When is the best time to go to Cuba: calm ocean or legendary carnival

Every square kilometer of the island offers its own formula of contrast – bright Spanish colonial architecture coexists with retro cars and rebellious Caribbean rhythms. What do you need to know before traveling to Cuba? First of all, the specifics of legislation, currency, climate, and infrastructure. Preparation begins long before arriving in Havana, Varadero, or Cayo Coco.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba: visa and entry requirements

Russian citizens can obtain a tourist card at a travel agency or consulate for 20-30 euros. The validity period is 30 days, with the possibility of extension for another month. The document requires filling in all sections without corrections, otherwise entry may be denied. Mandatory requirements include having a return ticket and accommodation reservation for the entire stay.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – the country has strict rules for insurance: the policy must cover COVID-19 treatment, preferably with an English description of the conditions. Entry may be denied without insurance, especially when arriving at the airports of Holguin or Trinidad.

Cuba’s currency: two realities in one wallet

Since 2021, only one currency remains in circulation – the Cuban peso (CUP). However, in practice, tourists encounter two realities. State-owned stores and hotels accept CUP, while the private sector actively uses dollars and euros. Exchange rates do not follow the Central Bank’s rate but rather a “tourist” rate – in banks, the rate is lower than at private exchange offices.

A Cuban account card is almost useless: most private services only accept cash. What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – bringing cash in dollars and euros is preferable. Varadero and Cayo Largo accept euros in hotels, but markets and taxis use pesos. Dollars are reluctantly accepted due to a 10% exchange commission.

Cuba’s seasons: when to visit

The climate dictates the rhythm of relaxation. The tourist peak lasts from November to April. The air temperature ranges from +25°C to +30°C, with minimal rainfall and calm Caribbean Sea. Summer brings heat up to +35°C, humidity, and possible tropical hurricanes. From July to October – the season of increased cyclonic activity.

Off-season sees lower prices for accommodation and tours, but there is an increased risk of flight cancellations. Havana and Trinidad feel like a sauna under the open sky in August. In autumn, the island attracts budget travelers, especially to the areas of Holguin and southern Cayo Coco, where storms occur less frequently.

Accommodation in Cuba: what you need to know

Hotels in tourist areas are controlled by the state. Four or five stars do not guarantee a high level of service. Private homes – “casas particulares” – offer home comfort, breakfasts, and a lively cultural experience. Official registration of accommodation is mandatory, even if rented through private platforms.

What you need to know before traveling to Cuba – it is better to book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season. In Varadero and Cayo Largo, most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis, but in Havana and Trinidad, it is more advantageous to rent accommodation from locals – cheaper and more authentic.

Other information about Cuba for tourists: internet, pharmacies, transportation

What you need to know before traveling to the island of freedom – reality differs from stereotypes. Tourists face internet disruptions, limited choice of goods, and slow service. Connecting to the network requires purchasing a Nauta card for 1, 3, or 5 hours. Operators include ETECSA and Cubacel.

Before traveling, tourists should consider:

1. Internet: connectivity is unstable, especially outside the capital.
2. Pharmacies: medicine shortages. It is better to bring a full set of medications.
3. Transportation: Viazul intercity buses are a convenient and safe way to travel. Taxis are expensive, especially in Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo.
4. Payment: Russian bank cards do not work. Cash is preferred.
5. Communication: it is more cost-effective to buy a SIM card at the airport. Internet costs $1 per hour.

Additionally, it is important to note that in some areas of the island, electricity is cut off according to a schedule, especially during peak consumption seasons. It is recommended to preload maps, reservations, and translations for offline access – unstable connection can disrupt plans even in the center of Havana.

Tips: what is important to know before traveling to Cuba

TOP 6 recommendations for preparation:

1. Currency exchange: it is more advantageous to exchange currency with certified individuals, rates are 20-30% higher compared to banks.
2. Food: “paladares” cafes in the private sector offer tastier and cheaper options than hotels.
3. Transportation: renting a car requires local connections and knowledge of routes – roads do not always have signs.
4. Communication: international roaming is extremely expensive – it is better to use local SIM cards.
5. City map: GPS works intermittently, it is better to use offline maps.
6. Clothing: lightweight, natural fabric. An umbrella is essential – rains can occur suddenly.

Additionally, it is important to check the operating hours of museums and attractions in advance – some sites close without warning. When planning your route, it is advisable to rely on real reviews rather than promotional brochures – this will help avoid disappointments.

Conclusion

Cuba is a country that promises unforgettable experiences, vibrant emotions, and full immersion in a unique culture. However, to ensure your trip goes smoothly and without unpleasant surprises, it is important to prepare in advance. Considering the peculiarities of the visa regime, climate specifics, and local infrastructure, you will be able to fully enjoy every minute on the Island of Freedom, leaving all worries behind.

Cuba is an island in the Caribbean and a unique place where culture, nature and history intertwine. Here you can relax on white-sand beaches and dive into the underwater world. It’s a pleasure to stroll through the narrow streets of ancient towns and sample traditional dishes. What else to do in Cuba? This question worries many travellers, because the choice is incredibly wide. In this article, we will answer it in detail.

Variety of entertainment on the island

The island attracts tourists with its exotic landscapes, warm ocean waters and rich heritage. Varadero is great for beach holidays. In Old Havana you can visit historical excursions. Active leisure lovers will enjoy diving, yachting and surfing. All this makes the trip bright and unforgettable.

Cuba’s beaches: where to find perfect sand and azure water

Golden sand and azure waters – the beaches here are known for being clean and exotic.

Cuba has over 200 beaches and each has its own unique atmosphere. The most popular ones are:

1. Varadero is Cuba’s main resort and offers a comfortable holiday environment. There are luxurious hotels, cosy restaurants and entertainment centres.
2. Playa Pilar is one of the most picturesque places on the island. The white sand, clear water and rich underwater world make it ideal for a secluded holiday.
3. Cayo Coco is a protected area with stunning nature. Here you can see pink flamingos, walk through mangrove forests and enjoy the silence.

For lovers of active holidays in Cuba, the beaches offer plenty of entertainment:

• Surfing – great waves at Playa Los Cocos and Playa Baracoa;
• Kitesurfing – popular spots in Cayo Guillermo and Punta Canaque;
• Diving – stunning underwater landscapes off the coast of Cayo Largo. Here you can see shipwrecks, caves and exotic marine life;
• Yachting – travelling along the coast of Cuba, exploring wild beaches and uninhabited islands.

The choice of beach depends on preference: a luxury hotel, diving by the reefs or surfing the ocean waves. Cuba offers a variety of holiday options, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.

Cuba’s colonial architecture: a living legacy of the Spanish era

Cuba’s architecture is the epitome of Spanish influence. The buildings built in the XVI-XVIII centuries still preserve the atmosphere of those times. The island is rich not only in natural beauty, but also in architectural monuments. Many of them are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Old Havana is a true open-air museum. Narrow streets, old houses, balconies with wrought iron lattices and majestic cathedrals. The central square, surrounded by baroque buildings, looks as if time has stopped here. In Trinidad, it feels like time has stood still. The narrow streets are paved with stone and the houses are painted in soft pastel colours. You can smell the aroma of cane rum in the air.

Camagüey is known for its confusing layout. The city was built to confuse the pirates who frequently raided the area.

Each city in Cuba tells its own story, intertwining culture, revolution and the heritage of past centuries.

What to see in Cuba: top historical and natural sights

Cuba is not only about beaches, but also about its rich history, nature and revolutionary spirit. Among the must-see places to visit, stand out:

1. The Che Guevara Mausoleum is a memorial complex in Santa Clara where the remains of the revolutionary rest. Personal belongings and photographs are displayed here. The exhibition tells about his life and his role in the Cuban Revolution.
2. Bellamar Cave is Cuba’s oldest cave, more than 300,000 years old. Its galleries are decorated with giant stalactites, stalagmites and underground reservoirs with crystal clear water.
3. Humboldt National Park is a protected natural area with a unique natural environment. It is home to rare species of birds, amphibians and plants. Walks along the reserve’s routes allow you to see Cuba in all its natural beauty.
4. The Viñales Valley is a natural park where the best tobacco in Cuba is grown. Here you can visit the farms and learn about the cigar-making process. The surrounding area is impressive with picturesque limestone mountains covered with dense greenery. These landscapes create an unforgettable atmosphere.
5. Santiago de Cuba is a city rich in history and culture. It is worth visiting the Castillo del Morro fortress, checking out the museums and enjoying live Cuban music in the local clubs.

Cuban cuisine: what to try

Cuba’s culinary traditions are a fusion of Spanish, African and Caribbean traditions. The main ingredients are rice, beans, pork, seafood, tropical fruits and aromatic spices.

National dishes that are worth trying:

1. Ropa Vieja – beef stewed with vegetables and spices in a rich tomato sauce. It is Cuba’s most famous dish, served with rice or fried bananas.
2. Moros y Cristianos is a traditional Cuban dish consisting of black beans and white rice. It symbolises the fusion of Spanish and African culinary traditions.
3. Tostones are fried green bananas that are first mashed, then re-roasted to achieve a crunchy texture. They are served with garlic sauce.
4. Vaca Frita – roasted beef with lime and onion, giving the meat a crispy crust and intense flavour.
5. Arroz con Pollo is a Cuban version of chicken and rice cooked with spices, vegetables and saffron.

Cuba’s best restaurants offer traditional dishes with rich flavours. In addition, street markets and small cafés offer authentic local cuisine. Here you can enjoy your meal in a cosy and relaxed atmosphere.

What to do in Cuba?

The island offers endless possibilities for holidays. Here you can enjoy the ocean, explore nature, diving, yachting or surfing. History lovers will discover fascinating excursions, and gourmets – new gastronomic experiences. Cuba is more than just a holiday. It is a complete immersion into the atmosphere of the Caribbean, where culture, history and exoticism are intertwined.