Ultimate Cuba Travel Cheat Sheet 2025: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip - Xplrverse

Introduction: Why Cuba Continues to Captivate Travelers

Cuba remains one of the most fascinating destinations in the Caribbean, a place where time seems to stand still yet is constantly evolving. My first trip to Havana in 2013 was supposed to be a quick weekend getaway, but that initial visit sparked a decade-long love affair with this complex island. I’ll never forget stepping out of José Martí International Airport into the humid Caribbean air, completely unprepared for how the vintage cars, crumbling colonial architecture, and incredibly resilient people would capture my heart. After twelve visits (and counting!), I’ve compiled this comprehensive cheat sheet based on what I wish I’d known before my first trip—and all the lessons learned along the way.

Cuba is not a destination for the faint-hearted or those seeking luxury resort experiences (though those exist too). It’s a place of contradictions: frustrating logistics alongside unparalleled hospitality, economic hardship alongside artistic abundance. In 2025, Cuba continues to navigate significant changes, from expanding internet access to evolving private business regulations and accommodation options. This guide will help you navigate the essentials, avoid common pitfalls, and experience the authentic Cuba beyond the tourist façade.

Entry Requirements and Visa Information

One of the most common questions I receive is about the legality and process of visiting Cuba, especially for Americans. Let me clear up the confusion based on the current situation in 2025.

Tourist Cards and Visas

Most visitors to Cuba need a tourist card (sometimes called a “tourist visa”), which is valid for 30 days and can be extended once in Cuba for an additional 30 days. The cost and process vary depending on your nationality:

For Canadians, Europeans, and most non-US citizens: Tourist cards cost approximately 20-30 CUC and can often be purchased from your airline, either at check-in or during your flight. Some airlines include it in your ticket price.
For Americans: The situation is more complex. You’ll need a pink tourist card (versus the green one for other nationalities) that typically costs $50-100 USD depending on where you purchase it. Most US travelers fly through a third country like Mexico or Canada, where the tourist card can be purchased at the airport before boarding your flight to Cuba.

Pro tip: During my October 2024 visit, I found that Copa Airlines included the tourist card for free in the ticket price when flying through Panama, which saved me both money and hassle.

Travel Categories for Americans

As of 2025, Americans are still technically required to travel under one of 12 authorized categories, not including general tourism. The most commonly used category is “Support for the Cuban People.” To comply with this category:

Stay in casa particulares (private homes) rather than government-owned hotels
Eat at paladares (private restaurants) rather than state-run establishments
Engage with local artists, musicians, and community projects
Maintain a full itinerary of activities that support private Cuban businesses and direct contact with Cuban people

Personal Mistake: On my second trip, I didn’t keep a detailed itinerary of my “Support for the Cuban People” activities. While I wasn’t questioned upon return, it’s technically required for Americans to maintain documentation of your activities for five years after your visit. Now I keep a daily journal with names of casa owners, restaurants, and cultural sites visited.

Health Insurance Requirement

Cuba requires all visitors to have travel health insurance that covers medical emergencies in Cuba. You may be asked to show proof at immigration, though in my last five visits, I’ve only been asked once. Many airlines now include basic Cuban health insurance in their ticket price, but it’s worth confirming this before departure and considering supplemental coverage for more comprehensive protection.

Currency and Money Matters

Cuba’s currency situation has undergone significant changes in recent years, and understanding the current system is crucial for travelers in 2025.

The Current Currency Landscape

In 2021, Cuba eliminated its dual currency system and officially uses only the Cuban Peso (CUP). However, the reality on the ground is more complicated:

Cuban Peso (CUP): The official currency used by locals
US Dollar (USD): Widely accepted (and often preferred) in the tourism sector
Euro (EUR): Often accepted and sometimes preferred over USD as it doesn’t face the same sanctions issues

As of January 2025, the official exchange rate is approximately 120 CUP to 1 USD, but the unofficial street rate can be 3-4 times higher. This creates a complex situation for travelers trying to navigate the best way to handle money.

Cash is Still King

Despite increasing credit card acceptance in some tourist establishments, Cuba remains predominantly cash-based. Important points to remember:

US-issued credit and debit cards still do not work in Cuba due to the ongoing embargo
Non-US cards technically work but often encounter problems with international networks
ATMs exist but are unreliable and often have withdrawal limits
Bring more cash than you think you’ll need (I typically budget $100-150 USD per day)

Insider Money-Saving Tips

Exchange strategically: Small amounts at the airport for immediate needs, then find trusted casa owners or local contacts who can help you get better rates. My host Miguel in Centro Habana consistently offers rates 30% better than official exchanges.
Bring euros instead of dollars: The Cuban government imposes a 10% penalty on USD exchanges which doesn’t apply to other currencies. I’ve saved hundreds by bringing euros over the years.
Use MLC cards if staying long-term: For stays over a month, consider having a Cuban friend help you obtain an MLC card (Moneda Libremente Convertible), which can be loaded with foreign currency and used at many stores.

A lesson learned the hard way: During my 2022 trip, I ran out of cash and spent an entire day tracking down a functioning ATM that would accept my European card, ultimately finding only one near Hotel Nacional that worked. Now I bring cash in multiple denominations and currencies as a safety net.

Accommodation Options

Where you stay significantly impacts your Cuban experience. The good news is that options have expanded considerably since my first visit.

Casas Particulares: The Authentic Choice

Casas particulares are private homes where Cubans rent rooms to travelers. They range from simple spare rooms to luxurious colonial mansions and offer the most authentic way to experience Cuban hospitality. Benefits include:

Direct financial support to Cuban families
Insider advice and assistance with local arrangements
Home-cooked breakfast (usually 5-10 CUC extra but worth it)
Personal connections that often become the highlight of your trip

Prices typically range from $25-45 USD per night for standard rooms, with luxury options in Old Havana or Vedado reaching $70-100 USD.

My favorite casas include:

Havana: Casa de Carlos y Lily in Vedado (beautiful 1920s mansion with rooftop views)
Trinidad: Casa Colonial Torrado 1830 (colonial house with central courtyard)
Viñales: Villa Cristal (panoramic valley views and amazing organic meals)

You can book many casas in advance through Airbnb, Homestay.com, or directly via email if you have recommendations, though expect slow responses due to limited internet.

Hotels: From State-Run to Boutique

Cuban hotels fall into several categories:

Type	Pros	Cons	Price Range (2025)
Historic Hotels (Hotel Nacional, Inglaterra)	Architectural beauty, historic significance	Often overpriced, variable service	$150-350 USD/night
International Chains (Iberostar, Meliá)	Reliable standards, amenities	Isolated from authentic Cuba	$120-250 USD/night
New Boutique Hotels	Character, personalized service	Limited availability, need advance booking	$100-200 USD/night
All-Inclusive Resorts (Varadero, Cayo Coco)	Beach access, convenience	Cultural isolation, variable food quality	$180-400 USD/night

I stayed at the famous Hotel Nacional on my first visit and while it was certainly glamorous to sip mojitos where famous mobsters once gathered, I’ve found the casas particulares offer far better value and authenticity.

Sustainability Tip That Saves Money

Water conservation is critical in Cuba, where infrastructure struggles to meet demand. Most casas provide just one small bottle of water per day. I bring a portable water filter (like LifeStraw) which has saved me over $100 per trip on bottled water while preventing dozens of plastic bottles from entering Cuba’s waste stream. This is especially important in smaller towns where recycling is limited.

Getting Around Cuba

Transportation in Cuba requires patience and flexibility, but the journey is often as memorable as the destination.

Inter-City Transportation

Viazul Buses

The Viazul bus network connects major tourist destinations and remains the most economical option for travelers. As of 2025:

Havana to Viñales: 12-14 CUC, 4 hours
Havana to Trinidad: 25-30 CUC, 6 hours
Havana to Varadero: 10-12 CUC, 3 hours

Practical tips:

Book tickets at least one day in advance during high season (December-April)
Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure
Buses now have reasonably reliable WiFi for purchase (5 CUC for the journey)
Bring a sweater as air conditioning is usually set to arctic levels

Shared Taxis (Colectivos)

These are large American cars from the 1950s that run set routes between cities, carrying 4-6 passengers. Benefits include:

Faster than buses (drivers don’t make extended stops)
More departure times and flexible pickup locations
Direct door-to-door service in some cases
Cultural experience riding in classic cars

Expect to pay 10-20% more than the bus fare. Your casa host can usually arrange these with trusted drivers.

“¡Vamos rápido!” (Let’s go fast!) was the only warning from my colectivo driver before we sped from Havana to Trinidad in an ancient Chevy Bel Air, overtaking trucks on blind curves while merengue blasted from speakers held together with tape. Terrifying but somehow we arrived safely in record time!

Domestic Flights

Cubana de Aviación offers domestic flights connecting Havana with Santiago de Cuba, Holguín, and other distant points. These save significant time for longer journeys but face frequent delays and cancellations. In 2025, one-way fares range from $100-180 USD.

Local Transportation

Classic Car Taxis

The iconic vintage American cars serve as both tourist attractions and practical transportation. For local trips within cities:

Official tourist taxis: Yellow cabs with meters, though drivers prefer negotiated fares. Starting price around 10 CUC within central Havana.
Classic car tours: 30-50 CUC per hour for guided tours in restored vintage cars.
Local shared routes: Some vintage cars run fixed routes within cities for about 0.50 CUC per person.

Always negotiate the fare before entering the taxi and be specific about your destination.

Bicitaxis and Cocotaxis

In city centers, these pedal-powered or motorized rickshaws provide a fun way to navigate narrow streets:

Bicitaxis: Human-powered tricycles with passenger seats (2-4 CUC for short trips)
Cocotaxis: Small yellow three-wheeled vehicles resembling coconuts (5-8 CUC for short trips)

These are particularly useful in Old Havana where streets are too narrow for cars.

Local Buses

For the adventurous traveler, local buses (called “guaguas”) cost mere pennies but are extremely crowded and rarely used by tourists. I’ve used them occasionally in Havana when traveling with Cuban friends, but they require local knowledge to navigate effectively.

Insider Money-Saving Tip

For travelers staying 5+ days in one city, negotiate a deal with a single taxi driver for all your transportation needs. After using the same driver (Jorge) for three days in Havana, I negotiated a 30% discount on all subsequent rides. He was delighted to have guaranteed work, and I saved approximately $70 over a week while building a friendship that continues today.

Food and Dining: From Paladares to Street Food

Cuban cuisine has come a long way since my first visit, when finding a decent meal was genuinely challenging. The growth of private restaurants has revolutionized the dining scene.

Paladares: Private Restaurants

These privately-owned restaurants range from simple family operations to sophisticated dining experiences. Some standouts include:

La Guarida (website) – Havana’s most famous paladar, set in a crumbling mansion where the film “Strawberry and Chocolate” was filmed. Make reservations weeks in advance.
El Café (Facebook) – Excellent breakfast and brunch in Old Havana with actual espresso (a rarity in Cuba).
Doña Eutimia – Near Plaza de la Catedral, serving traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and picadillo.

Expect to pay 10-25 CUC per person for a meal with drinks at most paladares, with high-end establishments charging 30-50 CUC. Still a bargain compared to similar quality in most countries.

Casa Meals

One of the best dining secrets in Cuba is eating at your casa particular. For 8-12 CUC, many hosts prepare home-cooked feasts that outshine restaurant offerings. My best meals in Cuba have consistently been at casas, particularly in:

Viñales: Farm-to-table organic meals using ingredients grown on-site
Baracoa: Seafood prepared with coconut sauce (enchilado de mariscos)
Trinidad: Slow-cooked pork and root vegetables

Just let your host know in the morning if you’d like dinner that evening.

Street Food

For budget travelers, street vendors offer inexpensive options:

Pizza stands: 1-2 CUC for a personal pizza (quality varies wildly)
Sandwich carts: 1-3 CUC for ham and cheese pressed sandwiches
Fruit vendors: Fresh mango, pineapple, and guava for under 1 CUC
Ice cream at Coppelia: The famous ice cream institution where locals line up for scoops costing pennies (foreigners pay more but can skip the line)

Food Phrases and Local Terms

A few useful Spanish phrases for dining:

“La cuenta, por favor” – The bill, please
“¿Qué me recomienda?” – What do you recommend?
“Sin picante” – Without spice (Cuban food is generally not spicy)
“Estoy lleno/a” – I’m full

Cuban-specific food terms:

Ropa vieja: Shredded beef in tomato sauce (the national dish)
Congrí: Rice and black beans cooked together
Moros y cristianos: Rice and black beans served separately
Tostones: Twice-fried plantain slices

One of my favorite sensory memories of Cuba is the smell of strong coffee brewing in casas particulares each morning, often served with a slice of sweet guava paste alongside. The coffee is served sweetened by default, so specify “sin azúcar” if you prefer it unsweetened.

Internet and Communication

The internet situation in Cuba has transformed dramatically since my first visit, when finding any connection was nearly impossible. While still not seamless, staying connected is now feasible.

ETECSA and WiFi Cards

Internet in Cuba is primarily provided through the state telecom company ETECSA. As of 2025:

Standard WiFi cards cost 1-2 CUC per hour
Cards can be purchased at ETECSA offices, major hotels, and some convenience stores
Lines at ETECSA offices can be very long – go early in the morning
Cards are often sold unofficially for a small markup (3-4 CUC) in WiFi parks

Where to Connect

Internet access points include:

WiFi parks: Public squares where you’ll see clusters of people on devices
Hotel lobbies: Most upscale hotels have WiFi (sometimes available to non-guests for purchase)
Casas with WiFi: An increasing number of casas particulares now have their own WiFi routers
Private internet cafes: Emerging in tourist areas, offering better speeds for slightly higher prices

The largest WiFi zones in Havana include the area around Hotel Inglaterra, Parque Fe del Valle, and along the Malecón near Hotel Nacional.

Mobile Data

Since 2018, mobile data has been available in Cuba. In 2025, travelers can:

Purchase a Cuban SIM card (7-10 CUC) at ETECSA offices or the airport
Add data packages ranging from 2-25 CUC
Use 4G services in major cities and tourist areas

Coverage and speed have improved significantly but remain below international standards. Data packages are still relatively expensive: expect to pay about 10 CUC for 1GB of data.

Communicating with Locals

Cubans primarily use these apps for communication:

WhatsApp: Most popular for text messaging and voice calls
IMO: Video calls with lower data usage
Telegram: Growing in popularity due to better performance on slower connections

Download these before arriving to easily stay in touch with casa hosts and local contacts.

Insider Tip: Internet-Free Travel

One of my favorite money-saving tips is also my favorite way to experience Cuba: embrace being offline. I typically connect once daily to check important messages, but otherwise stay disconnected. This not only saves money but leads to more authentic interactions, spontaneous conversations with locals, and a mental break that’s increasingly rare in our connected world.

Safety and Health Considerations

Cuba remains one of the safest countries for travelers in Latin America, with violent crime against tourists extremely rare. However, there are still important considerations for a trouble-free visit.

Common Safety Concerns

Petty Theft

While violent crime is rare, opportunistic theft can occur in tourist areas. Protect yourself by:

Using a money belt for passports and larger cash amounts
Keeping only needed daily cash in your pocket/purse
Being especially vigilant in crowded areas like markets and festivals
Not leaving valuables unattended on beaches

Tourist Scams

Common scams to be aware of:

Cigar scams: “Special factory sales” or “my family works in the factory” approaches usually result in counterfeit cigars
Fake CUCs: Always check your change, especially in poorly lit areas
Overcharging: Confirm prices before ordering in restaurants without menus
“Friendly” guides: Be wary of overly friendly locals offering to show you around, then demanding payment

On my third visit, I was approached by a friendly man in Centro Habana claiming to be a teacher who wanted to practice English. This led to a bar where I was pressured to buy overpriced drinks. I now politely but firmly decline such invitations unless they come through trusted connections.

Healthcare and Medications

Cuba has an excellent healthcare system, but certain preparations are advisable:

Bring all prescription medications in original packaging with sufficient supply
Pack a basic first aid kit including over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, and antihistamines
Consider water purification tablets or filters as tap water is not safe to drink
Bring high-SPF sunscreen as it’s expensive and limited in Cuba
Use mosquito repellent, especially during dawn and dusk hours

For medical emergencies, international clinics (Clínicas Internacionales) in major cities cater to foreigners and accept travel insurance. Your casa host can usually direct you to the nearest one if needed.

Drinking Water Safety

Tap water in Cuba should not be consumed. Safe options include:

Bottled water (1-2 CUC per 1.5L bottle)
Boiled water (many casas provide this)
Water purification systems (tablets, filters, or UV purifiers you bring)
Sealed canned or bottled beverages

Ice in tourist establishments is generally made from purified water, but when in doubt, ask or decline.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

Understanding Cuba’s unique social customs enhances your experience and shows respect for local culture.

Social Interactions

Cubans are generally warm, expressive, and social. Some cultural norms to be aware of:

Greetings typically include a handshake and sometimes a kiss on the cheek between women or close friends
Personal space is less rigid than in North America or Northern Europe
Direct eye contact is appreciated during conversations
Casual conversation often includes personal questions that might seem intrusive to foreigners

Learning basic Spanish phrases goes a long way in building goodwill. Cubans appreciate visitors who make an effort, even if your Spanish is limited.

Tipping Practices

Tipping in Cuba is expected in the tourism industry, where service workers rely heavily on tips to supplement low state salaries. Current guidelines:

Service	Suggested Tip
Restaurant servers	10-15% of bill
Bartenders	1 CUC per drink or 10% of tab
Taxi drivers	Round up fare or 10% for longer journeys
Hotel housekeeping	1-2 CUC per day
Museum guides	2-5 CUC depending on tour length
Bathroom attendants	0.25-0.50 CUC
Musicians/performers	1-2 CUC when they play at your table

Photography Etiquette

Cuba is incredibly photogenic, but respectful photography is important:

Always ask permission before photographing individuals
Some people may request a small tip (1 CUC) for photos, especially costumed performers
Avoid photographing military installations, police, or government buildings
Be sensitive when photographing dilapidated buildings where people live

Bringing Gifts

Many travelers want to bring items for Cubans due to shortages of consumer goods. While appreciated, this should be done thoughtfully:

Focus on practical items rather than trinkets: over-the-counter medications, school supplies, hygiene products
Bring specific items for people you’ll actually meet (casa hosts, guides) rather than random distribution
Athletic equipment (baseballs, gloves) is always appreciated due to Cuba’s sports culture
Give discreetly and without condescension

Key Spanish Phrases with Cuban Twists

Some uniquely Cuban expressions:

“¿Qué bolá?” – What’s up? (Cuban version of “¿Qué tal?”)
“Asere” – Friend/buddy (used frequently among men)
“Yuma” – Foreigner (especially American)
“Resolver” – To figure things out/make do (a crucial concept in Cuban daily life)

During my visit in April 2024, I was invited to a family birthday celebration by my casa hosts in Trinidad. I brought a simple gift (a bottle of rum and some coffee from Havana), but was overwhelmed by their generosity in return. These unexpected moments of connection are what make travel to Cuba so special despite the logistical challenges.

Sustainable Travel Practices

Cuba faces unique environmental and social challenges that responsible travelers should consider.

Environmental Considerations

Cuba’s limited infrastructure creates environmental pressures that travelers can help mitigate:

Water conservation: Take short showers as water shortages are common (this also saves your casa hosts money on water bills)
Waste reduction: Bring a reusable water bottle and filter instead of buying plastic bottles
Responsible beach use: Use reef-safe sunscreen at beach destinations like Varadero and María la Gorda where coral reefs are vulnerable
Protected areas: Stay on marked trails when hiking in areas like Viñales Valley and Topes de Collantes

Economic Sustainability

How you spend your money significantly impacts Cuban communities:

Stay in casas particulares instead of government hotels
Eat at paladares (private restaurants) rather than state establishments
Use private guides for tours rather than large tour agencies
Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans at studios or markets
Take dance or cooking lessons from private teachers

Cultural Preservation

Tourism can both support and threaten cultural authenticity:

Seek out authentic cultural experiences beyond tourist shows
Visit community art projects like Fusterlandia or Callejón de Hamel
Attend performances at venues where locals go, not just tourist cabarets
Support traditional crafts and music by purchasing directly from practitioners

Money-Saving Sustainability Tip

One of my favorite sustainable travel practices that also saves money is arranging shared transportation between cities. By coordinating with other travelers at your casa, you can fill a colectivo taxi and split the cost. This reduces per-person carbon emissions while saving 30-40% compared to taking separate taxis. I’ve met some of my favorite travel companions this way!

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Cuban Adventure

After a decade of traveling to Cuba through its many evolutions, I’ve found that the most rewarding experiences come not from perfect planning but from flexibility, openness, and genuine connection with Cubans themselves. The country’s contradictions and challenges are part of what makes it such a fascinating destination.

5-Step Action Plan for Your 2025 Cuba Trip

Secure your documentation: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months, obtain your tourist card/visa, print proof of health insurance, and prepare your travel affidavit if you’re American.
Book key accommodations in advance: Reserve casas particulares for at least your first two nights in Havana and any stays during peak holiday periods, but leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous discoveries.
Prepare financially: Bring more cash than you think you’ll need (in euros or Canadian dollars if possible), inform your bank of travel dates, and download offline maps and translation apps before arrival.
Pack thoughtfully: Include items difficult to find in Cuba (medications, specific toiletries, water purification), appropriate clothing for both hot days and occasionally cool evenings, and gifts if you’re staying with hosts.
Connect with Cuba beyond tourism: Schedule at least one activity that takes you beyond the tourist trail—a baseball game, a community art project, a cooking class with a local family, or volunteering through ethical organizations.

Remember that Cuba rewards travelers who approach it with patience, humor, and genuine curiosity. The logistics may occasionally be frustrating, but the warmth of Cuban hospitality and the richness of the culture make every challenge worthwhile.

In my twelve visits, I’ve watched Cuba change dramatically yet somehow remain essentially the same at its core—resilient, creative, and profoundly human. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I hope this cheat sheet helps you navigate the practicalities so you can focus on the experiences that make Cuba truly unforgettable.

¡Buen viaje y hasta pronto!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal for Americans to travel to Cuba in 2025?

Yes, Americans can legally travel to Cuba under one of 12 authorized categories, with “Support for the Cuban People” being the most commonly used for independent travelers. This requires maintaining a full-time schedule of activities that support private Cuban businesses and meaningful interaction with Cuban people. You’ll need to keep records of your activities for five years after your return.

How much cash should I bring to Cuba?

I recommend budgeting $100-150 USD per person per day for mid-range travel, plus an extra $200-300 emergency reserve. This covers accommodation ($30-50), meals ($30-40), transportation ($15-25), activities ($15-25), and incidentals. If you’re planning luxury experiences or significant shopping, adjust accordingly. Remember that US credit/debit cards don’t work in Cuba, and other foreign cards often encounter problems.

Is Cuba safe for solo female travelers?

Cuba is generally very safe for solo female travelers compared to many destinations. Violent crime is rare, though catcalling and verbal attention are common. Exercise normal precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night, being careful with alcohol consumption, and trusting your instincts. Many solo female travelers find staying in casas particulares provides an extra layer of security through local connections and advice.

What’s the best time of year to visit Cuba?

The ideal time to visit Cuba is during the dry season from November to April, with December to March being especially pleasant with temperatures around 75-85°F (24-29°C). May to October is hotter, more humid, and has higher rainfall, with hurricane season peaking in September-October. Budget travelers should note that prices peak during Christmas/New Year and Easter weeks when European and Canadian tourists visit in larger numbers.

How reliable is internet access in Cuba now?

As of 2025, internet access has improved significantly but remains limited compared to most countries. WiFi is available in designated public parks, hotels, and increasingly in private accommodations. Mobile data is available throughout most tourist areas. Expect to pay about 1-2 CUC per hour for WiFi and around 10 CUC for 1GB of mobile data. Service can be slow and inconsistent, especially during peak hours and bad weather.

Do I need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

While you can navigate major tourist areas with English alone, even basic Spanish significantly enriches your experience and opens doors to authentic interactions. English proficiency varies widely, with younger Cubans and those in tourism generally speaking more English. I recommend learning at least basic greetings, numbers, food terms, and transportation vocabulary. Translation apps that work offline can also be helpful for more complex communications.

What are the must-visit destinations beyond Havana?

While Havana deserves at least 3-4 days, Cuba offers diverse experiences beyond the capital. Top destinations include: Trinidad (colonial architecture and nearby beaches), Viñales (stunning valley landscapes and tobacco farms), Baracoa (remote mountain and coastal scenery with unique cuisine), Cienfuegos (French-influenced architecture along a beautiful bay), and Santiago de Cuba (Afro-Cuban culture and revolutionary history). For beach lovers, Varadero offers the most developed resort experience, while Cayo Largo and Cayo Coco provide more secluded options.

How strictly should I follow my itinerary in Cuba?

Cuba rewards flexible travelers. While having accommodation booked for at least your first few nights is wise, maintaining a flexible itinerary allows you to adjust to opportunities that arise and transportation realities. Many of my most memorable experiences came from last-minute invitations or recommendations from casa hosts. If you’re American traveling under “Support for the Cuban People,” you need a full itinerary of activities, but you can adjust specific timing as needed.