Cuba entry requirements
Feb 20 2024
Trip essentials
- Passport and Visa:
- Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay (Cuba entry requirements).
- Obtain the necessary visa or tourist card according to your nationality (Cuba entry requirements).
- Health and Insurance:
- Carry proof of valid health insurance accepted in Cuba, covering medical expenses and evacuation if needed (Cuba entry requirements).
- Include essential medications and prescriptions for the duration of your trip.
- Financial Preparation:
- Bring enough cash for expenses, as credit cards might not be widely accepted.
- Ensure your Canadian Bank issued credit cards are compatible with international transactions.
- Toiletries and Personal Care:
- Pack toiletries including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and sunscreen.
- Due to trade embargoes, some toiletries might be hard to find; pack extras accordingly.
- Bring toilet paper for the road in your backpack as it is often not provided in public bathrooms.
- Condiments and Food Supplies:
- Consider bringing favorite condiments like hot sauce, as certain items may run out at resort buffets.
- Clothing and Accessories:
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather.
- Include swimwear, hats, and sunglasses.
- For specific venues, like hotel restaurantas, cinemas, theaters and nightclubs, adhere to dress codes requiring long trousers and sleeved shirts for men.
- Electronics and Adapters:
- Bring a travel adapter suitable for Cuban power outlets - Cuba uses same outlets as in Canada, but some hotels may only have 220V outlets available.
- Carry necessary electronics like phones and cameras, along with chargers and power banks.
- Make sure you have installed a VPN application on your electronics prior to coming to Cuba. We recommend NordVPN:
- Travel Documents:
- Carry copies of important documents such as passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary.
- Store these securely, separate from the originals.
- Language Aids:
- Consider a basic Spanish phrasebook or language app for communication with locals.
- Navigation Tools:
- Bring maps or guidebooks to navigate Cuba's attractions and culture effectively.
- Hydration and Snacks:
- Carry a reusable water bottle for staying hydrated, especially in hot weather. We recommend a water bottle with a built-in filtration system to ensure access to clean drinking water throughout your trip.
- Pack snacks for times when food availability might be limited, especially in remote areas.
- Footwear and Attire:
- Pack comfortable walking shoes suitable for exploring cities and beaches.
- Respect local customs and traditions when selecting clothing for your trip.
- Entertainment and Comfort:
- Bring books, music, or other forms of entertainment for leisure time.
- Enhance comfort during long journeys with a travel pillow and blanket.
- Security and Emergency Items:
- Secure luggage with TSA-approved locks to deter theft.
- Carry a basic first aid kit including bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medical supplies.
- Include motion sickness remedies if needed.
- Environmental Preparations:
- Pack a compact rain jacket or poncho for unexpected showers.
- Consider a foldable or reusable shopping bag for groceries or souvenirs.
- Miscellaneous:
- Include a portable flashlight or headlamp for emergencies or nighttime excursions.
- Carry a small sewing kit for any unexpected clothing repairs.
- Open Mind and Sense of Adventure:
- Embrace the unique experiences and cultural differences encountered while traveling in Cuba. Stay open to new adventures and discoveries.
- Extra Recommendations:
- Include spare glasses or contact lenses if needed.
- Bring ziplock bags for organizing small items and protecting them from moisture.
Useful information
Things to know when traveling to Cuba
