Cuba Travel Guide
Cuba Essentials
Language: Spanish
Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)
Rate:
Time Zone: GMT -5
Capital City: Havana
Population: 11.2 million
Layout: See Map
Travel to Cuba
Cuba is the largest and least commercialised island in the Caribbean. One of the last bastions of communism, the country has relative political isolation, meaning that it is not overrun by tourists, and the locals are genuinely friendly and welcoming. Cuba has something to offer everyone, from fascinating cities packed full of wonderful historic buildings to miles of beautiful, white-sand beaches, dramatic mountainous landscapes, and lush fertile valleys.
The capital, Havana, lies on the northern coast and has an air of faded glory and opulence, with decadently tail-finned 1950s American cars gliding past, and colourful paint peeling off the buildings. Central Havana is rather shabby and rundown, but Old Havana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. This kick-started a restoration programme of the glorious Spanish colonial buildings that line the city's streets.
Many of the most magnificent buildings have been converted into museums and there is far less traffic, pollution and commercialisation than in other Latin American cities. The musical heritage of the island and the friendliness of the locals ensure that Havana has a swinging nightlife.
Santiago de Cuba is the second-biggest city in Cuba and rivals Havana when it comes to literature, music and politics. Located in the far southeast of the island, it is the most Caribbean area of Cuba due to the influence of French planters and Haitians who settled here in the 19th century. Additionally, Santiago is situated on a large bay backed by the Sierra Maestre Mountains and borders one of the most stunning nature reserves in the country.
Another city with an impressive cultural heritage is Camaguey, home to the renowned Ballet de Camaguey and a symphony orchestra. It plays host to many arts and cultural festivals throughout the year. Alternatively, Verdaro lies 144kms from Havana, on a long, narrow peninsula. It is one of the finest beach resorts on the island and boasts over 19kms of pristine, sandy beach.
Cuba offers some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean, with pristine coral reefs teeming with tropical fish in clear, warm waters. Deep-sea fishing can be arranged from several locations around the island. Large parts of Cuba have been set aside as national parkland and the scenery ranges from tropical forests and high mountain ranges to mangrove swamps. With opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, bird watching and fishing on offer, Cuba can provide an active holiday or just the perfect place for relaxation.
Important Information
From 1 May 2010 all travellers to Cuba must hold comprehensive travel insurance which includes medical cover before travelling to Cuba.
On arrival in Cuba all travellers, whether they are Cuban or international visitors, will be asked to present a copy of a policy, insurance certificate or travelling assistance card which is valid for the duration of their stay in Cuba.
What Happens If I Forget To Take Out A Travel Insurance Policy?
If you do not have travel insurance, or your travel insurance policy has not been approved by the Cuban government, you will be required to buy a policy at the airport. Vendors will be set up at all Cuban international airports for this reason.
Does this affect my travel insurance cover while I am in Cuba?
No. These changes will not affect your travel insurance policy at all. Our underwriters, White Horse Insurance, have been included on the list of foreign travel insurance vendors who are approved by the Cuban government. Your policy is 100% valid.
