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Unparalleled landscapes. A culture that has made headlines around the world. Cheerful and receptive citizens. Despite the countless political and economic crises that Cuba has suffered and continues to suffer, its potential remains latent. The isolation and dispute with much of the Western world since the Castro regime was established prevented tourism in the country from developing to its fullest potential, but that does not mean that there is no current flow of visitors and hope that, someday, it will become one of the world’s preferred destinations.
REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVELING TO CUBA
To travel to Cuba, it is important to consider entry requirements and health-related aspects. Here is a list of the requirements and health insurance needed to travel to Cuba:
- Valid Passport: All travelers visiting Cuba must have a valid passport with an expiration date that exceeds the duration of their stay in the country.
- Visa or Tourist Card: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa or a tourist card to enter Cuba. The tourist card is an entry document that allows tourist stays of up to 30 days and can be obtained at Cuban embassies or at airports before arrival. Be sure to check the specific requirements for citizens of your country before traveling.
- Health Insurance: It is mandatory to have valid health insurance that covers medical care in Cuba to enter the country. This insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Cuba. Some airlines automatically include health insurance in the cost of the ticket, while others require passengers to purchase separate health insurance. Be sure to check the details with your airline or insurance provider before traveling.
- Vaccination Certificate: Specific vaccines are not required to enter Cuba, unless you are from a country at risk for yellow fever, in which case a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be requested upon entry to the country. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to obtain updated information on recommended vaccines.
- Health Declaration Form: Upon arrival in Cuba, you may be required to complete a health declaration form that includes information about your health status and any symptoms related to infectious diseases. This form may be required by Cuban health authorities as part of disease control protocols.
It is important to note that entry and health requirements may change, and it is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all requirements before traveling to Cuba. It is recommended to check with the Cuban embassy in your country or local health authorities for updated and accurate information before planning your trip.
BEACHES
When discussing the best beaches in the world, it is necessary to include Cuba’s beaches in the conversation. Throughout the island, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, there are tropical paradises that have captivated settlers, pirates, and smugglers in the past, and tourists today.
The best time to travel to Cuba is during the months of November to April if you are looking for good weather and want to avoid the rainy season. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and high prices, consider visiting during the low season from May to October.
Varadero, a resort located two hours by car from Havana; Guardalavaca; the beaches of Cayo Largo; El Pilar beach on Cayo Guillermo; Playa Ancón in the south of the island; Santa Lucia; the keys Levisa, Saetía, Coco, and the list goes on. The panorama is unmistakable: warmth, crystal-clear waters, abundant vegetation, some shelters of former corsairs, and hot sands.
CITIES
While Cuba abounds in natural wonders, there is no shortage of cities with tourist attractions.
Martí Avenue, the Castle of the Royal Force, the Castle of the Three Kings of Morro, the Vigía Estate, the Cathedral and its square, the Capitol, museums, Old Havana, the Malecón, among other points of interest, a wide variety of activities, and an enriching culture make Havana the main destination of the island par excellence.
While it is the capital and the most important city in Cuba, it is not the only city that stands out for its tourist offerings. Santiago de Cuba, Cienfuegos, Manzanillo, Santa Clara, Camagüey, Trinidad, Bayamo also have museums, history, a melting pot of architectures, events, and monuments that attract all those who want to thoroughly know the history of this great country.
BEYOND THE CITIES AND LUXURIOUS BEACHES
In the middle of the island, one can find other attractions. Above all, with natural parks. An example is the Great Natural Park Topes de Collantes, which has an ideal climate for fauna – varied, by the way – and for flora. There are waterfalls (Caburní, Las Vegas Grandes), trails, a cave system with natural pools, panoramic views, ranches with attractions, internal parks, and even a coffee house. Other well-known parks are Calixto García, the Great Sierra Maestra National Park, and the Alejandro Humboldt National Park, although there are also marine parks that offer recreational activities.
There is more: El Nicho, San Juan Peak, Viñales Valley, Cueva del Indio, Cueva del Palmarito, Cueva de la Vaca, the Mural de la Prehistoria, and historical sites such as the Bay of Pigs, the Sierra Maestra mountain range (symbols of the Revolution), or Guantánamo, where there is a range of sports and recreational activities, but also monuments, museums, and other points of interest. The offer exceeds tourists, who have a very wide range of options.
THE CUBAN PEOPLE, THEIR BEST RESOURCE
Of all that can be said, the most remarkable thing is the people themselves. The Cuban people always welcome anyone who wants to dialogue with them and learn about the culture of this nation. And they are the greatest invitation to get to know this blessed land.
The day Cuba is freed from the totalitarian state, from the absurd controls that prevent growth, progress, and modernization, and from the restrictions that isolate the country from a more interconnected world, Cuba will be the tourist destination it truly deserves to be.
DON’T TRAVEL TO CUBA
Traveling to Cuba and collaborating with the socialist regime can perpetuate a political system that has resulted in the oppression of its citizens and the limitation of their fundamental freedoms. Financially supporting the Cuban government may indirectly contribute to maintaining a structure that has repressed dissent, limited freedom of expression, and generated precarious economic conditions for its people. Additionally, by visiting Cuba and participating in tourist activities controlled by the state, you may be supporting a system that does not respect basic human rights. It is important to consider the ethical and moral impact of our actions and avoid supporting regimes that violate the rights of their citizens.
From Cuba Decide, we promote a change in the political system on the island. A political system away from archaic socialism, authoritarianism, and indoctrination. We want, for Cuba, a model country that respects economic, social, and political freedom, where Cubans have real decision-making power.
