Cuba

The Land of Cigars
and Salsa

Flag of Cuba

Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning beaches. Havana, the capital, captivates visitors with its colorful colonial architecture, vintage cars, and lively music scene. Cuba's landscapes include white-sand beaches, lush mountains, and fertile tobacco fields.

The country’s culture is a fusion of African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, reflected in its music, dance, and festivals. Cuban cuisine features flavorful dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef) and tostones (fried plantains). With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Cuba offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Cuba.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Cuba.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter Cuba with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (e.g., a few countries like Russia, Serbia; most require a tourist visa/card).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a tourist visa (often called a "tourist card") prior to entering Cuba (e.g., USA, UK, Canada, EU countries – check specific requirements).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for entry without a Cuban tourist visa/card unless their nationality is exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for entry without a Cuban tourist visa/card unless exempt; U.S. citizens face additional restrictions (see below).
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK require a tourist visa/card unless from visa-exempt countries.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Cuba using only a valid national ID card:
    • None; a passport and tourist visa/card are required for all entrants (no regional ID agreements apply).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days (tourist visa/card). Can be single entry, with validity up to 5 years (extendable for some nationalities).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., family or work visa).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free or tourist card stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period, extendable once for another 90 days with approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; U.S. citizens must comply with OFAC regulations (e.g., "Support for the Cuban People" category).
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions.
Toll

Driving in Cuba

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll road in Cuba is:

  • Autopista Nacional (A1): Connecting Havana to Pinar del Río and parts of central Cuba, with sporadic toll booths (toll enforcement varies).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Cuban Road Authority website (limited online info; check locally or at https://www.mintrans.gob.cu/).
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Cuban Peso (CUP) is accepted at all toll booths; some may accept USD informally.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Rarely accepted at toll booths; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is being considered but not widely implemented. Check https://www.mintrans.gob.cu/ for updates.

Driving in Cuba

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads or during rainy seasons.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license; foreign licenses are valid for up to 6 months, but an IDP is often required by rental agencies.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Cuba is considering implementing a vignette system for road use. Check https://www.mintrans.gob.cu/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Cuba has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or on poorly maintained rural roads.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable due to limited infrastructure; keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially in rural areas like the Sierra Maestra.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 106 for emergencies (police); 104 for ambulance.

Useful Links

Cuba Currency

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 CUP
  • Coins: 1, 5, 20 centavos; 1, 3, 5 CUP
  • Symbol: $ (sometimes written as CUP; note: CUC was phased out in 2021)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and CADECA offices. U.S. dollars (USD) are accepted but incur a surcharge; Euros (EUR) or Canadian Dollars (CAD) are preferred.
  • ATMs are limited and may not accept foreign cards; bring cash to exchange.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small businesses.
  • Credit/debit cards (non-U.S. issued) accepted in some cities, hotels, and larger establishments; U.S.-issued cards are rarely usable due to sanctions.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans (non-U.S. banks).
  • Carry ample cash (EUR/CAD preferred) for small purchases and rural areas; avoid USD if possible due to fees.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards (limited applicability).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Cuba website: https://www.bc.gob.cu/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Cuba

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Cuba, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces (enforcement varies).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing politics, especially criticism of the government or Castro legacy.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not widely recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention outside tourist areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure (e.g., bases, ports). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in rural areas.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars (additional cigars require export permits).
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 5,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle items).
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Cuban Ministry of Tourism or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated in major tourist areas like Varadero (enforcement varies).

Key Resources

Cuba Travel Safety

Cuba is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like markets or public transport in Havana. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Cuba is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night, especially in urban centers.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in mountainous areas like the Sierra Maestra.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory (enforcement lax).

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Use insect repellent to guard against dengue or Zika in coastal and rural areas.
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (minimal in Cuba; highest point is 1,974 meters at Pico Turquino).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Clínica Cira García in Havana offer higher standards for foreigners. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry limited medications; bring essentials.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation (mandatory for entry).

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 106 (police); 104 (ambulance); 105 (fire).
  • Ambulance: 104 | Fire: 105 | Police: 106.
  • Tourist Police (Havana): +53 7 866 9068.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas like Viñales. Check insurance coverage for rentals (limited availability).
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Topes de Collantes).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing politics or economic conditions.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be moderate in Havana; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Cuba

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