Cuba
Friendly Planet has successfully operated fully compliant legal tours to Cuba for Americans since 2011, and we look forward to continuing to do so under the latest rules.
Just 90 miles from US soil, travel to Cuba is easier than ever! Our value-packed Cuba tours have been in high demand, and we've helped thousands of delighted travelers discover this once forbidden island. Experience the rich culture of indigenous, African, and European roots. Meet artists in their Old Havana studios and rural Cuban families in the Viñales Valley, a region renowned for the cultivation of tobacco, cassava, and taro.
From salsa dancing beneath the night sky in Havana and the sweet and earthy smell of hand-rolled cigars and the bright smiles (and wardrobe!) of warm and welcoming locals—experiencing the authentic side of Cuba is a bucket list item every traveler should check off!
We're proud to be one of the first U.S. tour companies awarded a license for Cuba travel, way back in September 2011. Since then, we've sent thousands of American travelers to this relatively unexplored destination to participate in unique, inspiring, and affordable encounters with the Cuban people.
Friendly Planet Travel operates legal tours to Cuba under the "Support for the Cuban People" travel category, in accordance with 31 CFR § 515.574 published by the Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
Highlights
- Havana
A throwback to another generation, Havana's old-world charm is a glimpse into the heart of this fascinating country. Old cobbled plazas and historic buildings turned museums are juxtaposed with popular nightclubs and hotels that still exude a 1950s atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore Habana Vieja (Old Havana), a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of narrow and winding cobbled streets and almost 1,000 buildings of historical significance.
- Paladares, private restaurants
Amid a culinary revolution, dining in Cuba becomes an adventure as thousands of little-known (and sometimes even secret!) independent restaurants have exploded across the island. Relaxed government regulations on private business have facilitated this growing industry—with more than 2,000 newly opened eateries. Innovative restaurateurs have opened up in surprising locations, offering experiences that often rival dining in London or Paris. The flavorful food and atmosphere are comforting and authentic, and rich and complex dishes shatter the "rice and beans" stereotype. Don't forget to grab a freshly made mojito to follow your savory ropa vieja (braised, shredded beef)!
- Classic American cars
Travel back in time as you ride in style in one of Havana's classic American cars. In the early 20th century, these incredibly-maintained automobiles were imported to Cuba for around 50 years; however, importing the classic cars came to a halt after the Cuban revolution. Today, Cuba is seen as a living museum for vintage cars, as it is common to see them in many different colors cruising along the streets. It's estimated that there are about 60,000 classic American cars in Cuba, with some dating back to the early 1930s!
- Casa Particular, Havana
El Encanto de Perserverancia, the Cuban Bed and Breakfast on our Authentic Havana and Authentic Havana & the Scenic Vinales Valley tours, is a highlight in itself. This B&B, or casa particular, was hand-picked by our President Peggy Goldman during her many trips to Havana. It is a traditional colonial-style house that has been lovingly restored and converted into charming accommodations. The casa is privately owned, meaning your money goes directly into the pockets of the locals, and it offers a much more authentic, intimate, and satisfying stay versus the huge government-run hotels in the city. Our casa is also centrally located, only a seven-minute walk from the Malecon, the city's iconic sea wall. In addition, it is within easy walking distance of several trendy restaurants, including La Guarida, frequented by many American celebrities when they visit Havana. Plus, we give you the genuine experience of staying in a real Havana community with schools, cafes, and local shops nearby while only being a short drive from touristic Old Havana.
A throwback to another generation, Havana's old-world charm is a glimpse into the heart of this fascinating country. Old cobbled plazas and historic buildings turned museums are juxtaposed with popular nightclubs and hotels that still exude a 1950s atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore Habana Vieja (Old Havana), a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of narrow and winding cobbled streets and almost 1,000 buildings of historical significance.
Travel back in time as you ride in style in one of Havana's classic American cars. In the early 20th century, these incredibly-maintained automobiles were imported to Cuba for around 50 years; however, importing the classic cars came to a halt after the Cuban revolution. Today, Cuba is seen as a living museum for vintage cars, as it is common to see them in many different colors cruising along the streets. It's estimated that there are about 60,000 classic American cars in Cuba, with some dating back to the early 1930s!
Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Cuba? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Havana |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Before visiting Cuba, it is recommended that you are up to date on all your routine vaccines (measles, mumps, tetanus (DPT) vaccine, poliovirus vaccine etc) You may need to get the following vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases you might be at risk for at your destination: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid and Rabies. |
| Weather | The weather in Cuba is humid and tropical. The warmest month of the year is July, when the temperature averages about 85° F. The coldest month of the year is January, when the temperature during the day averages about 70° F. The rainy season lasts from May through October, and the driest months are from November to April. |
| Dining | Cuba’s communist government continues to impact agricultural production. But despite the lack of varied fresh ingredients, great meals can be found across the nation! Many traditional Cuban dishes are fried or roasted, and the main staples of the locals’ diet consists of chicken and pork accompanied by moros y cristianos (white rice cooked in black beans). With the explosion of paladares, or private restaurants, opening across the island, Cuba is experiencing a bit of a culinary renaissance. Must-savor Cuban dishes include ropa vieja (marinated braised lamb or beef), pudin (similar to flan), Cuban coffee (strong and sweet, espresso style), tres leches cake and to finish it off - an authentic mojito (a traditional Cuban cocktail made of rum with mint, sugar and lime)! |
| Money & Credit Cards | Currently, the Cuban peso (CUP) is the predominant currency in Cuba. However, we suggest you bring cash in US Dollars which are readily accepted in Cuba. U.S. travelers will need to bring sufficient cash for the entire trip. Take into consideration all the extras for which you’ll need cash, such as non-included meals, taxies, souvenirs, and guide and driver tips. Credit cards and debit cards issued by U.S. banks cannot be used in Cuba. Due to the official embargo, U.S. issued debit/credit cards are not recognized by Cuban banks. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card abroad. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Bring home more than a postcard from your travels in Cuba! Wander the open-air markets, artisan workshops, and stores to pick up mementos that will help you remember how unique Cuba is: fine art and sculpture, expertly crafted musical instruments, and Soviet Union era antiques. You can also enjoy Cuban cigars and rum while in Cuba. Effective September 24, 2020 authorized U.S. travelers are no longer permitted to return to the US with alcohol and/or tobacco products acquired in Cuba. For more detail see U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 110 and 220 volts. Plugs A & B; C & L. We recommend that you bring an adapter/converter along with you as not all hotels will have 110 volt (A&B plugs) outlets. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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