The island of Cuba, with its exotic rhythms, welcoming locals, and stunning white beaches with palm trees, has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking sunshine.
With a blend of Spanish and African influences, it is the largest and most exciting island in the Caribbean, offering a wide range of experiences and great value.
Our travel professionals, with their years of firsthand experience and recommendation will help you on your way to an unforgettable Cuba vacation.
Experience the rich and vibrant culture of Cuba through its language, where the rhythmic cadence of Cuban Spanish will transport you to the colorful streets of Havana and beyond. It’s spoken by about 90% of the population. However, English is also commonly spoken at tourist resorts, shops, and restaurants. Other languages spoken in the country include Haitian Creole, Lucumi, Galician, and Corsican.
Cuba has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season which lasts from November to April, and the rainy season which lasts from May to October. The average temperature in Cuba is around 25°C (77°F), with relatively high humidity throughout the year. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) or higher, while in the winter months, temperatures may drop to around 20°C (68°F). Overall, Cuba’s climate is warm and inviting, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tropical getaway.
The currency in Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP) but other commonly accepted currencies include EUR, USD, and GBP and CAD. As a tourist, it’s recommended to bring a mix of cash and credit cards. While major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in some hotels and tourist establishments, many smaller businesses and local vendors only accept cash.
The electricity in Cuba is 110 volts, and the electrical outlets generally accept flat, two-pronged plugs similar to those used in the United States and Canada. It is possible to be stuck with 220 volts outlets in some places as some older buildings and hotels may have different types of outlets, so it’s recommended to bring a universal adapter or a converter.
Phone and internet service in Cuba can be unreliable and limited compared to many other countries. Tourists can purchase SIM cards at ETECSA offices, however, it’s important to note that internet censorship is present in Cuba, and some websites and social media platforms may be restricted. Some establishments will offer free wi-fi but that it’s not common.
While there are no specific vaccination requirements for entry into Cuba, it’s recommended that travelers are up-to-date with routine vaccinations, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), and polio.
Visit the Travel Medicine Centre for more info.
Canadian citizens require a valid passport to enter Cuba. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Cuba.
Canadian citizens are also required to obtain a Cuban Tourist Card or a visa, which can be obtained in advance here. The tourist card is valid for a single entry and allows visitors to stay in Cuba for up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to request an extension through the Cuban immigration authorities.
It’s important to note that the travel requirements for Cuba may change, so it’s recommended to check the latest entry and exit requirements with the Cuban Embassy or Consulate in Canada before your trip.
