Cuba tours & holidays
Cuba is a country filled with colour, charisma and contagious smiles
Cuba isn't just a destination – it’s an experience. Sway to the sound of salsa in Havana, roll with the scent of hand-pressed cigars in Vinales and learn how Che Guevara became a famous revolutionist at his mausoleum. You won’t just visit; you’ll connect – sharing stories with tobacco farmers, artists and historians, stepping into private homes and seeing a side of Cuba most travellers miss.
Travel with Intrepid and your journey directly supports the Cuban people, their businesses and their future. While Cuba’s infrastructure can be unpredictable, with scheduled power cuts common, most guesthouses and hotels have generators to keep things running. You’ll be in good hands with a local leader by your side – because who better to show you Cuba than the Cubans themselves?
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Cuba at a glance
CAPITAL CITY
Havana (population 2.1 million)
POPULATION
11.3 million
CURRENCY
Cuban Peso (CUP)
LANGUAGE
Spanish
TIME ZONE
(GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco
CALLING CODE
+53
ELECTRICITY
Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)
Learn more about Cuba
Best time to visit Cuba
Cuba’s subtropical climate makes it a pleasant place to explore year-round but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. These months see warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, with January-March as ideal times for climbing, hiking, chasing waterfalls and cycling through pastures, cities and beach towns. Lots of sunshine does mean lots of people, so don’t expect to be the only tourist on Playa Ancon during these months.
The wet season runs from May to October, but downpours are short and shouldn’t drastically impede travel plans. Tropical storms are more prevalent in September and October, but mornings are usually hot and sunny, so you can get the bulk of your exploring in early. If you aren’t scared of some rain, the wet season can be a great time to visit and have the landmarks and cities mostly to yourself and the locals. Plus, afternoon showers keep the island’s forests lush and green, a photographer’s dream.
History and culture
Cuba’s history is complex – shaped by indigenous roots, colonization, revolution and resilience. Once home to the Guanahatabey, Ciboney and Taino peoples, the island was claimed by Spain in 1492 and remained under colonial rule for centuries, its economy thriving on sugar, coffee and tobacco plantations. After the Spanish-American War in 1898 and a brief control by the US, Cuba gained its independence but endured decades of corrupt leadership – until Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution transformed it into a communist state. Since then, Cuba’s relationship with the US has been complex, marked by trade embargoes, political tensions and more recently, small steps toward diplomacy.
Cuba is a developing country that is experiencing economic strains, which means Cubans sometimes go without luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer products not available. Despite these challenges, Cuban culture is unstoppable. A vibrant mix of Spanish, African and Creole influences, it pulses through the streets in the form of Afro-Cuban music, salsa dancing and lively festivals like the Santiago de Cuba Carnival. Art is on the rise, too – ballet, film and contemporary dance are increasing in popularity. This love of life is evident in the street parties, festivals and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year and coffee, cigars and rum flow freely. Life in cities and life in rural areas can be quite different, but the pace of living is consistently Cuban – you're on local time now, so go with the flow.
Eating and drinking
Things to try in Cuba
Ropa vieja
Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain and even in the Philippines. The popular meal is made with slow-cooked pulled beef with bell peppers and onions smothered in a tomato-based sauce and usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans and rice.
Pastelitos
These small pastries can either be sweet or savoury with fillings like cream cheese, guava and beef being the most popular. Think empanadas, Cuban style, and you’ve got a tasty, easy meal on the run.
Cuban sandwich
Also known as a mixto this sandwich has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders and is a popular street food in Cuba. Pork, ham, pickles, cheese and mustard on grilled bread – what's not to like?
Fritura de maiz
These golden, deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are a Cuban street food favourite – and for good reason. Crispy on the outside, soft and savoury on the inside, they’re the perfect snack or appetizer – who doesn’t love a hand-held fried snack?
Moros y cristianos
‘Rice and beans’ is not just rice and beans. In this dish, black beans and white rice are added to a base of peppers, garlic and onion and simmered with herbs, creating a flavourful addition to any meal and served up at virtually every Cuban restaurant you’ll come across.
Tostones
Feeling a bit peckish and need a snack on the go? Seek out some tostones; these twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin American countries and are a super easy and yummy snack.
Flan
Flan may be known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert but Cuba has its own spin. It’s made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than other varieties. Get ready for a seriously delicious sugar high.
Coppelia ice cream
Line up with locals to savour a sweet scoop from Coppelia ice cream parlour; This Cuban institution serves tried and true flavours like chocolate and vanilla as well as local favourites like mango and coconut.
Rum
The drink of choice in Cuba, obviously. Savour some Havana Club straight up, have it mixed in a minty mojito or sip on a Cuba Libre – rum, cola and lime.
Coffee
Cuban coffee is of legendary quality, so be sure to get your caffeine hit with a small but rich cup of liquid gold. Drink it like the locals do, as a cafecito or Cafe Cubano. This type of espresso-style coffee is usually sweetened with raw cane sugar and stirred in with the first drips of espresso to get the best result.
Learn more about Cuba’s culinary scene
Geography and environment
As the largest island in the Caribbean, this sun-drenched destination packs a little bit of everything into its borders. Think rolling mountains, white-sand beaches, swaying tobacco fields and lush valleys rich with seasonal fruit and veggies.
Most of Cuba’s landscape is lowlands and flat plains. With more than 20% of the island covered with natural parks, there’s incredible biodiversity within its reefs and rainforests, including the world’s smallest hummingbird.
And then there are the cities – Havana, with its grand old buildings and 1950s cars, feels like stepping into a time capsule. It may be a photographer’s dream as a traveller, but it can make daily life in the city quite difficult for locals. Due to lack of building materials, new housing and infrastructure are rare, making living conditions quite cramped for Cuban city-dwellers. Rural life offers more space and a quieter pace, but reduced access to services.
Top places to visit in Cuba
1. Havana
Step into the living postcard that is Havana, where classic American cars cruise past Art Deco theatres, plazas and sun-faded mansions. Hop in a vintage convertible and roll down the Malecon, soak in the history at Plaza da la Revolucion and wander through Old Havana’s cobbled streets. Cuba’s capital has a lot of charm and a lot to offer.
2. Vinales
Rolling green valleys dotted with limestone outcrops and villages filled with warm, hospitable people – this is one of the most picturesque parts of Cuba. Learn about the tradition of Cuban cigars from a local tobacco farmer then visit a family-run organic farm for a home-cooked meal.
3. Cienfuegos
French charm meets Caribbean soul in Cienfuegos. Stroll down its streets lined with pastel-hued mansions, then wander the waterfront as you ooh and ahh at its architecture. The city’s crown jewel, Palacio del Valle, is a stunning mix of Gothic, Moorish and Baroque styles.
4. Topes de Collantes
A hidden pocket for nature lovers tucked away in the Escambray Mountains near Trinidad, this nature reserve park is home to forest, waterfalls and secret swimming holes waiting to be discovered (don’t worry, your local leader will help you find them).
5. Trinidad
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with culture, nightlife and beaches, and is widely considered the most preserved town in Cuba. Roam around its colourful streets, visit fascinating museums and stop by a family-run pottery workshop to see local craftsmanship in action.
Learn more about things to do in Cuba
Money matters
The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP); however, US Dollars and Euros are now widely accepted and often the preferred payment. Both US Dollars and Euros are often viewed as having the exact same value in Cuba.
Some credit cards are accepted (Visa and Mastercard more widely), although cards linked to US banking institutions won’t be accepted. Debit cards (even Visa debit) rarely work.
We recommend bringing enough USD or Euros in cash to cover your purchases during the trip.
ATMs are sometimes accessible in large cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba but are not guaranteed to work. They are rare and almost non-existent in other parts of Cuba. We recommend bringing multiple cards from different banks and ensuring you have other payment options available in case you cannot access an ATM while travelling.
Speak with your local tour leader before exchanging currency on the street. Since exchange rates are fluid, they can help you find the best rate.
Cuba travel FAQs
Travellers from most nationalities require a ‘Tourist Card’, similar to a tourist visa. These can be obtained through travel agents in your own country or directly from Cuban Embassies and consulates. Depending on your nationality and the airline you are travelling with to Cuba, you may also be able to purchase the tourist card at the airport from the airline the day of your departure.
US citizens are required to obtain an e-visa and travellers from the UK also have an online option. Australians and Canadians still need a tourist card.
We recommend travelling to Cuba via Canada, Europe and South or Central America. Travellers who have been to Cuba are ineligible to participate in the ESTA Visa Waiver Program and must apply for a tourist visa to enter or transit via the United States.
For more information, please visit the Government of Cuba's website or the Essential Trip Information.
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our visa and entry requirements page.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
Leaving a tip for good service is a great idea and welcomed but not mandatory.
There is almost always free entertainment in bars and restaurants; the musicians are usually not paid by the venue, so we encourage you to tip when you have enjoyed the performance.
Tour leaders, restaurant workers, hotel porters, cleaning staff and taxi drivers will appreciate a tip –While you are welcome to tip in Cuban pesos, US dollars or Euros are preferred.
It’s important to carry around small denominations of currency to leave tips during your holiday so you can tip an amount you feel comfortable with. We suggest stocking up on one- and five-dollar bills.
Cuba is generally pretty relaxed about dress code, so casual and comfortable attire is the way to go.
It is a tropical climate, so high temperatures, humidity and cool evenings will be in the mix, so packing lightweight, breathable clothing while also having a light jacket or sweater is recommended. Think cotton linen shirts, shorts, dresses, a pair of pants or two, comfortable walking shoes and definitely a rain jacket (just in case).
Since scheduled power cuts are common, we recommend bringing a couple things to ensure your comfort: rechargeable personal fan, power bank and flashlight/head lamp.
It’s not recommended to drink water from the tap in Cuba. We recommend filling a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water – your group leader will provide larger and less disposable water containers for refills on private transport days when they have the resources available.
It’s also best to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.
Internet access isn’t widespread throughout Cuba but availability is improving. The internet can sometimes be accessed from government departments and larger hotels, and main squares in many cities now have wi-Fi accessibility.
You will need to purchase an internet card from certain hotels and outlets to gain access in many locations, including public areas. Please note that although connectivity is improving, the connection may still be slow, some websites may be censored and the cost is typically quite high.
Occasionally a guesthouse will have wi-fi that does not require purchasing an internet card but accommodation is not guaranteed to have wi-fi.
Whether your phone will work or not in Cuba depends on what type of phone and carrier you have. Before leaving your home country, ensure roaming is activated with your provider but be aware that your phone may not get reception due to Cuba having the lowest mobile phone network penetration in Latin America. There may be some casas and tourist restaurants that have wi-fi but be prepared to be disconnected at times.
If you intend to activate global roaming, be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive. You also have the option to pre-arrange a local SIM card to have wireless and data while in Cuba.
Free public toilets are rare in Cuba but western-style flushable toilets are available in hotels, bars and restaurants. If you do find a public toilet, you will typically be asked to pay a small fee. Bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer is recommended because they aren’t always provided.
Due to import restrictions, toilet seats can be considered a luxury and may be missing from some facilities.
Cuba has made some significant steps in recent years to ensure LGBTQIA+ rights in the country. Homosexuality is legal and accepted in Cuba, and there are some anti-discrimination laws in place for employment, service provisions and gender identity. However, same-sex marriage recognition is still pending, and stigma still remains in some parts of society, especially in rural areas.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.
Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone.
We recommend discussing your travel plans with your doctor well before your trip to Cuba. Many travellers choose to consult their doctors about preventative health measures, including whether a prescription for antibiotics might be appropriate. Medicines and treatments are available at the international clinics for foreigners but not at the small local clinics – medication is available, not guaranteed and very expensive.
Tip: Take a full medical kit with you and leave it behind when you go: antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, allergies, gastro, bandages, creams, etc. That way, you have it if you need it and then you can leave it for the locals.
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
World Bicycle Relief
World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most.
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.
As Cuba has not had the same infrastructure development as other countries, you may find some mobility challenges when travelling. Havana’s streets are often crowded, and sidewalks can at times be rugged or even nonexistent. This is the same with other cities and towns around the country. Also, a lot of public transportation isn’t geared toward travellers who use a wheelchair, so private travel may be the only option to get around.
If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.