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Hey there, Matt Wilson, CEO & Co-founder of Under30Experiences. I just got back from an amazing trip and wanted to demystify traveling to Cuba as a U.S. citizen. Yes, there's a lot of red tape—but it’s very possible and totally worth it.
If you’re wondering how to travel to Cuba as a U.S. citizen in 2025, you’re not alone. There’s a ton of confusing information about U.S. sanctions, credit card issues, visas, and where Americans are allowed to stay. This guide breaks it all down—with real tips from someone who just did it.
Cuba was an incredibly fulfilling trip for me and I hope many others can go and put money directly in the hands of the Cuban people who need it.
Can Americans travel to Cuba in 2025?
Yes—but not for traditional tourism. U.S. citizens are allowed to visit Cuba under 12 authorized travel categories. I personally traveled under the "Support for the Cuban People" license. You’ll need to self-certify your reason for travel, follow an itinerary that meets legal guidelines, and retain documentation for five years.
I brought a duffel bag full of items to donate, including over-the-counter medicines and basic household goods. The experience of handing these directly to local families made the trip incredibly meaningful.
Legal Travel Categories to Cuba for U.S. Citizens
Some permitted reasons to travel to Cuba include:
- Family visits
- Educational and religious activities
- Humanitarian projects
- Professional research
- Journalistic activity
- Support for the Cuban People (the most popular option for solo travelers)
Where can Americans stay in Cuba?
Not in government-owned hotels. Instead, U.S. travelers should stay in casas particulares—locally owned guesthouses that are legal, safe, and help support Cuban families.
I stayed in three different ones during my trip: two different hip boutique-style casa in Havana, a traditional family-run home in Trinidad. Each offered a completely unique and authentic experience.
Do Americans need a visa to visit Cuba?
Yes. You need a Cuban Tourist Card (often called a visa) and must complete the online D'Viajero form before arrival. U.S. citizens can't pay online, so you'll need to mail a money order from the U.S. Postal Service to the Cuban Embassy in Washington, DC.
I actually got rejected the first time because I used a bank-issued money order. Don’t make the same mistake—get it from USPS!
What is the D'Viajero form?
It’s a mandatory online form that generates a QR code you’ll need at the airport and again in Cuban immigration. You must fill it out after receiving your visa approval email.
I had mine saved to both my phone and printed out, and I needed to show it at the airport to check in to my flight in Miami, and then again at the gate.
Can U.S. citizens use credit or debit cards in Cuba?
No. American credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba due to the U.S. embargo. Bring enough cash to cover your trip, and budget extra just in case.
I brought $1,000 for a week, which covered everything from meals to transportation to souvenirs—with a cushion for emergencies.
What should Americans know about travel insurance in Cuba?
- Airline Coverage – Flights from U.S.-based airlines generally include Cuban health insurance (e.g., American Airlines includes up to $25,000).
- Supplemental Insurance – I bought an extra $200,000 in coverage for just $15.
- Medical Evacuation (Medjet or Global Rescue) – This gives you peace of mind in case of a worst-case scenario.
I tried Medjet’s 8-day plan and liked the extra peace of mind. Cuba’s healthcare is surprisingly good, but if something serious happened, I’d want to be flown to Miami. The doctors are well trained but they lack supplies and medicines.
Is Cuba safe for American tourists?
Yes, Cuba is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Violent crime is rare. Most safety concerns for U.S. travelers relate to:
- Petty theft
- Power outages (blackouts)
- Limited internet access
- Cash-only transactions
I felt safer walking around Havana than I do in some parts of major U.S. cities or in Latin American capitals like San Jose, San Juan, or Santiago de Chile. People were helpful, and I never once felt threatened.
I wrote what I believe is the most comprehensive travel safety article on Cuba. I’d love for you to read it.
What is medical tourism in Cuba?
Cuba has a reputation for strong healthcare and attracts international patients for surgeries and specialized treatment. Facilities like La Pradera International Health Center cater to foreign visitors.
Tips for U.S. Citizens Traveling to Cuba
- Print your itinerary and receipts to prove legal compliance
- Stay in casas particulares listed on Airbnb or similar platforms
- Be prepared for no Wi-Fi or cell service in rural areas
- Download offline maps
- Budget your cash carefully
- Pack a portable charger—blackouts happen more than you’d expect
Common Searches:
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This guide is your go-to resource for traveling to Cuba from the U.S. in 2025. If you’re ready to go beyond the usual Caribbean experience and connect with real people, Cuba might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Need help planning your trip? Join one of our small-group experiences to Cuba with Under30Experiences. We also have trips for people in our 30s and 40s!
