Travel landscape in Cuba
Cuba flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to Cuba

The Republic of Cuba is a Caribbean island renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant music, and rich historical heritage. It offers a unique cultural experience with colonial cities, delicious cuisine, and diverse natural landscapes.

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
Spanish
Time zones
UTC -5 to -4 (daylight saving time observed in summer)
Electrical outlets
110 volts, 60 Hz. Plugs types A and B, an adapter is recommended
Climate
Tropical climate, hot and humid. Rainy season from May to October, dry season November to April.

Health

Medical facilities are limited in rural areas. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical expenses. Consult a physician prior to travel for preparation.

Travel health advice

  • Drink bottled water only
  • Protect against mosquitoes, especially at dusk and in rural areas
  • Use sun protection and stay hydrated

Recommended vaccines: Typhoid; Hepatitis A; Tetanus-diphtheria; Hepatitis B (depending on length of stay and activities)

Required vaccines:

Money

Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP) for local use, Convertible Peso (CUC) commonly used by tourists (CUP, CUC)

CUP is the local currency, while tourists primarily use CUC. Avoid exchanging money on the street.

International credit cards are not widely accepted; cash payments and official exchange offices are recommended.

Safety

Cuba is generally safe for tourists; however, be cautious of pickpocketing and common scams in tourist areas.

  • Avoid displaying valuables openly
  • Do not leave belongings unattended
  • Use official taxis
  • Stay informed about popular areas

Areas to check before travel: Certain isolated areas at night; Remote border zones

Regions

Havana — travel guide
Region

Havana

Vibrant capital blending colonial history, cultural life, and lively neighborhoods.

Santiago de Cuba — travel guide
Region

Santiago de Cuba

Cultural hub known for its music, revolutionary history, and popular festivals.

Viñales Valley — travel guide
Region

Viñales Valley

Picturesque agricultural area recognized for its mogotes and tobacco plantations.

Cienfuegos — travel guide
Region

Cienfuegos

Port city with unique French-style architecture, called the 'Pearl of the South'.

Trinidad — travel guide
Region

Trinidad

UNESCO World Heritage colonial town famous for its cobblestone streets and authentic atmosphere.

Baracoa — travel guide
Region

Baracoa

Mountainous, isolated region rich in biodiversity and pre-Columbian history.

Cities

Havana — city guide
City guide

Havana

Capital city with historic charm and daily vibrant atmosphere.

  • Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
  • Malecón
  • Museum of the Revolution
  • Plaza Vieja
  • Calle Obispo
Santiago de Cuba — city guide
City guide

Santiago de Cuba

Known for its Afro-Cuban identity and lively music scene.

  • Castillo del Morro
  • Santiago Cathedral
  • Parque Céspedes
  • Casa de la Trova
Trinidad — city guide
City guide

Trinidad

Colonial jewel with colorful streets and historic houses.

  • Plaza Mayor
  • Romantic Museum
  • Ancon Beach
  • Trinidad Steps
Cienfuegos — city guide
City guide

Cienfuegos

Seaside city with neoclassical architecture and lively atmosphere.

  • José Martí Park
  • Tomás Terry Theater
  • Plaza de Armas
Camagüey — city guide
City guide

Camagüey

Labyrinthine city known for art and annual dance festival.

  • San Juan de Dios Square
  • Iglesia de la Soledad
  • Raúl Martínez Art Gallery
Varadero — city guide
City guide

Varadero

Top beach destination with white sand and turquoise waters.

  • Varadero Beach
  • Varahicacos Ecological Reserve
  • Gaviota Marina
Baracoa — city guide
City guide

Baracoa

Historic and natural site, first city founded in Cuba.

  • Alejandro de Humboldt Park
  • Playa Maguana
  • Maisí Lighthouse

Highlights

Old Havana — travel guide
Must-see

Old Havana

Historic district with restored colonial buildings, museums and lively plazas.

Viñales Valley — travel guide
Must-see

Viñales Valley

Unique karst landscapes and traditional agricultural culture.

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park — travel guide
Must-see

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

Biosphere reserve with remarkable biodiversity.

The Malecón — travel guide
Must-see

The Malecón

Seaside promenade popular with locals and visitors, especially at sunset.

Trinidad — travel guide
Must-see

Trinidad

A living testament to colonial times, with colorful houses and cobblestone streets.

Cienfuegos — travel guide
Must-see

Cienfuegos

Notable for its French architecture and relaxed ambiance.

Nature & other places

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park — travel guide
National Park

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

Tropical rainforest with endemic wildlife and flora, a UNESCO site.

Viñales Valley — travel guide
Natural Landscape

Viñales Valley

Karst mogote formations and traditional tobacco farming landscapes.

Varadero Beach — travel guide
Beach

Varadero Beach

One of Cuba's most famous beaches with white sands and turquoise sea.

Topes de Collantes Natural Park — travel guide
Nature Reserve

Topes de Collantes Natural Park

Mountain mass with waterfalls, hiking trails, and rich biodiversity.

Ciénaga de Zapata — travel guide
Nature Reserve

Ciénaga de Zapata

Large wetland area ideal for bird watching and biodiversity.

Baconao Park — travel guide
Nature Park

Baconao Park

Large reserve with botanical gardens, beaches, caves, and mountains.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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