First-Time Cuba Travel Guide: Essential Tips to Know Before You Go
Discover rum, revolutionaries, and iconic retro cars in Cuba—a destination frozen in time. While thrilling, Cuba requires savvy preparation to maximize your trip. From visas to currency and connectivity, our expert guide helps first-timers sidestep pitfalls and embrace the island confidently.
Cuba is evolving with improved U.S. ties, but unique challenges persist. Stay informed to travel like a pro.
How to Get There
Flights to Cuba operate worldwide, direct and connecting. Direct U.S. commercial flights to Havana resumed post-2016 but remain limited—check current restrictions via airlines or treasury.gov. Routes often connect through Canada, Mexico, or Europe. Cruises also include Cuban ports.
Visas
All visitors need a tarjeta de turista (tourist card, valid 30 days, extendable). Buy from airlines, agencies, or get it en route with select carriers (e.g., via Madrid/Toronto). Confirm with your airline and check government sites for entry rules. U.S. citizens must meet OFAC categories—visit treasury.gov for updates. Present your card on exit; replacements take a day if lost.
Money
Cuba is largely cash-based; exchange currencies can't be bought abroad. Since 2021, Cuba unified to the Cuban Peso (CUP)—CUC is obsolete. Exchange Euros, CAD, or GBP at CADECA houses/banks (avoid USD due to 10% fee + lower rate). ATMs exist but are unreliable, often out of cash. Carry ample cash; cards are rarely accepted. Expect to tip CUC$1 equivalent (CUP$24+) for services like porters, drinks, or restrooms—bring your own TP.
Internet Access
Connectivity has improved: ETECSA wi-fi hotspots blanket plazas/parks—buy prepaid cards (CUP$25/hour+). Hotels offer paid access; speeds vary. Mobile SIMs for tourists provide data. Plan a partial digital detox—download guides, maps, entertainment beforehand. Cuban TV lacks variety.
What to Pack
Pack offline entertainment, snacks, essentials (tampons scarce), and a first-aid kit for rural areas. Cuba lacks global brands/convenience stores—stock up on must-haves. Cuba boasts world-class healthcare, but access may be distant.
How to Get Around
Viazul buses are reliable: buy tickets early, arrive 20 minutes before departure. Affordable, comfortable, with meal stops for Cuban sandwiches. Taxis start at CUP$25+, meter or negotiate flat rates. Outside cities, hitch horse carts, tuk-tuks, or classic cars—barter firmly.
How to Sightsee
Pace yourself—schedules shift unexpectedly. Carry water (buy at hotels), stay flexible. Rum's cheap, but hydrate against the heat.
