Yes, travelers will need to apply for an e-visa.

Reason for Travel under a General License: Support for the Cuban people  

This category allows travel for activities intended to support the Cuban people. It is broad and has specific requirements, often involving engagement with individuals and small businesses, rather than government-controlled entities.

Cuba requires all travelers to have travel medical insurance that covers health expenses within the country. Typically, U.S. airlines include this mandatory insurance in the ticket price, but confirming this with your airline is advisable. The insurance must cover medical evacuation, emergencies, and repatriation. U.S.-based travel insurance policies are generally not accepted in Cuba.

When traveling to Cuba, all visitors must have health insurance that covers medical expenses within the country. Many U.S. airlines include this required insurance in the cost of their tickets. Specifically, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines incorporate the Cuban health insurance fee into their fares. For instance, American Airlines adds a $25 fee for this coverage, and passengers are advised to keep their boarding passes as proof of insurance while in Cuba. Similarly, Delta Air Lines includes a $25 surcharge for the mandatory Cuban medical insurance, with the boarding pass as evidence of coverage. Travelers should verify with their airline whether this insurance is included and keep their boarding passes as proof of coverage while in Cuba.

U.S. citizens face specific restrictions when traveling to Cuba due to long-standing U.S. government sanctions. While “tourist travel” is technically prohibited,  travel is permitted under 12 authorized categories, including family visits, journalistic activities, professional research, educational activities, religious activities, and support for the Cuban people. Travelers must self-certify their eligibility under one of these categories and maintain records of their activities. Be sure to save a copy of your itinerary and take lots of photos if you are asked to prove your compliance.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of State maintains a list of prohibited accommodations, so staying in private accommodations, such as casas particulares, is a good choice to stay within the rules. These private homes directly support local Cuban families and entrepreneurs.

Casas particulares are privately owned homes in Cuba, licensed by the government to host guests. They offer travelers a more authentic and personal alternative compared to traditional hotels. 

Staying in a casa particular allows visitors to experience Cuban daily life firsthand, with warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and helpful local tips. These accommodations range from simple rooms in family homes to fully equipped apartments or charming colonial houses. Moreover, they are more affordable and support independent Cuban families, making them an excellent choice for travelers, especially for U.S. travelers looking to comply with the “Support for the Cuban People” travel category.

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP). However, foreign currencies, especially USD, are widely accepted.

You can order Cuban Pesos from your bank before your trip for a better exchange rate. Also, remember to let your bank and credit card company know you will be traveling overseas.

For up-to-date exchange rates, download the XE Currency Exchange App.‍‍

Please remember that the U.S. Dollar notes that are slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100 USD.

We recommend a travel backpack or a medium-sized suitcase for your convenience. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Since space is limited on transportation, a maximum of one main piece of luggage per person is allowed. You will be responsible for carrying your luggage, so pack smart.

Cuba's colonial cities have many cobblestone streets, so a rolling suitcase will be challenging to manage.

Generally, Cuba has a casual dress code, but you can dress up for some restaurants, theaters, and accommodations. Since the climate is hot in Cuba, you should also pack light, breathable clothing. 

• Daytime: Wear comfortable attire, such as shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops.
• Evening: Dress up for restaurants, theaters, and hotels.
• Air conditioning: Bring a light jacket or sweater for indoor spaces, as they can be air-conditioned.
• Footwear: Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
• Sun protection: Sun hats or hats with large visors, SPF 50 sunblock, and sun shirts with high UPF protection are essential. Also, be sure to pack sunglasses and a long-sleeved rash guard for snorkeling.

Tipping is customary in Cuba and is a significant source of income for many service workers, especially those in tourism. 

You can tip in Cuban pesos (CUP) or US dollars (USD). 

It's customary to leave small tips for hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.

• Restaurants and bars: Leave around 10% of the bill, or more for exceptional service..
• Hotels: Show appreciation for hotel staff, including concierge and room service 
• Taxi drivers: Tip 15–20% of the fare.
• Tour guides: Tip based on the service quality and the tour length.
• Porters: Leave CUC 1.00 or more if you have many bags.

Yes, you will need a power adapter. Cuba uses types A, B, C, and L outlets, which differ from those in the United States. To charge your devices, you can use a multi-adapter to plug them into these outlet types.

Cuban food is a flavorful combination of Spanish, African, and Caribbean ingredients, often made with fresh, local ingredients. Traditional dishes include rice, beans, and meat, often seasoned with garlic and onions.

Typical Cuban Dishes 

• Tostones: Fried plantain slices
• Congrí: Rice with black beans and pork
• Ropa vieja: Stewed shredded beef
• Lechón asado: Roast pork
• Picadillo: Ground beef stew
• Arroz con pollo: Seasoned chicken and yellow rice

While tap water in Cuba is treated to meet safety standards, tourists should generally avoid drinking it directly from the faucet. Water stations will be available to refill water bottles. 

Google Maps does not work well in Cuba. You can still use the app, but you should prepare in advance. Download the necessary maps while you still have an internet connection, so you can access them offline during your travels. This will allow you to access the information you need to get around the island without any issues.

• We suggest bringing 300 USD in cash to be used at establishments that do not accept credit cards.
• This amount is not the total cash that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.

Travelers are not allowed to bring alcohol and/or tobacco products acquired in Cuba back to the United States as personal baggage.

Yes. Although accommodations may not offer the service on-site, they can help you coordinate it. Your Trip Leader can also assist you with locating nearby options.

Credit and debit cards issued by US banks do not work in Cuba.

Accepted cards: Visa, Mastercard, Union Pay, Ocean Card, CABAL, American International Service (AIS), and cards that aren't issued by U.S. banks or their subsidiaries.

Restrictions: US-issued cards are not accepted.

Plan to have plenty of cash on hand to cover meals and activities not included in the itinerary. You should also plan to have cash in case of an emergency.

Of course! This trip is yours, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. However, opting out of included activities will not change the trip's price.

Yes, we do! Through our “Switch Your Trip” program, last-minute slots open up on sold-out trips. Visit our Trips On Sale page for the latest last-minute deals, and sign up for the list to be notified.

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at info@under30experiences.com.