Cuba Tours & Vacations
Behind the hum of vintage cars, pastel hues of 16th-century buildings and wafts of cigar smoke, the real Cuba shines bright.
A country caught in a cultural time warp, Cuba is a bright snapshot of the mid-20th century; a true feast for the senses. Watch as Cadillacs roll down the coastal boulevards, walk through traditional tobacco plantations in Vinales and see cigar production in full swing, laze on the shores of the Caribbean on some of the world’s whitest sands, and feel the sultry and spicy vibes of salsa as you dance the night away in Havana. With all of this on offer in one of the world’s best climates, what’s stopping you from checking out Cuba’s kaleidoscope of colour and charisma?
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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
Culture and customs
With Spanish, African and Creole influences, modern Cuba is home to so many cultural components – some of which don’t feel super ‘modern’ at all!
You won’t be surprised that Cubans love music and dancing – with everything from Afro-Cuban rhythms to classic melodies filling the air in clubs, bars, restaurants and on street corners. The modern arts are also alive here, with ballet, contemporary dance and film rising in popularity – so much so, Havana is now home to internationally recognized film, literature and music festivals.
Living in a Communist country means Cubans sometimes go without the luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer goods not available. Despite this, events like birthdays, holidays and marriages are celebrated with gusto, with special meals, music and dance featuring. This love of life is also evident in the street parties, festivals and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year. Coffee, cigars and rum flow freely, and people dance to the sound of trumpets and guitars in city streets.
Life in the 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.
History and government
Ancient history
Before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, Cuba was home to Mesoamerican cultures, including the indigenous Guanajatabey and Taino people. The Guanajatabey were hunter-gatherers and fishers, and Taino communities also harvested yuca, cotton and tobacco. Spanish colonialist Bartolome de las Casas estimated that Taino populations in Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th century.
By then, Christopher Columbus had landed in Cuba and claimed the land for Spain, naming it Isla Juana. In 1511, Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded Baracoa, the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, and three years later what’s now known as Havana was built.
20th century
In 1902, after periods under Spanish, British and United States rule and involvement in the Spanish–American war, Cuba got its independence. Despite the economy booming, leaders at this time ruled through corruption and control. This was until revolutionary Fidel Castro led a 9000-strong guerrilla army into Havana in 1959, forcing military dictator Fulgencio Batista to flee. Castro became the leader and his brother, Raul, his deputy. What followed was an attempt by the United States to overthrow Castro’s communist rule at the Bay of Pigs, and tension and trade embargoes following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.
Standing alongside Castro as an equally prominent political figure, Che Guevara (although Argentinean) holds a very important place in Cuban history. A revolutionary, author, doctor and military leader, Guevara played a pivotal role in the guerrilla campaign leading up to the Cuban Revolution and the defence of the Bay of Pigs, as well as in diplomatic relations, up until his death in 1967. It’s impossible not to notice the reverence for Guevara when visiting Cuba, with street art, statues and museums dedicated to the man Cubans simply call ‘El Che’ found all over the country.
Today
In April 2011 Fidel Castro was succeeded as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba by his brother Raul Castro. Cuba’s political relationship with other countries, including its close neighbours, is ever-evolving, with the US recently beginning to ease restrictions on trade, tourism and other industries. But a snapshot of 50 years of isolation remains in the cars, architecture, and culture that is a contemporary Cuban street.
Eating and drinking
Cuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbours, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other nearby destinations. Regardless, there are some Central American favourites that are definitely worth trying.
What to eat in Cuba
Pastelitos
These small pastries can be either sweet or savoury. Cream cheese, guava and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Think empanadas, Cuban style.
Cuban sandwich
Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders. Ham, pork, cheese, mustard and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like?
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 the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans and rice.
Fritura de maiz
These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba. A great choice for vegetarians; throw a couple of these back and you’ll be feeling the Cuban spirit.
Moros y cristianos
Rice and beans are not just rice and beans. 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
If you’re feeling a little bit peckish and are on the go, seek out some tostones. These twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin American countries and are an easy (and often cheap) snack.
Flan
Although flan is known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert, Cuban flan has a slightly different spin. It’s made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than fresh milk 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 exotic favourites like mango and coconut.
What to drink in Cuba
Rum
The tipple of choice in Cuba is rum, 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.
Geography and environment
This island nation sitting in the Caribbean Sea is home to a diverse range of environments: rolling hills to tobacco plantations, beaches and coral reefs to tropical rainforests. With more than 20% of the island covered with natural parks, there's incredible biodiversity, making it a great place for eco-adventures, hiking, snorkelling and diving.
Large cities like Havana evoke a time gone by. Grand buildings dating back to the 1950s exude a fading beauty, which makes for great photographs but can also make daily life quite difficult. Due to a 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. Regardless of where you holiday in Cuba, the people are generally kind and hospitable in both the big cities and small towns.
Shopping
Cuba may not be known for its shopping, but look closely and you’ll find lots of unique souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your holiday. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import some items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws. The United States also has restrictions on the amount of tobacco and alcohol that can be brought back from Cuba.
What to buy
Art
Cuba has a keen appreciation of the fine arts, so it’s not hard to find unique artworks by up-and-coming local artists being sold at galleries and markets. It also makes for a meaningful memento of your time away.
Cigars
The cliche is unsurprisingly true – cigars are everywhere in Cuba. Be sure to buy cigars from authorized sellers, as fakes are common. Purchasing straight from the factory is usually best.
Coffee
Cuban coffee is top quality, so stock up before you leave to enjoy a taste of Cuba in the comfort of your own home. Do check, however, if your country of origin allows plant-based materials to pass through quarantine.
Music
With such a rich musical heritage, Cuba is a great place to pick up a hand-crafted instrument or, if travelling light, a CD or a local artist’s info to add to your playlist.
Do some serious souvenir shopping on our 9 day Premium Cuba tour.
Festivals and events
Havana International Jazz Festival
Local and international artists head to Havana every January to become a part of the happening jazz scene. From the impressive Teatro Nacional de Cuba to the city streets, the sweet sounds of jazz fill the air of Havana for the duration of the festival.
Habanos Cigar Festival
In February, cigar connoisseurs gather to celebrate their love of the best cigar in the world – the Habano. With tastings, visits to plantations and factories, master classes and cigar-rolling contests on offer, this festival will intrigue curious travellers and delight cigar enthusiasts.
Santiago de Cuba Carnival
Watch this historic city come alive in July with street parades full of vibrant costumes, drums and dancing. This epic public celebrations date back to at least the 17th century and are held all around the country, but Santiago de Cuba hosts the biggest, brightest and most traditional of them all.
Public holidays that may impact travel include:
Liberation Day
Victory of the Armed Forces
Anniversary of Jose Marti’s birth
Bay of Pigs Victory
Labour Day
National Revolutionary Festival
Anniversary of Che Guevara’s death
Independence Day
Anniversary of Camila Cienfuegos’s death
Anniversary of Antonio Maceo’s death
Please note dates of Cuba's public holidays may vary.
Similar destinations
Thinking about a trip to Cuba but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already travelled to Central America and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighbouring locations:
Further reading
For inspiring stories to prepare you for your holiday in Cuba, check out these books:
- Our Man in Havana – Graham Greene
- Before Night Falls – Reinaldo Arenas
- Broken Paradise – Cecilia Samartin
- Take Me with You – Carlos Frias
- Adios, Havana – Andrew J Rodriguez
- Blessed by Thunder: Memoir of a Cuban Girlhood – Flor Fernandez Barrios
- Conversations with Cuba – C Peter Ripley
- Havana Fever – Leonardo Padura
- The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love – Oscar Hijuelos
Cuba travel FAQs
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
Cuba's subtropical climate is ideal for exploration, with most places catching the cool trade winds that blow in from the coast, providing pleasant year-round temperatures. June, July and August are usually the hottest months – the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Even in the rainy season, downpours are short and shouldn't impede travel plans. Tropical storms and hurricanes are more prevalent in September and October but rarely cause problems for travellers.
Tourists of most nationalities require a 'Tourist Card' which is similar to a tourist visa. These can be obtained through travel agents in your home country, or directly from Cuban embassies and consulates. Depending on the airline you are travelling with to Cuba, you may also be able to purchase the tourist card at the airport from the airline on the day of your departure – please check with your airline for more information.
If you are a US citizen, American permanent resident, or hold any type of American Visa and are considering travelling to Cuba, please refer to the US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website – travel.state.gov – for the latest advice.
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 Wavier Program and must apply for a tourist visa to enter or transit via the United States.
Remember to check the entry requirements for any destinations you will travel or transit through both to and from Cuba.
The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 14/11/2023
As most Cubans live modest lifestyles, leaving a tip for good service is a great idea and welcomed.
There is almost always free entertainment in bars and restaurants; the musicians and singers 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 small sum – but be sure to tip in Cuban pesos as foreign currency isn’t easily exchanged in Cuba.
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.
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 any location, including in 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.
Your cell phone may or may not work while in Cuba, depending on what type of phone 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.
If you intend to activate global roaming while in Cuba, be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur when using this option, as sometimes this can be expensive.
Public toilets are rare in Cuba, but western-style flushable toilets are available in hotels, bars and restaurants. Bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer is recommended as often these are not provided. Due to import restrictions, toilet seats can be considered a luxury and may be missing from some facilities.
It's not advisable to drink water from the tap in Cuba. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water if you can – 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.
Some credit cards are accepted in Cuba (Visa and Mastercard are usually more widely accepted), although some cards linked to US banking institutions won't be accepted. Debit cards (even Visa debit) generally have problems working. We recommend you bring multiple cards from different banks to be sure you have access to funds. Ensure you also have enough cash and other forms of payment, as credit card facilities may not always be available.
ATMs are accessible in large cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba but are rare and almost non-existent in other parts of Cuba. Ensure you have other payment options available in case you cannot access an ATM while travelling.
Cuba enjoys Caribbean vibes all year round, and sits below the Tropic of Cancer, so you’ll enjoy a tropical climate with north-easterly trade winds that blow year-round.
May to October is usually considered the wet season, with higher maximum temperatures each day (around 32°C) and more sunlight each day, averaging 10 hours. September and October is hurricane season in the region, and this time of year is usually hot and overcast, with a higher chance of rainfall.
November to April is usually the drier season in Cuba, with maximum temperatures sitting around 26°C, and an average of 8 hours of sunlight each day. The winter months are clearer, slightly more humid and more comfortable than summer.
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.
The Cuban National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX) works to support the LGBTQIA+ community in Cuba and hosts rallies to educate and advocate.
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.
Last edited: 14/11/2023
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.
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
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
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.
Eden Reforestation Projects
Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe.
Find out more or make a donation
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.
Find out more or make a donation