can you visit cuba from cancun

Cancun to Havana Cuba – The Best Way to get there 2023

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2023

Categories Caribbean , Cuba , Mexico , North America , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides

Tulum and Cancun are already some of the hottest destinations in the world. But why not take your vacation to another level by taking a trip back in time to 1950s-era Cuba which has recently reopened to the public?

From Cancun to Havana Cuba is just 275 nautical miles or a quick 1 hour 10 minute flight.

The pandemic’s toll on the global tourism industry continues, our go-to airline in Mexico – Interjet – has ceased operations to stave off bankruptcy but expects to resume operations in 2022. For the most up-to-date flight information we start our search  here . 

Cancun to Havana Cuba in 2022 Cancun to Havana flights in 2022 : There are daily flights from Cancun to Havana year-round. Only Interjet airlines flies direct from Cancun Mexico to Cuba. In the peak months in Cancun (December to March) there are 3 direct flights per day. As such, flights do sell out in advance but we scored flights for less than $150 USD two weeks before flying.   2022 Update: As of January 2022, there are no direct flights from Cancun to Havana. The quickest way to visit Havana from Cancun is to fly via Mexico City (or even via Miami, though we discuss why we don’t recommend flying via Miami below). Viva Aerobus flies direct from Mexico City to Havana Cuba daily. The travel situation in Cuba is changing quickly and direct flights from Cancun may open up any day, so we recommend using Momondo to find cheap flights to Cuba. Cancun to Havana ferry in 2022 : There are no ferries from Cancun, Mexico to Cuba. Unless you’re smuggling Mezcal to Cuba or cigars back into Mexico save time and fly to Cuba.  Where to Stay in Havana : We traipsed all over town to identify first-hand the safest and best neighborhoods in Havana to stay and the best hotels, apartments and homestays “Casa Particulars” near all the best attractions with wifi that actually works. Are you planning to visit Cuba at a good time?: Avoid hurricane season and the unbearably hot months of the year with our guide to the best time to visit Cuba and also read about things to pack for Cuba .  

On this page

Flights from cancun to havana, what is the best airline to fly from cancun to havana.

• Ferry from Cancun to Cuba
• Cuba Visa (Tourist Card)
• Havana Airport to Havana town

Map of Havana Airport

• Essentials to know about Havana

Recommended Hotels near Cancun Airport

• Recommended Hotels near Havana Airport

* 2022 Update * The fastest way to get from Cancun to Cuba is now a flight via Mexico City or Miami. We recommend flying via Mexico City as the Cuba visa fee is less than half of the cost from the US (not to mention an easier process). Viva Aerobus flies to Cuba from Mexico City daily.

Even in peak season there are only a handful of flights per day from Cancun to Havana. Airfare for Cancun to Cuba flights will cost between $79 and $200. Flying time from Cancun to Cuba is 1 hour 10 minutes. Flights depart from Cancun International Airport 10 minutes from Cancun Old Town or 20 minutes from Cancun Hotel Zone. Flights arrive in Jose Marti International Airport, La Habana, Cuba located 20 – 30 minutes drive from Havana City.

Momondo is the website to search for flights from Cancun to Havana.

Interjet Airlines has 3 flights per day in high season from Cancun to Havana. All “light” fares include 55 lbs (25kg) checked baggage allowance as standard on flights to Cuba. The first flight of the day typically departs Cancun at 8:15am and the last flight at 17:50. Flights around midday and early afternoon are the most popular. 

If you are travelling from Mexico and don’t wish to visit Cancun there are direct flights to Havana from Mexico City and Merida. Search Momondo for available flights. Interjet has the cheapest flights from Mexico to Havana but Aeromexico also services the route.

What Airlines Fly from Mexico to Cuba?

Interjet offers direct flights to Cuba from Monterrey, Mexico City, Merida and Cancun. AeroMexico offers direct flights to Cuba from Mexico City. 

Copa Airlines offers indirect flights to Mexico from Cuba.

Interjet Airways is the cheapest airline which flies from Mexico to Cuba. Although it is cheaper than Aeromexico, it really shouldn’t be classified as a budget airline like WizzAir , Ryanair or SkyAirways . 

Cancun to Havana by Boat or Ferry

Despite their close distance, there is currently no (legal) ferry or boat to transport you from Cancun to Havana.

How to Get a Cuba Visa (Tourist Card)

Visitors to Cuba from pretty much every country in the world will need a visa to visit Cuba.

Known as officially as a “Tourist Visa Card” there are two types of Cuba Visas – a green tourist card and a pink tourist card.

A pink tourist card applies to anyone flying to Cuba from the United States and it costs over $100.

The good news for travellers flying from Cancun to Cuba is you only need a green visa which costs much less.

There are two ways to get a Cuba visa in Mexico:

1. Buy an Interjet Tourist Card for Cuba at the Airport

You can purchase a Cuba visa at the airport from the Airline customer service counter.

The price is around 250 mxp ($13) which is the cheapest Cuba visa around.

That said, the thought of being denied entry to Cuba because things have changed, or simply because Mexican authorities don’t have enough forms on the day worried me.

So, I called our airline Interjet to inquire about whether we could buy a Cuba Visa from the airport in Mexico City ahead of time. 

We were told we couldn’t do this but we were reassured it would be no problem at all buying a visa from Interjet at check-in in Cancun.

Fast forward 2 weeks and we found ourselves without a visa as we arrived to check-in to our flight. As we approached the line an Interjet staff member asked (in English) for our Cuba Visa.

When we said we didn’t’ have one he whipped out one which we could purchase for 400 MXP or $25 USD (cash only). 

He then took our passports and wrote in our information which is great because it’s  his problem if he writes the information incorrectly and needs to start again.

So we can tell you first-hand as of February 2020, it’s perfectly safe to buy an Interjet Cuba Visa at Cancun Airport.

2. Buy Cuba Visa Online

If you think buying a Cuba visa at the airport seems risky – we share(d) your thoughts.

The cheapest way to get a Cuba visa is from this agent . 

You simply enter your details into the form and they will send you a Visa within 1 business day.

Note this only applies for visitors (including US citizens) travelling from Mexico.

If you’re travelling from a US airport you will need to obtain a pink tourist card from a Cuban embassy .

Essential Information for Visiting Havana

Entry Requirements include the aforementioned Tourist Card, which allows you to stay in the Cuba for 30 days and is valid for only a single entry.

You will also need to have:

• A passport valid for 2 months beyond the length of your proposed visit.
• Proof of a confirmed return flight and booked accommodation.
• Proof of accommodation for at least the 1st night in Cuba.
• Travel insurance which covers medical expenses.

Remember, June is the rainiest month in Cuba – so be sure to pack the umbrella! Read about the best time to visit Cuba .

Here’s a fun fact about flying into Cuba: shortly before landing cabin stewards walk down the aisle to spray bug spray into the air to decontaminate the plane before landing.

This aircraft disinfection” is a stipulation of the World Health Organization for inbound aircraft to Cuba.

It won’t hurt and won’t kill you, so don’t be alarmed. At least now you know what they’re doing and why.

Don’t be alarmed when you get the bug spray treatment

Havana Airport to Havana City

After arriving in Havana Airport and passing through immigration, head straight our the doors and turn left. Ignore all the touts offering you

About 100 metres away you will see a rank of yellow taxis which are the official taxis in Havana. Before jumping in a taxi make sure to agree on the fare because meters are not usually used.

A taxi from Havana Airport to Havana centro costs between 25 – 30 CUC (pesos cubano convertible) which is roughly $25 – 30 USD. The drive from the airport to Havana is about 30 minutes.

We paid $30 cuc for a maxi-taxi for four people to Vedado which is a suburb 10 minutes drive from Havana Vieja (aka Old Town).

For the return journey from Havana Old Town to Havana Airport we paid $20 cuc. Next time we visit Havana, if there’s just the two of us we’ll try to negotiate $20 cuc for a taxi to the center of town.

These are the best hotels near Cancun Airport with a free airport shuttle:

Courtyard by Marriott Cancun Airport : The closest hotel to Cancun Airport. Restaurant & Gym. Free shuttle to it’s beach club. 

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott : Second closest hotel to Cancun Airport. Restaurant & Gym. 

Things to do in Cuba

Visiting Havana was the highlight of our time in Cuba. Walking the old town feels like you’ve fallen into a time machine set to 1940s. It’s amazing. 

A few bucket list activities you can’t miss (which we’ve taken from our list of the 50 best things to do in Havana ) are:

• take a city tour in a classic American car (preferably a pink convertible)
• sip a Mojito or Cuba Libre in one of the famous hotels frequented by stars of the 40s including Frank Sinatra, Errol Flynn, and the writer whose now famous for drinking at bars from Paris to Havana to Key West: Ernest Hemingway
• take a day trip to Vinales where you can ride horseback and roll a Cuban cigar

Riding in a pink vintage car around Havana Old Town is an essential activity on every Cuba itinerary

Where to Stay when you get to Cuba?

There are not many hotels in Cuba and the ones that are there are run by the government.

If you choose not to stay at one of these hotels, your other option is to stay in a Casa Particular aka someone’s apartment.

While this is a fun and very local experience, for Western comforts we would recommend booking one of the few hotels in Cuba, especially if it is your first time visiting:

• Hotel National De Cuba – a clean and comfortable 5 star hotel in Havana
• Hotel Plaza – a beautiful 4 star hotel in Havana Cuba
• Hotel Carribean – a budget, air conditioned hotel in Havana 

Read our guide for to get the run down on the best neighborhoods in Havana plus tried and tested hotels where the wifi actually works.

Yes this means wifi in Casa Particulars rarely works, no matter what the Airbnb reviews say based on our personal experience after spending hours trying to find a good Airbnb with wifi.

Summary: How to Get from Cancun to Havana Cuba

Flying is the only feasible way to get from Cancun to Havana. Flights take 70 minutes and cost between $80 – 250 USD.

We paid around $150 USD (including 23kg / 50lb checked-in bags) for relatively last minute flights between Cancun to Havana.

Hope this answered your burning questions on how to get from Cancun to Cuba. If you have any questions, we are always here to help, drop us a line below.

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

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Thursday 4th of August 2022

This is so helpful! Thank you! Do you happen to know if US passport holders flying from CUN-HAV qualify for the green tourist card? I am planning a trip for December and would love to know if I can get the visa I need in Mexico or if my US passport will require a pink card.

Thanks again! Happy travels :)

Saturday 25th of December 2021

Hi there, thanks for the great information here. I’m wondering if you know a way to currently book airfare from Cancun to Havana. Since we are in the United States, none of the booking sites will allow me to book this leg of the trip because of “regulatory reasons.” I’m willing to book the tickets once we are in Cancun, but of course worry about not being able to get such a last minute flight. Any info would be great. Thank you!

coupletraveltheworld

Sunday 9th of January 2022

Yes, this does appear to be a problem for many travelers. It has become increasingly difficult to travel to Cuba post Covid. Let us know if you find out any more information as a lot of people are in the same boat.

Mark Sweetman

Thursday 2nd of December 2021

Great review and detail.....but for whatever reason when we were looked we simply could not get flights from Cancun to Havana. The airline you recommend looks like it is now bankrupt and other airlines don't seem to have service.

Hi Mark, oh you are right Interjet has now folded. Thank you for that information, we will update the article. What you are experiencing seems to be a problem for many travelers during COVID. Did you find any solution? We would love to update the article if you did.

Why Some Travelers Fly to Cuba from Mexico (And How)

Citizens of the United States were thrilled when restrictions for US travelers visiting Cuba were relaxed in 2015. For the first time in over 50 years, it was easy to legally visit Cuba . In mid-2017 and again in 2021, changes were made to these policies, but it is still very simple to legally travel to Cuba . You just need to understand how to navigate the situation.

Want to make the most out of your trip? Tap into our network of local travel planners—Heroes —who build work with travelers to create customized itineraries highlighting local culture. Get started .

Table of Contents

Why fly from mexico, so what changed in 2015, is it still easier to just enter cuba from mexico, why fly from mexico post-2015, some popular budget routes into havana from mexico include:, finding flights, recent changes, just make sure to bring an itinerary.

Before 2015, because of the US embargo on Cuba from the 1960s, there were no commercial flights from the US to Cuba. So, before the 2015 changes , Americans traveling to Cuba would fly into Cuba from another country, like Mexico.  Note:  It was only the United States that banned their citizens from visiting Cuba . The rest of the world has been able to visit. 

While in theory travelers could be fined for traveling to Cuba, it never really happened. Thousands of American citizens visited Cuba illegally every year through Mexico. The Cuba customs office would even stamp a piece of paper instead of your American passport.

In 2015, it became possible to travel to Cuba for one of 12 government-approved reasons , all on the honor system. 

Interestingly, this was always the situation — you needed a government-approved reason to visit. However, in 2015, they stopped requiring endless paperwork and now you simply check a box when booking a flight or lodging.

Still have questions? One of our local trip planners in Cuba can help you figure out which category your trip falls under.  Don't hesitate to start messaging—for free! 

Long story short: No paperwork.

Some people think it is still easier to fly into Cuba from a country like Mexico and avoid this situation entirely. However, this is no longer the case. Anyone who purchases a flight into Cuba from Mexico is asked if they are a citizen of the United States. They are then asked if their trip falls under one of the US government's 12 permitted travel categories . There have also been reports that gate officers now stamp US passports coming into the country. So, traveling to Cuba from Mexico in the old, “sneaky” way no longer avoids the problem.

Why would you fly into Cuba from Mexico when it is now possible to fly directly from the US? Even if you won’t skirt around US restrictions when flying through Mexico, there are still some benefits. It's possible to find really cheap deals on flights. Like really cheap, especially if you fly into an airport other than the main Havana airport.

International airports in Cuba include:

HAVANA – HAV / MUHA – Jose Marti Airport VARADERO – VRA / MUVR – Juan Gualberto Gomez Airport HOLGUIN – HOG / MUHG – Frank Pais Airport SANTA CLARA – SNU / MUSC – Abel Santamaria Airport CAYO COCO – CCC / MUCC – Jardines del Rey Airport CAYO LARGO DEL SUR – CYO / MUCL – Vilo Acuna Airport CAMAGUEY – CMW / MUCM – Ignacio Agramonte Airport CIENFUEGOS – CFG / MUCF – Jaime Gonzales Airport SANTIAGO DE CUBA – SCU / MUCU – Antonio Macoa Airport MANZANILLO DE CUBA – MZO / MUMZ – Sierra Maestra Airport

Additionally, because so many tourists are flooding Cuba, service for tourists at the Havana airport can't always keep up. It can sometimes hours to go through immigration and customs. It may save you time to fly to another airport and then book a car into the city.

Aeromexico > Cancun (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)   

Avianca > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)

Interjet > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Varadero (Cuba)   

Cubana > Cancun (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)    > Mexico City (Mexico) to Havana (Cuba)   

Another benefit of entering Cuba through Mexico is the price of Tourist Cards .  US travelers are required to get a tourist card before visiting Cuba (basically your "visa" for the trip).   If you're traveling from the US, this card is pink. If you are traveling from outside the US (like from Mexico), this card is green. Predictably , pink tourist cards sold at US airports are more expensive than the green cards sold abroad—which work the same but are cheaper.

Of course, the easiest way to get your Cuban Tourist Card is online in advance through sites like Online Tourist Card (for pink cards) or  Easy Tourist Card  (for green cards) . Buying your Tourist Card ahead of time means not waiting until the last minute to secure your necessary documentation, and allows you to avoid the confusion of buying your Tourist Card at the airport.

The best way to find flights to Cuba is by going to the official sites of the airlines that fly there— JetBlue , American Airlines , and Delta —rather than searching on Kayak or other flight search sites. Kayak continues to restrict Cuba flight searches, displaying a vague statement about legal restrictions. 

Cuba-US tourism was in the news again in 2017 because of new policy changes , but in 2022, most of these changes were reversed and aside from cruise ships, Cuba travel restrictions returned to what they had been before. Due to the previous restrictions and the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines had reduced or eliminated flights, but since June of 2022, the number of flights has been increasing once again. 

This guide on the recent policy changes  lays out the whole situation.

The easiest way to ensure your trip to Cuba is legal and stress-free is to have one of our  Cuban travel experts help design your trip for you. 

Under the current rules, it's important that all American travelers create a detailed, daily itinerary for their trip to Cuba. This itinerary should list everything: cities you’ll visit, where you'll stay , cultural activities you’re participating in, when you'll have leisure time, etc. This is  very important  since it proves that you are complying with the travel restrictions and legally visiting Cuba.

And for more about traveling to Cuba, check out: 

• Cuba Info for Americans
• How to Get a Cuban Visa

Looking for more info?

Can You See Cuba From Cancun? (Find OUT!)

Posted on Last updated: 20/02/2023

No, you cannot see Cuba from Cancun or vice versa from the naked eye. This is mainly due to the fact that the distance between the two destinations is drastic. The straight line distance from Cancun to the closest region of Cuba is nearly 150 miles (240+ km), but that’s not the only reason.

The earth curves between these two destinations, hence the visibility is drawn further backwards, making it humanly impossible to get a glance of Cuba from Cancun.

Why Isn’t Havana Visible From Cancun?

Although Havana is located relatively close to Mexico on the map, we fail to take the Earth’s curvature into consideration that’s doubling the distance between the two destinations.

With this curvature, the straight line distance between Cancun and Havana adds up to 300+ miles (500+ km), hence hampering one’s viewing ability of Havana.

The Earth experiences a curvature of 7.85 meters every 10 km .

Related articles: Can you see Cuba from Key West? | Can you see Cuba from Jamaica?

Can You Travel Between Cuba And Cancun By Boat?

Well, you can, but legally it may not be the safest option. Travelling from Cuba to Cancun on a boat is usually done illegally, where Mezcal and Cigars are smuggled back and forth.

While a boat is impractical and time-consuming, the 100+ mile distance requires more than one tank of gas, so ferry rides are not available as well.

The most appropriate and easiest way to travel between Cancun and Cuba is by Air. It would take around 1 hour for the journey.

It’s very much cheaper to fly to Cuba through Mexico than the USA, so if you happen to be on a visit to Cancun, you can consider a bonus holiday to Cuba as well.

Are Americans Allowed To Go To Cuba?

Yes. Americans, just like any nationality, can travel to Cuba as long as they hold a valid passport and a tourist card. If you’re directly flying from the USA, the charges will be higher for the Visa.

Many Americans usually fly from Mexico to avoid this additional cost. Americans must also possess Travel Insurance and a self-certification under one of the 12 travel categories of authorized travel to Cuba.

How Long Would It Take To Swim To Cuba From Cancun?

It would take roughly around 40 hours to swim from Cancun to Cuba. Surprisingly, it’s not impossible, and it has been done before.

Back in 1998, an Australian woman using an anti-shark cage, swam across the Yucatan strait, from Mexico to Cuba in less than 39 hours.

You might be interested in: Uber in Cancun

Is Cancun A Good Place To Visit?

If you’re easily swept off your feet by gorgeous turquoise water, powdery white beaches and amiable tropical weather, Cancun is the place for you! Bordering the Caribbean Sea, this Mexican city is one of the most famous spring-break holiday destinations for travellers – especially students.

You could easily find fully-furnished hotels and tourist-friendly sites, restaurants and exhilarating nightlife. However, just like any other tourist destination, there are a few things travellers should keep in mind.

Scammers are commonly found among the crowds trying to sell or forcing tourists to buy stuff. In such situations, you can just walk away. Besides, as much as the nightlife is lively, it can also be dodgy.

Cartels roam around the area, so avoid associating with unknown locals and suspicious dealings.

On a different note, travellers are also advised to avoid drinking tap water as most waterways could be contaminated.

Best Month To Visit Cuba?

Cuba’s tropical climate is admirable, but it also makes certain months more enjoyable than others. The best time to visit Cuba is between November to mid- April, when the seasons align to accommodate warm yet soothing weather.

Many travellers fly to Cuba in the latter season between February and April because the rates slightly drop compared to the beginning of the season.

If you’re planning a tightly budgeted trip, flying during July and August would be the ideal choice as the hot summer gradually eases off with the approach of the rainy season.

A common weather issue that all tropical countries face is the uncertainty with rains and storms. Cuba is no different.

If you’re travelling to Cuba, make sure you stay on alert with weather updates, as hurricanes can be expected during off-seasons.

Things To Do In Cuba

When you arrive in Cuba, you can exchange currency at the airport, banks, official government currency exchange houses, and most hotels and resorts.

Currency usage between Cuba and Mexico can be confusing as both nations use Pesos. But you cannot use Mexican Pesos in Cuba, nor vice versa.

If you’re in Cuba, visiting the old town of Havana tops any bucket list. The city practically lives between the 1940s and the present day. Travellers can rent a classic convertible and explore the scenic, colourful architecture and sip a Cuba Libre under the tropical sun.

The Vinales Valley , located by the Sierra de Los Órganos is also a must-visit destination where travellers can ride on horseback and roll some Cuban cigars – if you’re into it.

Those who love history must visit Havana’s Museum of Revolution, the El Capitolio – a historic government landmark, and the El Morro Castle. The El Morro Castle was opened in 1590 by an Italian architect and engineer – Battista Antonelli, and it stands at the entrance of the Havana harbour.

Cuban beaches are also some of the best beaches in the Caribbean region. Varadero beach is simply breathtaking with contrasting colours of white sand and blue water.

Other beaches, including Playa Ancon and Playa Bacuranao, are also must-visits.

While you’re in Cuba, don’t forget to taste its unique flavours. Try the famous Ropa Vieja , Picadillo and the renowned Cuban Espresso.

Head over to a traditional pub for dinner, enjoy a Tropicana show with some good Cuban music and dance the night away.

Which Destination Is Better, Havana Or Cancun?

Which destination is better? This heavily depends on what you are looking for; Cancun is a lit resort city with gorgeous beaches. Havana on the other hand is also a resort city with a melting pot of culture, cuisine and even better beaches!

Overall, Havana could be a better destination to visit if you are looking for a laid-back and unique experience. But, if you’re a student travelling on a budget, Havana could be on the pricier side. Cancun is ideal in such instances, but the experiences could be somewhat limited.

It doesn’t mean that Cancun is not worth visiting. The city has beautiful places to visit, including a Mayan Museum, La Isla shopping village and more.

Afrah Fazlulhaq

Afrah is a writer/editor with over 7 years of hands-on experience working in the travel sector. Her love for adventures dates back to her childhood days, and it took flight when she joined the travel industry where she learned and discovered the nitty gritties of holidays and holiday-making.

She believes that a fulfilling journey is not about the destination, but the experiences we gain from the things that go right and wrong. When it comes to travel, there's no perfect itinerary. YOU make it perfect.

Cancun to Cuba Ferry: Experience the Ultimate Cuban Culture

Are you looking for an adventurous way to explore Cuba? Consider taking the Cancun to Cuba ferry. Take this opportunity to experience the culture and cuisine of Cuba while also discovering a multitude of attractions during your exotic travels. From finding accommodations in Havana, exploring local attractions, or simply enjoying the views from onboard – this trip is sure to be one that you won’t soon forget.

In this post, we will cover all aspects of planning your trip on the Cancun to Cuba ferry so that it’s as stress free as possible.

Table of Contents:

Overview of cancun to cuba ferry, planning your trip.

• Popular Hotels and Resorts in Cuba:
• Traditional Cuban Dishes To Try:
• Important Laws To Follow:

How long does it take from Cancun to Cuba by boat?

Can i go to cuba from cancun, are there any ferries to cuba, can you go to havana from cancun.

Voyagers in search of a Caribbean adventure may opt for the ferry journey between Cancun, Mexico and Havana, Cuba. Since its inception in the late 1990’s, this ferry route has provided an easy way for travelers to explore both Cancun and Havana without having to endure multiple flights or long border crossings.

The benefits of taking the ferry are numerous. For one, it’s an efficient way to travel between two points that would otherwise require multiple flights and long layovers in airports. Additionally, passengers get an up-close view of some beautiful Caribbean scenery while on board the boat.

Moreover, the ferry does not impose any regulations regarding what can be brought on board (apart from necessary safety measures), making it convenient for those who require more than just their identification and money during their voyage.

Fares for the round trip typically range from $50 to $100 USD, with discounts offered for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Departures from Cancun are twice daily at 8am and 4pm local time, with arrivals in Havana set for 10am and 6pm respectively.

Overall, taking the ferry from Cancun to Havana offers a unique opportunity for travelers looking for an efficient yet scenic journey between two vibrant cities in different countries, all without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the Cancun to Cuba ferry is a great way for travelers looking to explore the Caribbean islands and experience Cuban culture. With proper planning, your journey can be smooth sailing. Once you have an understanding of the route, it’s time to begin organizing your journey.

Planning a voyage from Cancun to Cuba via ferry necessitates taking into account several important factors. The first is required documentation for entry into Cuba. Prior to embarking on the ferry, all voyagers must possess a legitimate passport and visa for entry into Cuba. In addition, some countries may require additional paperwork, such as proof of health insurance or an onward ticket out of Cuba before granting permission for travel.

It’s also important that travelers get vaccinated against common illnesses like hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, yellow fever, and rabies before their trip. Additionally, they should bring along any necessary medications or medical supplies with them on their journey in case they become ill while away from home.

It’s also recommended that people purchase travel insurance prior to departing so that if something unexpected happens during their travels, they will be covered financially.

Organizing your trip is a fundamental part of the voyage experience and can be critical in ensuring a fruitful excursion. Securing suitable accommodation is a crucial factor when visiting Cuba; thus, it’s imperative to be aware of the accessible types of lodgings and where cost-effective ones can be found.

Accommodations in Cuba

For those seeking a getaway, Cuba offers an array of lodging options to fit any traveler’s budget. From luxury resorts to affordable hostels, Cuba has something for everyone.

In Cuba, accommodation options range from basic one-star rooms to luxurious five-star resorts, as well as private homes and camping sites . Hotels range from basic one-star rooms with shared bathrooms to five-star resorts with all the bells and whistles.

For those looking for more unique experiences, there are also casas particulares (private homes) or camping sites where you can pitch your tent under the stars.

Popular Hotels and Resorts in Cuba

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Cuba, there are some great resort options available on the island. The Gran Caribe Hotel Group offers several high-end properties throughout the country that offer beachfront access as well as amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, bars and spas. Other popular hotel chains include Melia Hotels International and Iberostar Hotels & Resorts which both offer excellent service at competitive prices.

For travelers on a tighter budget who still want comfortable lodging during their trip to Cuba, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing quality or comfort. Hostelworld is an online booking platform that offers discounted rates on private rooms and dorms around the country, while Airbnb provides an array of home rental options ranging from cozy apartments to large villas, perfect for groups traveling together.

Additionally, Couchsurfing is another great way to find free accommodation by connecting directly with locals willing to open up their homes – a win-win situation.

Cuba offers an assortment of lodgings to meet any tourist’s desires, ranging from lavish resorts and hotels to more economical hostels. From lavish lodgings to cost-effective hostels, Cuba has an array of choices for all types of visitors.

Now that you know what kind of accommodations are available in Cuba, let’s explore the culture and cuisine by looking at some popular attractions and traditional dishes.

Exploring Cuban Culture and Cuisine

When traveling to Cuba on the Cancun to Cuba ferry, it’s important to take the time to explore the culture and cuisine of this unique island nation. From its vibrant music scene to its delectable traditional dishes, there is much to discover when you visit Cuba.

For those seeking a unique adventure or just wanting to bask in the sun, Cuba has plenty of activities and attractions to explore. Popular attractions include the Malecon seawall along Havana’s waterfront, Ernest Hemingway’s former home, Finca Vigia, and Old Havana with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.

For those seeking an aquatic adventure, Varadero Beach is the ideal destination for its picturesque white sand beaches and pristine waters.

Traditional Cuban Dishes To Try

When it comes to food, Cuban cuisine is full of flavor. Popular dishes include ropa vieja (shredded beef stew), congrí (black beans and rice), tamales (corn-based dumplings) and pan con lechón (roast pork sandwich). Be sure to try some of these delicious local dishes during your visit – you won’t regret it.

Interacting with Cuban people can be a rewarding experience; just remember to keep the conversation away from sensitive topics. Though it’s best to be friendly, bear in mind that certain topics may not be suitable for discussion due to restrictions imposed by the authorities; so watch what you say when talking with folks on the street or at eateries. Also keep in mind that tipping isn’t expected but appreciated if service was good; just like anywhere else.

Exploring Cuba’s culture and food can be a highly satisfying journey, yet it is essential to keep alert of the distinct safety matters when venturing there. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is wise to be aware of potential scams, laws to follow, and resources available for your protection while traveling in Cuba.

Safety Considerations When Traveling to Cuba

When visiting Cuba, it’s essential to be mindful of the prevalent frauds. Tourists should never accept offers from strangers who offer them a free ride or tour, as this could lead to theft or worse.

Additionally, watch out for people selling counterfeit goods on the street; if an item looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Finally, when paying with cash in local currency at restaurants and other establishments, make sure you get your change back—some unscrupulous vendors may try to keep some of your money for themselves.

Important Laws To Follow

It’s also important that tourists are aware of Cuban laws and regulations before visiting the country. For example, certain items, such as books about politics or religion, can only be brought into the country by authorized persons. Bringing these items without permission can result in fines or even jail time.

Visitors must possess a legitimate visa when entering Cuba. Failing to do so can lead to being sent back home.

Lastly, visitors should avoid taking photographs of military personnel or sensitive areas, such as government buildings. Doing so could land you in hot water with authorities.

Fortunately, a wealth of resources are available online to aid travelers in ensuring a secure experience while visiting Cuba. Before leaving home, check out websites like the US State Department’s travel advisory page which provides up-to-date information on safety concerns and other topics related to traveling abroad safely and responsibly.

Also consider downloading mobile apps that provide helpful advice or support regarding cultural norms and laws specific to Cuba. This will aid any travelers that need to know certain information before embarking on their journey.

Taking advantage of these resources will help ensure a hassle-free experience while enjoying all that this beautiful Caribbean island has to offer.

FAQs in Relation to Cancun to Cuba Ferry

The voyage from Cancun to Cuba by boat usually takes 24-36 hours, depending on the vessel employed. For instance, a ferry ride can take up to 30 hours while a speedboat may only require around 18-24 hours. Moreover, the voyage could be extended due to climate conditions that might not have been anticipated. It is recommended that travelers plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling by boat as delays are not uncommon due to unpredictable weather patterns or mechanical issues with vessels.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to travel directly from Cancun to Cuba due to the US government’s restrictions on such trips; thus, travelers must transit through a third-party destination before they can continue their journey. Furthermore, certain visa requirements may need to be fulfilled in order for individuals traveling from Mexico or other countries outside of Cuba’s jurisdiction, such as obtaining a Cuban tourist card and/or having an approved letter of invitation issued by a Cuban citizen or institution. Therefore, it is advisable that travelers plan ahead and research thoroughly prior making any arrangements when considering travelling between these two destinations.

Currently, there is no way to access Cuba by ferry from any nation (including via cruise ships). Travelers wishing to go to Cuba must fly into Havana’s José Martí International Airport. While it is possible for US citizens and residents of some countries in the Caribbean region to take a cruise that visits Cuban ports, those cruises do not offer direct transportation between two points on land. The only way for most travelers to get directly from one point on land (e.g., Miami) and another point on land (e.g., Havana) is by air travel at present.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Cancun to Havana. A range of air carriers provide non-stop flights between Cancun and Havana, such as Aeromexico and Interjet. The flight time is approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes depending on the airline chosen. Additionally, travelers can also opt for a ferry service that takes around 24-36 hours with stops in other Cuban ports along the way. Depending on one’s budget and preference, either option could be suitable for making this journey from Cancun to Havana.

The Cancun to Cuba ferry is a great way to explore the culture, cuisine and natural beauty of this vibrant Caribbean island. Ensure a safe and enjoyable trip by planning ahead and researching your accommodation options. By taking into account safety considerations when traveling as well as researching accommodations in advance, you can have an unforgettable experience on your journey from Cancun to Cuba.

We hope this Cancun to Cuba comprehensive travel guide has helped you build excitement for your trip to Cuba! 

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The rules for Americans visiting Cuba in 2022

May 20, 2022 • 5 min read

It may soon be easier for Americans to visit Cuba © Matt Porteous / Getty Images

The Biden Administration took several steps toward thawing US-Cuba relations on May 16, 2022, after five years of tightened restrictions. While the measures don’t fully restore the openings of the Obama era, they mark an encouraging start for struggling Cubans and aspiring US travelers.

What has changed?

Of direct interest to US travelers is the Biden Administration’s promise to expand authorized travel in support of the Cuban people. This includes opening up flights to airports beyond Havana (which were closed to US aircraft during the Trump era) and reinstating group people-to-people travel and other categories of group educational travel. Both measures will be good news to US travel agencies who have battled with increased red tape since 2017.  

As yet, there is no word that the US will reinstate individual people-to-people travel, the category that led to a huge influx of US visitors to Cuba between 2016 and 2017. Nor have any Cuban state entities been removed from the US’s restricted list, meaning it’s still difficult for Americans to legally stay in Cuban hotels.

The directives have also lifted limits on family remittances (previously capped at $1,000 a quarter) to provide help in facilitating family reunions and supporting independent Cuban entrepreneurs.

Getting to Cuba from the US

Flying to Havana is one of the easier parts of the Cuba conundrum. As of May 2022, there are approximately a dozen flights a day between the US and Havana departing from the Florida cities of Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. Operating airlines include American Airlines , Southwest Airlines , and JetBlue .

More Cuban airports will likely open up to US flights in the coming months.

The 12 categories of travel licenses for US citizens

US law states that US citizens can only travel to Cuba on a ‘general license’ based on one of 12 different approved categories , which include family visits, educational and religious activities, public performances and exhibitions, and the vague sounding 'support for the Cuban people.' Licenses are self-qualifying (there’s no long-winded paperwork), but you’ll be asked to state your category of choice in a signed travel affidavit when booking travel to Cuba. More details are available online from the US Treasury .

The vast majority of current visitors are Cuban Americans entering under the ‘family travel’ category. Independent travelers with no affiliations can qualify under the conveniently vague ‘support for the Cuban people’ category, which is the easiest option for people looking to explore the island. However, bear in mind that before you travel, you’ll need to draw up a detailed itinerary of your plans. Additionally, on your return, you’ll be required to keep all your travel receipts for five years.

The Cuba tourist card

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.

Health protocols for travel to Cuba

Pre-travel COVID-19 tests and vaccination certificates are no longer required to enter Cuba from the US. Random COVID-19 tests may still be administered at the airport but there’s no mandatory quarantine unless you test positive. Departing US passengers will need a negative rapid-antigen test to re-enter the US. Tests can be procured at Havana’s José Martí International Airport before departure.

All arriving travelers must fill out an online D’Viajeros form containing information relating to public health and immigration.  You’re also required to take out medical insurance that includes cover for COVID-19; this may be included in the cost of your air ticket from the US. Health officials make spot checks at the airport.

Booking travel to Cuba through a travel agency

If it’s your first time traveling to Cuba, it is highly recommended that you enlist the services of a specialist US-Cuba travel agency. Both Cuban Travel Services and Marazul offer comprehensive on-the-ground information and can help organize flights and accommodation.

Alternatively, you can join an organized trip, which takes a lot of the hassle out of traveling to Cuba. Long-time US-Cuba specialists, Insight Cuba are offering a three-night ‘Weekend in Havana’ and a seven-night ‘Classic Cuba Tour’ in 2022.  

Where to stay in Cuba

American citizens are not currently allowed to stay in Cuba’s government-run hotels or use most state-owned enterprises. Instead, it’s best to opt for private accommodation such as apartments, B&Bs and homestays (known in Cuba as casas particulares ). Airbnb has lots of listings of accommodations that are open to US citizens.

For restaurants, stick to private paladares (family-run restaurants, often in the owner's home) where the food quality is better. To get around, use private guides and taxis. In doing so, you’ll be enthusiastically ‘supporting the Cuban people.’

Money tips for Cuba in 2022

Credit cards linked to US banks don’t work in Cuba and the US dollar was taken out of circulation in June 2021. American travelers are best off arriving with plenty of cash in a non-US currency – the euro is the most favored foreign currency and is accepted by most private businesses, from casa particulares to restaurants and taxi drivers, meaning you won’t have to buy many Cuban pesos (which are worthless outside Cuba).

Beware: The Cuban economy is in a state of extreme flux. The current euro-peso black market exchange rate is over four times that of the banks.   

In November 2021, Cuba introduced a tarjeta prepago (prepaid card) designed primarily to aid US travelers with American credit cards. You can purchase and pre-load a tarjeta prepago at a bank in Cuba or at the airport and use it to buy goods that can otherwise only be paid for with a credit card, such as medical services, cigars, and bus tickets. Cards can be loaded with amounts equivalent to US$1000, US$500 or US$200. However, you can only pay for the card in a non-US currency. Euros, Canadian dollars, and pounds sterling are all accepted, cash only.

This article was first published December 2020 and updated May 2022

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How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

 Kriangkrai Thitimakorn / Getty Images 

Travel to Cuba for American citizens has been a back-and-forth battle over the past few decades, and as of June 2019, tighter restrictions have been placed on travelers and tourists hoping to visit this Caribbean island.

Travelers must now declare themselves as making a trip that falls under one of 12 categories of travel. This means that tourists may no longer travel to Cuba in the "people to people" category, and those that do make it to Cuba are no longer allowed to support businesses that help fund the Cuban military. Additionally, the Trump administration further banned cruise ships and ferries from transporting Americans to the islands in June of 2019.

In order to book a flight to Cuba or lodging in the country now, you must now declare which category of travel you'll be making first, and as Americans still cannot simply book a flight and head to Cuba, most U.S. citizens will have to go through a process to make it to this country—unless they are part of a protected group still permitted to travel there.

New Legislation and Getting a Visa: Who Can Travel

Legal individual travel has always required that citizens fall under one of the 12 categories of permitted travel to Cuba, a rule already in place before Trump's November 2017 edict. Now, however, the requirement is legally binding and you'll need to document your activities to prove you were there for legitimate reasons (other than tourism).

According to the  U.S. Embassy in Cuba's official website , trips may be completed for: 

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental 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 information materials
• Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines

In order to get a travel visa to Cuba, neither the U.S. Embassy in Havana nor the U.S Department of State in Washington, D.C. process applications, so you'll instead need to apply through the Cuban Embassy in D.C.

Booking Hotels and Logistics of Visiting Cuba

Because of the Trump administration's policy banning American support of military-funded establishments, paired with hurricanes that ravaged the island in 2017, booking a hotel room can be a challenge.

According to officials from the Trump administration, these new restrictions in Cuba were not meant to stop tourism of the country but to "direct money and economic activity away from the Cuban military and security services" and toward businesses owned by Cuban citizens.

Essentially, these new laws hope to encourage visitors to eat at local restaurants, stay in local hotels (or private homes), and buy from local businesses—just make sure you never go to any restricted businesses or you could be fined or arrested upon return to the United States.

While Trump has discouraged travel to Cuba with these new restrictions, it's still possible to go and enjoy the rich culture of this island. However, since relations between the United States and Cuba are suffering under the Trump administration, be well prepared before you go. Be sure to bring enough cash for your entire trip as accessing American funds in Cuba—as well as exchanging them to the Cuban peso—is rather difficult.

Going Solo to Cuba

Although the 2017 restrictions still allowed cruise ships and authorized tour groups to arrange hotels, transportation, meals, and an itinerary that complies with federal regulations, the 2019 edict prohibited these from arranging travel for tourists seeking to visit Cuba as tourists.

Going solo now, you'll need a passport and a reason for being there that doesn't involve tourism. You'll need to make your own hotel and transport arrangements, of course, and a working knowledge of Spanish can help, too. However, the island nation already has experience handling international tourists, so there is more than minimal tourist help already in place.

The changes in Cuba policy don't apply to travelers from elsewhere in the world, and Cuba is among the most popular Caribbean destinations for travelers from Canada and Europe. A number of international hotel companies, such as  Riu ,  Iberostar , and  Melia , have built large resorts in Cuban destinations like Varadero that meet the expectations of savvy global travelers. More than two million tourists now visit Cuba annually.

Traveling by U.S. Commercial Airlines

Although some top U.S. airlines bid over the right to fly to Cuba in 2016, the 2017 restrictions have all but eliminated commercial airline travel between the two countries. Charter flights that largely originate in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and Tampa still remain travelers' best option for getting to Cuba by air from the U.S. It is highly unlikely that Cuba's airlines will begin offering flights to the U.S. anytime soon, as they would have to overcome significant regulatory hurdles in order to do so. Beginning in late 2019, U.S.-based carriers will only fly in and out of Havana. To visit other Cuban cities, you will have to travel by land within the country.

Flying From Canada, Cancun, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica

If you don't want to wait for U.S. airlines to start flying to Cuba, or you want to combine a visit to Cuba with a trip to a different Caribbean island, you have options, and not just to Havana but also a wide range of  Cuban destinations .

Currently, Air Canada flies between Toronto and Havana and Varadero, Cuba, while Cubana—Cuba's national airline—has service between Toronto and Montreal and Havana, Varadero, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Holguín, and COPA Airlines also has daily Toronto-Havana flights.

Cancun  has long been the gateway of choice for Americans looking to visit Cuba without attracting the attention of U.S. Customs officials, and even though restrictions have tightened, you can still fly Cubana from Cancun to Havana. Cayman Airways also has flights to Havana from  Grand Cayman  and  Jamaica .

Using the Havana Embassy

The  U.S. Embassy in Havana  reopened in August 2015, as full diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States have been restored. Although the relationship is now strained thanks to the Trump administration, this embassy will still help American citizens in Cuba in a variety of different ways.

Services offered at the U.S. Embassy in Havana include processing applications for new U.S. passports, renewing expired passports, or replacing stolen passports as well as registering U.S. citizens living in, traveling to, or born in Cuba.

The U.S. Embassy also provides federal income tax forms, services to notarize documents to be used in the United States, and limited assistance to U.S. citizen prisoners in Cuba as well as assistance in the shipment of remains of deceased U.S. citizens back to the United States or coordinating medical evacuations for U.S. citizens.

In an emergency situation, the U.S. Embassy will also assist in wiring money to citizens, but don't count on this option to help you if you simply run out of funds while visiting Cuba.

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Flights from Cancún to Havana - Travel Insights & Trends

Get data-powered insights and trends into flights from cancún to havana to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., how many flights are there between cancún and havana per day, there is a maximum of 1 nonstop flight a day that takes off from cancún and lands in havana, with an average flight time of 1h 10m. the most common departure time is 7:00 am and most flights take off in the morning. each week, there are 4 flights., what’s the earliest departure time from cancun to havana, early birds can take the earliest flight from cancún at 7:05 am and will be landing in havana at 9:15 am., what’s the latest departure time from cancun to havana, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from cancún to havana jets off at 7:05 am and lands at 9:15 am., when to book flights from cancún to havana, faqs for booking flights from cancun to havana, do i need a passport to fly between cancún and havana, which aircraft models fly most regularly from cancun to havana.

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On which days can I fly direct from Cancun to Havana?

You can catch a nonstop flight from Cancun to Havana on on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

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What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Cancun to Havana?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Havana with an airline and back to Cancun with another airline. Booking your flights between Cancun and HAV can sometimes prove cheaper using this method.

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Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Havana from Cancun up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

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Can You See Cuba From Cancun?

Cuba And Cancun are two of the most sought-after locations within the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. They are near each other, meaning you can travel to Cuba from Cancun via flight. Traveling to Cuba via Cancun, Mexico, and the reverse takes about an hour. Are you wondering Can you see Cuba from Cancun?  

It is not possible to see Cuba from Cancun. Even Cancun’s highest building, the Secrets the Vine, is as tall as 272 feet, but you’ll never see Cuba in Mexico. The vast distance separating the two regions makes it hard to view Cuba from Cancun. It would be helpful to be closer to the country for a better view of Cuba.

You may have heard tales of people who saw floating lights that danced across the water that showed a vibrant city from another country. If you believe you’ve seen a completely different world in the distance, you are either a skilled eye-sighter, or your eyes may be tricking you.

The distance between them could be too close that one might wonder if you could observe Cuba in the distance from Cancun. But, seeing any area or part of Cuba in the distance of Cancun is nearly impossible.

Cancun To Cuba Distance

There are 941 km or 585 miles of distance between Cancun and Cuba. It takes about one hour of air travel to Cuba or Cancun.

Distance is one of many reasons to see Cuba from Cancun. A significant gap needs to be bridged, and to expect a glimpse from the Cancun viewpoint isn’t possible.

Reasons Why You Can’t See Cuba From Cancun

There are many other reasons why it’s impossible to view Cuba from the distance of Cancun:

• A naked eye can only see a distance of 3 miles when there is clear weather and clear visibility. The distance in between Cuba and Cancun is much greater than three miles. It would not be easy to imagine the city at this much distance.
• Crossing the 143 miles of coast-to-coast distance that separates Cuba from Cancun is still necessary. From the coast that separates them, it would not be easy even to see the crest of Cuba—only the vast horizon when you decide to search for Cuba from the point of reference.
• Additionally, the curvature of the earth is your main concern. Your naked eye can travel up to three miles with a clear vision and an uncluttered surface. When you consider the curvature of the earth, this reduces the chance of being able to see Cuba in the distance from Cancun. You could be confronted with 16.7 inches of curvature, which may limit your viewing angles.
• Elevation won’t play tricks on you to see Cuba at a distance from Cancun. No matter where you stand, in Cancun’s tallest structure, it is impossible to look out over Cuba. Even the most distant point in Cuba to Cancun Guanahacabibes Peninsula must be visible.

Can You Go to Cuba from Cancun?

You can travel to Cuba from Cancun with a Cuba visa. Obtaining an entry pass at Cancun Airport before you depart from Cuba is easy. It could take around one hour and twenty-five minutes until you arrive at Havana Airport.

How To Get From Cancun To Cuba?

Suppose you want to visit Cuba from Cancun and think a ferry is the easiest method of traveling between these two countries. However, there needs to be a ferry service that connects these two countries. The 100-mile distance between Cancun and Cuba might seem small. However, it’s far enough for the ferry service to travel on one gasoline tank.

The only method to travel between Cancun to Cuba is via air! Here’s the information you must be aware of:

• Interjet is a well-known and inexpensive Spanish airline offering a range of daily flights to Havana.
• The price of your ticket will be around $100 for one way.
• In the Mexican airport, you’ll have to obtain an entry visa for Cuba. It is possible to do this regardless of whether your tickets to the plane have already been bought.
• The fee for the visa will range from $15 to $20 USD (300-350 Mexican Dollar). You can pay with cash. There is a line to get the visa near the airline you selected to fly. You may also Apply online with iVisa  and pay between $75 and $95 to expedite shipping or rush orders.
• Check-in for your flight in the same way as usual, but you will need to provide proof of your return flight or evidence of it being a round trip.
• You must fill out the form for declaration of currency at the Mexican gate before boarding the plane for Havana. There is no need declaration if you’re carrying less than $10,000 worth of items.
• Your flight should last about an hour.

After Arriving In Cuba

After arriving in Havana (or any other place where your ideal Cuban destination is), You will be:

• Check your passport at the border. You should provide proof of travel or health insurance in this instance (an original copy of your insurance is just fine).
• It will stamp your passport.
• Go through customs. There might be a form for customs to complete at this point or while waiting at the baggage claims section. Because you’re likely to be on holiday, you may need more items for customs officials to be able to identify anything so you can avoid the pain of a long line.
• Now, you’re legally in Cuba!

How To Make a Day Trip From Cancun to Cuba?

Daily flights depart from Cancun to Cuba for those who want to take a day trip. The Interjet airline, for example, provides low-cost flights for approximately $90 one-way. The journey between Cancun to Cuba is now more accessible due to the low-cost airline.

Once you have secured your visa for tourist After securing your tourist visa, you’re now set to explore and discover this amazing country. If you’re going on just one day of travel, Here are some items you shouldn’t miss:

Hemingway’s Finca Vigia

In Cuba, You can visit the former home of Nobel-winning author Hemingway. This is the house of Hemingway in the Americas during the time of Fidel Castro. Hemingway was a resident of Lookout Farm during the 1940s and 1950s. He wrote The Old Man and the Sea.

When you visit this well-known author’s residence, there is a room stuffed with original scripts written by the writer. Looking through hundreds of books by Hemingway and his yacht, Pilar, is also possible. It is among the top tourist attractions you can’t skip in Cuba.

French influence on Cienfuegos

If you want to experience the French influence in the country, you should go to Cienfuegos. As per locals ‘ perception, it’s one of the cities in Paris in the Caribbean.

Don Luis de Clouet founded the area in 1819. The French style and its influences are evident in the boulevards and parks of the region. Additionally, there is an array of neoclassical structures that showcase French-style luxury. It is home to the Castillo de Jagua, an old Cuban fort that stands high in Cienfuegos.

Far-flung Baracoa

In the country’s eastern part, there’s an island known as Baracoa. Christopher Columbus once visited the area. It was also one of the first places of Spanish conquistadores. Baracoa was also the very first capital of the nation.

You’ll be relaxed and awed by nature when you are there. Plenty of palms, bananas, and chocolate plants make the city vibrant and green. Additionally, is the presence of waterways and rivers where you can go on boat trips. Naturally, it would be best if you did not overlook salto fino. Salto Fino for its waterfall, which is a wonder.

Hershey Railway

If you want a more exciting way to experience Cuba, visit the Hershey Railway. American chocolate producers invented this method of transport. The railway was an option to transport sugar from the farms to the Cuban capital. The railway is in full operation.

It is possible to travel 92 kilometers between Matanzas and Casablanca suburbs. It’s the only way to reach Matanzas and interact with Matanzas residents.

Landscape of Vinales

If you want a more eco-friendly trip, visit this township in Vinales. It’s a far cry from the influences of colonialism in cities like Havana. This region has an agricultural landscape, traditional farms, and lush greenery. It is a very rural area with life at a slow pace. If you are in Vinales, You should be able to miss The Saint Thomas caves. It is the second-largest underground cave located in South America.

There are natural rock formations and old-fashioned paintings of pre-Colombina Indians.

It is a place of historical significance and well worth the time to visit.

Habana Vieja

Naturally, if you go to Cuba, there is no reason to be able to miss Old Havana. This is where the real Cuban life is. There is an old-fashioned image of American taxis, which add vibrant color to the cities.

It is believed that Old Havana also bears the highly coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site is significant in its historical context and continues to tell the narrative. In this area, you can see impressive defense walls, Baroque, medieval, and neoclassical structures. They enhance the beauty and uniqueness of the city. Remember to spend time going to El Capitolio, Plaza de Armas, the El Capitolio Plaza de Armas, and other historic landmarks.

Che Guevara Mausoleum

The most famous persona in the nation of Cuba is Che Guevarra. In the same town is the mausoleum that the notorious Che Guevarra built. It is located on a hill that overlooks Santa Clara. Santa Clara. There is a seven-meter bronze statue and a seven-meter bronze statue. Nearby is a supply train for the military that is associated with Che Guevara too.

Trinidad del Cuba

Another essential site to visit within the nation should be Trinidad de Cuba. It’s also one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites founded in 1514. It is home to many colonial-era palaces, plazas, churches, and remains from sugar mills.

You’ll find old-fashioned cobblestone streets that are surrounded by traditional Spanish mansions. Trinidad de Cuba is a preserved historical monument within the nation. Many tourists visit the area because it is also located within Central Cuba and the Caribbean Sea.

Playa Paradiso

If you like to indulge yourself in the natural surroundings of Cuba, You should not skip this Playa Paradiso. It is located on the west side of Cayo Largo, a tiny island on Cuba’s southern coast.

The location is on the top list of beautiful beaches worldwide. There you can enjoy the warm sun of the south, blue water, and fine, chilly Sand. The beach is a great place to relax since it is among the most unexplored areas in the region. It’s an ideal spot to escape city life’s hustle and bustle and take in the beautiful natural world.

Gardens of the Queen

Another excellent place to visit in Cuba can be the Gardens of the Queen or Jardines de la Reina. This is among the most extensive Marine reserves in the Caribbean. Divers from all over the world visit the area due to the natural beauty of the area. Plenty of coral formations, sea turtles, and an entire school of fish are at the dive site. It is exciting to see sharks in this area of Cuba.

How To Exchange Currency

You can change your money in   the following locations:

• Official Government Currency Exchange Houses (CADECA)

Also,   the most :

• Hotels and resorts
• Shopping centers

Bring your money to the agent at the establishment and inform them of the you’d like to exchange it for.

Important Currency Note:  Cuba and Mexico both use pesos for their currency. However, they’re distinct from their country, and you need help to utilize Cuban Pesos inside Mexico and Mexican Pesos inside Cuba.

Fun Things To Do In Cancun

If you’re staying in Cancun, There are numerous exciting activities for you and your travel group will enjoy! Some of the most popular activities in Cancun are:

The Cancun Underwater Museum 

The Cancun Underwater Museum is an unforgettable diving experience through the 500 underwater sculptures. The museum offers an underwater adventure connecting the arts with the natural world.

The Beaches to Visit

The best beaches to visit are:

• Playa Caracol
• Playa Langosta
• The Xcaret Beach Park (eco-archaeological park and beach)
• Isla Contoy – A beach island that is famous for its birds
• Playa Tortugas
• Playa Delfines

Visit Chichen Itza

A UNESCO World Heritage site. Chichen Itza is a renowned Mayan city dating from the fifteenth century.

Swimming in the Cenote The Cenote  

More than 30000 cenotes and a few oasis pools in Cancun are crystal-clear bodies of water, usually hidden within caves and a tree-filled forest. Relax in the most tranquil cave swimming found in Mexico, and then combine it with a trip to Chichen Itza.

Ruins of Tulum  

Tulum is just 8 miles from Cancun (about one hour and a half hour).

Enjoy the Nightlife

Cancun is a thriving party town, and you should surely enjoy it for what it is! Some of the most popular nightclubs to go to include:

• Cancun Vibes
• Mandala Cancun

Fun Things To Do In Cuba

To name a few suggestions for your travels, The most sought-after activities in Cuba include:

Exploring Old Havana  

The city has stunning architecture, unique colors, and captivating scents.

Vinales Valley

 A beautiful valley in the mountain ranges of Sierra de los Organos.

A city in the coastal zone with a fantastic seawall.

El Capitolio  

A landmark in the past and a government building located in Havana.

Enjoy the Food Tour  

Please take a look at it with the tastes of Mexico!

Museum of the Revolution

Located in Old Havana.

An 18th-century fortress is among the biggest of its kind in the Americas.

Varadero Beach  

A paradise on the planet.  

Try Cuban Espresso

See what the hype is about!

Peninsula de Zapata National Park

If you need an experience of nature.

Discover Castle El Morro Castle

A 1590 castle worth a visit. It is also a stunning spot to start your trip to Havana, located close to the coast.

Experience a show at Tropicana 

This show is the lounge in Cuba! Enjoy a taste of Cuban style at a post-dinner performance. You’ll then be able to dance all night long in a local bar with all the Cuban dance moves you’ve learned!

You may be merely observing Cuba from the shores of Cancun (or you want to discover both destinations). There are many diverse options, and worth a visit.

Unfortunately, you can’t see Cuba from Cancun . However, you should still be able to have fun in these places! Within the context of the globe, 100 miles is quite close in terms of proximity. If you’re visiting one area, it’s worthwhile to consider a day trip to another!

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Can someone please offer some advice.

What would be the cheapest and most reliable airline to use?

Look forward to any help and thanks in advance.

I am sorry though as I am not sure the name or exact prices. I have however heard others say how they flew there for "cheap" though.

they have a new ferry as well

^Nor do/did I.

Perhaps Vancouversund can expand.

http://www.cubajet.com/airlines/aerocaribbean.asp

Good luck! :-)

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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How Far Is Cuba From Cancun – You Need To Know

Cuba and Cancun are two of the most iconic destinations in the Caribbean, known for their vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history. Located just a few hundred miles apart, these two destinations attract millions of tourists each year.

However, despite being in close proximity, there is often confusion surrounding the distance between the two countries. Many travelers wonder, how far is Cuba from Cancun? This question has long been debated, with varying answers and misconceptions.

Visitors looking to explore both destinations may need to consider taking a flight or multiple modes of transportation to bridge the gap between these two vibrant locations.

The Estimated Distance Is From Cuba To Cancun

Cuba and Cancun are both popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, but they are actually quite far apart. It is estimated that Cuba is about 585 miles (940 kilometres) from Cancun, which makes it a relatively short trip. However, the weather in Cuba can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to check the forecast before you go.

The proximity of these two popular vacation spots makes it convenient for travelers to potentially explore both locations during their trip to the Caribbean region. There are ways to get from Cuba to Cancun by bus, train, car, plane, or subway.

Cuba is far away, so you’ll need to take a bus. The best way to do this is by using one of the many online buses that connect Cancun with Cuba. You can find these buses by searching for them on Google or browsing any travel site. When you find a bus you like, compare prices and schedules to get the best deal possible.

To travel from Cancún to Cuba by bus, one would need to fly and then take a bus, which typically takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes. The cost for this journey can vary between $2500 to $10000, depending on the specific details of the trip. Despite the convenience of flying part of the way, the overall time and cost involved in traveling from Cancún to Cuba by bus should be considered when planning such a trip.

Furthermore, be sure to read the reviews of other passengers before booking – this will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises during your trip. Finally, don’t forget to pack your passport and visa in case you have to go through any customs checks along the way.

There is no direct train link between Cancun and Cuba, but you can take a bus or plane. The best way to get from Cancun to Cuba is by train. There are multiple options available, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

The most popular route is by train via the U.S. state of Florida. This route takes around 10 hours, and it’s easy to get connecting trains in different cities along the way. The downside of this route is that it’s not the shortest option, and you may sometimes have to wait for a long time.

Another popular route is via Mexico City, which takes around nine hours on average. However, this route can complicate if you’re unfamiliar with Mexican train schedules. Finally, there’s also the option of taking a bus or plane to Havana (Cuba). This route takes around six hours on average, but it can be more expensive than taking the train or flying into Mexico City.

Traveling from Cuba to Cancun by car is not a feasible option due to the geographical distance and the presence of bodies of water between the two destinations. Cuba is located in the Caribbean Sea, while Cancun is situated on the eastern coast of Mexico along the Yucatan Peninsula.

To travel between these two locations, one would typically need to consider alternative modes of transportation, such as flying or taking a boat. The distance by road is impractical and not recommended.

Cuba is a small island country located just south of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea. It has a population of around 11 million people and is home to some of the best beaches in the world.

To get from Cancun to Cuba, you must fly to Havana and then take a bus or plane to Havana City, the capital city. From there, you will need to take another bus or plane to Holguin, which is the island’s second-largest city. Finally, you will need to take a taxi or Uber from Holguin to Havana. The journey time should be around 40 hours in total.

Cuba is a small island country located south of Mexico, about 100 miles away. It’s connected to the mainland by a narrow strait called the Yucatan Channel, which is only 18 feet wide at its narrowest point. To get from Cancun to Cuba by subway, you’ll need to take Line 2 (blue) of the Metrobus system.

This will take you directly to the José Martí International Airport in Havana, where you can travel to Cuba by bus or train. While this is the fastest and easiest way to get from Cancun to Cuba, it’s not necessarily the cheapest option. You’ll spend around $25-$100 on transportation alone, which means that it might not be the best option for cost-conscious travelers.

Driving Directions From Cancun To Cuba

Cuba is a beautiful and mysterious country that’s often left out of travel itineraries. If you’re considering a trip there, check out our guide on traveling from Cancun to Cuba. The driving directions from Cancun to Cuba are as follows:

• Head south on Mexican Highway 1 until you reach Riviera Maya.
• Turn left onto the Puerto Aventura’s-Puerto Morelos highway and drive for about an hour until you reach Palenque.
• Continue driving for an additional hour, passing through Xcaret before arriving at Varadero.
• From there, head north on the Varadero highway until you reach Playa Giron.
• From Playa Giron, continue driving northwest until you reach Santa Clara.
• Turn right and drive for another hour or so until you arrive in Havana.

Things To Know Before Traveling To Cuba

Before traveling to Cuba, it’s important to know a few things. For example, the government has strict rules about what citizens are and aren’t allowed to do. You’re also not allowed to bring any firearms or items that could be handy for criminal purposes. Before you travel to Cuba, you should know a few things to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are just a few:

• Visit Cuba only if you’re authorized to do so by the Cuban government.
• It’s illegal to travel to Cuba without prior approval from the government.
• Keep in mind that traveling to Cuba is not without its risks.
• You may be subject to restrictions on travel, harassment, and arbitrary detention.
• Do not photograph or film military installations or aircraft without prior consent.
• Don’t display any political signage while in Cuba, as this could lead to arrest or deportation.
• Respect Cuban cultural traditions and norms, especially when it comes to socializing in public.
• This means avoiding sudden or loud movements, speaking openly about your personal life, and dressing modestly when going out with friends or family.

How Far Is Cancun To The Closest Part Of Cuba?

If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean escape and wondering about the distance between Cuba and Cancun, you’re not alone. The proximity of these two popular destinations makes it tempting to explore both in one trip. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant culture of Cuba or the stunning beaches of Cancun, each offers a unique experience worth indulging in.

So, as you plan your next adventure, remember that the journey between Cuba and Cancun may be shorter than you think. But the memories you create in each destination will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.where is the closest airport to cancun, and how far away are they.

The nearest airport to Cancún is Cancun (CUN). ADO operates a bus from Cancun International Airport T2 to Cancún Bus Station every 30 Distance, 15 km.

2.What Kind Of Transport Is There Between Cancun And Cuba?

The most common transport option would be flights. Flights usually last around 2 hours and can be found reasonably priced if you book in advance. Alternatively, you can take buses that travel around the island for a longer time, typically taking about 5 to 6 hours. However, this mode of transportation is usually more expensive than flights.

3.Is It Cheaper To Go By Plane Or By Bus/Train?

Choosing between a plane and a bus or train can be tough, but ultimately, the answer is that it’s cheaper to go by plane. This is because planes are more fuel-efficient than buses or trains and tend to take longer to travel the same distance. When you’re comparing ticket prices, keep in mind that plane tickets can get pricey quickly.

4.Is There A Best Time To Visit Cuba, And Which Airlines Fly There?

The best time to visit Cuba is from May through October, as the weather is mild and the island is not overcrowded. Airlines that fly there include American, Delta, JetBlue, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, LAN Airlines (Mexico), Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Spirit.

5.What Are The Benefits Of Visiting Cuba?

There are many benefits to visiting Cuba, one of the most notable being the beautiful scenery available throughout the island. Travelers can explore Uba, a historical country outside Havana and Havana City, or visit different destinations like Santa Clara, Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba, and Varadero.

Michael C. Herrera

I’m a travel blogger with a focus on safety. I’ve been to all seven continents, and I love sharing my tips for staying safe while traveling. I also have a lot of experience with travel hacking and finding the best deals on airfare and hotels. My blog features reviews of restaurants, hotels, and attractions around the world.

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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.

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 ($$$) 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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 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.

Yes, Americans Can Still Travel to Cuba. Here’s How

Is it legal for u.s. citizens to travel to cuba what types of travel can they take and what are cuba tourist cards here’s what you need to know about visiting cuba..

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Havana, Cuba’s capital city, is known for its vintage cars and historic architecture.

Courtesy of Spencer Everett/Unsplash

Cuba is a beautiful Caribbean island with a complex history and rich culture. But for decades, it’s been just beyond the reach of many Americans. In addition to several difficult years involving devastating hurricanes, pandemic-era travel restrictions, ever-changing U.S. State Department travel advisories, and frequently updated trade and tourism regulations , it’s not surprising that many Americans may be confused about whether and how U.S. travelers can legally visit Cuba .

As of early 2024, the short answer is: Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a U.S. citizen. There are, however, some hoops you’ll need to jump through, because (technically speaking) travel to Cuba for pure vacationing isn’t allowed. For U.S. citizens interested in planning a trip to Cuba, here’s what you need to know before you go.

Can you travel to Cuba?

The relationship between the United States and Cuba has been tumultuous, to say the least. Following the Cuban Revolution during the 1950s and the subsequent rise of Fidel Castro’s regime, diplomatic ties between the two nations deteriorated rapidly. In 1960, the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuba, effectively severing most economic and political connections.

In the time since, travel between the two countries has been heavily restricted by the U.S. government, which has implemented various policies to discourage or prohibit its citizens from visiting Cuba. Making matters more complex, those policies often changed with each presidential administration. The island nation was more accessible during the Carter, Clinton, and Obama years and more closed off during the G.W. Bush and Trump years.

In 2014, it became significantly easier for Americans to visit Cuba after President Obama announced a series of measures aimed at normalizing diplomatic ties and loosening travel restrictions to allow Americans to visit for certain purposes (more on that later). Additionally, in 2016, commercial flights between the United States and Cuba resumed for the first time in more than half a century.

However, the Trump administration made it significantly harder to visit Cuba. During his time in office, President Trump enacted more than 200 measures against Cuba , which included limiting what Cuban airports flights from the U.S. could fly into, banning cruises from stopping in Cuba, and eliminating the most common visa category under which U.S. citizens planned legal visits to Cuba (known as “people-to-people” travel).

Then in May 2022, President Biden’s administration announced it would undo many of the Cuba-related restrictions enacted under Trump and would work on expanding authorized travel. Under the new order, regular passenger and charter airplanes are again allowed to fly to any Cuban airport (and airlines announced new flight paths ). And officials said that the “people-to-people” category of travel, under which many tours and organized travel companies bring U.S. travelers to Cuba, will ultimately return, though there is no timeline on when that will happen.

Cuba’s music scene is also a big draw.

Photo by Shutterstock

How to travel to Cuba as an American citizen

U.S. law states that those who want to go to Cuba need to qualify for a “general license” based on one of 12 approved categories.

The 12 categories currently authorized by U.S. government, for travel to Cuba are:

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental 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 authorized export transactions

Licenses are self-qualifying, meaning that when you purchase your airline ticket, you’ll be asked to state your category in a signed affidavit before checkout.

When former President Obama first eased travel restrictions to Cuba , the move allowed leisure travelers to pursue self-led trips under the “people-to-people” educational activities category. Today, the “support for the Cuban people” category is the most popular because it’s the broadest.

What the “support for the Cuban people” license entails

To adhere to the requirements for independent travel under “support for the Cuban people,” travelers must first declare the category (when prompted) while booking flights and lodging. As part of the license, travelers are also expected to prepare an itinerary outlining how their trip will fulfill the category’s terms and contribute to Cuba’s local economy. (This itinerary could be—but isn’t always—requested on arrival to the country.)

An appropriate “support for the Cuban people” itinerary could including staying in casa particulares (locally run guesthouses), visiting Cuban-owned businesses, going on tours (like classic car rides or architecture walking tours) run by Cubans, visiting independent museums and galleries, partaking in cultural dance and music classes, and eating at locally owned restaurants and markets. (For specific recommendations and local resources, check out AFAR’s Cuba Travel Guide .)

Travelers can visit independently under that category, though it’s important you keep a record of your itinerary and your receipts: The U.S. government can ask for them up to five years after the trip.

Can you still travel to Cuba with organized tour operators?

Even though the Trump administration’s tightened restrictions on travel to Cuba prohibited organized “people-to-people” tours entirely, many tour companies have switched their approach to adhere to the “support for the Cuban people” license, according to Tom Popper, president of U.S.-based tour operator InsightCuba . Other tour providers that offer “people-to-people” trips, such as GeoEx Adventure Travel , Flash Pack , Intrepid Travel, and G Adventures, have similarly transitioned their program itineraries in order to offer legal trips to Cuba that comply with the regulations.

Challenges and considerations for travel to Cuba

Despite the easing of restrictions, traveling to Cuba as an American still presents some challenges. For example, there are limited banking services available to U.S. visitors, and American credit and debit cards are not typically accepted (as noted on the website for the U.S. embassy in Cuba ), so it’s important to bring plenty of cash. Similarly, internet access in Cuba is limited —expect connections to be patchy .

How to get a Cuba Tourist Card

The terms Cuba Tourist Cards and Cuban visas are sometimes used interchangeably.

Courtesy of Easy Tourist Card

Regardless of the license under which you travel to Cuba, you’ll still need to organize a few important documents before you go.

The Cuban government requires that all travelers entering the country provide a valid passport and proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation by air. In addition, all U.S. travelers—adults, children, and infants—must purchase a Cuba Tourist Card , which grants visitors a maximum stay of 30 days on the island. Tourist Cards are valid for 180 days after purchase, which means you will need to travel within six months of obtaining the document. Note that the terms Cuba Tourist Card and Cuban visa are sometimes used interchangeably; they’re the same thing.

There are several ways to buy a Cuba Tourist Card: Many U.S. airlines with direct service to Havana—among them United Airlines , JetBlue , American Airlines , Delta , and Southwest —offer Tourist Cards either online or at the gate; prices and purchase locations vary among carriers, so it’s important to check in advance.

Websites like Easy Tourist Card allow travelers to apply for and purchase Tourist Cards online with two-day international shipping. Those who plan to fly to Havana directly from the United States will need to purchase a pink Tourist Card at a rate of $100, while those departing from non-U.S. airports can purchase a green Tourist Card for $37, even with a U.S. passport.

“U.S. travelers should note that travel to Cuba has been regulated since 1963 and has changed under each presidential administration since that time,” states Popper of InsightCuba. “Cuba travel has always been a hot political topic, and you never know when the rules are going to change. I always tell people to go now—while you can.”

This article was originally published in 2018. It was most recently updated on March 21, 2024, to include current information.

Beyond the Ban: A Guide to Americans Visiting Cuba in 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 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? 

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

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

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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Cuban Tourist Card – Cancun Airport Options & Experience

Entrance into Cuba requires the purchase of a Cuban Tourist Card. They’re valid for 90 days (as of 1 November 2022, it used to be 30 days). Here’s how to get a Cuban Tourist Visa in Cancun without being scammed.  It’s just one of the top things that you NEED to do before arriving in Cuba.  There is no Cuba tourist card on arrival scheme, so follow our instructions for how to get a tourist card for Cuba here.    We’ll cover briefly the types of Cuban Tourist Cards available and what the difference is between Green Cuban Tourist Cards and Pink Cuban Tourist cards.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

TOP CUBA TRAVEL TIP

Get a VPN for Cuba

Taking and using a VPN in Cuba is essential if you plan to use the internet – AT ALL – you’ll need it to view your regular news sites, protect data when connected, AND to book Viazul Tickets.

General Information on Cuban Tourist Cards

All visitors to Cuba require a Cuban Tourist Card, including US citizens.   It is ONLY if you are traveling from *some* Middle Eastern or African countries (and have those nationalities) that you will need a Cuban Visa (which is DIFFERENT) from a Cuban Tourist Card. We have an entire in-depth article on How to Get a Cuban Tourist Card here.

However, the Cuban Tourist card is often referred to as a visa.  And there are also two different types (well colors) of tourist cards for Cuba.

How you obtain a Cuban Tourist Card depends on where you are entering Cuba from, we’ll cover the main places in this article.

You must retain unused portions of your TWO-PIECE Cuban Tourist Card until you leave the country.  You must also obtain a Cuban Tourist Card before you arrive in Cuba.  There is no tourist card or visa on arrival for Cuba. Our Cuban Travel Checklist details what else you need to do before you arrive in Cuba. Read more here , or sign up here and we’ll email you a copy of it along with other useful tips about traveling to Cuba.

Arriving at Havana airport is pretty different from other airport arrivals, so you’ll also want to check out our guide to arriving in Havana here. Plus, as the Cuban peso is a closed currency you can’t get currency before you arrive in Cuba – so read more about Cuban Currency in 2021 here.

Cuban Tourist Card Types

There are two types of Cuban Tourist Cards.  They both require the same information and look the same, but are just different colors.  Green and Pink.

Green Cuban Tourist Cards

All travelers (aside from US Citizens) who are NOT traveling directly from the USA to Cuba require a green Cuban Tourist card (unless of course, you have a specific nationality that requires a Cuban Visa.) You can buy a Green Cuba Tourist card online here with Easy Tourist Card.

Pink Cuban Tourist Cards

You only need a pink Cuban Tourist Card if you are traveling directly to Cuba from the USA, or if you are a US Citizen. Get a Pink Tourist Card Here. If you are flying to Cuba via the USA – yes even not stopping, then you will need a Pink Tourist Card. Why? It’s because the USA does not have the concept of sterile transit. You never transit the USA, you always have to go through immigration.

What Does a Cuban Tourist Card Look Like?

Here’s what a blank Cuba Tourist card application form looks like.  Note they’re in two parts.  Both are exactly the same.

If you want to check the price at any time – contact customer services at your airline – Interjet have a great online chat service.  If anything changes in the process for an Interjet Tourist Card Cuba they will be able to assist you in real-time.

How much is a Cuban Tourist Card?

The Cuba Tourist Card price depends on where you get it from, where you are traveling from, and what passport you carry.  There are a host of “agencies” who will communicate with the Cuban Embassy for you and charge a small fee.  We recommend Easy Tourist Card for a quick and simple service

• Pick up a Green Tourist Card for Cuba here.
• For Americans, you’ll need the Pink Tourist Card – available here.

Cost of a Cuban Tourist Card at Cancun Airport

The Cuba Tourist Card cost at Cancun Airport is 250 Mexican Pesos.   (US$13.77, GBP10.88 )

Cost of a Cuban Tourist Card online with worldwide delivery

• The cost of buying a Cuban Tourist card online depends on the provider and the type of card ( Green for non-US citizens or Pink for US Citizens. ) EasyTouristCard – referenced above quotes USD$40.70 for the Tourist Card with a flat delivery rate of US$50 for 1-3 business day delivery worldwide.  Get your Green Cuban Tourist Card here
• Or pick up a Pink Tourist Card for American Citizens wanting to visit Cuba here.

Always read the guidelines from your government.  Consider signing up for their notification services in case anything changes.  This is the notification from the  UK Government about Cuba entrance.

How Long does it Take to Get a Cuban Visa?

If you’re applying for a Cuban Tourist Card at the airport in Cancun it takes a few minutes to get a Cuban Tourist Visa.  You give them your details, get the form, complete it and you’re done.  If you’re applying by mail in the UK, then you can expect to receive it back within a week to 10 days.  If you apply online then check the terms and conditions from the individual provider.

Where to Get a Tourist Card for Cuba

There are a large variety of places where you can get a Cuban Tourist Card. These include the Cuban embassy or consulate in your home country.   You can order Cuban tourist cards online here.

However, if you’re already in Mexico or flying via Cancun Airport, then picking up a tourist card for Cuba in Cancun Airport is a cinch. But it’s not without the potential for paying over the odds. 

Here’s how to get a Cuban Tourist Card at Cancun Airport – and how to avoid the scams.

How to Get a Cuban Tourist Card at Cancun Airport

If you are flying to Cuba from Cancun Mexico, then you can buy your Cuban Tourist card from your airline.  You will need to provide details of your flight.  (You can’t fly with one airline from Cancun and buy a Cuban tourist card from another airline).

Cuban Tourist Card Location at Cancun Airport

If you’re flying from Cancun to Cuba then you can get the Cuban Tourist Card at the customer services desk for your airline near check-in.   As we flew with Interjet, they suggested just getting the Interjet Cuba Visa from the airport.  Their process was simple.  Arrive at customer services, show them your ticket and passport, ask them for a card, and then hand the cash over.

Buying your tourist card at the customer services desk means that you need to complete it yourself.  If you make ANY mistakes you need to buy a completely new one.

If you are flying with another airline and want to get your tourist card Cuba at Cancun Airport, then simply approach their customer services and follow the same procedure.

Scams with the Cuba Visa Cancun Airport

As you approach the lines to check-in you’ll also be approached by touts who will ask if you have a card.  They will start to complete one for you and then make up a price for the card, usually at least double.  While waiting in line we heard them give three different prices to three different travelers.

If you want to pay the CORRECT, standard rate, we advise you to head on over to the Interjet desk and get one from there.  You may have to join a short line, (ours had one person in it)  but you’ll save.

FAQs on Cuban Tourist Cards at Cancun Airport

Got questions about Cuban Tourist Cards at Cancun Airport? Or want to know more about Tourist Visas for Cuba from Cancun and we haven’t answered your questions?  Check out our frequently asked questions about Cancun Airport Cuban Tourist Cards below, or ask us yours in the comments.

Can you get a Cuba Tourist Card Online?

Yes. you can buy a Cuba Tourist Card online. We recommend Easy Tourist Card

• Buy a GREEN Tourist Card for Cuba here
• Buy a PINK Tourist Card for Cuba here

Can you get a Cuban Tourist card on arrival?

No, it is not possible to get a Cuba Tourist Card on Arrival in Cuba. There are details here about what to expect on arrival in Cuba.

Is this in place of the D’Viajeros form?

No, the requirement to complete the D’Viajeros form is in addition to the Cuban Tourist card and you can find the link to it here.

My step by step guide to completing the D’Viajeros form is here.

What’s the Best Way for a Canadian Citizen to Get a Cuban Tourist Card?

If you are Canadian and traveling from Canada then the best way to buy a Cuban Tourist Card is to buy it from your airline.

What’s the Best Way for a UK Citizen to Get a Cuban Tourist Card?

The best way for a UK Citizen to get a Cuban Tourist Card is either from their airline or online.

• EasyTouristCard  offers Cuban Tourist Cards with delivery via courier. 

What’s the Best Way for a US Citizen to Get a Cuban Tourist Card?

The best way for a US Citizen to get a Cuban Tourist Card is either from their airline or online.

• EasyTouristCard provides pink Tourist Cards quickly and easily.

How long does a Travel Card Cuba last?

A Cuban Tourist card is initially valid for 90 days for UK, US, and Australian citizens.  Canadian citizens also get 90 days.

How to renew a Cuban Tourist Card

You may be able to renew your tourist card for a further 90 days.  To do this you’re going to need patience, reasonable Spanish and to start the process with plenty of time.  You need to head to Immigration to do this.

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Final Words on Getting a Cuban Tourist Visa at Cancun Airport

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Cuba from Cancun, then the process of getting a Cuban tourist visa at Cancun airport is pretty simple, but it’s not without the hassles of a couple of scams.  We hope you’ve found this brief guide to getting a tourist card for Cuba from Cancun airport useful.

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Sarah Carter

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10 thoughts on “ Cuban Tourist Card – Cancun Airport Options & Experience ”

• 10 Comments

Does every airline that flies from Cancun to Cuba sell Cuban tourist card? Do I have to purchase the card from the airline I plan to fly? Thanks.

Most of the airlines, if not all, from Canada do sell the tourist card for Cuba on board, but please do check with your airline, some visitors recently had a problem in this area. You do NOT have to buy from the airline you are traveling with, you can buy the Cuban tourist card from wherever you want to! Good luck and hope you have a fabulous trip!

Thanks for the detailed post!

It seems there may be some contradictory info here though – above it says that you can only buy the Tourist Card from the airline you are travelling with ? We will be travelling with Euroairline and unsure as to whether they have a desk/will offer, hence this detail is super critical for us !

Hi there, sorry, I’ve amended that slightly. That was for the airlines that flew from Cancun. At the time they advised that you could only buy the Tourist Card from their OWN customer services agent. The Tourist Card is a revenue opportunity, they will sell it to you. If they don’t have any, then the other airlines will sell it to you.

We are US Citizens going to Cuba from Cancun on Aeromar. Do we need the green or pink card? Thanks.

As US Citizens you’ll need a pink card.

Hi Sarah, I’m arriving into Cancun late (10pm) and have an early flight to Havana (7am). I’m worried nowhere will be open where I can buy a Cuban Tourist Card. I’ve checked and it’s not included in my flight ticket. Do you know if there will be somewhere open late/early? Thanks for your help

Hi Claire – my experience is that from Cancun, your airline will sell you a Cuban Tourist Card – their customer service should be open when the flight desk is open (It would be unlike them to miss a chance to make some revenue!). This is the way it tends to work for all airlines flying to Cuba.

Hi, how much is the green card if you buy it at the airport? thanks

It depends on where you buy it from, (the airlines or the people in the line). In 2017 it was 250 Mexican Pesos. I believe it might be 300 pesos now.

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Can You See Cuba From Mexico? (Find Out)

While Cuba and Mexico are relatively close together, it is not possible to see Cuba from Mexico.

This is due to a few different factors that will be explored in this article.

Read on to find out all about the two counties and why you can’t see one from the other!

Can You See Cuba From Mexico?

Cancun is the closest part of Mexico to Cuba, so, in this instance, we will be using Cancun as our point of reference in Mexico.

Cuba cannot be seen from Cancun with the naked eye for a couple of reasons. These reasons are explored below:

• Distance . The distance between Cuba and Cancun is at least 230 km. Between Havana, the capital of Cuba, and Cancun is around 318 miles, or 511 km. This flight takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes and you can get around 17 flights per week. This is quite a large distance between the two places and so it is not possible to see one from the other. 
• Curve of the earth . Another reason that it is not possible to see Cuba from Mexico is because the earth curves in between the two places. Because of this curve, the visibility of the two is even more impossible. It makes the countries seem even further away from each other than they actually are to the naked eye. This makes it virtually impossible to see Cuba from Cancun.

How Can You Get From Cuba To Cancun?

By boat .

You can technically travel between Cuba and Cancun by boat, however, this is usually done illegally.

Things are often smuggled between Cuba and Mexico by boat, such as cigars. This journey is not very safe and is not very practical.

This is because it takes a very long time.

There are no ferries available to take people between the two countries because it is too big a distance for a ferry to travel on one tank of gas.

By Air 

This is the best way to travel between Cuba and Cancun.

You can travel easily by air and it is the most apportioned route to take. The journey will only take around an hour.

Flights between Cuba and Mexico are very cheap and so it is a great way to travel in every regard.

Flights between Cuba and Mexico are much cheaper than flights between the US and Cuba, so if you find yourself in Mexico you could always add in a trip to Cuba!

Can You Get A Cuban Visa At The Airport?

You can purchase a Cuba Visa when you are at Cancun Airport in Mexico.

However, there have been many reports that this is quite a difficult thing to do.

You need to obtain a Cuba Visa if you want to enter Cuba.

It is recommended that you purchase this online before you travel to avoid any inconvenience, however, it is possible to purchase one at the airport. 

Visiting Cancun

Cancun is a fantastic destination and you shouldn’t miss out on a visit! If you like beautiful seas and white sandy beaches, Cancun is definitely the perfect place for you!

Cancun is on the border of the Caribbean Sea and is a very popular holiday destination. Because of this, it has many resorts and tourist-friendly attractions.

There are many restaurants, bars and clubs and loads of different hotels to choose from. There are a few things that you should be aware of when you are visiting Cancun.

There are often some scammers at work amongst the crowds, and the nightlife can be slightly dangerous at times.

As long as you keep your wits about you, you will be okay! You should also avoid drinking the tap water because this can be contaminated. 

Visiting Cuba 

Cuba is a wonderful place to visit. It is best to visit in November to mid-April as the weather is warm and soothing at this time.

Cuba is a tropical country and so can sometimes be faced with storms and rain. 

Both Cuba and Mexico use Pesos, however, they are a different type of Pesos and so you will have to make sure to exchange them.

Havana is a wonderful place to visit. If you end up visiting Havana, you should definitely visit Havana old town. It is a beautiful, scenic place with fantastic architecture and great culture.

The Museum of Revolution in Havana is also a wonderful place to visit and a historical landmark. The El Morro Castle is another place to visit which has been open since 1590. 

There are also many other great places to visit in Cuba. If you are looking for a Caribbean island experience, Varadero beach is a must see!

The beach is breathtakingly beautiful, with blue water and white sand.

Why Do Some Americans Fly Via Mexico To Cuba? 

Prior to 2015, you could not fly from the US directly to Cuba.

This was because of the US embargo in the 1960’s. Before the change, many Americans would fly to Cuba via Mexico.

Although Americans were not supposed to visit Cuba, as long as they did not travel there directly from America, this was very rarely enforced.

Thousands of Americans would travel to Cuba via Mexico each year, and it was encouraged by Cuba who relied on American tourists. 

Some people continue to fly to Mexico via Cuba despite the changes in 2015 meaning that you can travel directly now.

This is because there are still a few positives of flying via Mexico. It is often much cheaper to fly from Mexico to Cuba as the prices from the US directly are quite expensive.

While you don’t need to fly through Mexico anymore, many people still do so to save money. Often some people will tie a trip to Mexico in with a visit to Cuba. 

Cancun Vs Havana 

Cancun is very different from Havana, and so it is difficult to say that one is better than another.

Cancun is a city that is focused mainly on the resorts and the beautiful beaches that it possesses. 

Havana, on the other hand, is a very cultural city with fantastic cuisine and different historical places to visit. 

If you are looking for a holiday destination where you can relax, party and tan, Cancun is the place for you.

If you are looking to experience the culture, Havana is probably better suited to you.

This isn’t to say that Cancun doesn’t have any of this culture available. It does have museums and certain things to do.

You are able to enjoy lots of different water sports in Cancun. 

Final Thoughts 

So, the short answer here is no. You can’t see Cuba from Mexico.

The two countries have too large a distance between each other, and the curve of the earth enhances this, making them seem further apart.

It is impossible for them to be seen by the naked eye.

Now that you have read this article, you should have a wider knowledge on both Cuba and Mexico, specifically Cancun and Havana.  

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