Cuba

Travel tips Cuba

Traveling to Cuba is simply amazing. In fact, the country of Cuba is a unique travel destination. A vacation to Cuba is literally a trip back in time. The country is full of colonial heritage, tobacco plantations and iconic cities with colorful vintage cars. Cuba's rich history will leave an indelible impression on you during a tour of Cuba. Enjoy the land of cigars and rum. Meet the friendly locals and spend the night in traditional casa particulars. Relax on the white bounty beaches of Cuba. And don't forget to swing along with the salsa! Travel to Cuba is an absolute must for any lover of culture and adventure. 

The best Cuba vacation deals

Going on vacation to Cuba? You can book the best package tours and vacation deals to this crazy country with these providers!

Take a tour of Cuba

Have you always wanted to take a special round trip through Cuba? With a tailor-made tour of Cuba, put together your ideal itinerary and discover the country exactly the way you want. Discover colonial heritage, iconic tobacco plantations and immerse yourself in daily life in the bustling cities. Dreaming of an adventurous tour of Cuba or a relaxing sun vacation? Whatever your ideal vacation, we are happy to help you create a tailor-made trip to Cuba that's just right for you and your needs.

tailor-made Cuba trip
Cuba travel custom trip

Frequently asked questions about travel to Cuba

Cuba is a diverse country with much to offer, but it is also important to prepare well for your trip. In this section, we answer the most frequently asked questions about traveling through Cuba.

You need a visa for Cuba if you are traveling with a Dutch passport. You can apply for an E-Visum through the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the Consulate General of the Republic of Cuba in The Hague. More information on visa requirements can be found at the State Department website.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to Cuba, but it is recommended to update vaccinations for hepatitis A and DTP. It is also wise to bring a travel pharmacy with you, including medications for diarrhea and painkillers. Always drink water from bottles to avoid health problems.

Note: yellow fever vaccination is required if you come from a high-risk country for yellow fever. Ask the advisor which countries are concerned and what the requirements are with regard to 'transit'. Read more at the GGD website. 

The best time to tour Cuba is between November and April. During these months it is dry season and temperatures are pleasant. From May to October is the rainy season, with more chances of rain and tropical storms.

  • Havana: Cuba's vibrant capital city, full of history, culture and music. Visit the old town, stroll along the famous Malecón and taste the local rum and cigars.

  • Viñales: a picturesque valley famous for its tobacco plantations, unique mountain landscapes and caves. The region offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding and exploring traditional farms.

  • Trinidad: one of Cuba's best-preserved colonial cities, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and a relaxed atmosphere. Here you will find a beautiful historic center that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Cienfuegos: This city is known for its French influence, beautiful architecture and the lively Parque José Martí. It is often called the "Pearl of the South."

  • Cayo Coco: this island is famous for its paradise beaches, resorts and the opportunity to snorkel and dive in the clear waters.

  • Baracoa: the first Spanish settlement in Cuba and a remote, tropical destination with rain forests, waterfalls and an authentic Cuban atmosphere.

  • Santiago de Cuba: Cuba's second largest city, famous for its rich music and dance culture, and its role in the revolution. Visit the city walls of Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca and the famous Plaza de la Revolución.

  • Cienaga de Zapata: this wetland and natural park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and offers a unique experience for nature lovers, with the possibility of spotting crocodiles, birds and other wildlife.

  • Cayo Santa María: This island is a peaceful destination famous for its white sand beaches, coral reefs and unspoiled nature. It is ideal for a few days of relaxation.

  • Las Terrazas: an ecological community and nature reserve where you can enjoy walks through the rainforest, swim in natural pools and get a glimpse of local life.

  • Malecón in Havana: the iconic seafront promenade that winds along the coastline is a must-see in Havana. Here you can enjoy the colorful old buildings, the sea and the lively street life.

  • Valle de Viñales: one of the most beautiful natural areas in Cuba, with impressive limestone mogotes (high, steep mountains), green valleys and tobacco plantations.

  • El Nicho Falls: located in the Escambray Mountains, these waterfalls are a magnificent natural wonder. The crystal clear waters and surrounding tropical landscape make it a popular destination for nature lovers.

  • Plaza Mayor in Trinidad: This historic square in Trinidad is surrounded by well-preserved colonial buildings and colorful houses. It is a nice place to take in the charming atmosphere of the city.

  • Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca in Santiago de Cuba: this impressive fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers not only a fascinating history, but also beautiful views of the ocean.

  • Cueva de los Indios: This cave, located in Viñales National Park, is famous for its pre-Columbian paintings and breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.

  • Varadero: Cuba's most famous beach, with stunning white sand and clear blue waters. This is the ideal place for a relaxing beach vacation after exploring the country.

  • Cabo de San Antonio: This remote peninsula in western Cuba has pristine beaches and clear waters, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP). Visa and Mastercard credit cards work in some places, but Dutch bank cards are often not accepted. It is wise to bring cash (euros) and exchange it locally. Also keep in mind that the surcharge for paying with a Dutch credit card can be quite high. It may be interesting to consider opening a bank account with banks such as Revolut and Wise prior to your trip to Cuba.

There are several ways to travel through Cuba, depending on your preferences and the route you take. 

  • Rental car: a rental car gives you the greatest freedom to explore the island at your own pace. However, the roads can sometimes be in poor condition, especially in remote areas, and it is not always easy to get gasoline, so it is important to plan ahead. Also keep in mind that some parts of Cuba have few signposts, so navigation can be tricky.
  • Colectivos: These shared cabs are a popular and relatively inexpensive way to travel between cities and towns. They are an efficient way to get from one place to another, especially for shorter distances. They are also a good way to connect with other travelers.
  • Viazul buses: Viazul buses are specially designed for tourists and connect the main cities and destinations in Cuba. Comfortable and reliable, they offer a good way to travel longer distances without worrying about navigation or traffic.
  • Domestic flights: you can take a number of domestic flights in Cuba, mainly from Havana to other popular destinations such as Santiago de Cuba, Cienfuegos and Holguín. This is a good option for longer distances.

Cuba is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Petty crime such as pickpocketing occurs, but with common sense and vigilance, Cuba is a safe destination to travel around.

Cuba is known for its simple but tasty dishes such as ropa vieja (braised beef), lechón (roast pork), and tostones (fried plantains). You'll also find plenty of rice, beans, and seafood. Cubans like to drink their national drink, the mojito, as well as Cuba Libre (rum with cola).

Be sure to eat at local paladares for an authentic experience. Cuban cuisine is quite accessible to vegetarians, but vegan options may be more limited.

Cuba is a popular destination, especially in the winter months, but it is generally not as crowded as other Caribbean islands. You may find many travelers in tourist cities such as Havana and Varadero, but outside of these places it is often quiet and you can experience authentic Cuba.

More destinations in Central America

Cuba is one of the most extraordinary destinations in the Caribbean. But did you know there are many more sunny gems to discover in Central and Latin America? Think tropical beaches, colonial towns and a laid-back vibe that puts you right into vacation mode. Be inspired by these destinations: from colorful Bonaire and laid-back Curacao to adventurous Costa Rica, magical Guatemala and versatile Mexico. In the mood for sunshine? This is where you need to be!