Cuba Travel FAQ

Our programs are created and led by musicians, musicologists and local specialists. Small groups make space for direct conversation, spontaneous musical context and meaningful time with independent Cuban artists, guides, hosts and entrepreneurs.

Cuba rewards flexibility, but transportation, performance schedules, reservations, payment methods and U.S.-travel documentation can be complex. A well-planned tour removes friction while still building in personal time.

Solo travelers are welcome on our small-group departures and often value the instant community. A private tour is better if you need different dates, a specialized pace or a fully custom program.

Yes. Private programs can be designed for one traveler, couples, families, ensembles, schools and larger groups. Start with the private-tour questionnaire so the team can understand your dates, group size and interests.

No. Bilingual guides accompany scheduled itinerary activities. A few Spanish phrases are always appreciated, but they are not required.

Yes, when travel-related transactions fall within an OFAC authorization. Tourist travel remains prohibited. Havana Music Tours’ scheduled cultural programs are designed around Support for the Cuban People (31 CFR § 515.574), with full-time itineraries centered on meaningful interaction and independent Cuban activity. Travelers are responsible for ensuring their activities fit the applicable authorization.

Many short-term visitors need Cuba’s electronic visa, linked to the traveler’s passport. This is separate from U.S. OFAC authorization. Procedures and fees can change, so we provide current instructions before departure; requirements vary by nationality and Cuban-born travelers may have additional passport rules.

Bring the passport used for your booking and eVisa, your D’Viajeros QR code, airline and accommodation details, proof of required medical coverage, and the program documents supplied for your tour. U.S. travelers should check the current State Department page for passport validity and blank-page requirements.

Cuba requires visitors to have medical coverage. For flights originating in the United States, required Cuban coverage is often included in the ticket and is generally valid for 30 days, but confirm directly with your airline. Consider supplemental medical-evacuation and trip-cancellation coverage.

OFAC permits authorized travelers to use U.S.-issued cards for authorized transactions, but regulations do not require banks or card companies to support those transactions. In practice, U.S.-issued cards are often unusable in Cuba, so do not rely on them. Ask your issuer before travel and carry an adequate cash reserve.

Most scheduled-tour expenses are covered, but bring cash for tips, personal purchases, optional activities, meals during free time and emergencies. The right amount depends on your itinerary and spending style; the team provides current practical guidance before departure.

The Cuban peso (CUP) is the national currency, but payment and exchange practices change. Some purchases may use CUP, foreign currency or electronic payment. Use authorized exchange channels, avoid planning around informal rates and follow the current trip guidance supplied before departure.

A Casa Particular is a privately owned Cuban guesthouse or home-based accommodation. Scheduled tours use carefully selected properties with private bathrooms and reliable local support. Because power interruptions can occur, we prioritize backup capability such as solar, battery storage and/or generators whenever available.

Yes. The amount varies by itinerary, and music events often happen late, so reasonable breaks matter. For U.S. travelers using Support for the Cuban People, free time and recreation must remain consistent with the required full-time schedule of qualifying activities. Ask us how this works for the tour you are considering.

Usually, especially for smaller portable instruments. Check your airline’s current instrument, baggage and fee policies, protect fragile gear carefully, and coordinate with us if you hope to donate an instrument or supplies.

Formal clothing is not required. One smart-casual outfit can be useful for a special dinner or performance, but comfort, weather and practicality matter most.

We work with restaurants and hosts in advance and communicate dietary needs provided during booking. Cuba’s supply constraints can limit substitutions, so share allergies and restrictions early and discuss any severe medical needs directly with the team.