Your Questions:

Travelling

General Cuba

Q. Can I travel to Cuba?

Due to new regulations from the U.S. Government, Americans can now legally travel to Cuba without a specific license. It is simply a matter of stating that your travel is authorized under one of the 12 categories of allowable travel to Cuba. These reasons are:

  1. Family visits
  2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
  3. Journalistic activity
  4. Professional research and professional meetings
  5. Educational activities
  6. Religious activities
  7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
  8. Support for the Cuban people
  9. Humanitarian projects
  10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
  11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
  12. Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines

Q. Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

The Cuban government requires all citizens traveling to Cuba to obtain a Cuban visa prior to their arrival. A Cuban visa – also known as a “tourist card” – is valid for a single entry and allows the holder to stay in Cuba for up to 30 days. A valid U.S. passport is required for entry into Cuba and to obtain your visa.

If you are a Cuban American born in Cuba, you may need a special visa for entry to Cuba.

Q. What is people-to-people travel?

The people-to-people initiative allows Americans to travel legally to Cuba. Rather than engaging in typical tourist activities, people-to-people travelers enjoy a rich cultural exchange through meeting locals and learning about life on the island. All participants are required to adhere to a full-time schedule of educational activities. Our people-to-people itineraries meet all these requirements.

Q. What are examples of people-to-people activities?

Cuba Direct’s people-to-people tours grant special access to people and places that the average tourist doesn’t get to see. Below is a selection of some of the people-to-people activities our itineraries include, you can find lots more by browsing our People-to-People Tours.

  • Speak with coffee and tobacco farmers about their industry and the endurance of traditional cultivation practices in Cuba.
  • Watch performances by highly-acclaimed Cuban musicians.
  • Visit a local art school.
  • Learn about the history and culture behind Cuba’s most famed festivals.
  • Tour museums with experts.
  • Chat with artisans and have the opportunity to support their craft.
  • Dine at private-family owned restaurants and stay at private family-owned guesthouses.

Q. I’m not a U.S. citizen/resident, can I still travel on one of your people-to-people tours?

Absolutely, our people-to-people trips are perfect for anybody looking for a more inclusive tour and an educational experience.

If you are living in the U.S., regardless of nationality, you are subject to the same regulations on travel to Cuba as U.S. citizens.

Q. Can I stay in Cuba after my tour?

Yes, we’re not surprised at all that you would want to prolong your stay in Cuba. We are happy to help you make any additional accommodation arrangements. However, you will be in charge in continuing your people-to-people program independently. Please bear in mind that we offer 4, 5, 8 and 11 day tours, all of which operate with flexible dates.

Q. Do I need travel insurance for the trip?

Yes, as of May 2010 all travelers to Cuba must have an appropriate insurance policy to enter the country. You are legally required to take out a policy that covers you against medical expenses, but it is highly recommended that the policy covers cancellation, loss of personal belongings, liability, and other risks as well. If you do not purchase suitable travel insurance in advance, you may be asked to buy a local (Cuban) policy upon arrival at an approximate cost of $2.50 a day. This will only cover medical expenses.

Q. Do you travel with a group on a Cuba Direct tour?

No, all our tours are completely private. This is what allows us to offer flexible dates and arrival and departure points, so your trip works around your schedule. You’ll have uncompromised access to your driver-guide so there’s no need to vie with other travelers to have your questions answered. We believe this is the best way to discover Cuba.

Q. Who are Cuba Direct’s guides?

Our guides are hand-picked for their wonderful personalities and expertise on Cuban culture, history and society. All of our guides are devoted to ensuring that our clients have a rewarding trip and leave with a deep understanding of this fascinating country. With their insider knowledge, they’ll introduce you to people and places that most tourists never see.

Q. How much free time is there on a people-to-people tour?

U.S. legislation requires that individuals traveling to Cuba on a people-to-people program participate in a fulltime schedule of educational exchange activities. Because of this, our itineraries are packed with interesting activities to last all day and full participation is required. You will have free time in the evening or at night.

Q. How do I book my trip to Cuba?

You can phone one of our destination specialists from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm EST or send us an email at any time.

Q. What’s included in the cost of Cuba Direct people-to-people tour?

The cost of all of our people-to-people trips includes a private guided tour, private transport, all accommodation and some meals. All you have to do is purchase your flights and bring enough money for any extras or souvenirs.

Q. What is the currency in Cuba?

Cuba employs a dual-economy system that features one currency for foreign visitors (Cuban Convertible Pesos – CUC) and another for Cubans (Cuban Pesos – CUP). You will only need to use CUC while you are in Cuba. It is pegged to the dollar, so 1 CUC equals 1 U.S. dollar. You can only get CUC in Cuba, it is not exchangeable outside the country.

Q. Are U.S. dollars accepted in Cuba?

U.S. dollars are not accepted in Cuba and cannot be used for purchases. You will need to purchase CUCs upon arrival. If you exchange U.S. dollars in Cuba, you will have to pay a 10% commission. You may prefer to exchange U.S. dollars for Canadian dollars or Euros before traveling and then exchange these in Cuba to avoid extra charges.

Q. Will I be able to use my credit or debit card in Cuba?

No. Although President Obama has announced that U.S. travelers will be permitted to use their credit and debit cards in Cuba, it will probably take some time for American banks to establish themselves on the island. Furthermore, most businesses in Cuba operate purely in cash, cards are not widely accepted on the island. As activities, transport, food and accommodation are included in your tour, it’s best just to bring the small amount of additional cash you’ll need for your trip.

Q. Is the water safe to drink in Cuba?

You should not consume tap water in Cuba. Bottled water is available and advised.

Q. Will my cell phone work in Cuba?

Maybe. Some U.S. carriers are beginning to provide roaming services Cuba. If your carrier offers a roaming plan and your cell phone is capable of roaming in Cuba, make sure to check with your carrier about any charges before you travel.

Q. Is there internet access in Cuba?

Cuba is one of the least connected countries in the world, however, it is possible to get online. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are the easiest way to get an internet connection in Cuba, but there are only around 65 in the entire country. When you can access the internet, please bear in mind that the connection may not be reliable or work at the speed you are accustomed to at home.

Q. Is Cuba safe?

Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Caribbean and Latin America. Obviously, you should be careful, as you would when traveling anywhere, but overall it is a very safe country to visit.