Frequently asked questions

Do I need a passport?
Yes, regardless of your nationality, you'll need a passport (and one that is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Cuba).

Do I need a visa?
Yes, apply for a visa at the Cuban Embassy in your country. If you are a US citizen entering via Canada, Mexico or the Bahamas, travel agencies in these countries can provide tourist cards and if you're entering via Cancun, tourist cards are available at the Cancun Airport.

Do the Cuban officials stamp US Passports?
Cuban Immigration do NOT stamp American passports. However, if you have an American passport, in lieu of stamping your passport, they will stamp a separate document, which you then carry with your passport for the duration of your stay. Another option is to bring a birth certificate in addition to your passport. In the rare and off-chance possibility that your passport is stamped, you can use your birth certificate for re-entry to the US (if you entered via Mexico).

Are some Americans allowed to travel to Cuba?
Only Americans married to a Cuban or people who are there for educationally or humanitarian purpose and journalists can apply for permission from the US Government.

Do I need advance hotel reservations when entering Cuba?
Yes, when entering the country, Cuban officials will often ask at which hotel you're staying. If you don't have a voucher, email or some sort of printout with the hotel name and address (or name/address of the casa particular), they'll insist that you book a 3-night stay at the hotel of their picking (often moderate to expensive choices). The safest bet is to have your accommodations arranged prior to your arrival.

Is there a departure tax?
Yes, be sure to save 25 US dollars, as everyone departing Cuba must pay this departure tax (US currency).

What's the currency situation?
The currency for tourists is US dollars. Most credit cards and travellers checks are accepted. Banks in the larger cities offer cash advances from credit cards. If you are American, travellers checks and credit cards drawn on US banks are not honoured. 

What are my transportation options once in Cuba?
Taxis are cheap and there are lots of them in a variety of shapes and sizes. Private taxis can be found to, but remember to agree on the price before beginning. 

Buses are very cheap but they're usually very crowded and never on time. It is a great way to travel the Cuban way.

Trains leave regularly from Havana, and goes to almost every big city in Cuba, Matanzas, Santa Clara, Guayos, Ciego de Avila, Camaguey, Las Tunas, Cacocum, Santiago de Cuba, Bayamo, Manzanillo, Guantanamo, Baracoa, Holguin, Antilla, Cienfuegos and Pinar del Rio.

Rent of cars is a good option but a bit expensive, For Havana there is no need to rent a car, but for longer trip it is a good idea.

There are four international airports in Cuba: Havana, Varadero, Holguin and Camaguey. There are also many smaller airports. Departing from Havana, regularly scheduled are flights to Santiago, Holguin, Camaguey, Bayamo, Manzanillo, Guantanamo and Las Tunas.

Airlines flying to Cuba are: British Airways, Air France, Aeroflot, AeroMexico, Aeropostal, Condor, Cubana de Aviacion, Iberia, LTU, Ladeco, Mexicana, Taag and Viasa. Also, there are charter airlines operated by tour operators.

Is Cuba safe?
Yes Cuba is one of the safest places in the world for the traveler, violent crime is almost unheard of in Cuba. Off course normal precautions are to be taken and don't carry more then you need, in crowded areas keep an eye on your bags, pockets. 

Private home's / Casa particulars?
Casa particulars are homes in private houses. This is a good and cheap option to hotels, and the landlords are always very friendly. Just look in private homes.

Can I drink the water?
No, and if you buy a drink, tell them that you want it without ice. Bottled water can be bought everywhere.

Do most Cubans speak English?
No, other then the tourist area, most Cuban speaks very little English, but they are very eager to learn, If you can speak a bit Spanish, you will be able to enjoy the local people more.