Cuba
Classic elegance, abundant natural beauty and an ineffable revolutionary spirit.
Pastel-coloured colonial cities in varying states of romantic decay dotted across the breadth of this emerald island account for five of Cuba’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Like classic novels, fraying at the edges, these kaleidoscopic town centres have been weathered by the passing of the ages, but have retained a certain timeless opulence, being subsequently revitalised and reimagined by each new generation that inhabits them. Explore the art museums in Old Havana, the grand 1920s palaces on the Punta Gorda in Cienfuegos and visit the site of Don Facundo Bacardí’s first rum factory in Santiago de Cuba.
Home to the beaches of Varadero, the mangrove swamps of Cayo Coco and the dramatic mountain ranges by Trinidad and Santiago, Cuba’s diverse habitats make for a fabulous nature-lover’s getaway. The swamps of Zapata offer world-class birdwatching opportunities including the Caribbean’s highest number of water birds and the planet’s smallest bird: the bee hummingbird. For those who seek adventure, diving, kayaking through the mangroves or hiking to waterfalls in the Sierra del Escambray are a great addition to any trip.
Culture enthusiasts will be enchanted by the baroque architecture preserved in many Cuban cities, however this island’s influence upon the world’s cultural landscape extends far beyond its declaration of independence from Spain. Cuba is the home of salsa, rumba and bolero dancing, as well as the adopted home of literary icon Ernest Hemingway and Argentine revolutionary Che Guevara. See Hemingway’s home in Havana as he left it in the 1960s and visit Che’s mausoleum in Santa Clara where his defining battle ended the Batista regime. Finally, relax with a mojito and a Cuban sandwich by the sparkling Caribbean Sea.
- Currency
- Time Zone
- Language
- CAPITAL CITY
- NATIONAL DISH
- PEAK TIME
Key Experiences
- Beaches
Unwind on Cuba’s pristine beaches like Varadero, soak up the sparkling Caribbean Sea, and relax with a mojito and Cuban sandwich in hand for the ultimate tropical escape.
- Nature
Experience diverse habitats from the mangrove swamps of Cayo Coco to the mountains near Trinidad and Santiago. Spot rare birds in the Zapata swamps and enjoy diving, kayaking, and hiking in the Sierra del Escambray.
- Culture
Explore pastel-coloured colonial cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoy salsa, rumba, and bolero music, visit Hemingway’s Havana home and Che Guevara’s mausoleum, and discover Cuba’s rich artistic and historical heritage.
Key Locations
Sample Itineraries
Our Cuba
The Humboldt team’s Cuba highlights
You just have to taste this…
“You have to experience Cuba’s rum and cigars. I’d recommend visiting a local distillery to taste rum straight from the source and pairing it with a hand-rolled cigar.
It’s a ritual, a flavour and a cultural touchstone all in one, and it really gives you a sense of the country’s history and craftsmanship.”
FOUNDER, TRAVEL DESIGNER
FAQs
Cuba is a richly diverse island with vibrant cities, stunning beaches and a unique cultural heritage. A week can offer a good introduction to Havana and a nearby beach destination like Varadero or Cayo Santa María. However, to fully appreciate Cuba’s music, history, colonial towns like Trinidad and natural beauty, 10 to 14 days is ideal. This allows a relaxed pace to explore multiple regions without feeling rushed.
We generally recommend keeping Cuba as a standalone destination to fully experience its distinctive culture, history, and atmosphere without adding travel complexity. While Cuba can be combined with other Caribbean destinations or with a wider Latin America itinerary, we think these work better as separate trips rather than part of a multi-country visit.
Most travellers, including those from the UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand require a tourist card (visa) to enter Cuba. US citizens have additional specific requirements due to travel restrictions. It’s important to check visa requirements carefully before booking as they can vary depending on your nationality.
No vaccinations are currently legally required for entry into Cuba for most travellers. However, it is recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations such as tetanus, MMR, hepatitis A and typhoid. There is a low risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue or Zika, so travellers should take precautions against mosquito bites. As always, a consultation with a travel health specialist before your trip is advisable for tailored advice.
Cuba is generally considered a safe destination with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur, particularly in tourist areas, so visitors should remain vigilant with personal belongings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. The local population is friendly and welcoming, and the country’s slower pace of life contributes to a sense of security. Using licensed guides and reputable accommodation providers will enhance your safety and overall experience.
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