Cuba Travel Guide – SG Travelers

Cuba is a Caribbean island nation located just south of the United States. It is an enchanting and diverse country with many cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Cuba is known for its vibrant music scene, unique cuisine, and friendly locals.

This travel guide will provide an overview of Cuba, helping you plan your dream vacation in this beautiful country.

History of Cuba

Cuba is a tropical nation in the Caribbean, an island from which its citizens are as diverse and exciting as its rich culture. Throughout its long history, Cuba has influenced multiple aspects of world culture and politics – it has also experienced different periods of rule.

The earliest evidence of humans living in Cuba appears to have been around 6500 BCE, although little is known beyond primitive art on cave walls and ancient ruins. The island’s first known inhabitants were the Guanahatabey people, followed by the Ciboney people, who arrived around 4000 BCE. Then, between 500 BCE and 300 CE, several waves of Arawakan-speaking indigenous peoples moved into Cuba from South America, including the Siboney culture and Taíno tribes.

In 1492 Christopher Columbus set sail from Spain on his first voyage to explore the Americas and landed in Cuba, believing it was part of present-day Japan! Over time more Spanish conquistadors migrated to Cuba for its natural resources, such as gold, bark cloth (organza), precious woods, and slaves, which became important commodities in Spain’s colonies. However, once exposed to European diseases like measles, smallpox, and influenza, the Indigenous population drastically decreased in number until their eventual disappearance through assimilation processes.

An influx of slave trade marked the 1700s. African captives were shipped to work on plantations producing sugarcane, coffee, and tobacco – essential crops for Spain’s economy. In 1868 Cuban revolutionaries began fighting against Spanish colonial rule leading to a decade-long struggle known as The Ten Years’ War (1868–78). Following this conflict, Cuban revolutionaries organized themselves into independent political bodies seeking independence through Constitutionalism or annexation with other countries – ultimately leading to their successful rebellion against Spanish rule in 1898. This period ended with US intervention after pressure mounted on Spain, resulting in Cuban sovereignty via constitutional amendments which took effect in 1902, awarding the country its then-current status as a republic under US influence…until Fidel Castro led his successful Revolution resulting in full autonomy for Cuba from 1959 onward!

Geography of Cuba

The Republic of Cuba is an archipelago located in the northern Caribbean Sea. With its closest neighbors being the United States (90 miles away), Jamaica (150 miles away), and the Bahamas (230 miles away), Cuba is just south of Florida and east of Mexico. Cuba has a total area of 110 860 km2, making it the largest island in the Caribbean and 17th in size among all countries worldwide. It covers an area slightly bigger than England and Scotland combined, with a landmass similar to Pennsylvania’s.

Mostly flat areas characterize Cuba’s landscape forming five main topographic regions: The Great Northern Plain, Sierra Maestra, Southern Coastal Plain, El Júcaro–Carey Depression, and Guamuhaya Massifs. The Great Northern Plain dominates much of eastern Cuba, accounting for over three-quarters of the nation. This region consists mainly of low-rolling hills rising gently from sea level to a maximum elevation close to 200 meters above sea level in some areas.

Along with its many hills and flat landscapes, Cuba has hundreds of rivers and creeks whose origins are mostly found in Central Havana’s Sierra Maestra mountain range located near Santiago on the northeast eastern coast and almost reaching Guantánamo city at the southern end of Oriente province near the Atlantic Ocean to the east part of the island. These rivers eventually flow into the Gulf Stream. They join with other Caribbean waters before continuing across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe or North America or emptying into small bays built by coral formations before reaching Gulf Stream further out at sea.

Tourist attractions such as La MontañaRoja Cave-Opening, located near Guantanamo Bay, also reflect geological formation. As a result of cosmological factors, including hurricanes Irma Rita, Wilma Katrina, and other destructive forces causing floods, etc. common islands’ islands underlying ecological systems are even more diverse than mainland areas where mangroves swamps occur in large numbers, sustain rich bird life and support many species of animals, reptiles, plants and complete ecosystems that impress guests and tourists seeking to return to nature and come to boost the Cuban economy and tourist industry of present-day and times past.

Culture of Cuba

Cuba is a diverse country steeped in culture, music, and dance. The Cuban culture is a colorful mix of Caribbean and Latin American influences, shaped by its unique geography, history, and traditions.

On the streets of Havana, you’ll find many different characters:

Habaneros (as the locals here are called) dressed in traditional guayabera shirts enjoying a game of chess.
Vibrant street performers and musicians tap out rhythms with their drums.
Singers are belting out Afro-Cuban music on street corners.
Dancers are swaying salsa at night.

Every corner of Cuba has its cultural quirks – from Caudillo’s distinctive African-influenced art in Santiago to Baracoa’s captivating combination of Spanish colonial architecture and Taíno customs. African beliefs, syncretizing Roman Catholic elements with Obatalá, heavily influenced Cuban religion. Music – mostly salsa, mambo, rumba, and son – encompasses emotions with its passionate swing.

There’s also a hearty tradition of gastronomy throughout the country – whether it’s tucking into fiery dishes such as ropa vieja (slow-cooked shredded beef) or sipping fresh fruit juices; Cubans know how to eat well! Sipping rum while swaying to live jazz is another favorite activity – even Ernest Hemingway did it! All in all, Cuba offers an electrifying experience that will surely be irresistible to anyone looking for cultural immersion!

Planning Your Trip

Visiting Cuba is an exciting opportunity to explore the vibrant culture and unique landscapes. However, there are some important steps to consider when planning your trip. By preparing ahead of time, researching the best places to visit, and staying safe there, you will surely have an enjoyable time in Cuba.

Let’s take a look at what you need to consider when planning a trip to Cuba:

Research the best places to visit.
Plan accommodations in advance.
Prepare for the language barrier.
Be aware of local laws and customs.
Be aware of safety precautions.

What to Pack

Deciding what to pack for your trip can be daunting; depending on the length and destination, you may be limited in how much you can bring. It’s important to take the time to plan so that all of your essentials fit and still have room for souvenirs. Here are a few helpful tips to make packing easier:

Pack light: When possible, try to bring items that will serve multiple purposes, like shorts that zip off into pants or shoes that can be dressed up or down for different occasions.
Know where you’re going: Research climates, cultures, and events near your destination to make sure you have the appropriate attire and any necessary medication(s) with you.
Scan your documents: Sometimes, it takes almost as long as packing actual items! To make sure everything is in order before leaving home, scan all of your important travel paperwork (passport, driver’s license, etc.) into an email account so that everything is accessible during the duration of your travels.
Properly organized luggage: Use color-coded tags or pouches in your suitcase/carry-on so that any item needed quickly is easily found without having to ransack everything else.
Utilize plastic bags: Plastic bags are great for returning from vacation as they reduce any liquid spill risk on clothes inside other clean items in your bag; plus, it makes packing easier given there’s less fuss with neatly folding each item separately.

Where to Stay

Cuba offers travelers a range of accommodation types, including hotels, Casas particulares (private family-run accommodations), campsites, and resorts. The best accommodation option can vary greatly depending on your preferences, budget, and location.

Hotels: Cuba has a variety of modern and colonial-style hotels offering 4-5 star amenities with state-run airlines, making them an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the country in luxury.
Casa Particulares: This is one of the most cost-effective and memorable ways of experiencing Cuba. Casa Particulares are private family homes that are leased out to travelers. These homes offer an authentic experience, very comfortable beds, hot showers, and delicious home-cooked meals at affordable prices.
Camping: Camping sites in Cuba can be a great way to stay close to nature in some beautiful locations around the island nation. The Cuban government has made camping available at various state-run campsites from Pinar del Rio in the western tip of Cuba down to Santiago de Cuba towards the southeastern coast of the island nation.
Resorts are another great way to experience exquisite scenery with plenty of activities and luxurious amenities like swimming pools and beach access for relaxing days off from busy touring itineraries around Havana or elsewhere in Cuba. Most resorts offer all-inclusive packages, including expenses like meals and drinks and other services that can simplify life in vacation mode.

Getting Around

Cuba is a big country, and you’ll likely want to get around – especially if your trip incorporates multiple destinations. As with any country, there are various options for transportation, including buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Buses: Buses are the most economical way to get around Cuba. Havana has a few public buses that run along certain routes – these are frequently crowded, uncomfortable and slow. However, they will help you save money from one destination to the next. Aesthetically pleasing Viazul coaches run between major cities and are equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats. Interurban buses serve the outer provinces of Cuba and connect particularly remote areas where no other form of transport exists.

Taxis: Taxis have become increasingly popular in Cuba as they offer a quick and easy way of traveling between destinations. These taxis come in different formats (such as coco taxis or bicitaxis) with varying levels of cost efficiency depending on the type you choose and how far you need to go. Moreover, for more established taxi services, travelers can expect fair prices for longer rides, such as from Santiago de Cuba on the east side of Cuba and back up to Havana on the west side. The rates are standard but may vary from provider to provider, so it’s always best to shop around before committing!

Rental Cars: Though helpful in avoiding long trips by public transportation (especially from one end of Cuba across to another!), renting a car does come at an additional cost since tourists pay an inflated fee for vehicles due to currency restrictions imposed by US government bills passed in 1962 like the Cuban Liberty Act which limits Americans wishing to travel or stay overnight at hotels/resorts designed strictly for banned purposes such as espionage or unconstitutional insurgences against Cuban law or its people et al. This, along with fluctuating petrol prices makes rental cars somewhat expensive but worth considering if time is limited or you have safety concerns using other modes of transportation on roads that can often be hazardous due to poor signage/labeling/lack of awareness from pedestrians, etc. For example, paying upfront ‘mileage’ fees charges per kilometer traveled could prove pricey – but special precautions taken benefit those eager travelers who want stress-free pleasure drive around beautiful landscapes away from well-trodden tourist routes!

Activities to Do

Cuba has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape or a thrilling adventure. From the beautiful beaches and vibrant culture to the music and dance of Havana, there are plenty of activities to choose from.

This guide will cover the best activities to visit Cuba, such as guided city tours, snorkeling, and exploring colonial architecture. So, let’s explore the top activities to do in Cuba:

Sightseeing

Cuba is a beautiful, vibrant country with plenty to offer any traveler, from attractions and nightlife to a range of sightseeing opportunities. So whether you’re looking for a tour through the city or something more adventurous, Cuba has something for everyone.

The capital of Havana is plentiful, with sites of cultural and historical significance. A stroll through Old Havana is sure to impress with its 17th-century architecture, while Revolution Square and the Malecón waterfront promenade are iconic symbols of the Cuban Revolution. Alternatively, explore one of the many tobacco plantations located just outside the capital that produce some of Cuba’s trademark cigars.

For beach lovers, look no further than Varadero – an easily accessible resort town located less than two hours away from Havana by car. With white sand beaches and an array of water sports activities, Varadero is ideal for those desiring an escape from city life in Cuba. Travelers can also head east toward Baracoa – situated in Guantánamo Province on the eastern tip of Cuba – renowned for its picturesque mountains and breathtaking beaches; or visit Trinidad – a colonial town– boasting cobblestone streets lined with brightly colored homes and historic plazas leading up to the Caribbean Sea.

No matter which route you take when traveling through Cuba, make time for day trips like hiking in Los Naranjo’s forest, snorkeling among coral reefs along Cayo Levisa Island, or spending a few days in natural parks like Alejandro de Humbolt. From scenic vistas and lush scenery to architectural marvels and island paradises you won’t find anywhere else, there are endless opportunities for unforgettable sightseeing adventures throughout this Caribbean nation.

Outdoor Activities

Cuba offers a variety of outdoor activities for travelers. Whether you’re looking for excitement, relaxation, or cultural exploration, you can find something to suit your style. From relaxing days spent lounging on the beach to more adventurous pursuits like snorkeling and horseback riding, Cuba has something for everyone!

Hiking & Trekking: Exploring Cuba’s rugged terrain can be a great way to enjoy the island and discover some of its hidden gems. Hiking through villages and visiting historic sites like La Isla de la Juventud is an excellent way to get off the beaten path and explore what Cuba offers beyond its cities.
Beach Activities: Of course, one of the main draws of any Caribbean island is its beaches! Soft white sand and warm turquoise water make lounging in the sun a delight. Other activities like surfing, sailing, fishing, and kayaking are popular options among visitors looking for adventure.
Snorkeling & Diving: With over 1,600km (994 miles) of coastline populated by countless species of fish and coral reefs, snorkeling off Cuba’s coast is an unforgettable experience! Snorkeling spots are located all over the island. Popular places are along shorelines in small fishing villages like Jibacoa or Maria La Gorda Beach – home to some of Cuba’s best dive sites. Diving trips can also be arranged from many coastal cities should you wish to explore deeper waters up close.
Horseback Riding: Horseback riding through Cuba’s breathtaking landscapes is a unique way to experience history while taking advantage of nature’s beauty; it’s also one of Fidel Castro’s favorite hobbies – so why not join him? Horseback rides can occur within Nuestra Señora de la Caridad Sanctuary or in natural reservations such as La Gran Piedra – where panoramic views await!

Shopping

Whether you are looking for authentic Cuban products, souvenirs, or artifacts, there are plenty of shopping opportunities in bustling Cuba. Whether you’re looking for something classic or something more unique and local, Cuba has something for everyone. Shopping is a great way to interact with the locals and experience the Cuban lifestyle and culture firsthand.

For shopping traditional Cuban products like cigars, a great place to start is the La Casa del Habano. Here travelers will find hand-rolled cigars by experienced artisans and beautifully crafted clothing and accessories. In addition, the La Casa del Habano offers something unique—authentic cigars blended with essential oils made from citrus fruit or coffee beans that are sure to make a statement as a souvenir or gift back home.

The streets of Havana are also lined with all sorts of stalls selling handmade items, food items, souvenirs, apparel, books, and much more items on offer at low prices, leaving you spoilt for choice. The best part about this shopping experience is that it’s very conversational between the seller and the buyer, allowing you to talk directly with Cubans from various professions selling their goods.

Other great places for locals-only shopping include Peluquería Madrileña in Central Havana for stylish apparel, Librería El Louvre for books in Spanish language editions, or El Bazar de Don Josè offering artworks by up-and-coming Cuban artists. Whatever your purchase may be when traveling in Cuba, it will leave you feeling like you have acquired something extra special!

Food and Drink

Cuban cuisine is full of flavor and diversity, reflecting the island’s mix of cultural influences worldwide. Traditional dishes are often simple, featuring fresh local ingredients like plantain, yuca, beans, and rice. Seafood and pork are popular, as are sweet treats like dulce de leche pastries.

Cuban drinks range from café con leche to classic cocktails like the mojito. But first, let’s explore more about Cuban food and drink.

Traditional Cuban Cuisine

Cuba is well known for its vibrant culture and music, but it also has an incredibly distinct culinary art. Cuban cuisine can vary from region to region, but it combines Spanish, Caribbean, and African flavors, resulting in flavorful, interesting dishes. As Cuba’s food supply is limited and imports are expensive, many traditional Cuban meals are still prepared using locally sourced ingredients.

Traditional Cuban cuisine is based on rice, beans, and vegetables like yuca or malanga. The famous ropa vieja (meaning “old clothes”) consists of beef cooked in tomato sauce with onions, peppers, and olives. Another popular dish includes fried or green plants with grilled beef, pork, or chicken topped with onion and garlic – this is called the masitas de puerco.

A savory stew called ajiaco contains root vegetables such as malanga and yuca and squash and potatoes simmered in a broth flavored with sofrito – a mixture of garlic, onion, and herbs. Popular snacks include pastries such as empanadas (meat-filled turnovers), croquetas (breaded cheese balls), or tamales (pork wrapped in banana leaves).

Cuban drinks often feature the national spirit rum, commonly used to make mojitos or Cuba libres (rum-and-coke cocktails). Other popular drinks include café Cubano – espresso coffee brewed with demerara sugar – or tropical juices like guarapo (sugarcane juice).

Traditional desserts include turron de guayaba (guava paste sweetened with honey) and tropico platter, which includes plantain chips served with honey over coconut ice cream.

Popular Restaurants

Cuba is known for its culture, beaches, and music. While tourists are welcome to experience the country’s many attractions, they should also take some time to explore Cuba’s gastronomic culture. Local food is a great way to learn more about the country and its history.

From farm-to-table restaurants in Havana to paladares (privately-owned eateries) in smaller towns, there are plenty of opportunities to savor Cuban cuisine. Here are some of the most popular restaurants that travelers should consider visiting while they’re exploring Cuba:

Habana 61: This upscale restaurant in Old Havana offers an extensive menu, including meats, fish, and seafood dishes prepared with local ingredients from nearby farms. Live Cuban music is regularly performed here.
La Carreta Habana Vieja: This family-style restaurant serves traditional Cuban dishes such as congri (beans with rice), verduras al ajillo (garlic vegetables), ropa vieja (shredded beef with tomato sauce), and delicious desserts like arroz con leche (rice pudding). Plus, guests can enjoy live jazz music while taking in the taste of authentic Cuban fare.
Harvest Restaurante · Bar · Galería: Located in central Havana near the University of Havana campus, this popular gastropub serves daily specials such as shrimp ceviche or mango salad alongside tapas like croquetas cubanas and classic drinks like mojitos and daiquiris made from fresh ingredients. The venue also hosts exhibitions by local artists on their scenic outdoor terrace for visitors to relax after their meals.

Local Drinks

When traveling to Cuba, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Cuban way of life and gain insight into the local culture. Cuban cuisine and drinks offer a great introduction to the Cuban lifestyle, and you’ll find international fare alongside traditional Caribbean favorites.

There is no shortage of local beverages in Cuba that you can try while touring this beautiful island nation. A few of these popular drinks in Cuba include:

Mamey milk: A delicious drink made from the mamey fruit – a tropical fruit found across Cuba with a sweet taste similar to pumpkin or papaya – blended with condensed milk or fresh dairy milk.
Mojitos: This delicious cocktail is a classic in its native country of Cuba that has become internationally recognized due to its popularity among tourists. The classic concoction features white rum mixed with sugarcane juice and lime, giving a mint kick by being garnished with mint leaves.
Chicha: This refreshing beverage stands out because it’s made using fermented sugar cane juice boiled over firewood until it thickens into a syrup-like consistency before being served cold. Chicha often has specific flavors like pineapple or guava added for variety — making it an even more tempting prospect for travelers roaming the sun-kissed streets of Havana.
Guarapo Guarapo Juice: Made from freshly squeezed sugar canes extracted directly from crops surrounding Havana — its full-bodied flavor comes from all-natural production without any additives included — just delicious sweetness straight off the cane!
Coconut Milk: An excellent source of hydration, nutrients and energy — Coconut Milk must be tried as soon as visitors arrive on island shores! Look up at tall palm trees across this Caribbean landscape and dream of ways to refresh your Spirit with this tasty treat!
Panaecea Herbal Tea: Great medicinal properties make this brew an amazing thirst quencher filled with restorative properties known beyond compare – the brew features select herbs embracing flavor and essence – some even believing in curious magical qualities attributed to natural botanicals since ancient times – all packed into one glass mason jar delivering consolation unmatched by any other beverage on deck!
Merenjengue Liquor: Delightfully sweet yet aphotic liqueur sure to shake up your dial – Authentic ingredients make this drink remarkable yet balanced – fragrant natural essences blend burly over unique Spirit blend sure not disappoint your taste buds crave!

Safety and Security

When thinking about traveling to Cuba, safety and security should be the first considerations on your mind. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you have knowledge of the country’s situation and how to stay safe and secure during your time in Cuba.

In this section, we’ll provide an overview of the safety and security measures that should be taken when traveling to this Caribbean island:

Travel Insurance

When you travel to Cuba, it is a good idea to have travel insurance. Accidents and illnesses can happen, and it is best to be prepared for everything that might come up. It’s also important to check with your insurer or credit card company if their policy covers overseas medical bills. If not, you should look for a separate coverage plan that provides adequate protection during your trip.

Travelers may consider buying coverage from local providers in Cuba to exploit this country’s economic resources. Coverage through a travel medical insurance plan is usually more cost-effective since the Cuban government fully recognizes most policies. In addition, local plans are designed specifically for tourists, travelers, and business visitors in Cuba and generally offer higher benefits than those provided by international insurers like US-based companies.

Local plans may also include coverage for:

Personal liability (if someone is hurt or damaged due to something you caused).
Security force protection (in case you need help from a police or military force).
Repatriation costs should an emergency arise where it’s necessary to return home urgently or while undergoing medical attention outside Cuba.

In addition to travel medical insurance, travelers should ensure they are fully covered against potential losses in Cuba with additional specialized policies such as baggage insurance and personal accident insurance that provide compensation in case items disappear, get damaged, or stolen while abroad, as well as financial protection against accidents such as a physical injury due to incident exposure that believe you during your stay.

Health and Safety

It is important to research safety precautions and health risks before traveling to Cuba. Named the safest country in Latin America by the Global Peace Index, travelers can feel relatively secure on the island but still take precautions.

Health: Ensure you are up-to-date with your recommended vaccinations and take a prescription medication and malaria prophylaxis as necessary. Vaccines may be hard to come by in Cuba, so plan accordingly. Also, since most restaurants don’t have air conditioning or particularly fresh ingredients, it’s important to practice caution when choosing where and what to eat during your trip. Ensure all food is freshly cooked and served hot instead of cold dishes that may have been left out for an extended period.

Safety: Theft is an issue for short-term visitors. It is not uncommon for robberies or physical assaults to target foreign travelers no matter where they are staying (hotels, private residences). Don’t leave valuables unattended in public places or carry large amounts of cash. To deter theft while in populated areas, invest in a lightweight money belt or neck pouch that can’t easily be clutched from behind by pickpockets.

In addition, watch out for scams related to tourist transportation, such as taxis which aren’t necessarily regulated adherence from the driver’s doing overcharging tourists – try using reputable travel companies instead.
Also, avoid any political discussions with Cuban residents that could result in fines or arrest by Cuban authorities if someone overhears you talking about controversial topics such as US–Cuba relations.

Local Laws and Customs

The Republic of Cuba is a one-party Communist state, and as such, it has several laws and social customs that travelers should observe. As with any travel to a different country, it is advisable to research local laws before embarking on your journey.

Photography of Cuba’s military personnel or any potentially sensitive infrastructure is strictly prohibited. It includes airports, harbors, and other restricted areas such as industrial plants or military headquarters. Individuals found with unauthorized photographs face the potential threat of arrest by security forces. Additionally, individuals should refrain from politically charged behavior that may be viewed as critical of the government, including activities such as public protests or distributing banned literature.

Individuals should avoid taking photographs of people in public places unless they have received explicit consent to do so beforehand. There are also certain restrictions regarding cultural artifacts; antiques over 50 years old are considered national treasures and cannot be exported in any form except for personal use. Travelers must also respect local beliefs and cultural traditions throughout their visit and be mindful about dressing appropriately for religious sites or formal occasions.

By familiarizing yourself with local customs and laws, you can help ensure that your trip to Cuba will be enjoyable and memorable!