🏝️ Cuba Travel Guide

Complete travel information for Cuba, the Pearl of the Antilles. All links open in a new window.

⚠️ Travel Advisory – Avoid Non-Essential Travel

Several governments advise avoiding non-essential travel to Cuba due to serious fuel shortages, widespread power outages, and shortages of basic goods. These challenges impact daily life across the island, including in Havana . The national electrical grid is increasingly unstable, with power outages sometimes lasting over 24 hours . Jet fuel shortages have also led to flight cancellations .

🛂 Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport & Visa

Passport: A valid passport is required. It must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and contain at least one blank page .
Visa / Tourist Card: Most travelers require a visa or tourist card to enter Cuba. As of January 1, 2026, the traditional tourist card has been replaced by an electronic visa (e-Visa), which can be obtained online at evisacuba.cu . The tourist visa is valid for a single entry for up to 90 days, extendable by 90 days .
Visa Requirements: Check with the Cuban embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements. The e-Visa application should be completed at least 72 hours before travel .
Travel Insurance: Visitors to Cuba are required by law to have a valid travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses during their stay . This is often included in package tours.

Additional Documents & Information

D'Viajeros Form: All travelers must complete the online D'Viajeros Health and Travel Declaration Form at dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu . A QR code will be generated and must be presented to immigration authorities. The form can be completed up to 72 hours before arrival .
Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of return or onward travel is required .
Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed accommodation details may be requested .
International Driver's License: Recommended if you plan to drive.
Currency Declaration: Amounts exceeding USD $5,000 (or equivalent) must be declared upon entry and exit .
Digital Copies: Store digital copies of your passport and other important documents offline.

💉 Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Vaccinations

No Specific Vaccinations Required: No specific vaccinations are required for entry .
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations (MMR, TDaP, Polio) are up to date.
Recommended: Consult with a healthcare provider about recommended travel vaccines.
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses: Dengue, Chikungunya, and Oropouche virus are present in Cuba . Practice strict mosquito bite avoidance (DEET repellent, long sleeves/pants, air-conditioned/screened rooms). Bring insect repellent from home as it may not be available locally .

Health Risks & Precautions

Medical Care: Hospitals and clinics are impacted by fuel and electricity shortages, which may limit the availability of medical care .
Medication Shortages: Many medicines may not be readily available. Bring an adequate supply of prescription medication and basic first-aid supplies .
Tap Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water.
Food Hygiene: Be cautious with street food. Wash hands frequently.
Sun Protection: Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
Emergency Services: Ambulance services may be limited or delayed. Private transportation to a hospital may be necessary .
Payment for Medical Services: All medical services provided by the Government of Cuba require cash-less payments by international debit or credit card .

Travel Health Insurance

Mandatory: Travel health insurance is required by law . A copy must be presented on arrival .
Coverage: Ensure coverage includes emergency medical evacuation .

🛡️ Safety & Travel Advisories

⚠️ Level 3: Avoid Non-Essential Travel

Due to serious fuel shortages and power outages impacting essential services .

General Safety

Crime: Cuba is generally considered a relatively safe destination, but petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded or tourist areas .
Precautions:
- Avoid displaying large sums of money, jewelry, or expensive electronics .
- Be especially careful with luggage at airports .
- Use only licensed and registered transportation services .
- Avoid accepting rides from strangers .
- Keep travel documents secure at all times .

Demonstrations & Police Presence

Civil Unrest: Public demonstrations may occur without notice and are closely controlled by authorities .
Precautions: Avoid all demonstrations and gatherings and follow instructions issued by local officials .
Police Presence: Police and military presence may be more visible, particularly in Havana . Carry identification at all times and comply with requests from law enforcement authorities .
Internet Access: Authorities may block internet access without notice during unrest .

Other Risks & Precautions

Power Outages: Frequent power outages across the country, sometimes lasting over 24 hours .
Fuel Shortages: Access to fuel can be very difficult, with long queues at petrol stations .
Flight Disruptions: Airlines cannot refuel on the island, leading to route cancellations or changes .
US Travel Restrictions: Traveling to Cuba may affect eligibility for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) .
Hurricane Season: From June to November, Cuba is in the hurricane zone. Monitor weather updates .

🚨 Emergency & Important Numbers

Police: 106
Ambulance: 104
Fire: 105

🏛️ Embassies & Consulates in Cuba

For consular assistance, passport emergencies, or other help, contact the embassy or consulate of your home country. There are currently 119 foreign representations in Havana .

Select Diplomatic Missions in Havana

U.S. Embassy Havana
Address: Calzada entre L y M, Vedado, Havana
Telephone: +(53) (7) 839-4100; after hours dial 1, then 0
Email: Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein.
Website: cu.usembassy.gov

Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Beijing
Address: No. 1, Xiu Shui Nan Jie, Jian Guo Men Wai, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: (+86)10 6532 1714
Email: Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein.

Bulgarian Embassy in Havana
Address: 5-ta avenida № 6407, esquina a 66, Miramar, Playa, Ciudad de La Habana
Telephone: +537 204 67 68; +537 204 67 59
Out-of-hours hotline: +535 286 24 49

Argentine Embassy in Havana
Emergency Consular Number: (Available via the embassy)

Search Link for All Diplomatic Missions

For a complete list of foreign embassies and consulates in Cuba, visit:

Note: Addresses and contact details can change. Always confirm via official government sources before your visit.

📜 Background on Country & Society

Official Name: Republic of Cuba
Capital: Havana
Area: 109,884 sq km
Population: Approx. 11 million
Government: Republic
Official Language: Spanish
Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP) – the only legal tender in Cuba .
Economy: Tourism, agriculture (sugar, tobacco, coffee), biotechnology, and nickel production.
History: Cuba was a Spanish colony until 1898. After the Cuban Revolution in 1959, the country became a socialist state under Fidel Castro. The U.S. embargo has been in place since 1962.
Culture: Vibrant and diverse culture with African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. Known for its music (salsa, son, rumba), dance, literature, and iconic classic cars.
UNESCO Sites: Cuba has nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites .
Official Information: U.S. Department of State – Cuba

🌤️ Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate: Tropical, with a dry and wet season.
Dry Season (Best Time to Visit): November to April.
Wet Season: May to October (higher risk of hurricanes).
Temperature: Warm year-round (average 25°C/77°F).
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing year-round. A light jacket for cooler evenings. Swimwear for the beach, and smart-casual attire for fine dining. Rain gear is recommended during the wet season. Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential.
Power & Supply Considerations: Due to frequent power outages, consider bringing a portable power bank and extra batteries . As shortages can affect the availability of basic goods, it is wise to be prepared in advance .

🗣️ Language & Communication

Official Language: Spanish.
English: Limited proficiency outside tourist areas.
Useful Phrases:
- Hello: Hola
- Please: Por favor
- Thank you: Gracias
- Excuse me: Disculpe
- Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?
Mentality: Friendly and welcoming. A polite and respectful attitude is appreciated.
Religion: Predominantly Christian (Roman Catholic) and Afro-Cuban religions (Santería).
Internet: Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and public parks. Local prepaid SIM cards (Cubacel) may be available at ETECSA offices . Roaming may not always work; check with your provider .

⚡ Voltage & Plug Types

Voltage: 110/220 V (varies by region).
Frequency: 60 Hz.
Plug Types: Type A, B, and C (American and European styles).
Adapter Needed: Yes, depending on your device. Many modern chargers are dual voltage.
Voltage Converter: Yes, for devices that do not support dual voltage.

💰 Money & Finances

Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP) – the only legal tender .
Cash-Based Economy: Cuba operates largely on a cash-based system .
Credit Cards: International Visa and Mastercard transactions have been suspended . U.S. bank-issued cards are not accepted .
ATMs: International banking access is extremely limited . Bring sufficient cash for all expenses.
Prepaid Card: The domestic prepaid "Tarjeta Clásica" can be purchased at CADECAs (currency exchange offices) or BFI branches .
Exchange Rate: Exchange cash at authorized CADECA exchange offices, banks, airports, or hotels . Avoid informal exchanges.
Price Level: Moderate to expensive for tourists.
Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants when a service charge is not included.

🚗 Transport & Arrival

Airports: José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana is the main gateway.
Flight Disruptions: Airlines cannot refuel on the island. Some routes have been cancelled or include refuelling stops .
Driving: A valid driver's license is required. Road conditions can vary.
Taxis: Use only official taxis. Agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Public Transport: Buses and trains are available but can be unreliable.
Pre-Arranged Transfers: Organize pre-arranged transfers, accommodation, and transport .

🏨 Accommodation & Practical Information

Hotel Types: State-run hotels, international chain hotels, and private casas particulares (homestays) .
Tourist Accommodation: As of February 2026, tourist accommodation is restricted primarily to the resort areas of Varadero and Havana, with a phased closure of hotels in the rest of the island .
Casas Particulares: Private homestays offer an authentic experience and are often more affordable . Payment is in cash.
Opening Hours: Shops generally open Mon-Sat 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Many close on Sunday.
Shopping: Local markets and shops offer souvenirs, art, and crafts.
Local Regulations:
- Electronic cigarettes, vapes, and personal vaporizers are not allowed in Cuba .
- Drug-related offenses carry severe penalties .
- Photography of military installations, police facilities, or other sensitive sites is prohibited .

🍽️ Food, Drink & Cuisine

Typical Dishes: Ropa vieja (shredded beef), lechón asado (roast pork), congrí (rice and black beans), tostones (fried plantains).
Street Food: Sandwiches, pizza, and fresh fruit at local markets.
Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water.
Drinks: Rum (Havana Club is a popular brand), mojitos, daiquiris, and Cuban coffee.

🕒 Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time Zone: Cuba Standard Time (UTC-5). Daylight Saving Time observed.
Time Difference: 6 hours behind Central European Time (CET) / 5 hours behind during European summer time.
Major National Holidays:
- Independence Day (May 20)
- Revolution Day (January 1)
- Good Friday and Easter Sunday
- Labor Day (May 1)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Festivals: Havana International Jazz Festival (January/February), Festival of Cuban Cinema (December).
Public Holidays: Many businesses close on national holidays. Check ahead.

🏖️ Attractions & Highlights

Cuba offers stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich history, and unique culture. The country has nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

🏖️ Beaches & Coastal Beauty

Varadero

Cuba's most famous beach destination, with miles of white sand and crystal-clear water. All-inclusive resorts line the coast .

Playa Ancón

Near Trinidad, this is one of Cuba's most beautiful beaches .

Cayo Largo

An island paradise with pristine beaches, known for its wildlife .

🏛️ Culture & History

Havana – UNESCO World Heritage Site

The capital is a vibrant city with colonial architecture, classic cars, and a lively cultural scene. Explore Old Havana, the Malecón waterfront, and the San Isidro Art District .

Trinidad – UNESCO World Heritage Site

A beautifully preserved colonial city with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a rich history. The nearby Valle de los Ingenios is a must-visit .

Viñales National Park – UNESCO World Heritage Site

A stunning valley with limestone karst formations (mogotes), tobacco fields, and traditional farming communities. A top destination for nature lovers .

Santa Clara

Known for its revolutionary landmarks, including the Che Guevara Mausoleum .

🌿 Nature & Adventure

Zapata Swamp

A large wetland reserve on the southern coast, home to flamingos, crocodiles, and many bird species .

Topes de Collantes

A nature reserve in the Escambray Mountains, offering hiking trails and waterfalls .

Baracoa

Cuba's oldest city, located on the eastern tip of the island, surrounded by lush mountains and known for its chocolate .

🎉 Nightlife & Events

Nightlife: Ranges from lively salsa bars and clubs to upscale lounges. Havana has the most vibrant nightlife.
Local Scene: Music is central to Cuban culture. Live salsa, son, and rumba can be found in many venues .
Major Events:
- Havana International Jazz Festival (January/February): A major music event attracting international artists.
- FITCuba (May): The International Tourism Fair, held virtually in 2026 .
- Festival of Cuban Cinema (December): A celebration of Cuban and Latin American cinema.
Event Calendars: Check local media and the official tourism website for up-to-date events.

🔗 Media & Further Links

Official & Government Sites

Local News & Media

YouTube & Video

Maps & Images

Disclaimer: This information was compiled from official and reputable sources but is not exhaustive. Travel regulations, visa requirements, and safety conditions can change. Given the current "Avoid Non-Essential Travel" advisory, travelers are strongly advised to reconsider all travel to Cuba. Please check with official authorities, the respective embassy, or the official tourism website before making any travel plans.

```

countries