Cuba essential info
Travel in Cuba and experience crumbling Cuban cool, coloured by 500 years of rollercoaster history
Travel in Cuba vital stats
- Capital of Cuba: Havana
- Population of Cuba: 11.4 million
- Languages in Cuba: Spanish
- Time in Cuba: GMT-5 (GMT+4 Mar-Oct)
- International dialling code in Cuba: +53
- Voltage in Cuba: 110 V, 60 HZ
- Visas for Cuba: Cuba visa
- Money in Cuba: Cuban peso (CUP) and Convertible peso (CUC$). Most tourist transactions are conducted in convertible pesos (hotels, hire cars etc); Cuban pesos are used more by locals. The best foreign currency to bring is euros. Cash is better than relying on credit cards/ATMs. Tipping is important – wages are low.
- Cuba travel advice: Foreign & Commonwealth Office
- Cuba tourist board: Cuba Tourist Board
When to go to Cuba
Cuba is best visited, though most expensive, from December to April: at this time the temperatures are hot but not scorching (an average of around 25°C in Havana) and the storms have abated – Cuba’s hurricane season runs roughly from June to November. May onwards can be sticky and uncomfortable, with temperatures over 30°C. Santiago de Cuba’s Carnival (July) is worth braving the heat for.
Cuba international airports
Jose Marti International (HAV) 15km from Havana
Getting around in Cuba
Domestic flights link Cuba’s main hubs. Viazul buses are comfy and air-conditioned, and zip between Cuba’s key sites, so are useful for travellers; tickets are priced in convertible pesos. Hiring a car offers flexibility but can be a challenge – there are few signs, minor roads can be in bad condition and you’ll be sharing the roads with ox carts and farm animals. Many locals get round by bike, and hiring one is an excellent way to get around – there are plenty of bike lanes, and it’s a great way to interact with the people.
Cuba accommodation
Casas particulares are the best accommodation option in Cuba. These are private rooms in local houses, available all over Cuba and recognisable by a blue ‘Arrendador Divisa’ sign outside. There are strictly regulated by the government and vary enormously in standard, but are a great way to meet local Cubans. Many offer meals for an extra charge.
There are plenty of hotels in Cuba, ranging in price and quality. Cheaper, government-owned hotels can be a little austere. There are big resorts on the Cuban coast. There are also some fabulous heritage hotels in Old Havana, where you can stay in renovated mansions.
Cuba food & drink
Cuba isn’t renowned for its cuisine. Meals can be a little bland and unadventurous, often involving fried chicken, breaded pork, tinned beans or limp sandwiches. Creole flavours are common in Cuba – expect rice and beans, with pork.
Fish is usually locally caught; popular types include lobster, shrimp and sometimes snapper. Ice cream comes in countless flavours. Many restaurants are government owned. Look out for private paladares, small, family-run eateries.
Vegetarians will probably end up eating a lot of omelettes, or picking meat chunks out of soups. Casava and squashes, often served in a garlicky sauce called mojo, are another option.
Rum is Cuba’s alcoholic beverage of choice. Havana Club is the big brand, served straight or in cocktail form – minty mojitos, Cuba Libres and daquiris. Cristal and Bucanero are the main beer brands. Coffee is a big deal, served black and strong. Avoid the tap water.
Health & safety in Cuba
Drink purified water. Bring high-factor sunscreen and a hat. Make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations – seek advise from your GP before travelling. Wear repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites. You will need to pay, probably in cash, for any healthcare you require while in Cuba – make sure you have adequate travel insurance.