Cuba is one of the most recognizable Caribbean destinations – with Havana, vintage cars, colonial architecture, music, dancing, tropical climate and long sandy beaches. Among the most popular places are Havana, Varadero, the Vinales Valley, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba and the island resorts.
Important at the moment: as of August 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria has determined for Cuba Level 4 – warning to suspend travel throughout the country, except for essential travel. The reasons include a serious fuel and electricity crisis, water and communication disruptions, difficulties in transport and medical services, shortages of medicines and basic goods, as well as an increased crime risk. As of February 21, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that tourist accommodation is limited to resort areas Havana and Varadero, while hotel properties in the rest of the island are being closed in stages.
Cuba is a large island nation in the Caribbean Sea and the largest island in the Caribbean. The country combines beaches, tropical nature, colonial cities, music, culture, and a highly recognizable history.
Cuba is located between the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean. Its geographical location makes it a natural part of tourist itineraries in the Caribbean region.
The capital is Havana – the largest city and the main cultural, historical and tourist center of the country.
Havana is Cuba's most famous city. The city combines colonial buildings, plazas, the Malecón waterfront, music, restaurants, museums, and lively neighborhoods.
Old Havana is the historic heart of the capital. It is home to squares, churches, palaces, narrow streets, and restored colonial buildings.
The historic squares are among the most interesting places to stroll. Particularly characteristic are the Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral and Plaza de San Francisco.
The Malecón is Havana's long coastal promenade and one of the city's iconic spots. It is where locals and tourists gather for walks and views of the sea.
Vedado is one of the most familiar areas of Havana, known for its wide streets, old residential buildings, restaurants, cultural spaces, and its proximity to the Malecón.
The El Morro fortress stands at the entrance to Havana Bay and is among the capital's most recognizable historical landmarks.
The Museum of the Revolution presents important moments in Cuba's modern history and is among the famous historical sites in Havana.
The Capitol is one of the most impressive architectural buildings in the capital. It is located in the central part of the city and is an important landmark when exploring Havana.
The Cathedral of Havana is one of the most recognizable religious monuments in the historic center and gives the characteristic appearance to Cathedral Square.
Old American cars are one of the symbols of tourist Havana. Vintage car tours are a popular tourist service, but registered and reliable operators should be used.
Music is an integral part of the Cuban atmosphere. Salsa, son, rumba and other local styles can be heard in clubs, restaurants and cultural spaces.
Dancing is an important part of everyday culture and the tourist experience. In Havana, there are opportunities for musical evenings and dance performances.
The cuisine combines rice, beans, pork, chicken, seafood, vegetables and tropical fruits.
Rice and beans are a staple of the traditional Cuban diet and are often served as a side dish to meat dishes.
Pork is a traditional staple in Cuban cuisine. It is often cooked slowly and served with rice, beans, or root vegetables.
The Cuban sandwich is a well-known local combination of bread, meat, cheese, and other ingredients. It is suitable for a quick meal during the day.
The mojito is one of the most popular drinks associated with Cuba. It is usually made with rum, mint, lime, sugar, and soda water.
Cuban rum is one of the most famous local products. It is used both on its own and in various cocktails.
Cuba is famous for its cigars. When purchasing, it is important to keep the documents of origin, especially if purchasing quantities above the usual for personal use.
According to the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, up to 50 cigars can be exported from Cuba without a document of origin. For larger quantities, additional documents and declaration are required.
Varadero is Cuba's main beach resort and one of the two areas that, according to current information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are designated for tourist accommodation in the current crisis situation.
Varadero's beaches are among the most popular in the Caribbean. The resort is located on the Icacos Peninsula and offers a long stretch of sand and clear waters.
The water around Varadero is generally warm and suitable for swimming most of the year, although changes are possible during tropical storms and hurricanes.
Diving, snorkeling, boating, and other marine activities are available in Cuba. Before booking, the actual operation of the facility and the available services must be confirmed.
In the Varadero area is the Varahikakos Nature Reserve, known for its native vegetation and caves related to the island's history.
The Viñales Valley is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Cuba. The area is known for its characteristic limestone hills, tobacco plantations, and rural landscapes.
Viñales is among the regions most closely associated with Cuban tobacco production. Farm visits offer the opportunity to see the traditional growing and processing process.
There are numerous caves in the area, connected to the limestone relief. Some of them can be visited in an organized manner.
The nature around Viñales is suitable for walking, cycling and landscape observation. The official tourism portal of Cuba also lists the area as a place for mountain biking.
Trinidad is one of Cuba's most interesting historic cities, with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a well-preserved historic center.
The center of Trinidad is suitable for walking. The small squares, old houses and churches create a different atmosphere than in Havana.
Plaza Mayor is a central location in historic Trinidad and a good starting point for exploring the city.
The Manaca Ynaga Tower, located near Trinidad, is connected to the history of the sugar plantations. Steps lead to the top, from which panoramic views can be enjoyed.
The Sugar Plantation Valley is a historic area around Trinidad associated with sugar production and the island's colonial economy.
Ancon Beach near Trinidad is among the famous beaches in southern Cuba. In normal tourist conditions, it is a natural addition to a visit to Trinidad.
Cienfuegos is a coastal city known for its historic center, architecture, and location on a large bay.
José Martí Park is a central location in the historic part of Cienfuegos. The area combines green spaces, monuments, and architectural landmarks.
The Palace of Vale is one of the most famous buildings in Cienfuegos and features architecture influenced by Moorish and Spanish styles.
Around Cienfuegos there are sea and mountain landscapes, including areas in the Sierra del Escambray.
„El Nicho is a natural area in the mountains with rivers and waterfalls. The Cuba Tourism Portal lists it as a natural attraction in the Cienfuegos region.
The Guanapoca Lagoon is a protected natural area near Cienfuegos where birds, including flamingos, can be observed.
Santiago de Cuba is the second largest city in the country and an important cultural center. The city is particularly associated with the music, dance, and history of Cuba.
The San Pedro de la Roca Fortress is located near Santiago de Cuba and is among the most significant historical fortifications on the island.
The Sierra Maestra is a mountain range in southeastern Cuba. The region offers mountainous landscapes, hiking trails, and natural attractions.
Baracoa is one of the oldest European urban centers in Cuba and is located in the eastern part of the island. The area is known for its mountains, forests, and tropical nature.
Camagüey is a historic city with a distinctive urban structure and architecture. It is an interesting choice for tourists who want to see Cuba outside of Havana and Varadero.
These cities are among the most suitable for cultural and educational travel, when conditions in the country allow for normal travel and accommodation.
The Ciénaga de Zapata is a large natural area known for its humid ecosystems and rich biodiversity. The Cuba Tourism Portal presents it as an important natural landmark.
Cuba offers a variety of tropical forests, wetlands, mountains, caves, coastlines, and coral reefs.
The mountainous regions of Cuba are known for their waterfalls and natural pools. Popular natural sites include El Nicho and the areas around the Sierra del Escambray.
Cuba has a vast coastline and numerous beaches. The most popular resort area is Varadero, but there are also beaches around Trinidad, Havana, and other coastal areas.
Cayo Coco is a famous island resort with beaches and seascapes. However, in the current situation, tourists should check in advance whether specific accommodation and transportation are operating.
Cayo Largo del Sur is a small island resort known for its beaches and marine activities. Current availability should be confirmed immediately prior to travel.
Cayo Levisa is a small island with beaches and opportunities for marine activities. As with other island resorts, access depends on transport and tourism infrastructure.
Playa del Este is located near Havana and is a traditional beach vacation spot for residents of the capital. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of cases of theft on the beaches in this area.
Cuba has a tropical climate. Typically, there is a drier period from November to April and a wetter period from May to October.
The period from November to April is usually drier and more suitable for combining beach, city tourism and nature visits.
From May to October, precipitation is more frequent. This does not mean constant rain, but short-term heavy showers and higher humidity should be expected.
The Caribbean hurricane season runs from early June to late November. A tropical storm or hurricane can disrupt transportation, electricity, water supplies, and other services.
In a normal tourist environment, the months from late November to April are usually the most preferred due to the drier and relatively pleasant weather.
As of August 2026, the situation is significantly different from the usual tourist image of Cuba. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of serious problems with fuel, electricity, water, transport, communications, medical services and supplies.
Prolonged power outages are one of the main practical problems. In some areas, outages can last all day long.
Fuel shortages are affecting transportation, deliveries and daily services. Long lines are possible at operating gas stations.
Power outages can also lead to water supply problems. When traveling, it is wise to ensure that you have enough bottled water.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of limited availability of food and other essential goods. This is another reason not to plan a solo trip without pre-arranged services.
There is an acute shortage of medicines in Cuba, including some antibiotics and common painkillers. Tourists should bring their necessary medicines in sufficient quantities and in their original containers.
All foreign nationals visiting Cuba should have health insurance valid for the duration of their stay. It is recommended that it includes emergency medical care and medical evacuation.
Medical care is hampered by a shortage of medicines and resources. In case of a serious health problem, it is important to have insurance coverage in advance.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue, Zika, chikungunya and Oropush. Mosquitoes are especially active during daylight hours.
Insect repellent, light clothing with long sleeves and long pants are recommended, especially early in the morning and before sunset.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends using bottled mineral or spring water. Tap water should not be used for drinking or ice unless it has been filtered and boiled beforehand.
With the current supply difficulties, it is wise to avoid food from unregulated street vendors and choose places with good hygiene.
Bulgarian citizens need a visa for Cuba. For tourist trips, the visa is applied for and received electronically. The tourist visa is for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 90 days, and according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it can be extended for another 90 days.
The tourist visa application is made through the Cuban electronic visa system. The current conditions and deadlines should be checked before traveling.
Up to 72 hours before travel, all travelers must register with the Cuban pre-registration system and receive a QR code to present during travel and upon arrival in the country.
The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Cuba. A return ticket is also required.
Bulgaria has an embassy in Havana. It is located in the Miramar neighborhood and provides consular assistance to Bulgarian citizens.
If your passport is lost or stolen, you must immediately notify the Bulgarian Embassy. It is advisable to carry copies of your passport, both in paper and electronic form.
Cuba is traditionally perceived as a relatively safe tourist destination, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports an increase in thefts, including cases involving violence and knives. Particular attention is needed in Old Havana, Havana Center, Vedado and along the Malecón.
Theft of unattended items is a problem at some beaches. Do not leave phones, wallets, and documents unattended.
Especially at night, increased attention should be paid in tourist areas and crowded places. It is not advisable to display expensive items and large sums of money.
Use registered taxis or transport organized by a reliable tour operator. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns of cases of tourists being robbed in taxis, including during airport transfers.
It is not recommended to hitchhike with strangers, nor to use hitchhiking as your primary mode of transportation. There have been reports of robberies related to such situations.
Public transport is difficult and can be irregular. Fuel shortages further increase the risk of changes and canceled transfers.
City buses can be old, irregular and overcrowded. Organized tourist programs usually use pre-booked transportation.
In the current situation, renting a car is not the most practical choice for tourists. Fuel shortages and difficult road conditions can seriously complicate independent travel.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that Bulgarian citizens avoid driving in Cuba. Roads may be poorly signalized and are laden with cars, bicycles, pedestrians, carts, and animals.
Night driving is not recommended. Road conditions, lighting, and the condition of vehicles create additional risks.
Telephone connections can be problematic and unreliable. In large cities, mobile networks are usually better, but power outages can also affect communications.
Bulgarian mobile cards can work when roaming and a compatible network is available, but should not be relied upon entirely on a permanent connection.
Bank cards may not work or stop working without warning. American bank cards are not accepted in Cuba.
It is advisable to carry a sufficient amount of euros or US dollars in cash, as well as an international bank card as a backup option.
The official local currency is the Cuban Peso, denoted as CUP. Exchange must be made through official channels and not on the informal market.
ATMs are relatively rare and unreliable. It is not wise to plan a trip with the expectation that you will be able to regularly withdraw money locally.
Under current conditions, it is wise to carry enough medication, basic hygiene items, chargers, an external battery, insect repellent, sunscreen, and enough cash. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that travelers also have water and other essential supplies.
Cuba remains an extremely interesting destination in terms of culture, history and nature, but as of August 2026, it is not a normal tourist situation. The Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends suspending travel except in cases of extreme necessity. If travel is nevertheless necessary, it should be organized in advance with confirmed flights, accommodation, transfers, insurance, sufficient medicines, water and means of payment.
Cuba is a destination that combines the Caribbean Sea, beaches, history, music, colonial architecture and a highly recognizable local culture. When the current situation changes and normal tourist services are restored, Journey Group can be your partner in organizing a trip to Havana, Varadero and other interesting places on the island.
Before booking, always check the latest information on security, visa requirements, flights, accommodation and travel conditions, as the situation in Cuba is currently changing dynamically.
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