The Travel Aisle

Cuba in June

Home > Blog > Cuba in June

Cuba is a country that has a lot to offer its visitors; from abundant wildlife to a stunning variety of scenery and miles of beautiful Caribbean coastline. Holidays in Cuba are becoming increasingly popular, as more and more people hear about the island’s unique history, lively culture and diverse range of regions to discover.

Visiting Cuba in June sees the country at the start of its low season for tourists, which is perfect for those who prefer to explore a location at their own pace, and enjoy a much more authentic atmosphere. The risk of bad weather might put some people off, but there will also be plenty of sunshine throughout the month, and many indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy during your stay.

Jump to…

Reasons to visit Cuba in June

' title=

  • June is one of the cheapest months to travel and stay in Cuba and is a perfect time to visit if you are on a budget
  • High temperatures across the month make June a fantastic time for activities in the ocean such as snorkelling, diving and watersports
  • Whilst June is a popular month for Cuban locals to have holidays across the island, there don’t tend to be many tourists visiting the country and popular attractions and resorts are likely to be quiet

Weather in Cuba in June

Colourful Havana

June is one of the rainiest months of the year in the west of Cuba and the capital city of Havana, with the east of the island also experiencing a lot of rain and even hotter temperatures. However, most mornings see remarkably clear and bright weather that is perfect for enjoying high temperatures on the beach, and most afternoon storms will have passed by the evening.  

Temperature

Temperatures in Cuba in June can reach up to 31 ºC during the day, and drop down to about 22ºC in the evenings. Humidity tends to be quite high throughout the month, which is partly due to the thunderstorms which often gather and hit in the afternoons. 

The best time to enjoy the warmth and sunshine in Cuba is in the early morning and evening, whereas the middle of the day is better spent inside somewhere that has air conditioning.

Sea Temperature

Sea temperatures in June are some of the highest that Cuba has all year, with an average water temperature of 28 ºC. These are ideal conditions for swimming, but make sure that you are not in the water during heavy rain or thunderst orms as this can be dangerous. 

Clouds and Rainfall

Visiting Cuba in June, you are likely to experience at least a couple of rainy days during your stay. Rainfall in the island’s wet season however usually tends to happen in short, heavy bursts and can provide pleasant relief from the humid heat. During the afternoon it is likely to be overcast and cloudy as the rain sweeps in, but you should have clear skies and sunshine in the mornings most days. 

Whilst June is the start of Cuba’s hurricane season, the country usually only experiences one prolonged storm during the month and hurricanes rarely hit the island as early as June.

Sunshine Hours

There are eight hours of sunshine a day in Cuba in June, which is slightly less than the previous month. The sun tends to rise at around 6.45 am in the morning and then set around 8.15 pm in the evening, so you will have plenty of hours of light to enjoy the island. 

When out in the sunshine ensure that you are wearing suncream for protection from the high UV rays, and stay in the shade or air-conditioned buildings during the hottest parts of the day.

Where to go in Cuba in June

Old Havana Cuba

If you are planning on coming to Cuba at the start of the month to enjoy the last of the good weather, consider having at least a few days on the nearby island Caya Coco, home to several luxury beach resorts and incredible coral reefs. Prices will be very reasonable even for all-inclusive holidays during June, but there is also a lot more to discover on the island than beaches and hotels. 

Perhaps the biggest attraction in Caya Coco is the coral reefs that line the coastline of the island, and which are incredible for scuba-diving and snorkelling excursions. The island is also covered in forests that are perfect for exploring and home to an immense variety of wildlife, including a huge colony of flamingos.

June is a brilliant time to properly explore the most visited areas of Cuba at your own pace, and one of these popular locations is the borough of Old Havana right in the middle of the country’s capital city. The area still has its original layout and much of its authentic colonial architecture, and is known for its narrow streets that are often lined with the vintage cars that Cuba is famous for.

Old Havana is best navigated on foot, as this way you can take in every element of your surroundings and better appreciate the atmosphere of this historic area. Catch your breath in one of the plazas, and spend some time people-watching with a coffee or cocktail before heading back out into the rest of the city.

A wonderfully unique and quirky area in Cuba is Cienfuegos on the south coast of the island. Originally built by the French as a European style holiday town, Cienfuegos is an incredibly pretty place to visit with the ocean on one side of the town and the Sierra del Escambray mountains rising up on the other.

Known as ‘the pearl of the south’, you can pass your time in the town by simply walking the streets and admiring the range of brightly coloured buildings and unique architectural styles, or explore outside of its boundaries and visit the forests or bays nearby. The town isn’t known for its beaches, but with the unpredictable June weather this shouldn’t matter too much, as there are a host of historic attractions to keep visitors busy instead.  

Things to do in Cuba in June

' title=

Roll a Cigar 

Cuban cigars are famous across the world, and even if you aren’t a smoker yourself you can still learn how to roll a classic cigar in many places across the island and take it home as a souvenir or present for someone else. If you want a more authentic experience you can travel to a tobacco farm in rural Cuba, where the best cigars can either be bought or hand-rolled in a workshop. 

Go Snorkelling in a Coral Reef

The warm seas temperatures in June make it a perfect month for snorkelling, and an abundance of marine life can be found in many of Cuba’s bays that are perfect for admiring as you swim. Caya Coco has already been mentioned as a prime spot, but Maria la Gorda and Holguín are also excellent locations for underwater exploration.  

Stroll Along the Havana Malecon

Havana’s classic promenade stretches out for seven kilometres across the seafront, lined with brightly painted buildings showcasing the range of architecture that the capital city is home to. It’s a great way to spot classic cars, mingle with street vendors and catch some of the cool breezes that roll off the ocean. 

Cabaret at the Tropicana Club

The Tropicana Club in Havana is one of the most iconic entertainment spots in the whole country and a very popular place to spend an evening if the weather isn’t suited for outdoor dining and drinking. It’s an expensive venue, but well worth the price for a spectacular night of Cuban dance and music. 

Crowds & costs

Classic Cuban Car

June is one of Cuba’s least busy months because of the unpredictable weather, resulting in some of the lowest prices for flights and accommodation. If you are wanting to visit Cuba on a budget then June is one of the best months to do this, and you will also be able to enjoy many of its popular attractions , restaurants and bars in peace.

Many Cuban families make the most of this drop in tourism and take their holidays on the beach in June, but the crowds are nowhere near as bad as during peak tourist season, and the atmosphere across the country is much more authentic.

June festivals & events

' title=

Fiesta San Juaneras

The Fiesta de San Juan is celebrated in many Latin American countries, and the biggest event in Cuba takes place in Trinidad at the end of June. If you are wanting to experience a classic Cuban carnival then this is a fantastic one to attend, featuring a huge procession, elaborate costumes and displays of horsemanship from guajiros; Cuban agricultural workers.

Ernest Hemingway Needlefish Tournament 

Fishing is a very popular pastime across the island of Cuba, and this competition was established by the famous author himself in the 1950s. Hosted off the coast of Havana at the Hemingway Marina, the tournament focuses on needlefish species such as wahoo, marlin, and tuna and is the most important fishing event in Cuba’s cultural calendar.

International Golden Boleros Festival

Bolero is a slow-tempo genre of Latin music, and the International Golden Bolero Festival that takes place in Havana is a celebration of this popular kind of music. Originally accompanied by just guitars and drums, bolero music is now performed with symphony orchestras at this event and offers a more classical take on Cuban music.  

Frequently asked questions about Cuba in June

Does it rain a lot in Cuba in June?

June is the start of Cuba’s hurricane season and the second month of its wet season, so you can expect some rain whilst you are staying on the island. However, showers do not tend to last very long and the mornings and evenings in Cuba in June are usually dry and sunny. 

Can US citizens travel to Cuba right now?

Cuba and America have a complicated political past, which has resulted in travel restrictions for U.S citizens wanting to come to the country. It is still possible for people to visit Cuba from America however, and a full list of authorised reasons for travel can be found online.

How dangerous is Cuba?

Cuba is a fantastic place to visit on holiday, and the off-season is an excellent time to see a side of the island that usually goes undiscovered by travellers. Whether you are enjoying the morning sunshine or passing the time indoors away from the high afternoon heat, Cuba has plenty of things to occupy your time during a trip in June.

Related posts

Trinidad Cuba Featured

Cuba in April

Havana Sunset

Cuba in December

Santiago de Cuba

Cuba in November

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.

' title=

About Contact Blog

can you visit cuba in june

© 2020-2024 The Travel Aisle

Colourful Cuba Houses

English

  • Pinar del Río
  • Las Terrazas
  • Centro Habana
  • Villa Clara
  • Santa Clara
  • Cayo Santa María
  • Sancti Spíritus
  • Ciego de Ávila
  • Cayo Guillermo
  • Jardines del Rey
  • Santiago de Cuba
  • Isla de la Juventud
  • How to Get Here
  • Means of transportation
  • Trips to Cuba
  • Natural Reserves and Parks
  • Theme parks
  • Zoos and Aquariums
  • Surf and Kitesurf
  • Travel Packages
  • New Year’s Eve
  • All-Inclusive Trips
  • End-of-college trip
  • Events and Congresses
  • Other Cities
  • Havana Airport
  • Varadero Airport
  • Cayo Santa María

Cuba

Organization of Cuban agencies

Cuba

  • Organized Trips
  • Taxi / Transfer
  • Casas Particulares
  • All-Inclusive trips
  • Agencies / Tour Operators

Cuba in June

Leave the organization of your trip to cuba in june in the hands of an expert agency and focus on enjoying your vacation.

Request your budget to travel to Cuba in June with our organization of Cuban agencies , with offices in different countries, specializing in tailor-made trips throughout Cuba . We are committed to creating your perfect trip at an ideal cost . Fill in the following form to help us better understand what you want and one of our experts will prepare a proposal in great detail.

Request your Budget Now:

Data about your trip:

What stage are you at in planning your trip?

Are you travelling with children?

Have you decided the dates of your journey?

Return date:

Would you like to book your flights?

Yes: No: Departure airport or city:

Would you like to book your accommodation?

Which accommodation category do you prefer? Homes where to experience the local way of life 3 or 4 star hotels Luxury hotels All-inclusive hotels

Would you like to contract any of these services?

Private transfers Car rental Tourist guide

Budget: $USD per person (Not including the flights)

Attention: The minimum budget we can offer you for 7 days is 450 $USD.

Tell us more about your trip:

Personal and contact data:

Phone number:

Country of residence: Afganistán Albania Alemania Andorra Angola Anguilla Antártida Antigua y Barbuda Antillas Holandesas Arabia Saudí Argelia Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaiyán Bahamas Bahrein Bangladesh Barbados Bélgica Belice Benin Bermudas Bielorrusia Birmania Bolivia Bosnia y Herzegovina Botswana Brasil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Bután Cabo Verde Camboya Camerún Canadá Chad Chile China Chipre Ciudad del Vaticano (Santa Sede) Colombia Comores Congo Congo, República Democrática del Corea Corea del Norte Costa de Marfíl Costa Rica Croacia (Hrvatska) Cuba Dinamarca Djibouti Dominica Ecuador Egipto El Salvador Emiratos Árabes Unidos Eritrea Eslovenia España Estados Unidos Estonia Etiopía Fiji Filipinas Finlandia Francia Gabón Gambia Georgia Ghana Gibraltar Granada Grecia Groenlandia Guadalupe Guam Guatemala Guayana Guayana Francesa Guinea Guinea Ecuatorial Guinea-Bissau Haití Honduras Hungría India Indonesia Irak Irán Irlanda Isla Bouvet Isla de Christmas Islandia Islas Caimán Islas Cook Islas de Cocos o Keeling Islas Faroe Islas Heard y McDonald Islas Malvinas Islas Marianas del Norte Islas Marshall Islas menores de Estados Unidos Islas Palau Islas Salomón Islas Svalbard y Jan Mayen Islas Tokelau Islas Turks y Caicos Islas Vírgenes (EEUU) Islas Vírgenes (Reino Unido) Islas Wallis y Futuna Israel Italia Jamaica Japón Jordania Kazajistán Kenia Kirguizistán Kiribati Kuwait Laos Lesotho Letonia Líbano Liberia Libia Liechtenstein Lituania Luxemburgo Macedonia, Ex-República Yugoslava de Madagascar Malasia Malawi Maldivas Malí Malta Marruecos Martinica Mauricio Mauritania Mayotte México Micronesia Moldavia Mónaco Mongolia Montserrat Mozambique Namibia Nauru Nepal Nicaragua Níger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Noruega Nueva Caledonia Nueva Zelanda Omán Países Bajos Panamá Papúa Nueva Guinea Paquistán Paraguay Perú Pitcairn Polinesia Francesa Polonia Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reino Unido República Centroafricana República Checa República de Sudáfrica República Dominicana República Eslovaca Reunión Ruanda Rumania Rusia Sahara Occidental Saint Kitts y Nevis Samoa Samoa Americana San Marino San Vicente y Granadinas Santa Helena Santa Lucía Santo Tomé y Príncipe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leona Singapur Siria Somalia Sri Lanka St Pierre y Miquelon Suazilandia Sudán Suecia Suiza Surinam Tailandia Taiwán Tanzania Tayikistán Territorios franceses del Sur Timor Oriental Togo Tonga Trinidad y Tobago Túnez Turkmenistán Turquía Tuvalu Ucrania Uganda Uruguay Uzbekistán Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Yemen Yugoslavia Zambia Zimbabue

I agree with the Privacy Policy and the data processing

Places to visit in Cuba during June

  • What is there to do in Cuba in June?

What is the weather like in Cuba in June?

  • Why trust our team of specialists?

Cuba in June

The month of June is a perfect time to visit the Cuban b eaches, landscapes and cities, since, despite being the beginning of summer, it does not have as much influx of visitors as it does in the months of July and August.

Havana always has great attractions. Stroll along the Malecón , walk through the traditional streets and emblematic squares of Old Havana; and experience the history of this magical city. Tour Trinidad , one of the oldest cities in Cuba, which, thanks to the exquisite preservation of its colonial architecture and impressive mansions, is known as a museum city .

Touring the province of Pinar del Río , overflowing with nature, allows you to enter the famous tobacco plantations, learn about Cuban peasant life, do ecotourism, walk along various trails in the Valle de Viñales ( Viñales Valley ) and its natural wonders, such as its unmistakable mogotes or its enigmatic caves and caverns, some of which were used by cimarron (maroon) slaves as a refuge. In addition, this province of Cuba offers paradisiacal beaches such as those of Cayo Levisa and Cayo Jutías , as well as the diving site of María la Gorda , ideal places for you to admire the coral barriers, in particular the black coral.

However, if you want to take advantage of the summer, visit Varadero 's long beaches. Its fine and white sands are a fantastic place to relax next to the sun and the pleasant temperature of the sea, always accompanied by the most exquisite drinks characteristic of the Caribbean .

Take advantage of adventure tourism, doing entertaining water sports such as diving or snorkeling . Delve into the deep coasts of Cayo Santa María, the Jardines del Rey or Cayo Largo del Sur. In these places, you can enjoy the most colorful underwater environments and the mysterious caverns of the Cuban seabottom.

The Cuban East is a great alternative to carry out the most diverse activities. Tour the patrimonial and musical city of Santiago de Cuba , walk through the Sierra Maestra , with the highest mountains in Cuba , such as Pico Turquino . Finally, take advantage of the incredible Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt ( Alejandro de Humboldt National Park ), a true natural paradise that you have to experience on your trip to Cuba .

What can I do in Cuba in June?

For visitors of Cuba in June, if you want to enjoy Cuban music, dances, parades, color, flavor and traditions, do not hesitate to visit Camagüey from June 24 to 29. During these dates, the wonderful Carnaval San Juan Camagüeyano ( San Juan Camagüeyano Carnival ) takes place, which has been happening since the 18th century. With six days of festivities that run through the city, you will be able to witness the walks organized by the people of the area, with their colorful floats, costumes and dancing to percussion while a whole town watches them. It is quite ideal for those who want to get to know Cuba from the depths of its traditions.

The Torneo Internacional de Pesca de la Aguja Ernest Hemingway ( Ernest Hemingway International Marlin Fishing Tournament ) is ideal for any sport fishing lover. Athletes from more than 14 countries around the world participate in this event and dazzle spectators with their talent on the north coast of the Province of Havana . The tournament, which is held annually on these dates, is part of the point system of the International Federation of Sport Fishing .  

For rock lovers, the city of Matanzas brings together the best Cuban rock groups at the Atenas Rock Festival, which presents various activities on this popular genre of music. This festival takes place annually in mid-June. Among its main activities we can find tattoo and contemporary art exhibitions, panels, debates, conferences, sale of merchandising and promotional CDs. Here you can bring out your rocker side and enjoy your favorite music.

To continue on the topic of music, you can enjoy Cuban music every two years at the Festival Internacional de Boleros de Oro ( International Festival of Boleros de Oro ). The most important interpreters, composers, musicologists, and lovers of the popular bolero gather here. This event takes place in a different place for each edition and is held during the third week of June. You can get to know the artists up close, participate in dancing days, listen to young singers, among other activities; but always with the Cuban bolero as the main theme of the festival.

Participate in the Fiestas Sanjuaneras ( Sanjuaneras Festivities ) in Trinidad during the weekend closest to June 23. In this colorful carnival, you can witness entertaining parades of allegorical floats, costumes, displays of cowboys galloping on their beautiful horses, all this in the narrow cobbled streets so characteristic of Trinidad . These are three days of great partying, revelry, live music and Cuban customs that you will undoubtedly enjoy.

In the city of Las Tunas, from June 30 onwards, the Jornada Cucalambeana ( Cucalambeana Day ) takes place. In this event, you can enjoy a tribute to the peasantry of Cuba. Here you can get to know the Cuban peasant culture from its ingenious decimas (tenths) and wonderful tunes to its exquisite cuisine, so you can soak up the different corners that this cozy country presents to you.

The month of June is the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere, but Cuba maintains its tropical climate, with temperatures between 23°C and 30°C . Although temperatures rise, the climate is ideal to enjoy Cuban beaches. The sea temperature during June is constant around 28°C , which is key, so that you are able to enjoy water sports without any problem. You can find momentary rains but they will pass immediately to a sunny day. Don't forget your sunscreen, to enjoy the sun without fear of burns, as well as wearing light clothing and a thin raincoat to protect yourself from possible light rains.

Reasons to trust our team of professionals

We are an   organization of Cuban agencies   specialized in   organized trips   to Cuba, with an   international presence , where you will receive the help and information necessary to program your desired trip or event. Further:

  • •   We support the local economy   by joining forces with   Cuban entities   to provide wonderful   100% native experiences. •   We organize personalized trips and events   thanks to our   experts specialized   in Cuban tourism. • We offer   reservations   for accommodation in   private homes and hotels, transfers, guides, excursions   and   car rentals   (cars)   100% guaranteed. • You will have   24-hour assistance in Cuba every day of the year   to face any eventuality or modification that you wish to make. • We work with a   secure and guaranteed payment platform   for your peace of mind. •   We will take care of all the formalities   before and during the trip: compulsory insurance, tickets, visas (visa), even   any extra reservation   you want to make at any time. • All our agencies are committed to   responsible and sustainable tourism , both   environmentally   and   socially .

Why "Trip Cuba"?

Trip Cuba is an organization of Cuban agencies whose objectives are:

  • ✓ To make Cuba , its culture and its heritage known .
  • ✓ To promote sustainable tourism .
  • ✓ To support the local economy, prioritizing direct contact with Cuban agencies .

Travel Agencies

If you are a travel agency or tour operator and you are looking forward to any assistance or collaboration to plan trips to Cuba , rely on our extensive experience

For Travelista

Should I Go To Cuba in June? Let’s Find Out If You Should!

By Alice Ross | THE CARIBBEAN

  • THE CARIBBEAN » Should I Go To Cuba in June? Let’s Find Out If You Should!

should i go to cuba in june

Cuba is an ideal destination if you are seeking fun and sun in the  Caribbean . This island has a lot of things to offer its visitors, which is why it has become more and more popular among travelers from different parts of the world. And if you are one of those people asking yourself "Should I go to Cuba in June?", then read on to find out.

Whether you're looking to experience an action-packed adventure, to soak up the rich culture listening to rumba and smoking Cuban cigars in a Havana music joint, or to enjoy a relaxing getaway on a gorgeous white sand beach, Cuba will not disappoint!

Although Cuba is not that big , it offers a diverse sub-tropical climate, just like the  Bahamas . This means that you will be able to experience cool winds that might offer a welcome relief from the strong humidity and heat in the summer season.

On average, the year-round temperature on the island is approximately 27°C, with plenty of sunshine to enjoy. The warm temperature in Cuba, therefore, makes it an enjoyable travel destination any time of the year. But what if you're planning to travel in June?

cuba

Should I go to Cuba in June?

The answer: It depends!

YES if: You like or don't mind travelling in low season. It is also the best time to travel if you are a budget traveler and are looking to save up on your trip. Many hotels and airlines offer special promos to those travelling during this period. You will be able to take advantage of huge discounts if you go to Cuba at that time of the year!

NO if: You don't want to experience a little bit of rain. The main reason why the flow of tourists slows down in this month is that June marks the beginning of rainy season on the island. This is particularly true in the capital city, Havana. And in many parts of Cuba, there is even a chance of hurricanes. But as mentioned above, even in June, which is considered to be the start of rainy season, you can still experience some warm rays of sunshine.

When we say it's the "start of rainy season", we mean that yes, it does rain for a few hours. But don't worry, it's nothing so crazy that it will ruin your whole trip. Although it comes down fast and heavy, the rain rarely lasts long in Cuba. The clouds soon brighten up and part to let the sunshine filter through and dry everything. But then again, the weather can be extremely unpredictable!

cuba city

The eastern part of Cuba tends to be more humid and hotter during the month of June, while the temperature in the region around Sancti Spíritus and Trinidad also rises over the average temperature.

Compared to other islands in the Caribbean and several Central American countries , Cuba has so far held up comparatively well even through the most threatening of hurricanes, although rural areas are more at risk.

What to Do  in Cuba in June?

havana

Despite the rising temperatures and high humidity in Cuba in June, there are still many events and festivals happening throughout the month. People visiting any time of the year will quickly notice that Cubans love partying, and they certainly do not make an exception to this habit in June.

At that time of the year, you can witness the International Hemingway Fishing Tournament. While there are a lot of fishing events taking place throughout the year, this is probably the biggest and grandest one.

There's also the Boleros de Oro or International Golden Boleros Festival, which celebrates the musical tradition of Cuba. You can witness a number of bolero dances and songs at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, among several other locations all around Havana.

Extra tip:   Book one of our team's favorite tours and activities to make the most of Havana in June:

Since Cubans love to celebrate through dance and music, you can learn to master the local dances by joining a salsa class in any of the academies and dance schools all over the island. These are ubiquitous, so you will probably be able to find one only a few minutes away from your hotel.

dance

On top of the revelries and events listed above, there are many more things you can do in Cuba in June (or at any time of the year!). For instance, there are some exciting watersports you may want to try. No matter what season it is, you can enjoy a great snorkeling or diving experience while on the island.

horse

There are also boat tours going to reefs where you can try your hand at fishing and windsurfing. Meanwhile, on land you can also go horseback riding and trekking. Actually, these activities are some of the most popular among visitors to Cuba.

Travelling in June is also not going to stop you from experiencing the magical beach scene of the country. The resort town of Varadero is approximately a 2 hours' drive from Havana. In this town you can enjoy the nightlife, the drinking culture, and of course the party scene. This is also your chance to live the high life in a ritzy resort at a much-reduced price in June. Check out the dreamy places you could stay .

Although it may take some time to get there from the city (which doesn't really matter if you are used to travelling), going to Varadero is definitely worth it.

Top tip : To avoid having to haggle for a taxi on arrival, book your shared Varadero airport transfer online at just $16 each way!

Suggested activities : To make the most of your time in Varadero, check out our favorite tours available in June:

A trip to Cuba is a unique and highly memorable experience for anyone who wants to visit the country in June. More than just a place for pristine beaches, Cuba gives anyone a chance to experience the astonishing history of this island, which offers at once a distinctive balance of sunshine, sea, unique culture, and distinctive Cuban features that cannot easily be found in any other part of the world.

cuba boat

If you are in search of a little something more than just a beach and a cheap destination, then Cuba should definitely be on your bucket list.

Answering the question "Should I go to Cuba in June?" should be easy once you are armed with the information we shared above. Depending on your preference and ability to adjust to the island's weather, you can decide whether or not you should visit the place at that particular time of year.

So, would you go to Cuba in June? Why? The  ForTravelista team wants to know your answer, so tell us in a comment below!

Rating: 4.74 (19 votes)

Thank for your voting!

About the Author

Hi, I’m Alice Ross, a long-term traveler who left the corporate world to travel the world. I chose to live life on my own phase and live day by day while immersing myself in new experiences, new knowledge, and new people in a different walk of life I met along the way.

RELATED POSTS

Funky Kingston ̶ Hotspots In and Around Jamaica’s Capital

You Cannot Afford to Miss These 6 Beaches While You Are in Nassau

Digital Nomads: Best Places to Live and Work in the Caribbean

Leave a Comment:

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

(0) comments

home to havana logo

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? [2024 Legal Cuba Travel Guide]

I’m an American citizen who travels to Cuba all the time, so “can Americans travel to Cuba?” is one of the questions I’m most frequently asked related to Cuba travel. While many Americans believe that Cuba is still “off-limits” to American citizens, this couldn’t be further from the truth; there are many ways to legally travel to Cuba for American citizens.

Want to travel to Cuba from the United States – as a U.S. citizen or otherwise? Our ultimate guide to Cuba travel for Americans will show you how, answering some of the most common questions about Cuba travel safety , Support for the Cuban People travel , and more.

old havana cuba

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

American Travel to Cuba

The short answer to the question “can Americans travel to Cuba” is YES, American citizens can travel to Cuba.

Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba via the United States as well. American citizens can fly from the United States directly to Cuba, travel independently (no need for a group trip or guided trip here!), and enjoy Cuba just as they would any other travel destination.

The longer answer to the question “can Americans travel to Cuba” is that while legal travel to Cuba is entirely possible and even quite easy, there are some important regulations around American travel to Cuba that travelers should be aware of.

U.S.-Cuba Policy Changes

For years, U.S.-Cuba travel by citizens of the United States has been restricted in many ways. In 2014, President Obama announced a new way forward in the relationship between the United States and Cuba, including lifting many of the travel restrictions that made it quite challenging for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba.

While the subsequent Trump and Biden administrations have made slight changes to Obama’s new policies, Obama’s new Cuba policies remain mostly intact. Americans can still travel to Cuba more easily than they’ve been able to in decades .

Cuba Travel 101

  • Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
  • How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
  • Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
  • Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Here’s why so many travelers ask us, “can Americans travel to Cuba?” – because Americans are still not able to legally travel to Cuba purely as “tourists.” Americans must still have a “reason” for traveling to Cuba.

Currently, the U.S. government doesn’t allow American citizens to Cuba as tourists. However, the U.S. government allows American citizens to travel to Cuba so long as they support local, non-government-owned businesses while in Cuba.

Essentially, yes, you can visit Cuba and travel exactly as you would anywhere else. Just avoid government-run hotels, restaurants, and tours while you’re there. This is actually incredibly easy, as all the best things to do in Cuba and the best places to visit in Cuba are local anyway!

So why might it feel like Americans can’t travel to Cuba (when it’s actually quite easy to travel to Cuba)? Americans must give a “reason” for traveling to Cuba – usually when purchasing an airline ticket or booking a hotel room.

How Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

You’ll probably need to check a box when purchasing your airline ticket asking for your “reason” for traveling to Cuba. No need to get nervous; this is easy – by stating that your trip to Cuba is in “ Support for the Cuban People ,” you’re simply acknowledging that while in Cuba, you won’t be staying at government-run hotels and the like.

It’s really that easy. Check a box on a form, and travel to Cuba.

Former President Obama’s policy changes towards travel to Cuba made this possible by creating 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba , travel that is permitted by the U.S. government for American citizens looking to travel to Cuba. Now it’s as easy as checking a box and booking your airline ticket!

Best Places To Stay in Havana

  • Casa Giraldilla ($) 
  • Casa Flamboyan ($ – $$) 
  • Residencia Santa Clara ($$) 
  • El Candil Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$) 
  • La Reserva Vedado ($$$) 

cienfuegos cuba hotels

12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Now when traveling to Cuba, you simply choose one of these twelve categories of authorized travel to Cuba that applies to your trip. Most travelers’ trips fall under the Support for the Cuban People category of authorized travel, which allows for travel to Cuba so long as it supports local businesses.

These are the Twelve Authorized Categories of travel to Cuba:

  • Family visits
  • Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and international organizations;
  • Journalistic activity;
  • Professional research and professional meetings;
  • Educational activities;
  • Religious activities;
  • Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions;
  • Support for the Cuban People ;
  • Humanitarian projects;
  • Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes;
  • Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials;
  • Certain export transactions.

When you book your airline ticket to Cuba or book your accommodations in Cuba in advance, you may be asked your “reason” for traveling to Cuba. It’s as simple as stating “Support for the Cuban People.”

Read More: Support for the Cuban People Travel Guide

Support for the Cuban People

Most travelers looking to experience Cuba need to only offer “ Support for the Cuban People ” as their “reason” for traveling to Cuba. When you do this, it means you’re saying to the U.S. government that you acknowledge that you’re planning to spend your travel dollars with local, non-government-run businesses while you’re in Cuba – that’s it!

This is stuff that you’d be doing on a trip to Cuba anyway – which is what makes it so easy to travel normally this way.

Stay at a casa particular (room for rent or apartment for rent owned by a Cuban, Airbnb style) or a small boutique hotel, meet up with local guides, eat at any of the innovative new restaurants around the island , or experience Cuba from a local’s eyes. This is all permitted and encouraged on a “Support for the Cuban People” trip.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

  • Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
  • Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

vinales cuba

Regulations on American Travel to Cuba

While many continue to ask, “ can Americans travel to Cuba ?” – one of our most frequently asked questions on this website! – the answer is yes, and with these new regulations, it’s easier than ever.

However, keep in mind that some travel regulations put in place by the U.S. government still apply to American travelers visiting Cuba. These include:

  • American citizens are no longer able to bring rum or cigars back from Cuba ;
  • American citizens are now prohibited (by the U.S. government – not the Cuban government) from staying at a variety of hotels in Cuba ;
  • Some methods of traveling to Cuba, such as “ people to people Cuba ” travel organized tours and the ability to travel to Cuba by cruise, have been scaled back or eliminated.

Read on for some of the regulations on travel to Cuba that Americans should be aware of during their trip.

Restricted Hotels in Cuba

One of the newer travel restrictions for Americans traveling to Cuba relates to places where American citizens are not allowed to stay while visiting Cuba. The Trump Administration developed a list of specific hotels and guesthouses that are either partially or entirely owned by the Cuban government and declared them off-limits to American travelers.

Check out the full list here before you book your accommodations in Cuba.

Some newspapers and websites have been incorrectly reporting that Americans are not allowed to stay in any hotel in Cuba, but this is not actually the case. Americans are just prohibited from staying in certain hotels that are owned entirely or partially by the Cuban government.

There are many boutique hotels with private ownership where Americans are still able to stay, plus private rentals called “casas particulares” or private home rentals like Airbnbs. In fact, some of our favorite hotels in Havana and around the country are still open and ready for business for American travelers ( La Reserva Vedado , La Rosa de Ortega , El Candil Boutique Hotel , and plenty of other Old Havana hotels are among our favorites in the capital).

Read More: Accommodation Guides in Cuba

  • What is a Casa Particular Guest House in Cuba?
  • Where To Stay in Havana, Cuba
  • 10+ Best Resorts in Cuba
  • 16+ Best Hotels in Cuba

Financial Restrictions in Cuba

It’s very important that American travelers to Cuba be aware of the financial and banking restrictions they will experience while traveling in Cuba. Because of the decades-long U.S. embargo against Cuba, American debit cards and credit cards will not work on the island as they do for those traveling from any other country .

That means that while American citizens can travel to Cuba, they can’t access their money from Cuba. This is quite important, as it means that if plan to travel to Cuba, you need to plan ahead and bring the money you’ll need for your trip with you in cash .

You can bring American dollars and convert them into Cuban pesos once you arrive in Cuba. Please read our complete Cuban currency guide before doing this – you’ll see why it’s not wise to exchange your money for Cuban pesos at the airport, for example, and learn how much money to bring with you on your trip to Cuba.

Read More: Financial Restrictions in Cuba

  • The Ultimate Guide to Currency in Cuba
  • Budget Your Trip: How Much Money To Plan To Bring to Cuba

Internet Restrictions in Cuba

There are no internet restrictions in Cuba that are specific to American travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of some important internet-related challenges in Cuba.

We get a lot of questions about whether there is internet access in Cuba , and if there is, if it’s safe to use or restricted by the government.

While the internet in Cuba is slower than you may be used to, it is now quite widespread and is pretty easy to use in most places in Cuba. Some websites are blocked in Cuba , and there have even been widespread internet outages during times of social unrest, though these blockages have mostly been of news websites that have been critical of the Cuban government.

However, the United States embargo of Cuba and the related financial and economic restrictions on U.S. companies doing business in Cuba means that some companies can’t offer their services to internet users in Cuba (notably, PayPal and many other banking apps, but the list changes) . You will not be able to access these websites from Cuba.

You can easily get around this if you want by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) in Cuba . We recommend NordVPN – it’s by far the best VPN to use in Cuba But, even without a VPN, you can still use the internet in Cuba without too much of a hassle.

Read More: How To Use the Internet in Cuba: A Local’s Guide For Travelers

Read More: Internet in Cuba

  • Guide to Using the Internet + Getting Wifi in Cuba
  • Best VPN For Cuba ( + How to Use a VPN in Cuba)

Packing Restrictions in Cuba

There are some limitations worth noting about what you can bring into Cuba. While most are quite obvious – the usual dangerous substances and the like – there are a few rules for packing for Cuba , both for travelers from the United States and elsewhere :

  • Travelers can not bring drones to Cuba
  • Travelers can not bring devices like walkie-talkies, satellite phones, or GPS devices. Any personal computers, cell phones, cameras, or any other devices you normally travel with are absolutely fine – no worries here.
  • Avoid bringing any literature to Cuba that may be seen as critical of the Cuban government. My brother was once held up in customs for bringing a university textbook with Donald Trump on the cover.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

havana cuba

American Travel to Cuba – Frequently Asked Questions

Can americans fly to cuba.

Yes – Americans can fly to Cuba! American citizens can fly to Cuba either from the United States directly or from other countries. Flights to Cuba leave regularly from many of America’s largest cities like Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, and New York.

We frequently get the “can Americans fly to Cuba?” question because when travel to Cuba was more restricted, many Americans used to fly to Cuba through Canada or Mexico as a way to skirt travel restrictions .

However, flying to Cuba via another country like Mexico or Canada is no longer a necessity. Obama’s Cuba policy changes allowed many more American citizens to travel to Cuba much more easily, kicking off many more flights to Cuba from the United States.

Do Americans Have to Travel to Cuba With A Group?

One of the most popular ways to travel to Cuba prior to the Cuba travel policy changes of former President Obama was with a “people-to-people” group or as part of an educational tour. However, with the ease of traveling to Cuba from the United States now, these group travel to Cuba experiences are no longer a necessity to visit the island.

While there are groups that travel to Cuba and tout the ease of traveling to Cuba by purchasing a spot on a group trip doing so, it isn’t necessary to travel to Cuba with a group . Feel free to travel to Cuba with a group if this is your preferred style of travel – or plan your trip to Cuba independently, too!

Looking for some engaging tours in Cuba, ways to meet up with local guides, or fun activities and excursions in Cuba? We recommend Civitatis , a fantastic company we’ve used countless times before that runs tours with local guides all around Cuba.

cayo coco

Is Cuba Safe for Americans?

While Cuba isn’t crime free, Cuba is a safe travel destination for all travelers, including American travelers. Statistics prove Cuba is quite a safe destination for travelers, and my own experience exploring Cuba, even as a solo female traveler, confirms it.

In all my years of visiting Cuba, I’ve never been met with anything other than curiosity when people leave I’m from the United States. While many Cubans disapprove of the government of the United States, I’ve never met a single Cuban who holds this against the average American citizen.

Overall, Cuba is safe for Americans , and as a traveler, you have absolutely nothing to fear while visiting.

Read More: Is Cuba Safe for Americans?

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

plaza vieja havana

American Embassy in Cuba

Part of the policy changes of former President Obama in 2014 paved the way for reopening the United States Embassy in Cuba after nearly 60 years of closure. The American Embassy in Cuba offers emergency services to American citizens traveling in Cuba, including assistance with lost passports, registering births abroad, and more.

Located prominently along the Malecón sea wall in central Havana, the American Embassy in Cuba is currently providing services to American citizens and has just started providing limited services to Cuban citizens seeking visas to the United States.

As a U.S. traveler to Cuba, you should save the address and contact information for the embassy just in case you need it:

U.S. Embassy Havana Malecón, Calzada between L & M, Vedado Havana, Cuba Phone: (53)(7) 839-4100

Travel to Cuba

There are so many things to do in Cuba – much more than laying on the beach and riding in old, classic American cars.

Anything from taking a guided tour of Havana to eating at a restaurant operated as a small business or taking salsa classes are ways to enjoy Cuba. And guess what – all of these things are perfectly legal – and welcome! – when you travel to Cuba as part of a Support for the Cuban People trip.

For more travel ideas, we put together a guide to the top ten activities in Cuba for a Support for the Cuban People trip with our favorite ideas for a fantastic trip! Go ahead – get started planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Cuba! As always, we’ll be here to help you get started.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Couple Travel The World

Best Time to Visit Cuba: A month by month breakdown of when to go!

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2020

Categories Caribbean , Cuba , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides

Honestly, the best time to visit Cuba depends on what you like to do on vacation and the activities and adventures you plan to have there!

With the harsh winter spanning across the US, Canada and Europe, it is always a good time to visit this tropical island. It is a perfect Caribbean getaway destination.

Cuba offers so much in a vacation from old Spanish (albiet crumbling architecture), stunning world class beaches and epic countryside, not to mention a haven for music lovers, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Havana, Cuba .

If you are looking for the perfect conditions, November to March is the best time to visit Cuba, as the weather is warm but not toasty enough to fry your skin within an inch of it’s life.

If you are not afraid of a sun-shower or two and you are looking to get great deals on accommodation and flights, April and May are a pretty good pick – especially for the budget conscious traveler.

In order to assist you plan when is the best time to visit Cuba, we have drafted a month by month guide of what is like to visit the Caribbean country trapped in time by month.

BRING WITH YOU: Lonely Guide to Cuba

Best Time to Visit Cuba: Month by Month Analysis

best-time-to-visit-Cuba

January in Cuba

January falls within high season in Cuba as the winter months on the Caribbean island provide dry weather and the perfect climate.

It is not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds as many people gain vacations in January and the cruise ships carrying snowbirds from the US and Canada dock almost every day in Cuba during the winter months.

January does however provide some of the nicest days all year in Cuba with perfect 21°C (70°F) that makes it possible to explore the city of Havana or head to the beach without the fear of getting burnt.

You won’t even need to worry about packing your umbrella for a trip to Cuba in January as the skies are almost always clear and a perfect shade of blue.

January is the coldest month in Cuba but luckily you never have to worry about bringing a jacket to Cuba as this Caribbean island is always warm and sunny.

january-in-cuba

February in Cuba

We visited Cuba in February and can personally attest that it was an absolutely fabulous time to visit Cuba.

It is still high season in February in Cuba but as the Christmas holiday makers and cruisers have diminished, it is a quieter month to visit in comparison to January.

Temperatures can rise to 25°C (78°F) in February. As it is still dry season, we did not experience a single day of rain during our trip to Cuba in February.

The downside of visiting Cuba in the dry months is that the beautiful countryside of Viñales will be a brown/green color in comparison to a bright green vivid color you will see in the wet months in Cuba.

Personally, I prefer a brown/green color then getting absolutely drenched in rain but the choice is yours! 

If you are thinking to head to the countryside, here’s a step by step guide about the different ways you can travel from Havana to Vinales .

february-in-cuba

March in Cuba

Tourism starts to pick up in March in Cuba as people get more holidays. During March and particularly at Easter time is the busiest time for Cuban tourism.  

Weather wise it is still a fabulous time of year to visit as the days are warm but not scorching yet 28°C (82°F) and there is still very little rain in the sky.

Unlike somewhere like Cancun, where we recently enjoyed an epic Mexico road trip , Cuba has not yet picked up as a hot Spring Break location, partly because of some restrictions still being placed on American tourism to the Caribbean island.

It is expected in years to come that Cuban tourism during Spring Break will massively increase due to the close proximity to the United States and the cheap flights from Miami and other major international hubs in the US now offered.

Until this point, Cuba proves a great destination for an older traveler in March who wants to avoid the Spring Break kids.

march-in-cuba

April in Cuba

April is the final month before the harsh temperatures and rain of summer sets in. It is also the final month of high season before rainy season in Cuba.

If Easter falls in April in the year you are visiting, you can expect crowds to be still very high in April.

Weather is beginning to get quite hot in Cuba in April with high temperatures as much as 30°C (86°F). On the plus side, April is the least humid month to visit the Caribbean island.

As April is the final month before rainy season in Cuba, if you are particularly opposed to rain, we would recommend squeezing in a visit to Cuba before the rains set in in May.

The streets of Havana are dirt based and tend to get very muddy during rainy season in Cuba.

cuba-in-april

Horseback riding through the tobacco fields in the shadows of the dramatic karst mountains is a bucket-list item

May in Cuba

May is the beginning of rainy season in Cuba. As the rains have not fully set in yet, it is a good time of year to get low season prices and predominately dry weather. 

May is however, the beginning of very hot weather in Cuba as the long hot summer sun sets in. You can expect temperatures as high as 31°C (88°F) in Cuba in May.

With a few showers, the plus side is that if you are planning on making a trip to the countryside of Cuba, it is starting to green up and look fabulous in photography.

As the weather in May can be quite unpredictable, we would highly recommend packing a umbrella and raincoat.

Due to export restrictions, you can’t expect to buy anything like you would at home in Cuba so it is always best practice to bring the necessities with you.

may--in-cuba

June in Cuba

June is the rainiest month in Cuba, so if you don’t like rain, June is not a good time to visit Cuba.

In June, Cuba receives an average of 80 mm of precipitation throughout the month. It is absolutely essential to bring a rain jacket and umbrella if you plan to travel to Cuba in June.

As would be expected June is also an extremely hot time to visit Cuba with temperatures soaring as high as 32 °C (90°F).

The rain and heat tends to ward off the crowds at this time of year so if you are looking for the best prices on flights and accommodation this is a good time of year to visit.

If you plan to visit in June, make sure that your accommodation has air conditioning. You will probably want to retreat off the streets of Havana or Trinidad during the hottest part of the day so having a working air conditioning console is absolutely essential.

June-in-Cuba

July in Cuba

July continues Cuba’s rainy season. 

Rainy season is Cuba is different to rain in other places in the world. It is hard and torrential but lasts less time meaning you need to run for cover but will be able to get back out and about sightseeing in no time.

The beach of Varadero is a popular option for holidaymakers to Cuba in July as the hot weather can make meandering the streets of Havana particularly uncomfortable during the day.

The temperature in July stays the same or marginally hotter than the month of June.

July-in-Cuba

August in Cuba

Cuba is still hot and rainy in August. Bad humidity tends to add to the heat in Cuba in August meaning that Cuba can feel rather a lot like a sauna in August.

if you plan to visit Havana, you will need to plan your sightseeing for the early mornings and late evenings. Most people choose to go to the beaches rather than the cities in Cuba during August.

As August receives some of the fewest visitors, you can expect low season prices on flights and accommodation.

As Cuba is a communist country and business owners are required to give hefty fees back to the government in order to operate, you sadly won’t see the same discounted prices on accommodation, food and retail as you would elsewhere in the world.

cuba-in-august.

September in Cuba

September is the start of the worst of Hurricane season in Cuba. Due to the possibility of cyclone activity in Cuba in September, it is the month with the fewest visitors to Cuba.

On the plus side, hurricanes only hit Cuba on average once every 4 years so your chance of getting caught within a hurricane is incredibly low.

During September, you can take advantage of the cheapest prices in Cuba.

September is a little less hot and rainy than June with an average of 13 days of rain throughout the months and 70 mm of precipitation. Keep in mind you will still need a umbrella in Cuba in September.

september-in-cuba

October in Cuba

October is the second month of potentially bad hurricanes in Cuba.

As mentioned above, these are incredibly rare making October one of the best times to visit Cuba as temperatures start to fall and crowds are lower.

Temperatures have fallen to around 28 °C (83°F) in October making it a more pleasant time to visit Cuba and meander the streets of Havana during the middle of the day.

There is still a good chance of rain in October so pack your rain essentials with you.

can you visit cuba in june

November in Cuba

November is your last chance to get into Cuba before the crowds of holidaymakers make their way there in December.

November is a nice time to visit Cuba for a mix of low season prices and sunshine days.

Although there will be a few rainy days here and there, November brings perfect weather to Cuba with a average temperature of 24°C (75°F).

If you want to escape the harsh weather that has begin to set on some part of the US, Canada and Europe at this time of year and still enjoy reasonable prices, this is the best time to visit Cuba.

November-in-Cuba

December in Cuba

Due to the Christmas vacation and the cold weather in most places around the world, December is absolutely peak time in Cuba.

Due to the crowds looking for a holiday, it will be increasingly difficult to snag a good deal on a flight or accommodation in Cuba during December. You will also be battling the crowds on the streets of Havana and Trinidad.

It is not all bad news if you only have this time of year up your sleeve, as temperatures are very mild and the streets of Havana are absolutely alive with people (which adds to the atmosphere) making it the best time to visit Cuba for some people.

Cuba Tours We would Recommend:

  • A tour with a local in Havana
  • Havana by E-Bike
  • 2 Hour Classic Havana Car Tour
  • A  day tour to Viñales
  • The Tropicana Show
  • A small group walking tour of the Old Town

What to Bring to Cuba? Cuba Travel Essentials

  • BRING:  Travel Insurance. Upon entering Cuba, my Dad was asked to show proof of insurance. I didn’t know this before visiting but the immigration officer informed us that you would be denied access to Cuba without proof of insurance.
  • BRING:  Travel Information. As there is little wifi in Cuba, it is advisable to bring with you notes or a guidebook of all the awesome things there are to do. We would recommend bringing with you a copy of the  Lonely Guide to Cuba  with you to Cuba unless you are very organised and manage to plan every restaurant and activity in advance. 
  • DON’T BRING:  Your drone. Sadly, drones are not allowed in Cuba at this stage. If you bring your drone into Cuba, it will be temporarily held at the airport. You will also be required to pay a fine to get it back. 

best-time-to-visit-Cuba

More Cuba Travel Information:

  • 50 Unmissable Things to do in Havana Cuba
  • How to travel from Havana to Viñales
  • Cuba Packing List – What to Bring with you to Cuba
  • Where to Stay in Havana – the best neighborhoods and places
  • Havana to Cancun, Mexico

Save Best Time to Visit Cuba to Pinterest (so you can find it again later!)

MC Miller

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

Tour Republic

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism.

If you are a US citizen, you can still visit Cuba in 2024. However, unlike your neighbors traveling from Canada , you will be subject to specific regulations from the US government.

For example, doing “tourism,” like staying at a resort on a Cuban beach , isn’t allowed. Your trip must fall into one of 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba. You must also comply with certain financial restrictions while on the island.

This article offers our first-hand experience organizing trips from the US to Cuba for over seven years. We will answer all your questions about going to Cuba as an American, including the entry requirements, the 12 categories of authorized travel, People-to-People travel, the Support for the Cuban People license, and much more.

In this guide, we cover all of it.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? 

How to travel to Cuba - Cuban giving thumbs up from balcony (1)

The simple answer is yes. It’s perfectly legal for Americans to travel to Cuba, except for explicit tourism purposes.

Americans can’t go to Cuba for tourism thanks to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of July 8, 1963, which imposed a trade embargo on the island.

However, you can travel legally to Cuba if you comply with certain Cuban and US government regulations.

Specifically, the Cuban government asks you to bring the following documentation:

  • The Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Visa).
  • Health travel insurance.
  • Customs and health declaration forms.

On the other hand, the US government requires you to:

  • Self-certify under one of the 12 travel categories of authorized travel to Cuba
  • Avoid spending money at certain restricted businesses.
  • Keep your travel receipts and records for five years.

Does that sound like a lot? In the sections below, we explain how to meet these requirements so you can travel legally to Cuba from the US.

The Cuban Tourist Card

Pink Cuban Tourist Card

The Cuban Tourist Card is a tourist visa that almost everyone traveling to Cuba for tourism must bring. They come in two colors: pink and green.

In most cases, US citizens must get the pink Cuban Tourist Card because they fly directly from a US airport to Cuba. However, if you plan on leaving from a non-US airport, you will need the green version.

In any case, we suggest you purchase the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline or on EasyTouristCard.com .

Buy it From Your Airline

The cost of the Cuban tourist visa is usually bundled into the ticket price. However, in some cases, you will need to purchase the visa separately. Prices range from 50 to 80 US dollars, depending on the airline.

Please note that only a few US airlines fly to Cuba. Check out Skyscanner to find all available flights from the US to Cuba.

Purchase it on EasyTouristCard.com

If you can’t get the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline, the best alternative is to purchase it online from Easy Tourist Card , a widely trusted provider.

The pink version costs about 100 US dollars, while the green version sells for roughly 35 US dollars.

Mandatory Travel Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is an entry requirement to Cuba.

Your policy must cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. The Cuban government won’t allow you to leave the country with outstanding medical bills!

Based on our assessment of the most popular travel health insurance providers for Cuba , we recommend Insubuy .

On Insubuy , coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation starts at 8 USD per week per person and is pretty comprehensive.

Customs and Health Declaration Forms

Cuba requires all travelers to bring a Sanitary Statement and a Customs Declaration form.

You can complete the documentation at D’Viajeros , the government’s website. It will save you time and annoyance at the Havana Airport !

The 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Selection of 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

A “category of authorized travel to Cuba” is also known as a “travel license” or “general license.”

Confusingly, even though it’s called a license, it is not a physical or digital document. It’s a self-certification you need to do when travel providers, such as airlines and hotels, ask you about it. In most cases, it’s just about ticking a box.

Obviously, before you tick that box, you should review whether you meet the criteria for traveling to Cuba under your chosen category.

There are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba , as defined by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC):

  • Family visits
  • Official business for the US government, foreign government, and certain intergovernmental organizations
  • Professional research and professional meetings
  • Educational activities
  • Religious activities
  • Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
  • Support for the Cuban People
  • Exportation, importation or transmission of information or informational materials
  • Humanitarian projects
  • Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
  • Certain export transactions

In 90% of the cases, a US citizen will travel to Cuba under either the Education Activities or the Support for the Cuban People categories.

Educational Activities (People-to-People Travel)

People-to-people travel falls under the Educational Activities category. This license aims to promote people-to-people contact, support civil society in Cuba, and encourage the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities.

You can travel under this license provided that your trip is:

  • Organized by a US travel company (the “sponsoring organization”).
  • Escorted by an employee of the sponsoring organization.

People-to-people travel is the best option for Americans who want to go in a group and prefer to avoid the hassle of planning an itinerary in compliance with the US-Cuba travel regulations.

However, not everyone likes the crowds or having a chaperone around. Besides, traveling to Cuba independently is still legal, easy, and safe . For those, there is the Support for the Cuban People category.

The Support for the Cuban People Travel Category

The Support for the Cuban People category intends to promote US travel to Cuba to strengthen civil society on the island. It covers activities that:

  • Foster closer connections with the Cuban people,
  • Contribute to the development of Cuban civil society, or
  • Advocate for the independence of the Cuban people from the government; and
  • Involve meaningful engagement and interaction with individuals in Cuba.

American travelers love this category because it’s pretty vague. You have lots of wiggle room and can pretty much do many of the activities you would in any other country.

Here are examples of activities that can “strengthen Cuban society”:

  • Visiting museums and historical sites.
  • Eating at locally-owned restaurants (paladares).
  • Taking Cuban cooking classes.
  • Taking salsa dancing lessons.
  • Touring a tobacco farm and learning how to roll Cuban cigars.
  • Taking a tour through the best of Havana .
  • Volunteering with a local organization or non-profit.

How does it sound?

However, we must remind you that you still can’t do tourism in Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People license. In fact, you should spend about 6-8 hours on a schedule of activities actually supporting the Cuban people.

That said, it’s not like an American official will call you daily to verify your schedule, so don’t stress too much about it.

You can also support the Cuban people in less subtle ways by:

  • Bringing inexpensive items as gifts for locals . Most essential products you take for granted (toiletries, hygiene products, etc.) are hard to come by in Cuba. Bringing a thoughtful gift will show your appreciation and may meet your hosts’ vital needs.
  • Tipping . The base wage for workers in Cuba is the equivalent of a few US dollars a month. Therefore, locals expect and highly appreciate tipping.

Finally, considering that the Internet is limited in Cuba , you should arrange your activities before you land on the island.

Restricted Businesses and Accommodations

The US Treasury Department doesn’t like Americans spending money anywhere in Cuba.

The Treasury keeps a list of businesses to which Americans must refrain from giving money. Most of these businesses are owned by the Cuban military or security services, with which the US still has a frosty relationship. You can see the full, updated list here .

The US government also forbids Americans from staying at specific accommodations listed in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .

To be safe, we recommend renting a room from Cuban Airbnbs , also known as “casas particulares.” These privately owned and highly affordable accommodations can provide you with an authentic Cuban experience.

Check out Skyscanner for the latest listings of “casas particulares” and hotels in Cuba.

Travel Receipts and Records for Five Years

The US government can ask you for your travel records and receipts for up to five years after your Cuba trip.

This sounds spooky, although anecdotally, it doesn’t happen very often. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, so keep your records safe for five years if you’re questioned about your trip.

Bonus Tip for Americans Traveling to Cuba: Stick to Private

How to Travel to Cuba - African Cuban Woman

Generally, you should purchase most travel services and products from Cuban private businesses.

We know you can’t always stick to this principle because the Cuban government owns most of the travel facilities and services on the island, including hotels, car rental companies , tour agencies, and souvenir shops.

But whenever you can support Cuban entrepreneurs, please do so. You will strengthen the legality of your trip and genuinely help Cuban society.

Besides, if you want to cut your trip to Cuba costs , purchasing from locals will get you more bang for your buck. Not only is it more affordable, but you will likely pay in Cuban currency , the Cuban Peso, which is hugely devalued compared to the US dollar.

This includes:

  • Booking tours from local guides .
  • Staying in “casas particulares.”
  • Eating at “paladares” (check out our food safety guide for Cuba ).
  • Riding in private taxis, including “almendrones,” Cuba’s old classic cars .
  • Buying souvenirs directly from local sellers.

For more tips and tricks you can pull in your trip to the island, read our 58 travel tips for Cuba .

US Legal Travel to Cuba, Summarized

If you are an American traveling to Cuba, you can break down the process into five relatively simple steps:

  • Choose the best travel category to Cuba based on your travel purpose. If you are going in a group, it will likely be Educational Activities (People-to-People travel) or Support for the Cuban People if you travel independently.
  • Ensure your itinerary has a full schedule of activities covered by your chosen travel category.
  • Avoid booking an accommodation included in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .
  • Do not spend money on the specific prohibited businesses in Cuba .
  • Keep your records and receipts for five years.

Once you overcome the legal (but easy!) challenges of traveling to Cuba, you will see that the effort was well worth it. If you feel ready but don’t know when, check out our guide to the best time to travel to Cuba .

Have you traveled to Cuba as a US citizen? We want to hear from you. Please share your experience in the comments below!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card –  If your  Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa) isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through EasyTouristCard . 

Travel Health Insurance –  Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via  Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack –  Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Water bottle with filter
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Pin adapter (for Europeans)
  • Travel guide
  • Spanish-English phrasebook
  • Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations –  Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight –  Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

Share Article:

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

64 comments.

Assuming we meet all the other qualifications, is there no way for an American to go a beach in Cuba?

Hi Kat, Unfortunately, Americans are not allowed to simply go to the beach. I also don’t see going to the beach as an activity covered by any of the 12 travel categories. Honestly, if you go to the beach, it is unlikely that you will be fined since it’s hard for an US official to know that you did. However, it is not permitted.

Hola, queria saber si mi novia con ciudadania estadounidense y salvadoreña tiene que pedir algun tipo de visado especial ? Yo soy cubano con pasaporte cubano aun vigente.

Hi we booked our tour package from Canada, flight plus stay at the resort. I understand that my husband (Canadian citizenship) won’t have any problems, but for me (US Citizenship, Canadian resident) do I need to book separately a casa particulares to get into the country? And when i get in there, can I stay with my husband at the resort?

Hi juju, According to the regulations, you shouldn’t. First, you need to make sure that the resort is not on the restricted list . Secondly, keep in mind that Americans are not allowed to go to Cuba only for tourism purposes. Therefore, you should have an schedule of activities that fall under any of the 12 general licenses to travel to Cuba, as explained in the article.

The question: “Do you need a password to Cuba?” Should be: Do you need a PASSPORT to Cuba?

Fixed. Thanks a lot!

Thank you for the great information , very helpful . As an European flying from Miami to Havana with a valid ESTA visa could I enter back the USA with on the same Esta visa . Not easy to get as answer on the official us pages . Thanks .

It appears that you will need to apply for a visa to re-enter the United States. Read more here .

I tried to buy the pink visa on easy tourist but almost at the end my country is not on the list. Puerto Rico is part of USA but can’t complete the order. They wrote me but do not get the problem of the country. Where else can I buy online?

Hi, I’m Italian and I would like to travel to Cuba via Miami, but it seems the nationality doesn’t matter because we need to declare a specific category. But what if I just need to go to Cuba from USA with a one-way flight and I will come back home directly from Cuba to Europe?

How did it go? Where you able to do the trip as mentioned?

I am an adult I was born in the US. Lived here my whole life.

My mom and dad were born in cuba, came to America in the 90s, and got their citizenship over 8 years ago.

I believe for my parents to travel to cuba they may need a Cuban passport because I read that cuba does not recognize them as American, just Cuban.

However, I also read that because both of my parents were born there, I am the daughter and I too am a Cuban citizenship under Cuban law

I’ve read that a few times in a few pages and I wanted to know if it was true. And if I would need to get a Cuban passport myself

Please let me know! Thanks .,

Hi Aileen, If you were born in the US, you don’t need a Cuban passport to enter the country.

In your article, when quoting OFAC, the text “during his or her four-day trip” was included. Are visits to Cuba limited to four days?

I am a professional orchestral and choral conductor and composer, and my associate is a full-time jazz pianist and composer. We want to visit Havana to listen to Cuban salsa, jazz, etc, and to engage in one to one conversations with Cuban musicians—and maybe even join in playing, if invited! Six to eight hours per day would hardly be enough for us: we’d start at 17:00 and leave when everybody goes home—and that’s just the evening. Which category would you recommend for us? EXCELLENT website! Thanks so much!

kayak wont quote flights to me as of today siting regulatory issues…. has something changed?

Hi Danial, That’s correct. It appears that Kayak is not quoting flights to Cuba currently. I suggest you use Skyscanner instead.

So to be clear. We still can’t bring back any alcohol or tobacco from Cuba back into the US? I read in this article that there Is now no value restrictions like there used to be.. Can you advise please?

Hi Mark, No, legally, you cannot bring Cuban tobacco or alcohol to the US.

Ummmm damn I guess I’m the only one with this problem. Can felons go? Not on parole and the case is over and done but I know some counties trip and some don’t. So what’s cubas stance on it?

Hi Mike, According to Felony Record Hub , felons can enter Cuba as long as they don’t have an outstanding felony warrant or are not on a no-fly TSA list. Hope it helps!

Hey great information!! Thank you

When you say you have to declare your license(which mine would fall under the 12) during booking, what does that mean? How do you declare it?

Hi Orlando, Usually, travel providers will provide you with a form where you have to select the license you are using traveling to Cuba. You don’t have to get an “actual” license. That’s it 🙂 The only licenses that do require a physical license from OFAC are: – Professional research and professional meetings. – Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.

Hello! This is a great article. I am a US citizen considering sailing my boat from the Dominican Republic to Cuba and then on to Belize. Some of our crew (US citizens as well) may fly directly back to the US from Cuba. Is this plan legal and possible? Will the Cuban authorities have a problem with this plan? Will the US authorities have a problem with it once we return?

Hi Christopher,

Did you ever find out if you can go to Cuba by private boat?

Thanks, Sarah

My fiancée from Ukraine suggested we take a winter trip to Cuba. Since she is booking through a Ukrainian travel agency our stay and flight – is it okay to stay as her guest at a prohibited resort and when would I declare my travel intent/licensing? We would otherwise try to use up 6-8 hours per day supporting the local economy.

Hi Gerald, Usually, travel service providers (airlines, travel agencies, booking sites, etc.) ask you to declare your travel category while booking the trip, not after. I’m not sure at what point the Ukrainian travel agency would ask you about it or if they will do it at all. Unfortunately, if you are a US citizen, you shouldn’t stay at a prohibited accommodation in Cuba, regardless of where you are flying from.

my concern is nobody writes how long does it take to get permit to travel there, on one of our government pages it says up to 6 months ??

Hi there, You don’t need to apply for an actual license unless you are traveling under any of these two categories: – Professional research and professional meetings – Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.

I just found this concerning my question on banks in Cuba from US government site. Wonder what the alternative/s is to have funds in Cuba?

U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. The Cuban Central Bank announced new restrictions on the use or conversion of U.S. dollars beginning June 21, 2021. U.S. dollars in cash cannot be converted to local currency, may not be accepted for payment, and cannot be used to pay fees or taxes at the airport. Travelers should confirm alternative payment options before traveling, as policies concerning the use of U.S. dollars in Cuba are subject to change. The Cuban government requires that travelers declare cash amounts over the equivalent of 5,000 USD.

Great article, but severely lacking in one area, at least for me. You have nothing on banking inside Cuba. I don’t like to carry large sums of money. Do the banks there work for US banks for ATM’s? Are they few (only in banks) or difficult to receive money from such as small limits for withdrawals?? With limited internet there, I’m assuming if someone changes around to different home casa’s then cash is the only way to purchase rooms? ATM again. Thx!

We actually wrote a whole guide to using money in Cuba as a tourist. Check it out here – https://www.tourepublic.com/blog/cuban-currency/

But I think you figured out the answer to your questions: U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba.

Are you currently operating tours given the political climate in Cuba? Today is November 15, 2021 and there were planned protests etc.

Thank you, Ash

Hi Ashley, At the moment, we are not operating tours in Cuba.

Are the covid restrictions still in place?

Hi MZ, They are, but most will be lifted on November 15th, 2021 (next week!). We will update the article accordingly.

Hey MZ. Just wanted to give you the heads up that we updated our guide to the latest Cuba travel restrictions . Check it out!

I want to travel to Holguin Cuba to visit friends I have dual citizenship USA-Uruguayan. If I leave from Uruguay do I need to do all of these activities? What happens if I don’t book tours i visiting friends what do you recommend

Hi Alicia, Unfortunately, the current US travel restrictions to Cuba apply to all persons subject to US jurisdiction, regardless of where that person is residing. Therefore, if you are a US citizen, you will need to follow the US regulations to travel to Cuba, even if you use an Uruguayan passport. Follow the steps and advice outlined in the article and you should be fine. I believe that Support for the Cuban People is the right category for you -unless you have family in Cuba- but then again, we can’t offer legal advice.

I am a retired dentist and would like to visit hospitals and dental clinics in Cuba. I would like to professional Oral surgery to people of Cuba. Can I get any information?

Hi Peter, I think you should contact the US embassy in Cuba for more information – https://cu.usembassy.gov/ Thanks,

Why don’t you give advise for foreign tourists who fly to miami then onto Cuba. What can we do and what can’t we do as non Americans. I plan to visit Cuba in febuary/march 2022 via miami/fort laudedale.

Hi, I have the same problem as you. I’m Italian and I would like to travel to Cuba via Miami, but it seems your nationality doesn’t matter, we need to declare a specific category. But, if we choose the ‘Support for the Cuban People’ category, when we have to declare all the activity that we have done? And I didn’t understand if they will check every day’s activities or we just need to show them some of the activities done in the week.

Hi Alessia, You won’t need to declare all the activities you will do in Cuba. You only need to choose the Support for the Cuban People category, and that’s it. In Cuba, no one will monitor what you will be doing. Hope it helps.

So essentially it’s the U.S. government enforcing these restrictions and calling it “Support for the Cuban People” when it really means interacting mostly with civilians likely to oppose the Revolution and tell a one-sided narrative about what it’s like to live in Cuba. U.S. travelers are being carefully kept away from actually supporting Cuba as a sovereign nation whose government has made remarkable progress in health and education, putting the U.S. to shame. This explains why the few friends who went to Cuba come back with a story about happening to run into a Puerto Rican who disses the Cuban government. It’s all a set up, and extremely lame on the part of the U.S. Get over it–Fidel defeated your and overthrew your puppet dictator. Stop this ridiculous embargo and these stupid sanctions.

you’re 100% right, Ann. it’s embarrassing

The U.S. will do anything to make Cuba look bad and undo the revolution. I was looking to travel there to actually learn from and support the Cuban people, not support the counter-revolutionaries

Grow up Ann. Stop trying to aggrandize La Revolución. Many of us who actually lived in Cuba under the regime know the truth.

The problem with fanboys and fangirls (like you and Anthony) is the same as the problem with haters: instead of objectively evaluating things, they just say what feels “truthy” to them.

For instance, a “hater” will say that the Cuban government has not accomplished anything in education or healthcare. But a fan has the opposite problem: they oversell it. So to them—to you—Cuba’s 14.4 average years of education and life expectancy of 73 or so “put to shame” the 77 year of life expectancy and 16 or so years of education of the United States. Someone looking at the situation might give the government some credit by pointing out that this is notably better than the average for the Caribbean or Latin America, without feeling the need to exalt the government with incorrect statements.

I might also mention your assumption, and that of Anthony, that staying at someone’s house means interacting with someone who does not support the Cuban government.

I’m noticing Kayak and Expedia aren’t showing any flights from Boston to Cuba – do you have any info on this? Any other suggestions on how to find flights from Boston to Cuba

Hi Michaela, Sadly, I don’t have much information on this. Did you try Google Flights? I played a little with dates for BOS-HAV flights and found one-stop flights with JetBlue in May, but nothing else 🙁

Hello, I understand that we are able to stay at hotels that are not on the restricted list. Except for the first two days (48 hours) of quarantine required after arrival till receiving PCR test results, if we participate in local guides, local shopping visits, local business services during day activities, hire cuban local to spend time with beach activities, but without staying at Casa Particular, do these qualify for Support for Cuban People license?

Hi there, I am a dual national British and American. I have a UK passport and an American passport. I live in the UK, and my partner (British) and I want to go to Cuba in May 2020. We will be using airmiles from British Airways/American Airlines to get there. There is no availability from Cancun…we tried. As I will be going from the US to Cuba, can I still use my British passport and avoid all of the legal hoopla – and restrictions, or do I need to go on my American passport (since we will be leaving from the US) and comply fully. Don’t want to get turned away at the airport after planning/booking the trip.

Hi John, According to the UK’s government advice on traveling to Cuba , it seems that you will have to comply with the US law if you are traveling to Cuba from the US, regardless of the passport you use. It means that you will have to declare a travel “license” and cannot be for tourism purposes.

This might seem like a dumb question but can I pack my smokes & take them w/me?

I’m wondering if participating and supporting (both economically and artistically) a starting art project would be considered in the “Support for the Cuban people” category. Thank you.

It could be considered as such as long as you have a daily full-time schedule of activities (6-8 hours) to support the private art project. Also, document everything you do while in Cuba. For more specific legal advice, I would suggest you talk to a legal specialist.

I was born in Cuba and would like to take a cruise there. I came to the states in 1961 at the age of 5. I am an American Citizen and was told I need to get a form H-11 from the Cuban Embassy in the U.S. in order to travel to Cuba. I have tried to contact them via email and phone several times, but I’ve not heard from them. Do you have any suggestions?

Best to use an agency rather than try to communicate directly with the Cuban consulate – especially after the US government expelled most of those who work in the visa section.

World Nomads is no longer providing (ar least Canadians) insurance for Cuba. Please suggest another all encompassing insurance provider? Thank you

Hi Dylan, Thanks for the heads up! They for Americans, but haven’t confirmed if their plans are also available for Canadians. Another popular travel insurance provider for Cuba is RoamRight . UPDATE: It seems that they don’t offer insurance for Canadians either. We will do some research and get back with some alternatives. Thank you again!

Can we book a family and friends group to Cuba, intending to do all the required activities?

Yes! You can do it Bee, as long as those activities are covered by the travel license that you declare.

You might also like

Cuban Tourist Card

Applying for The Cuba Tourist Card: Colors, Prices, and Requirements

Cuba Travel Tips - Cuban Currency

Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

Mosquitoes in Cuba

Sand Fleas and Mosquitoes in Cuba: The Survival Guide (2024)

Other stories.

  • Cuba Travel Guide
  • When to Visit Cuba

Cuba in June: Weather, Travel Tips & More

Aerial view of a woman lying on the beach and sunbathing in Cuba in June.

  • ~ mins read

Exploring Cuba is more relaxed compared to the high-season months. There are not many tourists around and the once-bustling attractions are quiet. Foot traffic around coastal areas is also sparse during this month, meaning you can get accommodation in the elegant Varadero at a bargain. Moreover, the airfare is reasonable during this time of year, giving you the perfect opportunity to stretch your itinerary and see more of this fascinating Caribbean country.

Cuba Weather in June

Top view of the resort town of Varadero, Cuba, Long beach

June is the beginning of the wet season in Cuba. Since this is the start of summer, sporadic showers and torrential storms are common, especially during the afternoon. Humidity is also higher than in other months of the year. This is particularly evident in the eastern part of Cuba, as the region is sheltered from the northerly trade winds. On the other hand, It is much cooler in the western region.

In Havana, you should expect a daily high of 30℃ and a low of 23℃. The conditions are pleasant to venture out in the evening and at night. It rains for an average of ten days throughout June. The temperature of the seas surrounding Cuba is at a tepid 27℃ this month. So swimming in the rain is always a pleasant option.

For a seasonal overview, check out our guide on the best time to visit Cuba .

Weather in Cuba in June - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit cuba in june.

Havana Capitol building_Cuba in november

Most holidaymakers from Europe and North America avoid traveling to Cuba in June because of the weather. But budget-savvy visitors will find the cost of tours and car rental much more appealing. Plus, accommodation rates are much cheaper. Here are some more reasons why you should visit Cuba in June:

  • Big game fishing: Discover your inner Hemmingway with a game-fishing expedition at Cayo Romano or Cayo Cruz. June is the start of the Gulf Stream’s marlin run and there is plenty of big fish — along with the smaller tarpon, tuna, and sailfish around Cayo Santa Maria — in these blue waters.
  • North coast road trip: The cool trade winds of June keep the northern seaboard of Cuba cooler than the rest of the country. Hire a car and drive from Havana to Baracoa for a memorable road trip along Costanera Norte (North Coast), through Santa Clara and Remedios as well as the causeway-linked islets of Cayo Coco and Cayos de Villa Clara.
  • Carnivalesque Cuba: In late June, tour the colonial city of Trinidad as it hosts a four-day carnival — Fiestas San Juaneras — with wild horse races and parades of colorful floats. The streets of Camagüey resound to the beats of conga during the San Juan Carnival. Havana’s Golden Bolero Festival is more sedate, showcasing performances by crooners from all over Latin America.
  • Havana city sightseeing tours : The rainy weather of June is perfect to explore Havana ’s indoor attractions. The city has a plethora of museums, such as Museo de la Revolución and the Museo del Ron (the Rum Museum). You can supplement your indoor explorations by touring the city streets in the 1950s American convertibles between showers.
  • Hit the beaches: You might as well make the most of the showers and get wet on the sand during your vacation in Cuba in June. Its beaches are a sublime mix of swaying palm trees and crystal white sand. Varadero and Cayo Coco have been regularly voted as Cuba’s best beaches, but pretty much any sandy strip of coastline will be perfect during this month. You may want to take a looks at our Cuban beach tours .

Where to Go and What to Do

View of the Caribbean sea water in the rock coast - Bay of Pigs, Cuba

Humid and rainy weather means June is not a month for hiking or bicycle tours. But this is also a great time for ocean adventures. Plan a snorkeling or sea-kayak trip to places such as Playa Giron and the infamous Bay of Pigs. Else, submerge yourself entirely with a live-aboard Scuba-diving package to Isla de la Juventud or Jardines de la Reina. In Havana, the International Corhabana Choir Festival honors Cuba’s strong tradition of choral singing with performances by an international selection of choirs along with choral workshops and torchlight street choirs.

The rainy June weather is also perfect for taking an afternoon siesta (in accordance with local traditions), or for simply lounging on a verandah with a Cuban cigar and a rum cocktail to keep you company. Experience some of Cuba’s best festivals, enjoy its beautiful beaches , take an epic coastal road trip or try your hand at fishing. There are plenty of things to see and do in Cuba in June, notwithstanding the weather. Fewer tourists mean a more relaxed holiday experience with more time and peace of mind. Plus, travel and hotel fares are cheaper too.

Need help with planning? If yes, then reach out to our local travel experts who can devise a customized itinerary to Cuba for you. Alternatively, you can take a look at our Cuba tours in June .

More Information

Cuba in July Cuba private tours Cuba group tours

Related Articles

Related categories.

  • How Long To Stay In Cuba
  • What To Do In Cuba
  • When To Visit Cuba
  • Where To Go In Cuba
  • Previous Post

Orsolya Bartalis

Popular Destinations

  • Europe Tours
  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Italy Tours
  • Spain Tours
  • Argentina Tours
  • Canada Tours
  • Sri Lanka Tours
  • Chile Tours
  • Antarctica Tours

We use cookies to analyze traffic and give you personalized content and ads. It's an essential part of giving you a great site experience. Click on the 'Accept' button if you agree with our use of tracking and analytical cookies. Please refer to our  Cookie Policy  for more information.

can you visit cuba in june

30 DOS AND DON’TS FOR YOUR TRIP TO CUBA

Thinking about a trip to Cuba ? There are several dos and don’ts and Cuba travel tips you need to consider before going. Especially for U.S. citizens.

Once again the U.S. government eased its restrictions on U.S. citizens’ travel to Cuba, after decades of near total prohibition on travel to the island (and a brief regulation relaxation during the Obama administration).

See the National Theater in Havana on your trip to Cuba

It is now less difficult for U.S. citizens to visit Cuba under one of the categories specified by the U.S. State Department.   The most popular category for U.S. citizens is “Support for the Cuban People.”

U.S. carriers like American Airlines have direct flights from the U.S. at more competitive prices. With the easing of restrictions, additional airlines have begun flights.

There’s really no best time to visit Cuba . There are better times to visit like the cooler and dryer months from December to May.

Some would argue January and February are the best months to visit Cuba because of the milder weather. The warmer months from June to November can get pretty hot and humid but prices can be a bit lower as well.

But don’t assume Cuba is like any other Caribbean country. Getting there is now easier than in the past, but navigating the idiosyncrasies and peculiarities of this beautiful country can be challenging if you don’t know your way around. 

Check out what its like to visit Cuba on a small group tour suitable for U.S. citizens.

Note: The U.S. government publishes a list of Cuban establishments that U.S. citizens are prohibited from patronizing.

Here are some recommendations on dos and don’ts for your trip to Cuba.

Table of Contents

DO’S FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP TO CUBA

Do dress down..

Wondering what to bring to Cuba? You won’t stand out in casual clothes on your trip to Cuba, and you’ll never have to worry about what to wear in Cuba .

From the capital city of Havana in the west to Santiago , in the east and the quaint towns in central Cuba like Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Santa Clara , Cuba is an extremely casual country.

When you visit Cuba , wear comfortable shoes because Havana is the ultimate walking city . Leave your jewelry at home. Bring sunglasses, a wide-brim hat and sunscreen. It is very hot and sunny.

When planning what to pack for Cuba in the summer months , you may want to bring rain gear like an umbrella and light poncho. Summer showers are brief but can be intense.

Remember most personal products like, sun screen, feminine hygiene, deodorant, etc. are not readily available in Cuba.  Bring your own when considering what to pack for Cuba.  

Do engage with the local population.

Cubans are among the friendliest and warmest people. They will ask you questions about yourself and share information about themselves freely. As with any other country, don’t discuss the obvious “no-nos;” politics and religion.

Sure there are hustlers or “jineteros” like everywhere else; people may try to sell you cigars (guaranteed to be counterfeit) or offer other services. A simple “no gracias” will suffice to discourage them. 

Cuba is very safe but it is still prudent to exercise caution as on any visit to a different country. But don’t miss out on the opportunity to have genuine interactions with some very nice and gracious people.

Photo of the Year 2017 The Colors of Cuba

Do bring enough cash.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you need to bring enough cash to last the entire trip to Cuba. Credit cards from U.S. banks are not accepted in Cuba.

ATMs in Cuba will not deliver funds drawn on U.S. banks. U.S. citizens cannot buy Cuban currency in advance as it is not traded internationally. You need to buy it upon arrival in Cuba.

The Cuban government formally ended its dual currency system on January 1, 2021.  The CUC, the former currency, was phased out completely on June 2021 leaving the island with only one currency for the first time in over 20 years, the “moneda nacional” or Cuban peso.

When you arrive at the airport in Havana, exchange your money at the “CADECA,” the official government exchange booth. This is located to the right as you exit the airport.

You can’t miss it as there are signs leading to it.  The cost of the taxi to the Havana city center is about the equivalent of 25 to 30 U.S. dollars.

Don’t exchange too much money at first because if you have left over pesos you may not be able to exchange them back to your home currency. There are plenty of places to exchange funds in the city, so exchange only as you need to.

Make sure to have small change for tips or to purchase bottled water or some local transportation.

Always count your change and understand the exchange rate.

CUBA CULTURAL TOURS

Do stay at a “casa particular” (privately owned guesthouse)

For the past several years, the government has allowed private citizens to engage in certain private-sector pursuits including renting out rooms in their homes to visitors. These are called “casas particulares” or private homes, “casas” for short.

“Casas” are similar to Airbnb, homestays or your typical Bed and Breakfast establishments. In other words, a Cuban Guesthouse.

The advantage to the traveler is that they get to interact with a typical Cuban family. Also, the cost of staying at one of these casas is small compared to a standard hotel.

The price can range anywhere from U.S.$15.00 to $100 and up per night depending on the city, the type of accommodation and other amenities. 

Note:    A casa must be listed with the local government and you must submit your passport details upon arrival for registering with local authorities.

Here is the current state of the Cuban casa particular experience and tips on how to book your own.

How to book your casa

1. Connect with one of the booking services that broker private casas. One that I have used in the past is Homestay.

I use this Homestay site to reserve accommodations in Havana and across the island.

Choose the city you want to stay in from the selections that display pictures, price per day, house rules and a message from the hostess -usually women.

In some casas, you just reserve your room and pay at check-out. In others, you pay a portion of the total cost to the booking service and the difference at check-out. These requirements are simple and clearly stated on the website.

2. Communicate with your hostess either directly or through the booking service. Here is where you get directions to the casa.

Most casas offer breakfast. The cost of breakfast is around $5.00USD per person. The food is exceptional and abundant; fresh fruit, eggs, bread, butter, fruit spread, coffee, milk, all kinds of tropical juices and sometimes, ham.

This might be the best meal you will have all day so definitely sign up for it. The hostess will also happily prepare lunch or dinner if you want. These meals are also invariably good, authentic and reasonably priced.

Cuban kitchen you'll see in a casa on your trip to Cuba

Another amenity the casa may provide is taxi service from the airport or bus station to the casa. It is also recommended you accept this service as it’s just more convenient for you to have someone pick you up and bring you to the casa.

Make sure you confirm beforehand how much the fare is likely to be. For example, taxi fare from Havana airport to the city is around $25-30.00USD. You can verify taxi fares on TripAdvisor for just about any city.

Your hostess will consider it part of the service to “show you the ropes.”

She can book a casa for you in the next town, direct you to the best local restaurant or bar, reserve a taxi, make a restaurant reservation, explain the communal taxi system and generally function as a friendly concierge.

Yes, she may make a small commission if you accept a recommendation but we’re talking pennies and you’re paying for a service.

Also, the suggestions are invariably good because they take their hostess responsibilities seriously. You’re sleeping in their home and they don’t want you going home saying, “Oh my god! That was appalling!”

They want you happy, contented and recommending their place to your friends.

can you visit cuba in june

Another way to secure a casa, especially when you are in the interior of the country, is to just show up at the bus station.

There are people there advertising casas to the arriving travelers. You can see as many casas as you want before committing to one.

The best part of staying at a casa is that you get to interact with the local people. It’s as authentic an experience of cultural immersion as you can have in a foreign country.

You are there in the casa while they cook authentic Cuban food and generally chill in their genuine Cuban living rooms or patios.

can you visit cuba in june

Whenever I’ve stayed at one of these casas the hostess seemed genuinely happy I was there. They always went out of their way to explain things and make suggestions.

Many travelers prefer to have at least their first one or two nights pre-booked from their country of origin. However, in Cuba just about every other home is a “casa.”  Casas in Cuba are as common as tapas bars in Spain.

Just look for the “casa” sign, the blue-on-white upside-down anchor, national symbol for a homestay accommodation.  Knock on the door and ask if they have accommodation for the night.

If they don’t, they’ll know someone who does. Ask to see the place before committing to see if you like it and make sure you understand the agreed price.  That’s all there is to it.

gate leading to the patio in a Cuban casa particular

Casas come in all shapes and sizes. Most casas are single rooms in someone’s house. 

They can also be a luxury apartment in a Havana high-rise or a mansion with a pool in an upscale neighborhood depending on your budget and what’s available. 

The one thing they all have in common, however, is that the inside is much more beautiful than the outside.

Cuba’s architecture and infrastructure can be rundown in some areas. But the inside of the private home is well kept, accommodating and frequently decorated with a style, elegance and grace that belies the exterior.

Most casa accommodations come with a refrigerator stocked with beer and water for a reasonable charge.

Do patronize paladares.

As the casas particulares have revolutionized the hotel scene in Havana , so have the “paladares” or private restaurants transformed the food culture. Today Cuban restaurant culture is experiencing a renaissance.

At an average price of $30-$40USD for a seriously good meal in a cool location, p aladares now flourish in every city but especially in Havana. Demand is outstripping supply, however.

To dine in some of the best paladares you need to reserve weeks or even months ahead of time.

One trick is to request a reservation at some odd time like 2 pm, and later just have snacks and drinks for dinner at one of the music hot-spots in any of the colonial plazas.

The best menu selections include chicken, pork and fresh seafood as the star attractions.  Lobster is also on the menu but it is being overfished so I advocate against ordering it.

Beef, particularly steak, does not seem to be a good choice probably due to the cost of meat and its relative lack of availability.

The paladares venues vary. Some I enjoyed include a SoHo-chic renovated cooking oil factory attached to an art gallery “ El Cocinero .”

Another is San Cristobal , a converted early 20th-century mansion where former U.S. President Obama dined.

Honorable mentions go to Dona Eutimia in a little alley off Plaza de la Cathedral and Paladar de Mercaderes on Mercaderes Street, one of the major thoroughfares. But there are so many more!

Although it’s fun to explore and take a chance on a good paladar, you are better off sticking to a recommended one or you might end up in a tourist trap. Your casa hostess can recommend a good restaurant to you.

There is undeniably some truth in the saying “see it now before it changes forever”.

Eat at San Cristobal restaurant on your trip to Cuba

Do use the internet (but don’t expect too much)

Using  Cuba Wi-Fi  is, admittedly, a big pain in the neck compared to what one is accustomed to.

It can be inconvenient and time-consuming. Here are a few ways to minimize the hassle while accessing  Cuba Wi-Fi .

Begin weaning yourself off of the internet before you arrive in Cuba. Download and store key files to your device so you can access them offline when and if needed.

Taking screenshots of documents will store them in your photos. Key files can include your itinerary, passport, pictures, recommendations from various websites, reservations, maps and your boarding pass.

If you loose these documents, you want to be able to show proof of them if and when asked.

One map app I use that is accessible offline is Maps.me. Here you can learn more about Map.me.

Ease yourself into the realization that the internet will not be as readily accessible as it is at home. Explain to your family and friends that they may not be hearing from you as frequently as they’d expect so they don’t worry.

There are two things required to get online in Cuba: a prepaid internet Cuba Wi-Fi card and a hot spot.

The card comes in one-hour and five-hour denominations and is available at any ETECSA location and high-end hotels. That’s why some people refer to it as an ETECSA card.

can you visit cuba in june

ETECSA is the government-owned entity that runs all telecommunications in Cuba including internet service and Wi-Fi. ETECSA offices are located all over Cuba especially in the bigger cities. They are easy to find, just ask anyone and look for a place with long lines outside the door.

You will have to wait on line to buy your ETECSA card, but it will be cheaper than in most hotels, about $1.00 USD for a one- hour denomination card. Five-hour denomination cards are also available.

To purchase an internet card one must present a passport so whatever you log on to on the internet can be linked back to you. Keep your card safe to ensure it is not stolen.

Avoid the lines at ETECSA by figuring out how much internet time you will need and buying several cards at the same time. This way you won’t have to go through this process more than once or twice.

If you have leftover cards or time, give them to friends you have made during your visit or your “ casa ” hostess. It will be appreciated.

Now you must find a hot spot to launch your Cuba Wi-Fi adventure. Luckily, they are not so difficult to find. Look for the WIFI symbol.

The best way to find a hot spot location is to notice the areas where you see groups of Cubans congregating staring into cell phones and laptops

Most ETECSA offices and the surrounding area are hot spots. Other locations include higher-end hotel lobbies, parks, and entire sections of the city.

There are pros and cons regarding where you buy and use the card. The advantage of buying your ETECSA card at a luxury hotel is that you can sit in the airconditioned lobby, use your card and maybe have a cool drink.

can you visit cuba in june

Use your ETECSA card at either a public park or a high-end hotel or some casas

The internet tends to be more reliable at these high-end hotels. Finally, you don’t have to wait on long lines, you just buy your card at the reception.

The disadvantage of buying your card at the hotel is that it will cost you more; from $5 to $7USD vs $1 at ETECSA.

Many of these hotels will require that you buy something, like a drink at the bar, before they agree to sell you a card.

This is fine. You just sit at the bar having a daiquiri or a mojito while you chew up your internet time and chat up the locals.

The other option for Cuba Wi-Fi hot spots is using Wi-Fi found in public parks in the bigger cities. Any local will point them out to you.

In Havana these spots are in the most popular and trafficked areas like Havana Vieja, the busy streets of La Rampa and San Rafael and the Malecon (Havana sea wall).

As of the summer of 2017, some casas particulares have been granted permission to have Wi-Fi. The assumption is that Cuba Wi-Fi availability will continue to grow.

Here is a list of places where you can access the internet on the island . The number of hot spot locations is constantly growing but this should get you started.

Once you have your card and you’ve found your ideal location, its time to log on.

The ETECSA cards are the size of regular credit cards and have scratch-off areas for the username (usuario) and password (clave). To log on follow these steps:

can you visit cuba in june

Scratch off the areas revealing username and password, open the Wi-Fi settings on your device and connect to the ETECSA network, launch your web browser, when the login screen appears, enter your username and password.

Once you’re connected, you’ll see a screen telling you how much time or credit you have left on your card.

I try to use up my entire hour at one time rather than use half an hour, then log in again later to use up the other half. I’ve had trouble logging off then back on again with the same card. That’s why I prefer to buy single hour cards.

If you decide to log off before using up the time on the card, make sure to close your session so you don’t continue to get charged. Insert 1.1.1.1. into the address bar.

A screen will pop up telling you how much time you have left, and you will see the words “cerrar sesion” (close session). Click on that to log out and close your browser.

These tips and recommendations should make your Cuba Wi-Fi experience a little less onerous and time-consuming leaving you more time to enjoy what this beautiful country has to offer.

Do sample Cuban goods.

The best products to buy in Cuba are tobacco, the superb rum, honey (yes, honey) and original art. The coffee is also a good buy at $20USD for, like, a ton of seriously good coffee.

Note: In September 2020 the Trump administration prohibited U.S. citizens from importing tobacco and rum from Cuba for personal use, but it can be consumed in-country. 

It is expected the new U.S. administration will reverse that order, but it remains as of this update.

Check before you go to learn if and how much you can bring back into the U.S.  

Do learn a little Spanish before you go

Most tourism industry personnel will speak some English and other languages as well. Your casa hostess will also speak a bit. Outside those circles, it is wise to learn a few Spanish phrases like “how much” and so forth.

There are several translation apps on the market.

Do get travel insurance

Travel insurance is a good idea on any trip but especially for those involving international flights. You want to make sure you and your possessions are protected against loss flight cancellations and other unforeseeable.

There are many insurance companies that will insure your trip for a reasonable price. I use this site, travelinsurance.com because it allows me to compare various companies and policies simultaneously.

Do learn how to get around

Havana and Cuba in general has many transportation options from private convertible taxi – the most expensive – to public transportation.

can you visit cuba in june

Learning how to navigate the Cuban transportation systems is one of the best ways to save money. Make an effort to familiarize yourself.

The best way to get to know any city is by walking. Havana is the ultimate walkable city, especially Old Havana. Here is the perfect Old Havana walk , with map, that will make sure you hit the highlights on foot.

Watch where you walk as some colonial streets can be uneven.

Do keep your airplane mode on .

You can use WhatsApp to text and call with airplane mode on. Keeping your phone on airplane mode ensures you will not incur roaming charges.

Do bring donations

Many visitors to Cuba bring donations to distribute. These can be school supplies like pens, pencils, crayons, notebooks. Other desired items include gently used clothing, plastic containers, batteries, reading glasses.

These can be left with schools, churches, assisted living facilities or with you casa hostess.

Do immerse yourself in the amazing culture.

Cuba, and Havana in particular has amazing  museums , history, art, and architecture. This will blow you away. Prepare to be amazed on your trip to Cuba.

Colon Cemetery, Havana, Cuba.

Do be patient

Things don’t always work the way you expect on your trip to Cuba. Customer service is poor. Wi-Fi and connectivity can be unreliable.

Government offices sometimes open and close on haphazard schedules or don’t open at all. Important venues are frequently “closed for repairs” for years.

Your patience will be rewarded by meeting lovely people, seeing amazing colonial architecture and nature, and experiencing the fascinating Cuban culture.

Don’ts for your next trip to Cuba

Don’t take pictures of the military or police..

This is a serious “don’t” and illegal in Cuba.  Not that you would want to anyway, but there you have it.

Don’t patronize luxury hotels.

Many “luxury” hotels frequently feature bland food, indifferent service and can be far from the sights. Many of these are rated 4 and 5 stars. These ratings do not adhere to any internationally recognized rating system.

A typical 5-star government hotel in Havana is the equivalent of a 2 or 3-star hotel in any other Caribbean nation. The prices, however, are very much in keeping with a standard 5-star hotel. This results in an exceeding poor value for your money.

Don’t drink the tap water

Have bottled water with you. Cuba is hot and you will want to be hydrated. You can buy bottled water for one or two USD. Or, have your casa hostess boil water for you and carry it in a water bottle.

Most good paladares and casas will have filtered water for their guests and patrons.

Don’t buy cigars from street vendors

You definitely want to support local businesses and budding entrepreneurs. However, scammers may approach you to sell you cigars that are guaranteed to be counterfeit. A simple “no, gracias” is enough to make them go away.

Don’t eat in government-owned restaurants

Most of the restaurants in Cuba are government run and provide cheap food. The quality and environment in general is not as good as in paladares. Stick to the paladares where you can eat better and support local entrepreneurs.

Don’t flash jewelry, cash or electronics

Cuba is a very safe country especially for visitors. The government derives a huge portion of its revenue from tourism.

They want to make sure visitors are safe. You will see police and not-so-subtle-undercover security prominently positioned in tourist areas. Visitors will feel safe in Cuba.

Still, one needs to exercise caution as one would in any country developed or modern.

Don’t rent a car

Renting a car in Cuba is expensive. The roads are not well marked and some are in disrepair. Gas is expensive and not available everywhere.

Should the car break down, you are not guaranteed to have readily accessible repair options. Renting a car in Cuba is a really bad idea. Stick to the local transportation options mentioned in this post.

Don’t forget your consumer products and meds

There are no supermarkets and drug stores as you know them in Cuba.

Basic consumer products like aspirin, feminine hygiene, insect repellent, sunscreen, antiseptic towels, handwipes, anti-diarrhea meds and similar products are very difficult to obtain or non-existent. If you use it, bring it with you.

Honorable “Do” Mentions

Order the terrific beer.  The local brands of Cristal and Bucanero are the best and only $2-2.50USD. Avoid the wine.

If you’re planning to visit the outstanding music venues, get a good night’s sleep the day before as the clubs open and close late.

Visit the extensive Colon Cemetery , one of the world’s most impressive.

Negotiate taxi fees before you take off. When taking a bicycle-taxi, or any other form of Cuban transportation , make sure to negotiate the fee beforehand.

Order seafood; fresh, delicious and reasonably priced.

DANCE! Never mind. You won’t be able to resist anyway.

You will never run out of things to do in Cuba! 

Make sure to listen to our podcast interview on Cuba to learn insider tips and cultural insights of Cuba  and check out the guides and reference books below.

Don't just travel to Cuba, experience Cuba like a local:

What other dos and don’ts in Cuba do you think are important to know about?

And don’t forget my new book, “ Don’t Just Travel to Cuba, Experience Cuba. The Ultimate Cuba Guide Book, ” Available on Amazon.

can you visit cuba in june

Updated January 2024.

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

  • Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
  • For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
  • Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
  • Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
  • Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
  • For more  general tours  to any destination or attraction,  book with   Viator . Check them out.
  • Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
  • Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
  • Food and drink tours are the best way to enjoy a city. And Devour Tours are my favorite.
  • Looking for a good VPN to protect your security, privacy and freedom online while traveling? Nordvpn is your best option.
  • The best and most economical way to stay connected while traveling is with an Airalo eSIM.

I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Picture of Talek Nantes

Talek Nantes

13 responses.

Hi there! Great post on Cuba! You get very good around the different parts of what’s it’s like to visit, and how one should act. I totally agree with all of it.

Hi, Rebecca. Thank you for the comment. Glad you enjoyed the post.

Bring your own spices to Cuba. I found that pepper is rare, as are any hot spices. I brought some from New Orleans as gifts to my house mothers at the Casas, and they could not eat them! Just too hot as they’re not used to spices. I’m glad I brought salt, pepper, and hot sauce seasonings – a friend who had been to Cuba advised me to do so and I’m glad she did!

Yes, spices are in short supply. Cuban food is savory but not spicy. I can imagine NOLA spices would be too hot. Hope you liked Cuba!

Love this post. We visited Cuba in 2017 and it sounds like your experience was very similar to ours. Thank you 🙂

Thanks for commenting. It is an amazing place!

I worked for a Canadian tour operator and was the manager for Cuba. Cubans appreciate any type of consumer goods often unavailable in Cuba . New or used, they love the gesture. Small gifts to maids, casa host, or driver will get you great service. Check your closet and junk drawer. I brought consume jewelry I didn’t want anymore, small perfume samples, summer clothes & shoes I wore on the trip and gave away. Anything lightweight, like pkg of ramen noodles or bag of candies will be shared by the family.

Yes, this is exactly correct. Those little gifts and gestures are so appreciated! Thank you for reading and commenting!

Hey I am really looking forward to traveling to Cuba with my girlfriend. But both are really into our cigars. Which is 1 of the biggest reason why we are going. Can we bring back Cuban cigars? And if so is there a limit? Also where should I go to buy them in Havana Cuban? I heard about all the counterfeit ones being sold to tourists.

Hey, Steven! You’ll love Cuba. Unfortunately now is not a good time between the covid and the protests. Trump instituted a series of restrictions on U.S. citizens before he left office. Among those are that no Cuban cigars or rum are allowed to be brought back into the U.S. This may change with the new Biden administration but, as of this writing it has not. I suspect this restriction will be lifted but I don’t know when. When you are allowed to buy cigars in Cuba and bring them into the U.S., do not buy them form anyone offering them to you on the street at very cheap prices. These are, without a doubt, counterfeit. The bet places to buy cigars is the cigar factories and stores like Partagas (any hotel concierge or your “casa particular” hostess will point you to the Partagas factory). You can also buy them at even better prices at the tobacco plantations in Vinales. Take a tour of Vinales. It is one of the coolest things to do in Cuba. Again, a hotel concierge or your casa hostess will recommend a tour. Get a couple of tour quotes before settling on one. I hope this is helpful. Let me know if you need any other information and subscribe to my blog for the latest Cuba info and cultural tours to Cuba.

This is a very good information . Love the post. Very helpful specially the small gifts to bring. Looking forward to visit Cuba.

Thank you for commenting. Yes, Cuba is a fascinating place. We do tours there. Subscribe to our newsletter to be alerted of the next tour to Cuba.

  • Pingback: Travel to Havana, Cuba – Episode 806 - News Voices

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

can you visit cuba in june

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases. Posts may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we may receive a commission at no cost to you.

can you visit cuba in june

Lets Connect

Privacy policy.

web analytics

Cuba

Weather in June in Cuba

Are you planning a trip a to Cuba in June and wondering what kind of weather to expect? This page has all the details you need.

What is the weather like in Cuba in June?

June in Cuba generally has temperatures that range from warm to very warm, with precipitation levels ranging from moderate to high.

Temperatures

Precipitation, average sunshine.

To learn more about the conditions in specific areas of Cuba in June, check out the map below. For more details on the yearly weather, visit our Cuba climate page .

Where to go in Cuba in June

can you visit cuba in june

Popular destinations

What is the weather like in June for the 5 most popular destinations in Cuba?

In June Havana generally has very high temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 32°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around 26°C and high monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are tolerable that month.

In June Cabo Cruz generally has high temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 30°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around 27°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are pleasant that month.

In June Cienfuegos generally has very high temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 32°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around 24°C and high monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are tolerable that month.

In June Guantanamo generally has very high temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 31°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around 26°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are pleasant that month.

Ciego de Ávila

In June Ciego de Ávila generally has very high temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 33°C , minimum nighttime temperatures around 25°C and high monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are tolerable that month.

Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in Cuba .

Is June the best time to visit Cuba?

In our opinion, June may not be the ideal time to visit Cuba due to the typically tolerable weather in Havana .

Generally speaking, January , February , March , November and December provide perfect weather in Havana . On the other hand, the months of June , August , September and October tend to have tolerable weather conditions.

Interested in more climate information?

  • January       
  • February       
  • March       
  • April       
  • May       
  • June       
  • July       
  • August       
  • September       
  • October       
  • November       
  • December       

Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to Cuba? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in Cuba .

Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner .

Choose your language

Site logo

Cuba up close

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

Beach resort in Varadero

Photo: Shutterstock

In the heart of the Caribbean, close to the equator, Cuba is warm all year round.

Are you planning a trip to Cuba for the coming year? From its tropical beaches to internationally-renowned classical ballet performances, this curvy tropical island has fun activities for every taste. But as you try to narrow down your itinerary while in Cuba, you may wonder what the best time to visit Cuba is.

Will the weather allow you to do everything you want? Is there a festival that would put your experience on steroids? Read more here!

Cuba Climate: What To Expect Around the Year

The first thing that will change depending on the month of your visit is the weather. Like the rest of the Caribbean, Cuba is a land of “endless summer” – at least at first glance. While you can definitely find outdoor activities around the year, some months will have cooler climates, sunnier skies, or even lower prices.

man on small horse wagon by a church building

Church of the Holy Trinity overlooking Plaza Mayor, Trinidad

Seasons in Cuba

Cuba doesn’t have the traditional four seasons that temperate regions do. Instead, it has just two: a “dry” season and a “rainy” one.

The dry season lasts from November to April, and it is characterized by less frequent rain, although it’s far from completely dry. During December and January, average temperatures also dip slightly (but never reach “cold” levels under any definition), and the air gets a bit drier, which helps the air feel cooler overall.

The rainy season lasts from May to October. Expect short showers nearly every day and full-blown rainy days at least once a week during this season.

As local legend would have it, the first rains of May are particularly auspicious, as they can relieve chronic diseases and cleanse your spirit from impurities.

Hurricanes in Cuba

So what about hurricane season? Technically, hurricane season overlaps with the end of the rainy season, between June and November. During this time, the sky can go from bright to gray in a matter of minutes.

As for actual hurricanes – they rarely hit the island, and they are unlikely to affect your safety or your belongings. Cuban citizens like to joke that nothing works as well in Cuba as the Civil Defense office. You may need to spend a day safe indoors, but on the other hand, you will be able to experience one of the quintessential “island experiences.”

High versus low season

Let’s talk about tourism seasons, as they will affect the ease with which you book and the final cost of your trip.

There are two peak tourism seasons in Cuba. The first one goes from late December until March (or from Christmas to the Easter break). This is also the sunniest and coolest time of the year when the beaches are at their most enticing (and if you come from the Northern Hemisphere, that’s exactly what you’ll be needing).

The second “peak” covers most of July and August. During this time, Cuban schools will be on recess, so expect longer lines at many nature parks and museums, and you may need to share the beach with other humans.

The low season goes from early May to late June (prices drop as temperatures rise) and between September and October (tourism slows down at the start of hurricane season). During this time, expect lower prices, quieter beaches, and the opportunity to stroll around museums at your own pace.

group af male musicians with guitars and drums

Street musicians in Havana

Dealing With the Tropical Heat

If you live in a cooler or temperate country, you may be worried about handling Cuba’s tropical heat. The sharp temperature change can be a bit disconcerting, especially if you travel during your winter. Don’t worry! In my twenty-something years of living on this island, I’ve gathered a few pro tips that will help you handle the heat waves as the locals do:

  • - Make sure you wear sunscreen of at least SPF 50. Even if you don’t “burn and peel” easily, a mild sunburn will leave you with a permanent cloud of heat around your body the next day.
  • - Wear loose, thin clothes with long sleeves in cotton or linen. Try to keep the handcuffs and waistlines loose to allow air to flow around you.
  • - Remember, “siesta” was invented for a reason! Just because we all seem to disappear right after lunch doesn’t mean we are truly sleeping. Between noon and 3 PM, it’s best to plan an indoor activity (preferably somewhere with A/C)
  • - Check if your hotel room has A/C. If you’re staying at a rented apartment or home, look for one that has a sun porch or terrace and embrace the island schedule.

performers in colorful costumes walking on stilts

Dance performance in the streets of Havana

Festivals and Celebrations

Cuba is much more than its countryside. Its cities host a variety of festivals, summits, and parades that can be just as fascinating – it all depends on what you are looking for. From street parties to the chance of experiencing the biggest stars of vintage rhythms, it all depends on when you come.

Here are some of the highlights to look forward to:

January: The year kicks off with the country-wide celebrations for the Anniversary of the Revolution. In Havana, this is followed by the International Jazz Festival, which brings some of the genre’s biggest stars to the city.

February: The Habano Festival is all about one of the country’s top exports. You can visit Cuban cigar factories and tobacco farms, attend seminars, or book special cigar dinners that blend signature aromas with the right food pairings.

March: The largest Carnival on the island is held at Santiago de Cuba. Parades can easily last until 3 AM, but the party usually continues until sunrise.

April : The International Biennial of Graphic Humor, held at San Antonio de Los Baños, gathers cartoonists and satirists worldwide.

May : The Romerías festival combines a Spanish harvest festival with religious rituals. The town of Holguín dons its best clothes for a series of free concerts, parades, and a collective pilgrimage atop the local hill.

June : Head to Trinidad for the Fiestas Sanjuaneras or San Juan fest , which marks the longest day of the year. Dance to some of the oldest forms of African music still alive and beating.

July : During the Fiesta del Fuego (Fire Festival), the city of Santiago de Cuba loses itself in revelry to welcome back the Nzambi Congo , an ancient African deity, who is then paraded through the streets.

August : Havana’s International Hip-Hop Festival (Urban Potaje) takes place on the second week of August, just as the Havana Carnival cools down on the 7th.

September : The Feast of Our Lady of Charity (La Virgen de la Caridad) offers an unusual window into the island’s traditional religious fervor. As she is the island’s Patroness, expect her Feast to open the gates of every colonial church in Havana.

October : The International Ballet Festival of Havana may provide a window for traditional dancers, but in the smaller city of Matanzas, you can dance to the faster rumba rhythms during the Rumbero Bailador Fest.

November : In Majagua, the Red and Blue Bands Party divides the population into two teams for sports competitions, food fairs, and traditional dances.

December : In the city of Remedios, Christmas carols are replaced with Parrandas, loud and boisterous competitions in which each neighborhood prepares a special “surprise” while trying to spoil their rivals’.

mountain biker on road with old blue car next to large mountain

Mountain biking in Viñales

Outdoor Activities

If you need sunshine and fresh air to recharge, you may have a harder time choosing the ideal dates for your trip – especially if you are booking months in advance. These activities will depend heavily on the day’s weather, which is particularly unpredictable in Cuba.

However, that doesn’t mean that some dates won’t increase your chances of success. Here are a few considerations:

  • - Planning to hike, camp, or mountain bike? Then try to come during the dry season. During the rainy season, trails may be muddy, and some parts of the countryside may be inaccessible just as you’re passing by.
  • - Snorkeling and scuba diving technically just need a sunny, beach-worthy day. Try to leave a couple of “free” days on your schedule so you can rebook any activities.
  • - The fishing season in Cuba goes from March to June. If you’re interested in a specific species, check with your tour operator, and expect to “capture and free” your catch!
  • - If you want to sail or surf, avoid hurricane season. Even if no hurricane is headed for the island directly, one passing through a nearby island could make the Coast Guard keep you ashore.

Written by Liz Lezcano.

Published October 2022.

Looking for some cool things to do?

Five cuban clothing brands to shop for in havana.

Take a look at the emerging Cuban dress wear brands

See Cuban Nature Up-close at Sierra Del Rosario

Reconnect with nature at Cuba's Sierra del Rosario nature reserve.

The Top Five Best Bakeries in Havana

Sweeten-up your life with some of the most exquisite pastries

The Cuban Cigar: Everything You’ll need to know

Learn about the curious and mysterious history of the Cuban

Top Four Jazz Clubs in Havana

Things to Do Top Four Jazz Clubs in Havana La

Havana’s National Museum of Fine Arts

Your essential guide to one of Cuba’s most fascinating cultural

City Guide: Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos is a picturesque coastal town with laid back charm

Explore the Glittering Caves of Bellamar

Dive into one of Cuba's most dazzling adventures in the

Dance to Your Own Beat at Havana World Music 2022

Havana World Music: Are you ready to break beyond the

Explore Varahicacos Reserve in Varadero

Indulge in the landscape of Cuba at Varahicacos Ecological Reserve,

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox

I would like to get Visit Cuba newsletters in my inbox

Paradise for Your Inbox

can you visit cuba in june

Champion Traveler

The Best Time to Visit Cuba for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Cuba for ideal weather are

November 19th to March 11th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Cuba Travel Guide

Temperature.

  • Perceived Temperature
  • Rain and snow
  • Humidity and wind
  • The busiest and least popular months
  • Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Cuba Travel Info

Weather in cuba.

Average temperatures in Cuba vary little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for most of the year with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 25th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Cuba, the hottest months are July, August, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late July where highs are regularly around 90.8°F (32.7°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 75.7°F (24.3°C) at night.

Cuba Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Cuba temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Cuba Perceived Temperature (F)

Cuba perceived temperature (c), average cuba temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Cuba are January, March, and then February. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late October with an average of 2 days of significant precipitation the week of October 22nd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Cuba.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Cuba (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Cuba has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is March (61.1% relative humidity), and the most humid month is October (73.6%).

Wind in Cuba is usually calm . The windiest month is March, followed by February and April. March’s average wind speed of around 7.8 knots (8.9 MPH or 14.4 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early March where average top sustained speeds reach 13.4 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Cuba.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to cuba.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for Cuba; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Cuba is January, followed by December and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Cuba in June. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall cuba travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 88.2°F (31.2°C) and 82.7°F (28.2°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 2 to 6 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 6 to 7 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Cuba, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 90°F (32.2°C) and 82.8°F (28.2°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 3 to 7 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Cuba to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 83.8°F (28.8°C) and 81.4°F (27.4°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 2 to 3 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Cuba

Similar Destinations

  • Florida, Cuba
  • Ciego de Ávila, Cuba
  • Camagüey, Cuba
  • Sancti Spíritus, Cuba
  • Santa Clara, Cuba
  • Las Tunas, Cuba
  • Manzanillo, Cuba
  • East End, the Cayman Islands
  • Bayamo, Cuba
  • Cienfuegos, Cuba

Popular Destinations

  • Rethymnon, Greece
  • Hoi An, Vietnam
  • Denpasar, Indonesia

Cubans welcome US visitors into their hearts and homes

2024 legal cuba travel for americans.

can you visit cuba in june

Cuba travel is legal, and People-to-People tours return

A new era of normal cuba relations under biden and harris.

Joe and Kamala pledged to swiftly undo four years of Trump-imposed economic and travel restrictions, increase US Embassy staff levels in Havana, and seek more engagement between the States and Cuba.

These changes have been slow in coming. After all, Trump enacted 243 measures against Cuba. But a positive change was enacted on June 8, 2022.

Free to visit Cuba easily again! People-to-People travel restored.

Hooray! Americans can travel to Cuba just like during Obama times. People-to-People travel allows every American to come to Cuba, meet islanders, and enjoy cultural, artistic, and educational activities – the same as traveling to any other country.

Yet caveats remain.

  • Cuba travel must be hosted by a tour company based in the United States.
  • Cuba travel must be escorted, meaning you travel with a guide on an itinerary that shows you are engaging in meaningful exchanges with Cuban people. But hey, the people are what the island’s all about anyway. You are still free to explore historical and cultural sites and tropical nature.
  • Lounging on Cuba’s spectacular sunny beaches and sipping mojitos all day is banned. Otherwise, almost anything you can imagine is permitted.

US Cuba tour operators help arrange trips featuring the best this magical island offers. You’ll enjoy dance, music, rum, cigars, museums, and effusive kind Cubans. People-to-People travel is comfy and always in the company of open-minded, outgoing fellow travelers. Refreshingly, Cuba has become a MAGA-free zone, not that they are unwelcomed. Instead, they seem to show little interest in different cultures.

Covid is gone. Cuba is the healthiest country in Latin America.

Cuba’s entire population is vaccinated. Cuba is one of the few countries globally that hold this distinction. There is no need for masks or proof of vaccinations to visit Cuba. Things are back to normal again. Learn more about Covid in Cuba and how easy it is to visit now .

Did Trump ban travel to Cuba? No, but he wanted to.

While Trump did everything possible to curtail Cuba visits, he couldn’t make them illegal. The US Constitution prevented Trump from doing so.

Rewarding Cuba travel options are many. The longstanding twelve categories of authorized Cuba travel remain intact. Licensed US Cuba tour agencies help with all questions and ensure your trip conforms to current regulations.

Logo of Embassy of Cuba in Washington DC.

Academic travel to Cuba has been expanded. Students, teachers, school staff, and chaperones can come to Cuba just like studying abroad in Canada, Asia, or Europe.

The popular categories of Educational Activities (which People-to-People travel is part), Support for the Cuban People, Humanitarian Projects, Religious Activities, Professional Research, and Journalism are fulfilling ways to witness Cuba and connect with islanders while partaking in their culture.

What is legal Cuba travel, how does it work, who is in charge?

Bronze logo medallion of US Department of Treasury.

The US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) oversees Cuba travel. There are twelve themes under which Americans can legally visit Cuba without any government documentation or permission in advance. The twelve categories are known as “general license” travel. There is no actual license issued. It is an honor system. If the purpose of your Cuba travel falls under any of the twelve pre-approved Cuba travel categories, you can hop on a plane and visit Cuba. It’s that simple.

What are the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba?

Office of Foreign Assets Control Cuba travel restrictions booklet.

  • Educational Activities (study abroad for students, teachers, and school staff), and People-to-People travel for regular Americans is part of Educational travel activities
  • Support for the Cuban People
  • Professional Research
  • Public Performances, Clinics, Workshops, Athletic and other competitions, and Exhibitions
  • Journalistic Activity (for electronic and print media reporters, including bloggers)
  • Humanitarian Projects
  • Religious Activities
  • Family Visits (connecting with close relatives in Cuba)
  • Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
  • Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
  • Certain authorized export transactions (for businesses and NGOs)
  • Official business of the US government, foreign governments, and specific intergovernmental organizations

List of Cuba travel dos and don’ts

Sad and worried young man.

  • While in Cuba , your activities must focus on full-time engagement outlined in your chosen travel category.
  • It’s best not to stay in Cuban hotels banned by Trump and Biden. Click Worried Boy image for the list.
  • Trump and Biden outlawed Cuban rum and Cuban tobacco products in the US. While these sumptuous items cannot be imported to the United States, you can enjoy them during your Cuba stay. No problem!

What are the simplest, most rewarding ways to visit Cuba legally?

Cuba on your own . The island is ideal for sojourners with foreign travel experience and ample planning time. If you speak fluent Spanish, independent travel is tops. This avenue is only possible under the Support for the Cuban People license.

However, individuals can also use the People-to-People option and visit Cuba independently if hosted by a US tour operator and a guide. (You kick back, they do all the work for you!)

Design your own custom private Cuba trip with a US tour operator. Collaborating with a tour operator will ensure unrivaled rewards if you, your family, and your friends prioritize pre-planning, gratifying activities, and guaranteed pricing. US Cuba travel professionals know the best cultural activities, events, entertainment options, eateries, accommodations, transportation, and knowledgeable professional guides.

Prepaid small group Cuba travel packages guarantee your Cuba trip conforms to US legal requirements. Hosted by US agencies, small group tours are nearly all-inclusive, incredibly economical, and offer tons of cultural encounters in a brief period – many more than the most intrepid traveler could assemble on their own. And you’ll always be in the company of forward-thinking fellow Americans and Cubans to look after all your desires.

How do I choose a legitimate Cuba agent or tour operator?

We encourage potential Cuba visitors to browse the internet to shop and compare options. It’s fun and enlightening. You’ll find many travel agencies and tour operators with decades of professionalism offering excellent services at a wide range of pricing. Locate them on Google by searching “ legal cuba tours for americans ”.

  • Ensure the tour operator is based in the United States and licensed by OFAC to provide travel services to Americans.
  • The tour operator must issue a Certificate of Legal Cuba Travel , guaranteeing your trip conforms to current US Cuba travel regulations.
  • Travel companies come and go. Ask how long the travel provider has been in business. Don’t risk your precious travel dollars with fly-by-night operators.
  • Learn from the experiences of former travelers. Read the tour operator’s TripAdvisor reviews.
  • Ask your friends who’ve traveled to Cuba for their suggestions and recommendations for Cuba tour operators.

Legal Cuba travel essentials for US citizens and residents

  • Read the Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide , a summary of nearly three decades of Cuba travel tips and advice.
  • All visitors require a passport, valid for one week beyond your Cuba stay.
  • Cuba travelers require a Cuba entry visa. Purchase a Cuban Visitor Visa online now.
  • Fill out the online Cuban immigration and customs form called D’Viajeros . Review these simplified instructions to breeze through this mandatory pre-departure document in minutes.
  • Money US debit cards don’t work in Cuba. Only a handful of hotels in Havana accept US credit cards for in-house services. US dollars cover nearly all cash needs: no need to bring euros or Canadian dollars. Plan trip expenses carefully. See Cash requirements and guidelines while in Cuba.
  • US regulations require Americans to retain records of island expenses and activities for five years. Legitimate US-based Cuba tour operators keep these records for you.

Have questions about legal Cuba travel?

Music, magic and mojitos: the 17 best things to do in Cuba

Diana Rita Cabrera

Jan 13, 2024 • 9 min read

can you visit cuba in june

Cuba abounds with live music – sounds that capture the essence of this alluring place © Lidia Llovera / Shutterstock

Pack a sun hat, some loose-fitting clothes and a book of José Martí’s poems – and get ready to uncover the buoyant and sophisticated magic of Cuba .

Fewer restrictions on private enterprise in recent years have led to an explosion of creativity, while the culture-dampening effects of globalization have yet to dilute the local charm.

Isolated but eager to advance, the country is buzzing with ideas – here, a free-spirited, student-filled cafe; there, an avant-garde art factory where live music, exhibitions, DJ sessions and creative gastronomy collide with electrifying results.

Here are the top activities that encompass all this country has to offer – and embody Cuba’s essence.

A few beach loungers are arranged under a palm tree parasol on the white-sand beach of Playa Isla de la Juventud, Cuba

1. Escape to the beach

Uncrowded, extremely varied and loaded with tropical beauty, Cuba’s beaches are world famous for a reason. Search around long enough, and you’re sure to find your own slice of nirvana.

The long, wide, tourist-heavy beaches of Varadero  abound with massive resorts, while sea turtles lay their eggs on the wild, deserted beaches of the Península de Guanahacabibes.

On the little-visited black-sand beaches on the Isla de la Juventud , pirates once roamed – and the nudist beaches of Cayo Largo del Sur, package tourists lounge with mojitos (and without self-consciousness).

2. Spend a night at a  casa particular

Stay in a private homestay , and you quickly uncover the nuances of everyday Cuban life. Think rocking chairs on the porch, a bottle of rum on the dresser, a front room full of family heirlooms, the clip-clop of horses’ hooves in the street outside and the animated conversations over breakfast that always seem to end with the words “ no es fácil ” (it ain’t easy).

Casas particulares in places like Havana and Viñales are positively palatial, while others remain refreshingly down-to-earth. All of them offer an uncensored view of Cuba that no hotel could ever replicate.

A close-up of a Cuban trogon, or tocororo, sitting on a branch surrounded by leaves

3. Go birdwatching

Aside from crocodiles, Cuba’s fauna doesn’t make much of impression – except for its abundance of birdlife, that is. Approximately 350 avian species inhabit the shores of this distinct and ecologically unusual archipelago, a good two dozen of them endemic.

Look out in particular for the colorful tocororo (Cuban trogan), the zunzuncito (bee hummingbird), the critically endangered ivory-billed woodpecker and the world’s largest flamingo-nesting site. The Gran Parque Natural Montemar is one of many birdwatching highlights .

4. Enjoy Cuba’s ebullient festivals

Through war, austerity, rationing and hardship, Cubans have retained their infectious joie de vivre. Even during the darkest days of the Special Period (following the demise of Cuba’s ally and patron the USSR), the feisty festivals never stopped – a testament to the country’s capacity to put politics aside and get on with the important business of living.

The best shows involve fireworks in Remedios, folklórico dancing in Santiago de Cuba, movies in Gibara and every conceivable genre of music in Havana . Arrive prepared to party.

5. Dive and snorkel in the Caribbean Sea

There will be objections, no doubt, but let’s say it anyway: Cuba has the best diving in the Caribbean . The reasons? Unrivaled water clarity, virgin reefs and sheltered Caribbean waters that teem with exotic fish.

Accessibility for divers varies from the swim-out walls of the Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs) to the hard-to-reach underwater nirvana of the Jardines de la Reina archipelago.

For repeat visitors, Punta Francés on Isla de la Juventud – known for its underwater photography – reigns supreme. Rich coral reefs, caves and wrecked ships are among the submerged wonders near the shores of Guardalavaca Beach in Holguín .

Vintage American car in front of colorful buildings in Old Havana, Cuba

6. Admire Cuba’s eclectic architecture in Old Havana and beyond

Often spectacular yet rarely constant, Cuban architecture retains certain binding threads, a definable cubanidad (“Cuban-ness”) that is always recognizable.

Many of the country’s older buildings were built with the sugar fortunes derived from the brutal enforced labor of enslaved Afro-Cubans. These structures provide an uncomfortable testimony to Cuba’s multifaceted culture and sometimes difficult past.

More-recent architecture displays a melody of influences, from French classicism to hints of art deco and art nouveau. Visit the UNESCO-listed cities of Havana, Trinidad, Cienfuegos and Camagüey, and pick out the details.

Three street musicians performing in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba

7. Soak up Cuba’s live-music scene

If you’ve been in Cuba for more than a day and still haven’t heard any live music, you’re clearly hanging out in the wrong places.

Welcome to one of the most musically diverse countries on the planet, where melodious guitars always win out over background tracks, and singing is seen as just another form of verbal communication.

The traditional genres are merely one groove on a larger record – and indeed, Cuba has been pushing the musical envelope for decades. From Benny Moré to X-Alfonso, cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba have spawned talent that continues to enchant the world.

8. Feel the rhythm of  folklórico

There's nothing quite as transcendent as the hypnotic beat of the Santería drums summoning up the spirits of the orishas (deities). But while most Afro-Cuban religious rites are only for initiates, the drumming and dances of Cuba’s folklórico (traditional Latin American dance) troupes are open to all.

Formed in the 1960s to keep the African culture of Cuba alive, folklórico groups enjoy strong government patronage, and their energetic and colorful shows in Santiago de Cuba remain spontaneous and true to their roots.

Portrait of Che Guevara on the Ministry of the Interior by the Plaza de la Revolucion in Havana, Cuba

9. Understand Cuba’s revolutionary heritage

An improbable escape from a shipwrecked leisure yacht and a classic David-vs-Goliath struggle that was won convincingly by the (extreme) underdogs: the details of Cuba’s revolution might have been pulled from a (barely believable) movie script. Yet it all happened right here – and just to prove it, you can visit the revolutionary sites in person.

Little has changed in more than 60 years at the disembarkation point of the Granma yacht and Fidel Castro’s wartime HQ at mountaintop Comandancia de la Plata . For a glimpse of the guerrillas’ weaponry and anecdotes, visit Museo de la Revolución in Havana or Cuartel Moncada in Santiago de Cuba.

10. Unlock the secrets of Matanzas 

For too long, travelers have overlooked the city of Matanzas  on their way to the all-inclusive resorts of nearby Varadero. But things are gradually changing.

Amid the bridges and rivers of this once-great cultural city, flickers of its erstwhile beauty are starting to reemerge in revived classical-music venues, a refurbished theater and a cutting-edge art street decorated with chin-scratching sculptures.

Varadero may have the beaches, but Matanzas’ gigantic historical legacy will teach you more about the real Cuba than dozens of repeat visits to the resorts.

High-angle view of the colonial town of Trinidad, Cuba

11. Step back in time in Trinidad

The regional city of  Trinidad  all but went to sleep in 1850 – and never really woke up. This strange twist of fate is good news for modern travelers, who can roam freely through the perfectly preserved mid-19th-century sugar town like voyeurs from another era.

Though it’s no secret these days, the time-warped streets still have the power to enchant with their grand colonial homestays, easily accessible countryside and exciting live-music scene. But this is also a real working town, with all the foibles and fun of 21st-century Cuba.

Houses along a historic street in Camagüey, Cuba

12. Get lost in the maze-like streets of Camagüey 

Getting lost is a savvy recommendation for any traveler passing through the city of tinajones (clay pots), churches and erstwhile pirates:  Camagüey .

Always keen to be different, Camagüey has a street grid that deviates from almost every other Spanish colonial city in Latin America. Its lanes are as labyrinthine as a Moroccan medina, hiding Catholic churches, triangular plazas and a growing ensemble of smart boutique hotels occupying restored colonial buildings.

The view from Pico Turquino, Granma Province, Cuba

13. Hike Pico Turquino

The trek up Pico Turquino, Cuba’s highest mountain , is a mixture of endurance sport, nature tour and fascinating history lesson.

Guides are mandatory, whether you choose an intense one-day round-trip route or an also-tough two- to three-day 17km (10.5-mile) trek through the steep cloud forests of the Sierra Maestra to the 1974m (6476ft) summit, where you’ll be greeted by a bronze bust of Cuban national hero José Martí. Revolutionary buffs can make a side trip to Fidel’s wartime jungle HQ, La Plata, on the way up.

14. Experience the next wave of Cuban culture at Fábrica de Arte Cubano

Welcome to the “new” Cuba. And no – it’s not a casino or golf course or all-inclusive resort designed to satisfy the whims of foreign tourists.

Rather, it’s an independent, cutting-edge art “factory” where visitors can wander from room to room as they listen to innovative music, view fabulous paintings and share discourse with diverse people.

The brainchild of Cuban musician X-Alfonso, Havana’s Fábrica de Arte Cubano has emerged as Cuba’s finest bona-fide art collective, a bastion of creative ideas that offers constant inspiration and excitement. Every city should have one.

A man rides a bicycle along a highway in Viñales, Pinar del Rio, Cuba

15. Cycle through Valle de Viñales

With less traffic on the roads than 1940s Britain, Cuba is ideal for cycling, and there’s no better place to do it than the bucolic Valle de Viñales .

The valley offers all the ingredients of a tropical Tour de France: craggy mogotes (limestone monoliths), impossibly green tobacco fields, ambling oxen and spirit-lifting viewpoints at every turn.

The terrain is relatively flat – and your biggest dilemma (if you can procure a decent bike, that is) will be where to stop for your sunset-toasting mojito.

16. Taste Cuba’s evolving food scene

Ever since new privatization laws lifted the lid off Cuba’s creative pressure cooker in 2011, a culinary revolution has been in full swing.

A country that once offered little more than rice and beans has rediscovered its gastronomic mojo , with a profusion of new restaurants experimenting with spices, fusion and – perhaps best of all – a welcome reevaluation of its own national cuisine.

Havana leads the culinary field in number and variety of eating establishments, yet there’s plenty of regional diversity, from fresh crabs in Caibarién to to-die-for chocolate in  Baracoa .

Night performance by the Qva Libre music group during a public street show in Santa Clara, Cuba

17. Tap into Santa Clara’s youthful energy

Leave your preconceived notions about Cuba at the city limits. Santa Clara is everything you thought this country wasn’t: progressive, creative, welcoming to people of all persuasions, enthusiastic about rock ’n’ roll and keen to push the boundaries of art in every direction.

Being a university town helps. Youthful energy courses through Santa Clara as nowhere else in Cuba. Check out the LGBTIQ+ shows at Club Mejunje, meet arty students at the Casa de la Ciudad or wander Parque Vidal in the evening when the city orchestra is in full swing.

This article was first published Aug 22, 2012 and updated Jan 13, 2024.

Explore related stories

1683191705

Jan 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Cuba's colorful capital offers much more than just classic cars and crumbling colonial buildings. Here are Havana's best experiences.

SAN JUAN, PR – OCTOBER 26: The Museum of the Americas is one of numerous museums that can be found in the city of San Juan, Puerto Rico October 26, 2019 in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Mar 1, 2023 • 8 min read

Man using smart phone in a park in Havana

Feb 12, 2022 • 7 min read

Jolly Roger tall ship, Cayman Islands

Oct 1, 2020 • 3 min read

A wall along an El Poblado street is covered in colorful graffiti art

Feb 14, 2020 • 6 min read

Features - Clandestina

May 29, 2019 • 4 min read

Features - cof

Apr 23, 2019 • 5 min read

Features - People gathered beside waterfront on Malecon at sunset.

Apr 10, 2018 • 4 min read

Features - 1049_cs-400261a6b96f

Jan 16, 2018 • 6 min read

Features - shutterstock_227550043

Aug 17, 2015 • 6 min read

IMAGES

  1. Cuba in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    can you visit cuba in june

  2. Should I Go To Cuba in June? Let’s Find Out If You Should!

    can you visit cuba in june

  3. 22+ BEST Things to do in Havana, Cuba (2020 Guide)

    can you visit cuba in june

  4. The 7 Best Things to Do in Havana, Cuba (that you absolutely cannot

    can you visit cuba in june

  5. The Official Travel Guide to Cuba · Visit Cuba

    can you visit cuba in june

  6. Havana, Cuba

    can you visit cuba in june

COMMENTS

  1. Cuba in June

    There are eight hours of sunshine a day in Cuba in June, which is slightly less than the previous month. The sun tends to rise at around 6.45 am in the morning and then set around 8.15 pm in the evening, so you will have plenty of hours of light to enjoy the island. When out in the sunshine ensure that you are wearing suncream for protection ...

  2. Cuba in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    The summer wet season begins in earnest in June, when the humidity begins to resemble a sauna. The Eastern Provinces are the hottest part of the country, and by June often insufferably so. Understandably, this is the low season for tourism. Don't worry: there's still plenty of glorious sunshine. And in spite of the weather, there are some major advantages to off-season travel. You won't be ...

  3. The best time to visit Cuba

    The best months for budget travelers are May, June and September. It's rainy and hot at the start and end of the Cuban summer, but the low season is the best time to take advantage of hotels and casas particulares (private homestays) offering the lowest prices. Always check the weather forecast before you depart: June to November is hurricane ...

  4. Cuba in June

    The month of June is the beginning of summer in the northern hemisphere, but Cuba maintains its tropical climate, with temperatures between 23°C and 30°C. Although temperatures rise, the climate is ideal to enjoy Cuban beaches. The sea temperature during June is constant around 28°C, which is key, so that you are able to enjoy water sports ...

  5. 20 things to know before going to Cuba

    1. Double-check your insurance. You are required to have medical insurance to visit Cuba and will need to bring digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are made at the airport. If you arrive without insurance, you'll be asked to buy a Cuban policy at the airport for US$30. 2.

  6. Should I Go To Cuba in June? Let's Find Out If You Should!

    NO if: You don't want to experience a little bit of rain. The main reason why the flow of tourists slows down in this month is that June marks the beginning of rainy season on the island. This is particularly true in the capital city, Havana. And in many parts of Cuba, there is even a chance of hurricanes. But as mentioned above, even in June ...

  7. The rules for Americans visiting Cuba in 2022

    To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed Tourist Card — which serves a similar function to a tourist visa. These are usually available through your airline (ask when booking). Alternatively, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85, including processing fees.

  8. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Cuba in 2024 (Expert Opinion)

    The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April, when the weather is sunny and dry, ideal for beaches and outdoor adventures. It's cooler and less rainy then, perfect for exploring vibrant cities and jungles, or enjoying lively cultural events. This season also hosts the Havana Film, Jazz, and Habanos Festivals, making it a great ...

  9. Can Americans Travel To Cuba? [2024 Legal Travel Guide]

    American Travel to Cuba. The short answer to the question "can Americans travel to Cuba" is YES, American citizens can travel to Cuba. Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba via the United States as well. American citizens can fly from the United States directly to Cuba, travel independently (no need for a group trip or guided trip ...

  10. Best Time to Visit Cuba: A breakdown of when to go weather wise

    In June, Cuba receives an average of 80 mm of precipitation throughout the month. It is absolutely essential to bring a rain jacket and umbrella if you plan to travel to Cuba in June. As would be expected June is also an extremely hot time to visit Cuba with temperatures soaring as high as 32 °C (90°F).

  11. Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism

    Tour Republic January 29, 2024. If you are a US citizen, you can still visit Cuba in 2024. However, unlike your neighbors traveling from Canada, you will be subject to specific regulations from the US government. For example, doing "tourism," like staying at a resort on a Cuban beach, isn't allowed. Your trip must fall into one of 12 ...

  12. Cuba in June: Travel Tips in the Wet Season

    In Havana, you should expect a daily high of 30℃ and a low of 23℃. The conditions are pleasant to venture out in the evening and at night. It rains for an average of ten days throughout June. The temperature of the seas surrounding Cuba is at a tepid 27℃ this month. So swimming in the rain is always a pleasant option.

  13. Best time to visit Cuba

    With temperatures hovering between 20-35°C and the water bathtub-warm year-round, Cuba has a classically cosy Caribbean climate. November to April is the best time to visit Cuba, with March to mid-April the most pleasant months: warm and sunny without summer's humidity or storms. Prices may be slightly lower in January-February, when night ...

  14. 30 DOS AND DON'TS FOR YOUR TRIP TO CUBA

    There's really no best time to visit Cuba. There are better times to visit like the cooler and dryer months from December to May. Some would argue January and February are the best months to visit Cuba because of the milder weather. The warmer months from June to November can get pretty hot and humid but prices can be a bit lower as well.

  15. Cuba weather in June, averages

    June in Cuba generally has temperatures that range from warm to very warm, with precipitation levels ranging from moderate to high. During the day temperatures vary from warm in Cabo Cruz at 30°C to very warm in Ciego de Ávila at 33°C. At night it cools down to 25°C in Ciego de Ávila and 27°C in Cabo Cruz .

  16. How Americans Can Finally Visit Cuba: A Step-by-Step Guide

    You may also travel to Cuba to attend or organize a professional conference or meeting in Cuba since the OFAC amended their rules in June 2022. 5. Educational Activities. You can travel to Cuba for educational activities, which can include U.S. school faculty, staff, and students who are engaging in educational activities in Cuba.

  17. When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba? · Visit Cuba

    You can visit Cuban cigar factories and tobacco farms, attend seminars, or book special cigar dinners that blend signature aromas with the right food pairings. ... - The fishing season in Cuba goes from March to June. If you're interested in a specific species, check with your tour operator, and expect to "capture and free" your catch! ...

  18. The Best Time to Visit Cuba for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

    The busiest month for tourism in Cuba is January, followed by December and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Cuba in June. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

  19. 20 things to know before going to Havana

    Ensure your trip to Havana goes smoothly with our top 20 things to know before you go. 1. Bring proof of insurance. Despite Cuba's extensive state healthcare system, visitors are required to have medical insurance to enter Cuba, and you'll need to bring a digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are conducted at the airport; if ...

  20. Legal Travel to Cuba Explained: How to Visit Cuba in 2024

    After all, Trump enacted 243 measures against Cuba. But a positive change was enacted on June 8, 2022. Free to visit Cuba easily again! People-to-People travel restored. ... It is an honor system. If the purpose of your Cuba travel falls under any of the twelve pre-approved Cuba travel categories, you can hop on a plane and visit Cuba. It's ...

  21. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Cuba (2024)

    See all. These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 2024. 1. Playa Varadero. 21,315. Beaches. Pristine beach with warm, clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, ideal for swimming, water sports, and serene walks.

  22. The best time to visit Havana

    This seasonal guide can help you plan the best time for your visit to Havana. ... June marks the start of hurricane season, but remember that the Caribbean hurricane season usually starts with a whimper as opposed to a bang. ... Getting a visa to visit Cuba can be tricky, but it's worth it. Jan 18, 2024 • 4 min read. Destination Practicalities.

  23. The US and Cuba are at an impasse over expanding relations

    Months after the U.S. extended a series of olive branches to Cuba, Washington and Havana are saying the other needs to do more before additional progress can be made on repairing diplomatic ties ...

  24. 17 of the best things to do in Cuba

    For a glimpse of the guerrillas' weaponry and anecdotes, visit Museo de la Revolución in Havana or Cuartel Moncada in Santiago de Cuba. 10. Unlock the secrets of Matanzas. For too long, travelers have overlooked the city of Matanzas on their way to the all-inclusive resorts of nearby Varadero.