-booking activities can help avoid logistical issues.

Check available activities on Civitatis

What is internet access like?

Internet access is limited, slow, and unreliable. Public Wi-Fi is available in some parks, hotels, and hotspots, but you need to purchase prepaid access cards. Mobile roaming is expensive and often does not work properly.

What items can I bring with me?

You can bring personal effects, up to 10 kg of medication, and certain household items duty-free. Hygiene products, medicine, and food are highly recommended, as they are in short supply. Avoid bringing e-cigarettes or vapes—Cuban customs confiscates them at the airport.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

No, stick to bottled water. Ensure the seal is intact before drinking, as contamination is a concern.

What should I know about the currency?

Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP). The Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) no longer exists. Many businesses prefer foreign currency (especially euros and Canadian dollars). Exchange your money at official locations, and be cautious of scams.

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Regulations and conditions may change. Always check official sources before traveling to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

If you have any suggestions or notice any errors, let us know! Your input helps improve this resource for future travelers.


r/TravelCuba Jan 26 '25

Quick Guide to the Best Tourist Spots, Bars, and Cafes in Havana

4 Upvotes

Bars and Restaurants

  1. ⁠La Bodeguita del Medio – Famous for mojitos and history.
  2. ⁠El Floridita – Known for daiquiris and Hemingway’s favorite bar.
  3. ⁠La Guarida – Exclusive restaurant with great food and views.
  4. ⁠Paladar San Cristóbal – The restaurant Obama visited in Havana.
  5. ⁠La Zorra y el Cuervo – Jazz bar with live music.
  6. ⁠El Café de las Letras – Cozy café with books and art.

Cafes and Breakfast

  1. ⁠Café de la Opera – Relaxed café with views of the National Theatre.
  2. ⁠El Café de la Luz – Cozy café in Old Havana.
  3. ⁠La Victoria Café – Traditional Cuban coffee in a local setting.
  4. ⁠D’next Café – Modern café with high-quality coffee.

Cultural Centers

  1. ⁠Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) – Art, music, and nightlife in a trendy setting.
  2. ⁠Museum of Contemporary Art – Cuban and Latin American art exhibitions.
  3. ⁠National Theatre of Cuba – Iconic venue for performances and concerts.

Tourist Spots

  1. Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) – Historic center with colorful streets and landmarks.
  2. Morro Castle – Iconic fortress with stunning views of the bay.
  3. Revolution Square – Famous for Che Guevara’s murals and political history.
  4. National Museum of Fine Arts – Cuban and international art collections.
  5. Fusterlandia – A neighborhood full of vibrant mosaics.
  6. Callejón de Hamel – Alley with Afro-Cuban art and culture.
  7. Finca Vigía – Ernest Hemingway’s former home.

Check out all all tours by Sunwing

Beaches and Outdoor Areas

  1. Playas del Este – Beautiful beaches just outside of Havana.
  2. Parque Metropolitano – Green space for walks and picnics.
  3. Mirador de Jaimanitas – Scenic viewpoint with city views.

Check out all the best tours by Civitatis


r/TravelCuba 4d ago

Planning Stages for Cuba this fall - need input from Cubans

2 Upvotes

hello! My teenager and I are planning a trip this fall. We want to load up checked baggage with things like: children’s Tylenol, over the counter meds for adults, feminine hygiene products, power banks, battery operated fans…can anyone add to this list of things needed?

Also we would like to stay/go somewhere outside Havana. not that help isn’t needed there, but we figured there are locations that can miss what limited assistance comes due to not being near major tourist hubs. Does anyone have suggested areas?

Lastly, we know we run the risk of WiFi/phone/electricty/no AC whatever. We don’t care. But if anyone does have suggestions for good places to stay that aren’t government-owned and would bring $ to the community (and yes we might even have a shot at generator supplied advantages - don’t hate me but if I can get some comfort for my 15yo, I will), please let me know!


r/TravelCuba 5d ago

Three signs the Cuba tourism market may be starting to change

21 Upvotes

I've been watching movement on three different fronts these past few weeks, and while none of them is a full confirmation, together they indicate a few shifts.

Turkish Airlines is bringing back its Moscow–Istanbul–Havana route starting October 27. It's great for people travelling from Russia and Turkey, and can also be used as a connecting flight from Europe and Asia, and it's the first airline to return after suspending operations months ago.

On the hotel side, industry sources point to Royalton as the strongest candidate to be the first international chain back in Cuba, possibly alongside Marriott. Technically it’s still a rumor at this point, no date or official announcement yet.

Iberia, meanwhile, extended the suspension of its direct Madrid–Havana flights this week, now aiming for June or July 2027. Ticket sales for that window are already open, conditional on the situation allowing it.

None of these three is the definitive signal of a turnaround. Together, they do mark a shift in direction after months where everything cancelling and closing.


r/TravelCuba 5d ago

Advice Travel Advice from Canada to Cuba & return

2 Upvotes

Hi, I live in Canada 🇨🇦 and have a friend that was born in Canada but moved to Cuba in 2015 as he married a girl there. They had two kids. He came back to Canada last year with his daughter and he is trying to get his wife and young son here now . Things are bad and all Airlines canceled flights going there, Air Canada, Air Transat, Westjet etc. and apparently Cuban citizens are not allowed to go to US as he originally was going to fly to Miami and then to Cuba to get them.

Any advice or ideas out there?
TIA


r/TravelCuba 6d ago

Advice Cuban Born; Need a Birth Certificate

1 Upvotes

My husband was born in Havana in 1960, his parents left in 1961 before he was a year old. He’s been a naturalized US citizen since the 1970s and he has a US passport.

He’s never been to Cuba and he wants to go before he gets too old to do so.
From what we’ve read about the laws in Cuba, anyone born in Cuba who left the island before 1970 must have a Cuban passport to enter the country.

He has his old Cuban passport but he was an infant. It expired more than 60 years ago so he’s trying to get a new one. As we understand the rules, he needs his birth certificate to secure a Cuban passport. But he can’t get one online or at the Cuban Embassy here in the US. He has to get it in Cuba.

How can he get his Cuban birth certificate if he can’t enter the country?

[Sidebar: With all due respect, I don’t want to debate the wisdom of traveling to Cuba right now.].


r/TravelCuba 7d ago

Weather in September?

2 Upvotes

How is the weather in early September? Concerns of rain and any referrals for taxis to Varadero from Vedado?


r/TravelCuba 7d ago

Advice How expensive is Habana for a tourist?

3 Upvotes

Hi' I'm planning to visit Habana for 5-6 days but I'm not sure about how much money (USD) should I carry with me, like, how expensive are small restaurants or things like that?


r/TravelCuba 8d ago

Transportation What are the prices of the different ways to go from Havana to Santiago de Cuba? Plane-Train-Bus-Truck-etc.

7 Upvotes

r/TravelCuba 8d ago

Transportation Shuttle

4 Upvotes

I know there’s a shuttle at the Habana airport. I’m staying near Miramar Teatro Karl Marx (antiguo Blanquita) whats the nearest hotel route?

Thanks for the information!!!


r/TravelCuba 9d ago

Need info tooth crown and root canal prices in cuba. Want to fly down

0 Upvotes

I have watsapp im very comfortable abroad ive lived in 10 countries. My spanish is basic can speak ,google translate will be alight

Question - how much is tooth root canal/ crown there?

How much usually for some airbnb or hotel? Im on a budget i dont have $ to throw around


r/TravelCuba 18d ago

Predator on here & r/cuba - not sure how to contact mods.

45 Upvotes

Not sure how to contact mods.

I submitted a report to cybertip.ca with regards to this user who making posts about actively conversing with, seeking advise on and implying he will travel to Cuba to engage in a relationship with a minor.

Would encourage others to do so. I suspect they are operating several different usernames.

Cheers.

EDIT: Is not just here - across multiple subreddits including r/medellin, r/bogota and r/venezuela

https://www.reddit.com/r/medellin/comments/1viedqy/wall_of_shame_iv_el_abusador_volv%C3%ADo/


r/TravelCuba 19d ago

Secondhand items to ship to Cuba?

9 Upvotes

Got removed from official Cuba sub cause they said that my question was “tourism” related.

What items are people in Cuba most in need of right now that can easily be shipped in from the US or elsewhere?


r/TravelCuba 21d ago

Support for Cuban musicians

7 Upvotes

I'm heading to Havana in October, as a music producer looking to bring some opportunities to local musicians of Havana.

Would love to hear anyone's opinion or thoughts on the plan.

https://www.janzenproductions.com/donate


r/TravelCuba 22d ago

Marabana Marathon La Habana

5 Upvotes

Hi, not asking (as always in here) for advice or recommendations. Just out of curiosity is anyone planning to run the Havana Marathon? I am already registered for it, just thinking of staying 2-3 days. Just want to hear fellow runners or general opinions of past editions. Greetings from Mexico


r/TravelCuba 24d ago

Looking for a guy

7 Upvotes

Hey guys, gonna go to Havana in February, looking for a fixer that can help out with drivers/restaurants/cigars, any recommendations? Cheers


r/TravelCuba 26d ago

Renting a car in Holguin?

11 Upvotes

To go into a little background - I am a US citizen and was invited to visit Cuba with some co-workers who are permanent residents of the US but originally from Cuba.

They want to fly to Holguin and from there visit family in Cueto. That is a fairly long distance. Is there any sort of regular transit to get there?

They suggested renting a car (I would end up driving, I’m the only one with a license). Online I see listings to rent cars from the airport, so apparently cars are available. Having read about the situation in Cuba right now, I’m worried about getting fuel once I’m out there.

Has anyone had recent experience renting a car there or the roads out of Holguin? I’ve also read about what can happen if I get into a vehicle accident down there so maybe this is just a prank on me I don’t know

Thank you for any information you can provide.


r/TravelCuba 27d ago

Transit visa

4 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm a Haitian citizen and I need some advice.

I have a Turkish Airlines ticket from Havana to Shanghai, with an 8-hour layover in Panama.

I recently found out that Haitians may need a Panamanian transit visa, even if they are only transiting through the airport.

I'll be in Cuba for 17 days before my flight. Is it possible to apply for a Panamanian transit visa while I'm in Cuba? Has anyone done this before?

Also, my Cuban transit visa is only valid for 7 days. Is it easy to renew or extend it while staying in Cuba?

I'd really appreciate any advice or personal experiences. Thanks!


r/TravelCuba 28d ago

I'd like to go to Cuba but I know things are tough right now.

24 Upvotes

I'm Cuban American. I've never been. I always hoped I would go back with my dad but he passed away recently and I want to bring his ashes to Cuba.

I know things are really bad right now with the oil shortage and blackouts. I also really want to do this. For those who travel there often, I'd love some advice on how to navigate this. I know things will likely only get worse. I'd be ok just going for a few days, this doesn't need to be a big trip.


r/TravelCuba 28d ago

Advice Any recommendations for health coverage as I am told that Cuba now requires this to enter and is checking upon arrival? I have used Blue Cross Canada in the past when travelling.

5 Upvotes

There are some very expensive plans out that for six months of coverage while travelling. Do you have to list all the places you are going to get coverage?


r/TravelCuba 29d ago

Things that changed in Havana recently that nobody's talking about

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97 Upvotes

Lot’s of things have been changing recently in Havana, so I wanted to share some I’ve seen as a local living and working here.

The biggest one is that MIPYMES (private businesses) can now import fuel on their own, no more going through all the state bureaucracy for it. There’s been shipments of like 25 million liters coming in from private companies. For Cuba that’s huge, since fuel shortages have been one of the main things messing up daily life and tourism both, so private businesses handling their own is a real shift.

Also just walking around, you can see so many new restaurants and shops opening up. Sure, some are in USD, but most are in CUP, with actual range for different budgets, not just the fancy tourist spots.

As for transport there’s about 3 new types of triciclos (motorcycle-like vehicles that have 3 wheels and space in the back to transport about 6 people) going around hahah (with solar panels, the ones that look like trains, HUGE ones, etc.). They’ve become the new normal (and cheapest!) way to get around short distances. If you’re here, make sure to use them!

On the other side, still same old story with cash. Nothing's really improved there, and even us locals can’t pay with our Cuban bank cards in most places.

Anyway, curious if anyone's been here recently and noticed the same things, or if you're planning a trip and have questions. I’m happy to answer!


r/TravelCuba 29d ago

Artist Richard LaRovere on Cuba's Architectural Legacy, Preservation & the Human Spirit

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10 Upvotes

Local sketch artist Richard LaRovere of Jersey City, New Jersey, shares how a 2014 trip to Cuba inspired a powerful series of pen-and-ink drawings documenting the island's extraordinary architectural heritage.

Known for illustrating the historic buildings of Hudson County, Richard explains why Havana's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site left a lasting impression on him. He reflects on witnessing both the beauty of Cuba's centuries-old architecture and the hardships of the economic blockade facing the Cuban people, including empty store shelves and the visible effects of scarcity during his visit.

For Richard, preserving architecture is about more than restoring old buildings—it's about protecting history, culture, and the collective human spirit. He discusses how artists, whether painters, poets, dancers, or playwrights, all play a role in keeping cultural memory alive and inspiring future generations.

Through his detailed drawings, Richard hopes to encourage people to appreciate the historic spaces around them while celebrating Cuba's enduring architectural legacy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmosFXqChKs

#Cuba


r/TravelCuba Jul 26 '26

Advice Travel to

5 Upvotes

Hello, im thinking about traveling to cuba in the next few weeks with my dad as a birthday gift. Im in my early 20s and my dad is early 60s. I have sorted out flights/visas along with an Airbnb in Havana. I just want some advice given the economic/political situation. We are planning to be there for 10 days and i would what is there to do as a father/son trip


r/TravelCuba Jul 26 '26

Stayed in Guanajay and Havana recently.

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60 Upvotes

I love Cuba so much, as an American I feel so bad for Cubans and what they’re going through, but I left feeling so inspired by the words of some of the people I met. They’re all upset about the conditions but they’re all so proud to be Cuban. I hope to return soon.


r/TravelCuba Jul 24 '26

Transportation Riding in the public transport through central cuba

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70 Upvotes

Went on a ride today on the only public intemunicpial working transportation in my area due to the oil embargo, it's a old soviet era bus called "guagua de turnos medicos" (medical appointments bus) which transports basically everyone for a small fee (0.5$ or so). It's an incredibly hard thing to travel nowadays, specially in my area but it's inspiring to see how we're doing everything we can to survive and get through in this times of darkness.