£1 CUP 35.55
Today
11:59 pm
-4h from you
Travel warning
There are severe fuel shortages and power cuts nationwide, causing flight cancellations and making travel, getting around, and accessing basic services very difficult.
Weather in Cuba
Cuba
26°
Overcast
Wed
22
26
Thu
22
27
Fri
23
27
Sat
23
26
Sun
24
27
SPF level in Cuba
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Cuba
Tipping in Cuba
Tipping in Cuba is appreciated for good service, though not always expected as salaries are generally low. While state-run establishments may technically prohibit tipping, it's generally accepted discreetly. Private businesses are more accustomed to receiving tips.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill
Bar/Café
A few CUP per round of drinks or service
Taxi
5-10% of the fare, or round up to the nearest CUP
Hotel Porter
1-2 CUP per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
1-2 CUP per night
Tour Guide
5-10 CUP per person for a half-day tour, more for a full-day or private tour
Safety in Cuba
Tips for British travellers
Cuba is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Be aware of pickpockets and bag-snatching in crowded areas like Old Havana, on public transport, and in nightclubs.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery and leave valuables in a hotel safe.
Only use official yellow taxis and avoid private taxis or accepting lifts from people you do not know.
It is illegal to exchange money anywhere other than official Cadeca exchange houses; doing so could result in a fine or prison.
There are severe fuel shortages, which can make hiring and driving a car difficult, especially for long distances.
Bonus tips:
Avoid taking photographs or videos in any military zones or restricted areas as this can be seen as espionage.
If you hire a moped or motorbike, check its condition carefully and ensure both driver and passenger wear a crash helmet.
Driving in Cuba
A UK driving license is accepted for tourists. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Cuba drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
106
Ambulance
104
Fire
105
Save 106 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Cuba
Voltage
110V/220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type C, Type L
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cuba uses both 110V and 220V, 60Hz. Plugs are Type A, B, C and L. British travellers will likely need an adapter, and possibly a voltage converter for some devices if only rated for 230V.
Cards & payments
Limited
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Low
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Cuba
Limited
Local name
Banco de Crédito y Comercio
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are not widely available in Cuba, and when found, they may not always be working or have cash. It's best to bring enough cash (euros or pounds sterling) to exchange, as US dollars are heavily penalized with high exchange fees. Credit/debit cards are not widely accepted; Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) are no longer issued but some may remain in circulation.
Mobile & roaming
Mobile roaming in Cuba can be very expensive. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates before you travel. Post-Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially lower rates.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 500 CUP (~£15)
Network coverage
3G, 4G
Local carriers
Cubacel
WiFi & internet
Limited
Average speed
5 Mbps
Internet access in Cuba is limited and can be slow. Wi-Fi is primarily available in hotels, some parks, and internet cafes. You typically need to purchase a prepaid NAUTA card to access these Wi-Fi networks. Expect lower speeds and potentially unreliable connections.
Health & vaccinations in Cuba
It's essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before travelling to Cuba. Ensure your policy covers any pre-existing conditions and activities you plan to undertake. The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are not applicable in Cuba.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya are present in Cuba, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Tap water is generally not safe to drink; opt for bottled water. Medical facilities may be limited, especially outside major cities.
Calling Cuba
Country code
+53
To call Cuba from the UK, dial 00 53 followed by the area code and local number.
To call a Havana number, you would dial 00 53 7 XXX XXXX.
The country code for Cuba is 53. When calling Cuba from abroad, you need to dial the exit code of your country (00 from the UK), followed by the Cuban country code (53), then the area code (if applicable) and the local number.
UK Embassy in Cuba
British Embassy Havana
Calle 34 No. 702 e/ 7ma y 17 Miramar, Playa, Havana, Cuba
Airports in Cuba
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.