The Ultimate Cuba Travel Checklist (Updated January 2026)

The first thing you need to add to your Cuba Travel Checklist is, of course, your passport. I know it seems like common sense to bring your passport, but here are a couple of other things to check: Make sure your passport does not expire within 6 months after your return date from Cuba. If it is going to expire, you need to go ahead and renew it. It typically takes about 4–6 weeks, and you can find more info about that here.

The Cuban Visa (now the e-Visa) is typically very easy to obtain these days. As of late 2025, Cuba has fully transitioned to a digital e-Visa system, replacing the old paper tourist cards. This is not to be confused with the OFAC general travel license from the United States. The e-Visa is the actual entry permit required by the Cuban government.

Most airlines make this simple for you. You will typically purchase your e-Visa through your airline’s website after booking or at the “Cuba Check-in” counter on the day you leave. If you have a connecting flight, you’ll likely buy it at your final airport before heading to Havana. The e-Visa usually costs around $50–$100 for those flying from the U.S. Once purchased, you will receive a digital code via email—keep this code handy!

Crucial Step: The D’Viajeros Form. Getting your e-Visa code is only the first half of the process. You must then “activate” it by completing the mandatory D’Viajeros digital entry form. You can complete this form up to 7 days before your trip. When filling it out, you will be prompted to enter your e-Visa code. Once you submit the form, you’ll receive a PDF with a QR Code. Screenshot this and print a copy, the airline and Cuban customs will both need to scan it to confirm your e-Visa is valid.

Travelers Born in Cuba: There are certain rules for people who were born in Cuba. If you were born in Cuba and need to get a visa, please contact us at Info@havanamusictours.com, and we will help you. Depending on the year you were born, you may have to travel using a Cuban passport or obtain a special permit from the Cuban consulate.

The D’Viajeros Digital Portal is a mandatory requirement for all travelers entering Cuba. This digital declaration has replaced all physical customs and health forms. Because it is now integrated with the new e-Visa system, completing this accurately is essential for a seamless entry.

Key Requirements for Completion:

• Submission Window: The form can be accessed and submitted beginning 7 days prior to your arrival in Cuba. We recommend completing the registration at least 72 hours before departure to ensure you have your confirmation ready.

• Electronic Visa Integration: When completing the “Migratory Information” section, you will be prompted to enter your Electronic Visa (e-Visa) code. It is vital that this 10-character alphanumeric code is entered correctly, as this validates your visa within the Cuban Ministry of the Interior’s database.

• Documentation Required: To complete the process efficiently, ensure you have your passport, flight details, and the name and address of your first accommodation (Casa Particular or Hotel) available.

• Purpose of Visit: While U.S. travelers must adhere to OFAC categories (such as “Support for the Cuban People”), for the purpose of the Cuban entry form, you should select “Tourism” as your reason for travel.

• QR Code Confirmation: Upon successful submission, the portal will generate a PDF document containing a QR Code. You must present this code to your airline during check-in and to Cuban customs officials upon arrival.

Important Recommendation: Connectivity at Cuban airports can be inconsistent. We strongly advise that you print a physical copy of the QR code PDF and save a high-resolution screenshot to your mobile device to ensure it is accessible offline.

Access the official portal here: https://dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/

A detailed itinerary is required for United States citizens and residents traveling under an OFAC general license. Even if you are traveling from another country, it is a good idea to create an itinerary to stay organized. When you arrive in Cuba, you will likely discover new events or local spots you want to see; with a printed itinerary, you can easily write down any changes to your travels.

There are a lot of things to see around Cuba, and a detailed itinerary doesn’t just keep you legal—it helps you cover more ground and ensures a better experience. Most of our travelers fly under one of these two popular categories:

• Educational Activities: People-to-People Travel (31 CFR § 515.565): This is the gold standard for group travel. When you join one of our scheduled group tours, you are traveling under the “People-to-People” license. Havana Music Tours sponsors the exchange, provides a full-time schedule of educational activities, and ensures you are engaging in meaningful interactions with the Cuban people.

• Support for the Cuban People (31 CFR § 515.574): This category is ideal for individuals or private custom groups. It requires travelers to maintain a full-time schedule that supports independent Cuban entrepreneurs, such as staying in private guesthouses (casas particulares) and dining at private restaurants (paladares).

For travel in 2026, it is essential to ensure your itinerary avoids any businesses on the Cuba Restricted List or lodging at properties on the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List.

If you need help, Havana Music Tours offers an itinerary design service that ensures every stop on your trip is 100% compliant with these regulations. Anyway you decide, we highly recommend a detailed itinerary!

Important Compliance Note: Per the latest OFAC regulations (31 CFR § 501.601), U.S. travelers are now required to keep a record of their itinerary and all travel-related receipts for ten (10) years after the date of the transaction. We recommend keeping digital copies of everything in a secure cloud folder.

Transportation in Cuba can be really fun, adventurous, and even frustrating! Navigating the island has changed quite a bit recently, especially with the introduction of new apps and the transition to a single-currency system. Here are our top recommendations for getting around in 2026.

Taxis

All over the world, grabbing a taxi can be very convenient. In Cuba, there are several different types to choose from:

• Official Taxis: The official taxis from Cuba’s transportation ministry are called Agencia de Taxi. They are easily recognizable by their bright yellow color and official branding. These modern cars have safety features like seatbelts and even include new Sprinter-style vans for larger groups. You will find these lined up at the airport when you exit. Currently, you can expect to pay around $25–$35 USD (or Euros) to get from the Havana airport to most locations in the city. If you are traveling to another city, like Varadero, expect the price to be around $150–$200 or more.

• Vintage Taxis: Cuba is famous for its vintage cars, and the best place to find them in Havana is at Parque Central (Central Park) in Old Havana. You can find everything from a classic 1955 Chevy Bel-Air to bright vintage convertibles. These are great for city tours and can be hired by the hour or by the day. Keep in mind that the nicer the car, the higher the price—convertibles usually range from $50–$100 per hour.

• La Nave (The “Cuban Uber”): If you have internet access on your phone, we highly recommend using La Nave (which means “the spaceship” in Spanish). Cubans are incredibly clever with their enterprises, and this app has become the most reliable and affordable way to book a ride. It works just like Uber or Lyft; it provides a price estimate in Cuban Pesos (CUP), but you pay the driver in cash at the end of the trip. Always ensure you have enough cash on you, as the app does not process digital payments for travelers yet.

• Bici-Taxis & Coco Taxis: While they look like a fun way to see the city, Bicycle Taxis can actually be surprisingly expensive for the distance they cover. Additionally, the U.S. State Department officially recommends against taking the yellow, three-wheeled Coco Taxis for safety reasons. We leave that decision up to you, but if safety is your priority (especially if traveling with kids), we recommend sticking to the modern yellow Agencia de Taxi cars, as vintage cars and Coco Taxis rarely have seatbelts.

Buses

One of the easiest ways to travel intercity is by bus. The most popular option is Viazul.

• Viazul: You can make your reservations online at the Viazul website. We recommend booking at least one month in advance, as popular routes (like Havana to Viñales or Trinidad) sell out quickly. Note that you’ll need a VPN to access the booking site while you are actually in Cuba.

• Cubanacan: Another good option is the Cubanacan shuttle. These are slightly more expensive but very convenient as they do “hotel pickups.” To book these, you typically need to walk into a major hotel (like the Hotel Nacional or Meliá Habana) and visit the travel desk.

Rental Cars

We generally do not recommend renting a car in Cuba unless you are very familiar with the country. Driving here requires a diverse ability to handle road conditions and a solid grasp of Spanish for navigating road rules and checkpoints. If you do choose to rent, ensure your credit or debit card is authorized for use in Cuba and read every line of your rental contract carefully.

Staying connected in Cuba has improved significantly, but it still requires careful preparation. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, you cannot simply land and expect your home carrier’s “International Plan” to work seamlessly.

Using Your Cell Phone

While some U.S. carriers (like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) technically have roaming agreements with Cuba’s provider (ETECSA), we do not recommend relying on them. * The Reality: Roaming service is notoriously spotty, often fails to activate, and is not included in standard “International Day Pass” plans. If it does work, the “pay-per-use” rates are among the highest in the world.

• Our Top Recommendation: Use an eSIM. If you have an unlocked phone, an eSIM is the most reliable and cost-effective way to get data in 2026. We recommend providers like GigSky, Saily, or Roamless. You can purchase and install these digital SIMs before you leave home, and they will connect to the Cuban 4G/LTE network the moment you land. This is far cheaper than roaming and saves you from the long lines at the airport’s physical SIM card booth.

WiFi and Connectivity

WiFi is now available in most Casas Particulares, hotels, and many private restaurants.

• Nauta Access: To use most WiFi networks, you may still need a Nauta card (a scratch-off card with a login and password), which can be purchased at ETECSA stores or major hotels.

• Pro Tip: Always remember to manually log out or “forget” the network when you are done. If you don’t, the timer on your Nauta card may continue to run even after you’ve put your phone away.

The “Must-Have” Tech Checklist

Before you board your flight, ensure you have these three things ready:

1. A Reliable VPN (Highly Recommended): Due to the U.S. embargo, many websites and apps (including Spotify, PayPal, and most banking apps) are geo-blocked in Cuba. You must download and install a VPN (we recommend NordVPN or ExpressVPN) before you leave. You cannot easily download them once you are on the island.

2. WhatsApp: This is the primary way Cubans communicate. Ensure you have it set up to message your tour guides, Casa hosts, and new friends.

3. Offline Maps (Maps.me): Internet can be inconsistent, so don’t rely on live GPS. Download the Maps.me app and the “Cuba” offline map before you arrive. It is incredibly detailed and works perfectly without any data or WiFi.

The currency situation in Cuba can be one of the most confusing parts of the trip, but once you understand the new 2026 regulations, it is quite manageable. As of late 2025, the Cuban government implemented a new “Floating Exchange Rate” system to better reflect the true value of the Cuban Peso (CUP). To ensure you don’t overpay for your trip, it is vital to understand how the exchange system works today.

1. Cash is King (U.S. Cards Still Do Not Work): The most important rule for U.S. citizens and residents is that U.S. debit and credit cards do not work in Cuba. You cannot withdraw money from an ATM, and you cannot swipe your card at a restaurant. You must bring enough physical cash to cover your entire trip, plus a safety cushion for emergencies.

2. The Best Currencies to Bring: While Euros (EUR) are highly valued, U.S. Dollars (USD) are the most common currency used by travelers in 2026.

• The “Clean Bill” Rule: Cuban banks and businesses are extremely selective about the physical condition of foreign currency. Ensure your bills are crisp, new, and free of any tears, ink marks, or heavy wear. Damaged bills are frequently rejected.

• Denominations: Bring a mix of $50s and $100s for larger exchanges, and a generous supply of $1s, $5s, and $10s for tipping and small purchases.

3. Understanding the New Floating Exchange Rate In a major shift, the government exchange houses (CADECA) now use a floating rate that adjusts daily to match market conditions.

• Current Rates: As of January 2026, the official exchange rate at CADECA has surpassed 400 CUP to 1 USD. This is a significant change from the old “fixed” rates of previous years.

• The Informal Market: Despite the new official floating rate, an informal exchange market continues to operate across the island, often offering a rate slightly higher than the bank. While the government is working to stabilize the official market, you will notice that private businesses may offer different conversion values for your USD depending on daily supply and demand.

• Official Exchange: You can find CADECA offices at the airport, in most major hotels, and in various city centers. You will need your passport to perform any official currency exchange.

• Transparency: You can check the official daily rate on the Banco Central de Cuba (BCC) website or at any CADECA location.

4. How Much Should You Bring? Due to inflation and the new exchange rate, we recommend budgeting at least $50–$100 USD per day per person for meals, transport, and souvenirs. It is always better to return home with cash than to run out in a country where you cannot access your bank account.

5. Paying for Services

• Private Sector: Many paladares (private restaurants) and casas particulares (private guesthouses) now list prices in USD or Euros and often prefer payment in foreign cash.

• Local Purchases: For street food, local markets, and state-run museums, you will still need Cuban Pesos (CUP). We recommend exchanging small amounts of cash as you go rather than all at once.

Medical preparedness is an essential part of any international trip. While previous pandemic-related travel restrictions (such as mandatory testing or vaccination proof) have been removed, there are key health protocols you should be aware of before you depart.

1. Mandatory Health Insurance The Cuban government requires all visitors to have non-U.S. medical insurance.

• Travelers from the U.S.: If you are flying directly from a United States gateway, your mandatory Cuban health insurance is automatically included in the cost of your airline ticket.

• Proof of Coverage: Your boarding pass serves as your official certificate of insurance. We strongly recommend keeping either your physical boarding pass or a high-resolution digital copy throughout your stay, as you will need to present it if you require any medical services.

2. Mosquito Protection & Tropical Health Like many tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America, Cuba is currently managing a rise in regional mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Oropouche. These are standard risks for the region and can be effectively managed with simple precautions:

• Insect Repellent: We recommend bringing a high-quality repellent containing DEET or Picaridin. These items can be difficult to locate at local shops, so it is best to pack your own.

• Proactive Coverage: Mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and at sunset. Wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing during these times is the most effective way to prevent bites.

• Clinical Access: In the event you feel unwell, Havana features excellent international clinics (such as Clínica Cira García) specifically designed to assist travelers.

3. Digital Health Declaration As noted in the entry requirements, your health declaration is now integrated into the D’Viajeros portal. You no longer need to fill out a separate physical health card upon arrival. Ensure you have truthfully completed the health section of the digital form to generate your mandatory entry QR code.

4. Personal Medications Because local pharmacies may have limited stock of common items, please ensure you bring an adequate supply of any personal prescriptions in their original packaging. It is also wise to pack a basic travel kit with over-the-counter essentials like Ibuprofen, antacids, and anti-diarrheal medication for your own convenience.

Eating in Cuba is a highlight of the trip, but it can also be a bit of a puzzle. In 2026, the culinary scene is dominated by the private sector, where creativity thrives despite supply challenges. Here is how to navigate dining and hydration like a seasoned traveler.

1. Private Restaurants (Paladares) For the best food and service, always look for a Paladar (a privately owned restaurant). These are the heart of Cuba’s “Support for the Cuban People” travel category.

• The Vibe: These range from small family dining rooms to world-class rooftop eateries in Havana. The quality is almost always superior to government-run establishments. Find out about some of the best Paladares in Havana on our blog post: Top 5 best Restaurants (Paladares) in Havana, Cuba.

• The Menu: Expect traditional dishes like Ropa Vieja (shredded beef), fresh lobster, and plenty of rice and beans. Because of supply fluctuations, don’t be surprised if a restaurant is “out” of a few items on the menu—just ask for the daily special!

2. Breakfast at your Casa Particular: We highly recommend having breakfast at your Casa Particular whenever possible. It is usually a massive spread of fresh tropical fruit, eggs, bread, local honey, and incredible Cuban coffee. It’s affordable (typically $5–$10 USD), convenient, and directly supports your Cuban hosts.

3. Understanding MLC Stores: You may still see large government stores called MLC stores (Moneda Libremente Convertible).

• How they work: Historically, these stores do not accept cash. They require a special prepaid “MLC Card” (purchased at CADECA) or a non-U.S. credit card.

• Recent Changes: While some state-run “Clásica” stores have begun experimenting with accepting foreign cash under new 2026 pilot programs, for most travelers, the process is still cumbersome. We recommend sticking to private markets and Paladares, where your cash is always welcome, and the service is much faster.

4. The Water Situation (Safety First) Do not drink the tap water in Cuba. This includes using it for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Bottled Water: While bottled water is more available than it used to be, it can still be “hit or miss” in certain neighborhoods. When you see it at a private market or a cafe, buy a few extra bottles to keep in your room.

• Pro Tip: Many travelers in 2026 are now bringing filtered water bottles (like LifeStraw or Grayl). These allow you to filter tap water instantly, saving you money and reducing plastic waste, which is a huge help to the local environment.

5. Snacks from Home: While you will eat well in restaurants, the variety of “quick snacks” in Cuba is still limited. We recommend packing a few of your favorite protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit in your suitcase for those long travel days or late-night music sessions.

Cuba is known for some of the best healthcare in the world. Historically, if there is ever a crisis in the Caribbean, Cuba will send multitudes of doctors to help their neighbors. They extend this universal form of healthcare to their citizens. Tourists can have access to it for a small cost. They even have tourist hospitals specifically to help foreigners. If traveling from the US and possibly other countries, you must purchase health care, which is typically included in your airline fare (For US Travelers). It usually costs only $25 per person, and if you already bought your flight, you may not have noticed it.

When traveling to Cuba, we recommend having all your necessary medicines and vitamins. Finding things like aspirin or other drugs you may need can be more difficult. We recommend bringing enough soap and some to share with your new Cuban friends. Things like toothpaste, soaps, toilet paper, paper towels, and ointments can all be harder to find in Cuba and unaffordable for most average Cubans.

We recommend bringing one or two rolls of toilet paper in your luggage and carrying some in a fanny pack or backpack during your trek around Cuba. In some places that you visit around Cuba, there may not be very much, if any, toilet paper available. So, having some in a backpack could save the day…

It is also customary to tip to use the bathroom in Cuba. A person usually watches after and cleans the bathrooms at restaurants, music venues, bus stops, and more. They work to earn their wage by people leaving a small tip to use the bathroom and even purchasing toilet paper (if they have any). If you already have toilet paper, you may only need to tip as a courtesy.

Also, never flush toilet paper down the toilet in Cuba. Throw it in the trash next to the bathroom.

**Cuba has a huge lack of medicine in its hospital system. The brutal embargo, sanctions, and the pandemic have left Cuba with almost no medicine. If you are traveling to Cuba, we highly recommend that you bring extra medicine for Cubans. Antibiotics, pain relievers, ointments, and other rare or expensive medicines. This would help a lot of people in Cuba. Currently, there is no importation tax on medicine. You can bring an entire checked bag or 2 of medicine and food! If you need help organizing donations, feel free to email us or go directly to check out our Cuba Fundraisers Page. 

Many of our travelers ask how they can support the local community during their visit. Given the current economic challenges and recent natural disasters, your contributions make a profound difference. Through our 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are dedicated to providing urgent relief and long-term support to Cuban musicians, artists, and their families.

1. Physical Donations (The “Extra Suitcase” Approach)

If you have space in your luggage, these are the items currently in highest demand. We recommend bringing them in a separate bag that you can leave behind.

• Medical Essentials: The island is experiencing a severe shortage of basic medicines. Items like Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Advil), antibiotic ointments, vitamins (for adults and children), and feminine hygiene products are incredibly valuable.

• Music Supplies: For the musicians we visit, professional gear is nearly impossible to find locally. We highly recommend bringing:

  • Guitar & Bass Strings: High-quality strings are always needed.

  • Reeds: For saxophones and clarinets (various strengths).

  • Drum Accessories: Drum keys, drumsticks, and felt pads.

  • Valve Oil: For trumpets and trombones.

• Household Items: Simple things like AA/AAA batteries, small power banks (due to frequent power outages), and bar soap are very appreciated.

2. Monetary Donations & Fundraisers

If you prefer to support our larger humanitarian efforts, we manage several direct-impact campaigns. Following recent events like Hurricane Melissa, we have organized relief brigades to deliver food, medicine, and mattresses directly to families in the hardest-hit rural provinces.

• HMT Nonprofit: As an official 501(c)(3) organization, all donations made through our Cuba Fundraisers page are tax-deductible for U.S. residents.

• 100% Impact: Every dollar raised goes directly toward purchasing emergency supplies and coordinating logistics to reach vulnerable communities.

• Important Payment Note: When donating online, please use descriptions like “Hurricane Relief” or “Musical Support.” To avoid automated banking freezes, do not include words like “Cuba,” “Havana,” or “Santiago” in your payment memo.

3. Giving with Respect

We believe in giving with dignity. Rather than handing out items to strangers on the street, we recommend coordinating through your tour leader or giving directly to the families and musicians you interact with during our scheduled visits. This ensures your generosity reaches those who truly need it and fosters meaningful, personal connections.

Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially if you are traveling internationally. For a relatively low cost and depending on which plan you choose you can buy insurance for your flights, cruises, tour costs, accommodations, flight changes, medical emergencies, and more. If you are in need of travel insurance no matter how or where you choose to travel.

Cuba is definitely a place where you can dress up and go see some amazing live music or an incredible show. However, depending on when your trip is, it can be pretty hot and tropical during the day. The summer is pretty hot and humid, and in the winter it can be warm during the day but you may need a small jacket at night. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and light-vented clothing for your daytime activities.

Most music venues and live shows require you wear certain attire. For example, at the famous Latin jazz club “La Zorra y El Cuervo” the men must wear pants and no one is allowed to wear sandals or flip-flops. In this case, you may want to prepare time in your schedule to go home and freshen up before going out at night.

It is okay if you do not speak Spanish, but knowing a few phrases and having a quick reference can definitely help. In the touristy areas, a lot of Cubans speak English, but maybe your casa particular host only speaks Spanish. If you use something like google translate, be sure to download the entire language to be usable offline before arriving in Cuba. It is difficult to download certain things on the internet. We also recommend investing in at least one or all of the following:

Spanish phrasebook (This book is great as an audiobook because you can practice pronunciation and learn vocabulary)

Spanish pocket dictionary (A great backup if your google translator isn’t working right or you want to study different words/phrases in comparison to English)

Also, this video is a great video to get a couple of useful Spanish words in the toolshed!