Cuba
Caribbean • CUB
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Cuba is a vibrant island nation renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, classic vintage cars, and rich musical heritage. It offers travelers a unique blend of history, Caribbean beaches, and a culture shaped by decades of isolation and resilience.
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors are required to obtain a 'Tourist Card' (Tarjeta del Turista) prior to travel, which is valid for a single entry of up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista)
- Proof of travel health insurance
- Return or onward flight ticket
Popular Attractions
Old Havana: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and historic plazas that transport visitors back in time.
Varadero Beach: Famous for its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, this area offers some of the best all-inclusive resorts and water sports in the Caribbean.
Viñales Valley: A stunning landscape characterized by dramatic limestone hills called mogotes and traditional tobacco farms where world-famous cigars are produced.
Trinidad: A perfectly preserved colonial town known for its pastel-colored houses, neoclassical architecture, and lively music scene in the evenings.
Cienfuegos: Often called the 'Pearl of the South,' this city features elegant French-inspired architecture and a beautiful bay setting.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Tipping is highly appreciated and expected in the tourism industry, as it significantly supplements local wages.
It is common to greet others with a single kiss on the right cheek or a handshake among men.
Dress is generally casual, but modest clothing is preferred when visiting churches or religious sites.
Bargaining is standard practice in craft markets and with unofficial street vendors, though not in state-run stores.
Asking about politics or government affairs should be done with sensitivity and respect for the local context.
Safety Tips
Keep your valuables, passport, and extra cash secure in a hotel safe rather than carrying them around.
Avoid drinking tap water; rely on bottled or purified water to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Only use official state-authorized taxis to ensure fair pricing and safer travel conditions.
Be cautious of 'jiniteros,' individuals who may approach tourists to offer unauthorized tours or goods.
Register your trip with your home country's embassy or consulate before departure for emergency support.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required for travelers arriving directly from the United States or other countries without a risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Flu)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide protection against preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
To prevent severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection while traveling.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling to Cuba.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Fully vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended for all eligible travelers.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling to Cuba.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Cuba.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites.
Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases are present.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with the local population, need medical care, or get a tattoo/piercing.
View sourceRabies vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may be exposed to animals, particularly in rural areas.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who have not received the vaccine in the last 10 years.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, especially those born after 1956.
View sourceFlorida dengue prevention measurers
Source: CDC
Dengue fever is prevalent in the region, utilize measures to avoid mosquito bites.
View sourceTdap
Source: CDC
Vaccination is recommended for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis for travelers who have not received it recently.
View sourceMMR
Source: CDC
Ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevent insect-borne diseases (e.g., Dengue, Zika) by using repellent and protective clothing.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses by consuming safe food and water.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Eat and drink safely to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid ice; eat cooked food served hot.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact, need medical care, or have certain exposures.
View sourceConsider food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid foodborne illnesses, make sure food and water is safe.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
To avoid malaria, travelers should take appropriate measures such as using mosquito repellent, especially when visiting rural areas.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who will engage in outdoor activities that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with locals, or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip. This includes vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (Tdap), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot.
View sourceCovid-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, particularly those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may consume food or water that could be contaminated.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may have sexual contact with new partners or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceMalaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas where malaria is a concern, preventive measures are advised.
View sourceCholera
Source: CDC
May be considered for travelers visiting areas with active choleral transmission.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Considered for those spending a lot of time outdoors, in rural areas, or working with animals.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Use of insect repellent, protective clothing, and bed nets is recommended to prevent mosquito bites.
Dengue fever and Zika virus are present.
View sourceCholera vaccination
Source: CDC
May be considered in specific cases when traveling to areas with active cholera transmission.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who might have sexual contact, get a tattoo, or receive medical treatment.
View source