You could travel the globe and still not find anywhere to compare to Cuba – its uniqueness is its draw and has to be seen to be understood. Be prepared to travel with an open mind and you’ll be rewarded with an experience unlike any other.
The CUP is a closed currency, so you won’t be able to exchange money in advance. Credit cards are not widely accepted, and ATMs are scarce, so we strongly recommend bringing enough cash for your entire trip. Euros and US Dollars are the best currencies to take, ideally in small denominations, as many places may not accept larger notes. While British Pounds are sometimes accepted, the exchange rate is usually poor, so we advise against bringing them.
We also do not recommend exchanging money at the airport, as the rates are unfavourable.
Due to the unique nature of this destination, you may not always have the comforts of home – including reliable electricity. Power outages are common in Cuba and a normal part of daily life. We recommend bringing a head torch and a power bank to keep your phone charged.
As with electricity, you might also notice breaks in hot water. Fortunately, cooler showers are a great way to deal with Cuba’s humid climate.
In Trinidad, we’ll stay in ‘casa particulares’ (local guesthouses). These are a lovely, authentic way to get to grips with Cuban life, but each one varies, and the entire group will not be staying together. See the accommodation section for more info.
Hotels in Cuba are state – run, and the service, quality and facilities might not meet the expectations you’d have back home. It’s all part of the country’s charm.
Cuba can get hot! The hot and humid months are generally between May and September, while December to April will be cooler.
We recommend packing everything you need for the week – toiletries etc. – as items we consider common are hard to come by here.
Cuba might be famous for its mojito but it’s not so famous for its cuisine. It’s worth noting that meals are simple and options are much more basic in the east of the country.
In Cuba, it’s common for monuments, museums, or places of interest to close without prior notice. While we make every effort to find out in advance, we typically only receive confirmation of such closures about 24 hours beforehand. Rest assured, we always do our best to arrange an alternative activity. We kindly ask for your flexibility and understanding in these situations.
Cuba is a large island and we’ll have some long driving days to fit in the highlights. Our time spent on the bus gives us the perfect opportunity to appreciate the country’s landscapes.
