Cuba - Travel Guide

For a trip to Cuba, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for the tropical climate. If traveling during the rainy season from May to October, bring a light rain jacket or compact umbrella. A thin extra layer is also useful during the cooler months or on air-conditioned buses. Practical essentials include insect repellent, prescription medicines, basic first-aid supplies, stomach remedies, tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer, as some medicines and everyday toiletries may be difficult to find locally. Power outages and internet disruptions can occur, so bring a power bank, a small flashlight, spare charging cables, and offline maps and Spanish translation tools downloaded before departure. Cuba commonly uses Type A and Type B power outlets, and electricity may be supplied at either 110V or 220V, so check your accommodation and device specifications before packing a plug adapter or voltage converter. Most importantly, bring enough cash to cover your entire trip and unexpected expenses, and confirm payment arrangements with your hotel, transport providers, and tour operators in advance. Do not assume that international bank cards or ATMs will always work. Keep your passport, visa or entry documents, travel insurance details, and important booking confirmations accessible, with both digital and paper backups.

Cuba’s official currency is the Cuban peso (CUP). However, travelers should plan their cash budget carefully, as the local payment system differs from that of many other popular destinations. International bank cards and ATM withdrawals cannot be relied upon. According to UK government travel advice current as of October 2026, Cuba has stopped accepting international cards such as Visa and Mastercard, so visitors should bring enough cash to cover their entire trip and unexpected expenses. US dollars and euros are generally convenient currencies to bring and may be exchanged at airports, banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices. However, exchange services and opening hours may be affected by electricity and banking disruptions.Before departure, confirm payment arrangements directly with your accommodation, local tour operator, car rental company, and activity providers, including whether accommodation and tour costs must be paid in foreign-currency cash. Bring clean, undamaged banknotes and a supply of smaller denominations for taxis, small purchases, and tips. Do not assume that every business accepts foreign currency, and avoid exchanging money on the street or through unauthorized channels. Always check the exchange rate and the amount you will receive. Since Cuban pesos are generally not exchangeable outside Cuba, avoid having a large amount of CUP left over when you leave. As currency rules and payment services can change, check the latest official guidance shortly before your trip.

Cuba’s main international gateway is José Martí International Airport (HAV) in Havana, making it a convenient arrival point for travelers visiting the capital and western Cuba. Other important international airports include Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport (VRA), near Varadero; Antonio Maceo International Airport (SCU) in Santiago de Cuba; and Frank País International Airport (HOG) in Holguín, which provide access to eastern Cuba and its beach destinations. International routes vary by season and airline, so check current flight availability before booking. For travel within Cuba, visitors can choose from intercity buses, taxis, private transfers, rental cars, and domestic flights. Viazul buses connect major tourist destinations such as Havana, Trinidad, and Varadero, offering a practical option for budget-conscious travelers, although schedules and seats should be checked and booked in advance. Taxis and private transfers are convenient for airport journeys, travelers with luggage, and flexible itineraries; confirm fares and payment arrangements before departure. Renting a car offers more independence, but vehicle availability and fuel supplies should be checked ahead of time. Trains serve some routes, but services can be slow or delayed, making them less suitable for tight schedules. Fuel shortages, electricity disruptions, and transport limitations may affect journeys, so allow extra time for connections, arrange important transfers in advance, and reconfirm transport services shortly before traveling.

When traveling in Cuba, respect local customs and cultural practices, dress appropriately when visiting churches and religious sites, and ask permission before photographing local residents. Avoid photographing military facilities, police, airport security areas, or other sensitive locations. Do not exchange money on the street, buy cigars from unverified sellers, or automatically trust strangers who approach you with offers of currency exchange, tours, or shopping assistance. Keep cash, your passport, and your phone secure in crowded markets, tourist areas, and public transport, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night. Cuba’s commonly used emergency numbers are police: 106; fire service: 105; ambulance: 104; and rescue services: 107. Ambulance services may be limited or slow to respond, so in a serious emergency, also contact your accommodation, tour provider, or travel insurer for assistance.

Cuba commonly uses Type A and Type B power outlets, with two flat pins or two flat pins and a grounding pin. Some hotels and accommodations may also provide Type C and other round-pin sockets. The standard supply is generally 110V at 60Hz, although 220V outlets are also available in some hotels and resorts. Outlet types and voltage can therefore vary between properties. Bring a universal travel adapter and check both the socket and your device’s voltage requirements before plugging anything in.