best time to visit cuba

20 things to know before visiting Cuba

Jan 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Be ready for your visit to Cuba with these top tips on what to expect © Westend61 / Getty Images

To a first-time traveler, Cuba can seem like a confusing jigsaw puzzle, particularly if you’re breaking free of the resorts and traveling around on your own.

The Spanish spoken here is fast and hard to decipher, many streets have two different names and the country’s fickle and highly complicated monetary situation could fill its own guidebook.

To help you be prepared, here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to Cuba.

1. Double-check your insurance

You are required to have medical insurance to visit Cuba and will need to bring digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are made at the airport. If you arrive without insurance, you’ll be asked to buy a Cuban policy at the airport for US$30.

2. Fill out your passenger information in advance

Cuba uses an online form called D’Viajeros to gather traveler information, including immigration and health data, in advance of travel. Fill out the form digitally up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba.

Friends sit on a coastal wall with their legs dangling over the sea and pose for a selfie

3. Every visitor needs a tourist card

To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed tourist card . It’s usually available through your airline (ask when booking) and included in the price of your ticket.

If not, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85. Citizens of 20 African and Asian countries require a formal visa to enter Cuba. Check the situation for your country before booking.

4. Cash and currency: it’s complicated!

Money in Cuba is confusing, even to Cubans . Since the country abolished convertibles (CUC) in January 2021 and took the US dollar out of circulation in June 2021, there has been massive inflation and the emergence of a rampant black market. The knock-on effect is a bewildering dual economy.

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP), but foreign currencies are also widely accepted, especially by private businesses who need hard cash to buy non-rationed goods in MLC (freely convertible currency) shops.

State-run enterprises and banks use official exchange rates. However, the prices of the superior services offered by private businesses generally reflect black market exchange rates.

Hence a main dish in a private restaurant in Havana will cost around CUP$500 (US$21). That’s an expensive meal if you’re paying in pesos bought from a Cuban bank.

However, most private restaurants will also accept payment in euros using a more favorable exchange rate. Some will even have a separate menu with prices printed in euros.

When buying something from a private business – be it a restaurant, casa particular (private accommodation) or taxi service – it’s usually best to pay in a foreign currency. Always ask upfront what currencies they accept and what exchange rate they use for their published peso prices.

Euros is the most interchangeable currency and the one preferred by Cubans. You can also use and exchange Canadian dollars and pound sterling.

US dollars still circulate on the black market, but we don’t recommend bringing them. The best bet, when you arrive, is to keep most of your money in a foreign currency and only change small amounts into pesos for incidentals like museum entry, concert tickets and tips.

5. MLC is a currency with no cash form

The Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is a currency approved by the Cuban government in 2020 that can be used in certain shops to buy higher-end goods.

The currency doesn’t exist as cash and its value is pegged with the US dollar. It’s used mainly by Cubans with special magnetic cards.

Tourists needn’t worry too much about MLC$, although prices will sometimes be displayed in the currency in state-run enterprises such as cigar shops or airport souvenir stores where you can pay with a non-US credit card.

6. Only some credit cards will work

Credit cards are increasingly popular in Cuba and in many state-run businesses are the preferred (and sometimes only) method of payment.

Despite promises made in the Obama era, credit cards linked to US banks are not accepted. Private businesses almost never have credit card machines, meaning your only option is cash.

A blue classic car passes a cowboy-hatted man on a horse on a dirt road leading into Vinales, Cuba

7. Pack your favorite casual clothes – and men need a shirt

Dress in Cuba is casual, so you can leave your high heels and tux behind. The only real dress code is in cinemas, theaters and nightclubs, where male patrons are required to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves or half-sleeves.

8. Cuban Spanish is fast and often informal

If you speak Spanish, you’ll find that Cubans mostly use the informal tú form of address, rather than usted . In the plural, ustedes is used over vosotros .

If you don’t know someone, it’s best to address them as señor or señora , though you’ll hear Cubans use all kinds of substitutes such as socio , hermano , papa , chica/o and asere .

9. Cuban cities are where the streets have two names

In most Cuban cities, the streets have two names: a contemporary one that is noted on maps and marked on street signs, and a pre-revolutionary one that is still used widely by the locals.

This can become confusing, especially when locals, unaware of the new street names, start giving out directions or addresses using the colloquial nomenclature. Always double-check addresses and, if possible, get two potential names for the street you’re looking for.

10. Understand the local art of queueing

Cubans have to endure a lot of long waits in boring queues, so they’ve invented a way of doing it that doesn’t involve standing in line. In a Cuban queue, you simply roll up at the bakery/clinic/visa office and yell out to the assembled masses, "Quien es último?" (Who’s last?).

Hopefully, someone in a 400m vicinity will answer your polite entreaty with the word, "yo" (me). That person is your yardstick. As long as they’re still around, feel free to go for a walk, sit in the lotus position or buy ice cream. When they get called up, be on your toes, you’re next!

11. Ask questions more than once

Thanks to heavy bureaucracy, answers to simple requests aren’t always straightforward – or even correct. Probe politely and ask at least five different people before you make important decisions.

12. Bring something to keep you warm on a cold bus journey

Cuba has a countrywide state-run bus service called Víazul that connects all of the main cities and some of the smaller towns. Prices are charged in MLC$ (the same rate as the US$) and tickets must be paid for with a credit card either in person or online.

A second service called Conectando, run by Cubanacán, also puts on buses in peak season along some of the more popular routes. Bring a sweater/jacket for long bus rides – the air-conditioning is akin to a chilly day in Vancouver.

Woman with camera in a candid shot in Trinidad, Cuba

13. Cuba is considered a safe place to travel

Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Americas in terms of violent crime. Pick-pocketing is more common but not rampant, and is mostly avoidable if you follow a few basic precautions: Wear a money belt, use safe boxes in hotel rooms and don’t flash your cash in public.

14. Solo female travelers report receiving unwanted attention

Solo female travelers report experiencing a good deal of unwanted attention, but it didn't necessarily spoil their enjoyment of traveling in Cuba.

There is a fine line between being open and friendly and harassment, and some men can cross that line by being overly familiar or asking too many personal questions. Learn some key phrases in Spanish that make it clear when you're not interested.

15. Beware of forgeries

Never change money with unlicensed traders on the streets. You run the risk of receiving estafas (forged notes).

16. Bring your own medicines

On one level, Cuba has a good health system (it invented and quickly distributed three COVID-19 vaccines); on the other, it is perennially short of pharmaceuticals.

Bring all the prescription medications you think you’ll need, as well others you might like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you’d like to donate some medicines to the people of Cuba, it is currently possible to bring in 10kg of medical supplies tax-free (pack them in a separate bag).

Portrait of an Afro-Cuban woman smoking cigar and smiling in Havana, Cuba

17. Avoid dodgy cigars

Cuba has its share of jineteros (touts) spinning elaborate stories about super-cheap, high-quality cigars procured by their brother/mother/cousin from the factory. Don’t believe them. Instead, buy your cigars in state-run shops such as the Casa del Habano chain. Cigars sold on the street are invariably factory cast-offs and not genuine.

18. Driving is not as easy as you think

With light traffic on the road, driving might seem like an easy proposition, but with elevated rental prices and cars often in short supply, it’s not always so.

Add in sporadic signposting, potholed roads and a wide array of hazards – goats, horses, bicycles, kids and slow-moving, fume-belching trucks – and you might want to consider getting the bus or, at least, employing the services of a chauffeur.

19. Bring toilet paper and sanitary products

The pandemic made the provision of antiseptic hand lotion more common, but the same can’t be said of toilet paper. Carry your own roll and/or gravitate to four- or five-star hotels when you’re caught short in the city.

Re-usable pads and silicon cups, or disposable pads and tampons are must-pack items if you're expecting your period while you're in Cuba. These are in high demand here.

20. Don’t drink the water

The water won’t kill you, but it might give you a little queasiness or an upset stomach. Fortunately, bottled water is abundant and cheap. An even better idea is to bring your own filter bottle or water purification tablets.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated January 2024

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Best time to visit Cuba

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When is the best time to visit Cuba?

Perhaps you’re lured to Cuba by the promise of sun-kissed beaches , and snorkeling or diving at Cuba’s world class diving sites. You may be enticed by Cuba’s colourful and time-warped colonial towns, its lively atmospheric cities, its beautiful mountain landscapes. Maybe it’s the sensuousness of salsa that attracts, or the intoxicating carnival celebrations. Or perhaps you just want a glimpse into the unique Cuban way of life. Chances are it’s a combination of these. So for a bit of everything that covers the island, when is the best time to visit Cuba?

Climate in Cuba

Best month to visit cuba, visiting cuba in the dry season, visiting cuba in the rainy season, when to go for festivals, tailor-made travel itineraries for cuba, created by local experts.

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A moderately challenging cycling holiday through Cuban countryside visiting the tobacco fields of Viñales Valley and a pristine Caribbean beach in Cayo Jutias.

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Tailor-made trips for Cuba

First of all, there is no wrong time to visit Cuba, as such. But there are a few factors to take into account, chief among them is the weather. Cuba has a hot and sunny tropical climate, with dry and wet seasons: the dry season runs from November to April; the wet season from May to September. However, even during the wet season, you can still expect balmy temperatures, and the downpours never last that long. But assuming you want the least amount of rain, and the most amount of sunshine, the dry season is generally the best time of year to visit Cuba.

Broadly speaking, in terms of rainfall and temperature, the dry season months of March and April are the best months to visit Cuba. It’s dry and warm during this time, with average temperatures sitting at 27-29˚C during the day, and comfortable at night around 19-21˚C.

Other considerations affecting when to go to Cuba

There are factors besides the weather to take into account for figuring out when to visit Cuba. The peak tourist season in Cuba runs roughly from mid-December to mid-March, and all of July and August. Prices are highest and crowds thickest in summer, when the holiday season for Cubans gets under way.

As much of the atmosphere of the smaller resorts is generated by tourists, Cuban and foreign, out of season they can seem somewhat dull – although you’ll benefit from lower prices. The cities, particularly Havana and Santiago , are always buzzing and offer good value for money throughout the year.

Compared to the all-out celebrations in other countries, Christmas is a lowkey affair in Cuba, with the emphasis on private family celebration. New Year’s Eve, also the eve of the anniversary of the Revolution, is much more fervently celebrated. And if you’re going to base your trip around one key event, carnival in Santiago, held each year in July, is unmissable.

cuba-music-guitar-player-shutterstock_589968323

Playing guitar in Trinidad, Cuba © Ellie Matsanova/Shutterstock

The dry season in Cuba falls roughly from mid-November to April. This is when dry weather matches sunny days and warm temperatures across the island. So if it’s wet and cold where you are and you’re looking to thaw out, this is the best time to travel to Cuba.

Visiting Cuba in December – February

In the winter months of January and February the mercury can drop as low as 15˚C, and even lower at night. If you intend to go into the mountains it’s advisable to pack something warmer than a T-shirt. The cooler temperatures make for good sightseeing though, although it’s perhaps less ideal for sun worshippers hoping to bake on one of Cuba’s soft sandy beaches.

January and February are great months to visit the sixteenth-century town of Trinidad and Sancti Spíritus , and Santiago , with temperatures sitting around a not too fierce 28˚C.

Bear in mind that prices spike over the Christmas period and you’ll need to book well ahead if planning to travel to Cuba at this time.

In terms of cultural events happening around now, there are a few biggies. The ten-day film festival (Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano Festival) kicks off in Havana in early December and is one of Cuba’s top events, and the Bienal de la Habana (Havana biennale) showcases the best in visual arts. Cubans go all out for New Year, which also celebrates the triumph of the Cuban Revolution, and mid-January sees the excellent Havana International Jazz Festival. Find out more about festivals in Cuba .

Visiting Cuba in March – April

March and April are the best months to visit for long days of sunshine and dry weather. It’s the perfect time to lay down your towel on one of Cuba’s picture perfect beaches, such as Playa Ancón, or Playa Los Pinos on Cayo Sabinal – or if you’re after a livelier scene, Varadero.

Those wishing to try diving at some of Cuba’s top diving spots will enjoy optimum conditions, such as those around the Jardines del Rey , María La Gorda and Cayo Largo .

It’s also an ideal time to explore inland Cuba, such as the Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt, which has ideal trekking conditions in March. The idyllic eco hill resort of Las Terraza and the surrounding hiking terrain also make for a wonderful stopover at this time of year. And the Viñales valley and the peaks of the Sierra Maestra would be great additions to your itinerary.

It’s worth considering it’s also peak season in Cuba – reflected in the rise in cost of flights and accommodation, especially during the Easter holidays, so we advise booking ahead as far as possible.

cigar-cuba-handmade-shutterstock_571617523

Production of handmade cigars © Tatiana Gordievskaia/Shutterstock

If you visit in the summer, and more broadly between May and October, considered the wet season, expect it to rain on at least a couple of days over a fortnight. Don’t let this put you off, though. Although it comes down hard and fast, rain rarely stays for very long in Cuba, and the clouds soon break to allow sunshine through to dry everything out. There’s also perhaps a good trade off: rain means fewer visitors – so you can be more spontaneous when it comes to booking tours, accommodation and so on. And if you prefer a quieter time during your trip, it’s a win-win situation.

Eastern Cuba tends to be hotter and more humid during this part of the year, while the temperature in the area around Trinidad and Sancti Spíritus also creeps above the national average.

Visiting Cuba in May – August

The rainy season is just beginning in May, but doesn’t really get underway until the end of July or early August. Even then, you’ll most likely still get plenty of clear days. And if you want to get in some beach action you’ll most likely avoid the rain if you get there earlier in the day. May and June temperatures make for comfortable travel.

July through September sees temperatures soar to around 32˚C in Havana and Pinar del Río . Eastern areas, such as Santiago de Cuba, experience sweltering heat of around 33˚C.

If you don’t mind a little rain and potential sogginess you can seize the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in June and July – before temperatures soar in August. Visitor numbers are fewer and it’s easier to find good casa particulares. Horseriding in the Viñales valley is a great way to explore the area at this time – horses make light work of the mud!

For festivals , July and August are the best times to be in Havana and Santiago. Both are settings for the vibrant annual carnival, and worth organising your itinerary around these lively, joyous events. Santiago is also host to the Fiesta del Caribe Santiago de Cuba, a week-long celebration of Caribbean music and dance, at the beginning of July.

Prices rise in July and August and it gets noticeably busier, as this is when Cubans traditionally take their holidays. However, the more low-key resorts come to life during this time, whereas off season the cultural activities and liveliness generated by visitors tapers off.

Visiting Cuba in September – November

September and October are the most threatening months of the annual hurricane season that runs from June to November, particularly in coastal areas. Compared to other Caribbean islands and some Central American countries, however, Cuba has so far held up relatively well even in the fiercest of hurricanes. Bear in mind though that rural areas are more vulnerable and hurricanes can cause some mountain trails and national parks to close.

Wet weather, humidity and hurricanes aside, if you’re keeping an eye on the cost and perhaps want to experience Cuba during the quieter months, September and October are good times to visit. You can dig out decent deals on everything from flights and accommodation, to tours.

Street musician in Trinidad, Cuba © Delpixel/Shutterstock

Cuba is brimming with festivals and cultural events , celebrating everything from music and dance, film and theatre, the Cuban revolution – and cigars! Basing your trip around one of these can help you decide when to go to Cuba.

Here are just five of Cuba’s standout festivals:

Festival Internacional del Nuevo Cine Latinoamericano ( Havana film festival). One of Cuba’s top events, combining Cuban, Latin American and Western films with the classics, plus networking opportunities. Ten days in December
Havana International Jazz Festival. Pulls in huge talent and combines large concerts with impromptu street jams. Mid-January
Carnival, celebrated in small towns and big cities alike. The biggest, and not to be missed, is in Santiago de Cuba – a riot of colour and music and partying into the small hours. July
The Festival del Habano (Cuban Cigar Festival) in Havana and Pinar del Río . The opportunity to visit cigar factories and tobacco plantations – as well the chance to sample the goods! February
Bienal de la Habana (Havana biennale). Month-long series of exhibitions celebrating work of Cuban, Latin American, Caribbean, African and Middle-Eastern artists. April–May

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Cuba

It’s pretty much summer all year long in Cuba, but some months are hotter, stickier, and more uncomfortable than others. The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April. These are not only Cuba’s driest months but also good bets for 70 degree blue sky days made for exploring cobblestone streets and lounging on secluded postcard-perfect beaches.

While December through February are Cuba’s coldest months, temperatures are usually in the 70s. Lows might dip into the 60s, but you’ll never need a coat, hat or gloves. Winter days are long, with nearly 11 hours of daylight even in December, and there are few better places to escape the winter back home than a Caribbean island nation where summer lasts all year long.

Peak Season in Cuba

Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s are popular travel times in Cuba. Hotels, flights, and tours can book up ahead of time, and prices may increase slightly as well. Snowbirds seek out Cuba throughout the winter months when temperatures are far cooler and often accompanied by snow, ice, and strong winds back home.

Cuba’s Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are rare in Cuba, but to further minimize the possibility of trip disruptions, avoid planning travel to Cuba in August and September. While hurricane season officially runs from June through November, Caribbean hurricanes most frequently occur in August and September.

June through August are the hottest months of the year in Cuba and the country’s summer season. Average temperatures are in the 80s but don’t be surprised by a 90-degree day. Summers in Cuba can also be humid, making for a hot, sticky, sweaty vacation that’s more uncomfortable than it needs to be. Cuba’s rainy season stretches from April through November and could cramp your Cuban summer beach style.

But summer brings some of Cuba’s most exciting festivals, and Cubans are more likely to be off from school and work for summer vacations, making some destinations more lively than at other times of the year.

Events to check out

Late June brings a celebration of bolero music to Havana and bolero concerts to Santiago de Cuba and other cities across the country.
July brings Fiesta del Fuego, a sizzling celebration of Afro-Caribbean culture, to Santiago de Cuba, a Spanish settlement in southeastern Cuba that’s known for its colonial architecture, revolutionary history, and Afro-Cuban cultural influences. The event draws speakers, guests, and musical acts from across the Caribbean.
July also brings one of Cuba's marquee celebrations, Carnival, to Santiago de Cuba, considered the most African city on the island. Carnival floods Santiago de Cuba's streets with masked partiers and lengthy conga lines. Carnival migrates to Havana in August, though the capital city's celebrations are generally more muted than in Santiago de Cuba. Still, you're sure to find plenty of street parties and open-air concerts to keep you busy.
In August, Havana also hosts an international hip hop festival. Temperatures may be sizzling, but so is the hip hop scene in Havana at this time of year.

September and October can still be muggy and hot in Cuba, but temperatures start cooling off in November. October is one of the slowest months in Cuban tourism and provides additional opportunities for bargains and enjoying this country without the crowds.

September may still be muggy, but this is when Cuba honors its national saint, the Virgin of Cobre. Pilgrimages to her altar occur in the small Cuban town El Cobre and celebrations in her honor are held across the country early during the month.
October brings the Days of Cuban Culture, a chance to celebrate Cuba's anti-colonial spirit and rich Afro-Cuban culture.
Also in October: the Matamoros Son music festival in Santiago de Cuba, an International Ballet Festival in Havana, and an International Fishing Tournament, held at Jardines del Ray beach.

Winter is the best time to visit Cuba. These months may bring bone-chilling temperatures to much of the world, but Cuba remains a paradise from November through February. Temperatures are in the 70s, the water is warm, and it’s like winter isn’t even real. Do be aware, Christmas and New Year’s are popular travel times in Cuba. Hotels, flights, and tours can book up ahead of time, and prices may increase slightly as well.

By December, the temperatures in Cuba have cooled to idyllic 70-something degrees. Still, the International Festival of New Latin American Film is likely to coax travelers indoors with a packed schedule of films showing over 10 days in early December.
Late December brings Las Parrandas, an extravagant Christmas Eve Carnival with late-night parades, ornate floats and lots of fireworks.
January in Cuba is for jazz lovers and when Havana—a hotbed for Cuban jazz music—hosts an International Jazz Festival .
February brings the International Book Fair, focused on Spanish language texts, to Havana. Havana's international book fair is considered to be among the top book fairs in Latin America.
Havana hosts the Habanos Festival in February, as well. This is one you'll want to visit if you're a cigar aficionado with a penchant for a Cuban stogie.

Spring can also be a pleasant time to visit Cuba, but April and May have the potential to bring rainy days. Cuba’s rainy season begins in April and runs through November with the wettest months seeing rain for an average of nearly 11 days a month. Temperatures are quick to climb, so don’t be surprised to find hot, muggy weather already settling in during April vacations.

Mid-march is when you'll want to visit Cuba if you can't get enough of the country's exquisitely maintained classic cars. Havana hosts a weeklong celebration of classic cars each March to celebrate the Detroit dinosaurs that fill its streets. There's usually at least one caravan of classic cars from another Cuban city.
To experience something truly unique, plan your visit in May when Cuba hosts its May Day parades and public gatherings across the country. The biggest of these events occurs in Havana's Plaza de la Revolución and draws upwards of 100,000 people. May Day is the traditional socialist observation of Labor Day.
Late May brings the International Blue Marlin Tournament, a big-game fishing competition held at Marina Hemingway.

The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April when the weather is dry and temperatures are cool and pleasant. In the winter, daily temperatures typically fall between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 77 degrees Celsius.)

The rainy season begins in April and lasts until November, coinciding with hurricane season which begins in June.

August is the hottest month in Havana with an average high temperature of 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius) and an average low temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius).

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Havana, Cuba Year Round." Retrieved March 10, 2021.

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Best Time to Visit Cuba: A month by month breakdown of when to go!

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2020

Categories Caribbean , Cuba , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides

Honestly, the best time to visit Cuba depends on what you like to do on vacation and the activities and adventures you plan to have there!

With the harsh winter spanning across the US, Canada and Europe, it is always a good time to visit this tropical island. It is a perfect Caribbean getaway destination.

Cuba offers so much in a vacation from old Spanish (albiet crumbling architecture), stunning world class beaches and epic countryside, not to mention a haven for music lovers, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Havana, Cuba .

If you are looking for the perfect conditions, November to March is the best time to visit Cuba, as the weather is warm but not toasty enough to fry your skin within an inch of it’s life.

If you are not afraid of a sun-shower or two and you are looking to get great deals on accommodation and flights, April and May are a pretty good pick – especially for the budget conscious traveler.

In order to assist you plan when is the best time to visit Cuba, we have drafted a month by month guide of what is like to visit the Caribbean country trapped in time by month.

BRING WITH YOU: Lonely Guide to Cuba

Best Time to Visit Cuba: Month by Month Analysis

January in Cuba

January falls within high season in Cuba as the winter months on the Caribbean island provide dry weather and the perfect climate.

It is not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds as many people gain vacations in January and the cruise ships carrying snowbirds from the US and Canada dock almost every day in Cuba during the winter months.

January does however provide some of the nicest days all year in Cuba with perfect 21°C (70°F) that makes it possible to explore the city of Havana or head to the beach without the fear of getting burnt.

You won’t even need to worry about packing your umbrella for a trip to Cuba in January as the skies are almost always clear and a perfect shade of blue.

January is the coldest month in Cuba but luckily you never have to worry about bringing a jacket to Cuba as this Caribbean island is always warm and sunny.

February in Cuba

We visited Cuba in February and can personally attest that it was an absolutely fabulous time to visit Cuba.

It is still high season in February in Cuba but as the Christmas holiday makers and cruisers have diminished, it is a quieter month to visit in comparison to January.

Temperatures can rise to 25°C (78°F) in February. As it is still dry season, we did not experience a single day of rain during our trip to Cuba in February.

The downside of visiting Cuba in the dry months is that the beautiful countryside of Viñales will be a brown/green color in comparison to a bright green vivid color you will see in the wet months in Cuba.

Personally, I prefer a brown/green color then getting absolutely drenched in rain but the choice is yours!

If you are thinking to head to the countryside, here’s a step by step guide about the different ways you can travel from Havana to Vinales .

March in Cuba

Tourism starts to pick up in March in Cuba as people get more holidays. During March and particularly at Easter time is the busiest time for Cuban tourism.

Weather wise it is still a fabulous time of year to visit as the days are warm but not scorching yet 28°C (82°F) and there is still very little rain in the sky.

Unlike somewhere like Cancun, where we recently enjoyed an epic Mexico road trip , Cuba has not yet picked up as a hot Spring Break location, partly because of some restrictions still being placed on American tourism to the Caribbean island.

It is expected in years to come that Cuban tourism during Spring Break will massively increase due to the close proximity to the United States and the cheap flights from Miami and other major international hubs in the US now offered.

Until this point, Cuba proves a great destination for an older traveler in March who wants to avoid the Spring Break kids.

April in Cuba

April is the final month before the harsh temperatures and rain of summer sets in. It is also the final month of high season before rainy season in Cuba.

If Easter falls in April in the year you are visiting, you can expect crowds to be still very high in April.

Weather is beginning to get quite hot in Cuba in April with high temperatures as much as 30°C (86°F). On the plus side, April is the least humid month to visit the Caribbean island.

As April is the final month before rainy season in Cuba, if you are particularly opposed to rain, we would recommend squeezing in a visit to Cuba before the rains set in in May.

The streets of Havana are dirt based and tend to get very muddy during rainy season in Cuba.

Horseback riding through the tobacco fields in the shadows of the dramatic karst mountains is a bucket-list item

May in Cuba

May is the beginning of rainy season in Cuba. As the rains have not fully set in yet, it is a good time of year to get low season prices and predominately dry weather.

May is however, the beginning of very hot weather in Cuba as the long hot summer sun sets in. You can expect temperatures as high as 31°C (88°F) in Cuba in May.

With a few showers, the plus side is that if you are planning on making a trip to the countryside of Cuba, it is starting to green up and look fabulous in photography.

As the weather in May can be quite unpredictable, we would highly recommend packing a umbrella and raincoat.

Due to export restrictions, you can’t expect to buy anything like you would at home in Cuba so it is always best practice to bring the necessities with you.

June in Cuba

June is the rainiest month in Cuba, so if you don’t like rain, June is not a good time to visit Cuba.

In June, Cuba receives an average of 80 mm of precipitation throughout the month. It is absolutely essential to bring a rain jacket and umbrella if you plan to travel to Cuba in June.

As would be expected June is also an extremely hot time to visit Cuba with temperatures soaring as high as 32 °C (90°F).

The rain and heat tends to ward off the crowds at this time of year so if you are looking for the best prices on flights and accommodation this is a good time of year to visit.

If you plan to visit in June, make sure that your accommodation has air conditioning. You will probably want to retreat off the streets of Havana or Trinidad during the hottest part of the day so having a working air conditioning console is absolutely essential.

July in Cuba

July continues Cuba’s rainy season.

Rainy season is Cuba is different to rain in other places in the world. It is hard and torrential but lasts less time meaning you need to run for cover but will be able to get back out and about sightseeing in no time.

The beach of Varadero is a popular option for holidaymakers to Cuba in July as the hot weather can make meandering the streets of Havana particularly uncomfortable during the day.

The temperature in July stays the same or marginally hotter than the month of June.

August in Cuba

Cuba is still hot and rainy in August. Bad humidity tends to add to the heat in Cuba in August meaning that Cuba can feel rather a lot like a sauna in August.

if you plan to visit Havana, you will need to plan your sightseeing for the early mornings and late evenings. Most people choose to go to the beaches rather than the cities in Cuba during August.

As August receives some of the fewest visitors, you can expect low season prices on flights and accommodation.

As Cuba is a communist country and business owners are required to give hefty fees back to the government in order to operate, you sadly won’t see the same discounted prices on accommodation, food and retail as you would elsewhere in the world.

September in Cuba

September is the start of the worst of Hurricane season in Cuba. Due to the possibility of cyclone activity in Cuba in September, it is the month with the fewest visitors to Cuba.

On the plus side, hurricanes only hit Cuba on average once every 4 years so your chance of getting caught within a hurricane is incredibly low.

During September, you can take advantage of the cheapest prices in Cuba.

September is a little less hot and rainy than June with an average of 13 days of rain throughout the months and 70 mm of precipitation. Keep in mind you will still need a umbrella in Cuba in September.

October in Cuba

October is the second month of potentially bad hurricanes in Cuba.

As mentioned above, these are incredibly rare making October one of the best times to visit Cuba as temperatures start to fall and crowds are lower.

Temperatures have fallen to around 28 °C (83°F) in October making it a more pleasant time to visit Cuba and meander the streets of Havana during the middle of the day.

There is still a good chance of rain in October so pack your rain essentials with you.

November in Cuba

November is your last chance to get into Cuba before the crowds of holidaymakers make their way there in December.

November is a nice time to visit Cuba for a mix of low season prices and sunshine days.

Although there will be a few rainy days here and there, November brings perfect weather to Cuba with a average temperature of 24°C (75°F).

If you want to escape the harsh weather that has begin to set on some part of the US, Canada and Europe at this time of year and still enjoy reasonable prices, this is the best time to visit Cuba.

December in Cuba

Due to the Christmas vacation and the cold weather in most places around the world, December is absolutely peak time in Cuba.

Due to the crowds looking for a holiday, it will be increasingly difficult to snag a good deal on a flight or accommodation in Cuba during December. You will also be battling the crowds on the streets of Havana and Trinidad.

It is not all bad news if you only have this time of year up your sleeve, as temperatures are very mild and the streets of Havana are absolutely alive with people (which adds to the atmosphere) making it the best time to visit Cuba for some people.

Cuba Tours We would Recommend:

A tour with a local in Havana
Havana by E-Bike
2 Hour Classic Havana Car Tour
A day tour to Viñales
The Tropicana Show
A small group walking tour of the Old Town

What to Bring to Cuba? Cuba Travel Essentials

BRING: Travel Insurance. Upon entering Cuba, my Dad was asked to show proof of insurance. I didn’t know this before visiting but the immigration officer informed us that you would be denied access to Cuba without proof of insurance.
BRING: Travel Information. As there is little wifi in Cuba, it is advisable to bring with you notes or a guidebook of all the awesome things there are to do. We would recommend bringing with you a copy of the Lonely Guide to Cuba with you to Cuba unless you are very organised and manage to plan every restaurant and activity in advance.
DON’T BRING: Your drone. Sadly, drones are not allowed in Cuba at this stage. If you bring your drone into Cuba, it will be temporarily held at the airport. You will also be required to pay a fine to get it back.

More Cuba Travel Information:

50 Unmissable Things to do in Havana Cuba
How to travel from Havana to Viñales
Cuba Packing List – What to Bring with you to Cuba
Where to Stay in Havana – the best neighborhoods and places
Havana to Cancun, Mexico

Save Best Time to Visit Cuba to Pinterest (so you can find it again later!)

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

View all posts

The best time to visit Cuba

By Condé Nast Traveller

The best time to visit Cuba is between October and April . This island has a wonderful Caribbean climate and a long season of loveliness, when the days are warm and sunny and there's very little rain, particularly in Havana and on the coast. The beaches along Cuba 's south coast get the best weather on the island.

Of all the months to go to Cuba , March and April are perhaps the best, when the days are longer and sunnier (on average seven hours of sunshine), not too hot and humid, and there's little rainfall. Average temperatures in March and April are around 27-29ºC in the daytime and a balmy 19-21ºC at night.

Even during Cuba's wettest months ( May to September ), there are plenty of sunny days and the heat and humidity rarely become unbearable.

By Lydia Bell

By Olivia Morelli

Bicitaxi on a backstreet at dusk in Havana

The Best Time to Visit Cuba in 2023. All Facts Considered

You might think that it’s always the best time to visit Cuba. After all, compared to many places on Earth, Cuba has beautiful weather all year round. Sunshine, heat, and ocean breezes are a guarantee, no matter what.

However, you should know that Cuba has two distinct seasons that may have a big impact on the weather, the travel costs, the mosquitoes , and, most importantly, how much fun you’ll have on your trip.

To avoid surprises, let’s look at what it’s like to travel each season.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

The best time to go to Cuba is the dry season (November to April). The most popular months to visit Cuba are March, January, and February.

The rainy season is much less popular since it’s wetter, hotter, and more humid. If beautiful weather is a big priority for you, then September, October, and June are not the best times to visit Cuba. However, budget-savvy travelers and visitors looking to backpack Cuba and avoid big crowds of tourists will love the slower season. With over 3 million visitors to island each year, tourist areas can get pretty crowded during peak season!

Our advice? Visit Cuba at the time of year that works best for you. You’re sure to have an awesome time, no matter when your trip falls on the calendar. Before you do so, pack our 50 tips for traveling to Cuba .

Finally, remember that traveling to Cuba -or any other country- during the COVID-19 pandemic may expose you to coronavirus. You will also need to comply with the latest Cuba travel restrictions .

What Is the Weather like in Cuba?

Cuba has two seasons. The wet season is when 70% of the island’s rainfall occurs, which means lots of heat and humidity between May and October. On the other hand, the dry season brings cooler, dryer weather to the island between November and April.

Despite some seasonal variations in the weather, you can expect Cuba to be fairly hot, sunny, and buggy all year round.

Keep an eye on the Cuba Weather Calendar and compare the weather forecast during your stay in Cuba against the NWS Heat Index . This way, you can measure how hot it will really feels in Cuba.

Be prepared. Sunscreen and water bottle with filte r are a must. Sunburn, dehydration, and heat stroke are all serious risks if you aren’t prepared.

Mosquito-born illnesses are also a risk, so remember to pack your insect repellent . It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit if you run into any trouble.

These items are enough to get you started, but we also recommend something a bit heavier duty like travel medical insurance. Insubuy offers insurance plans for travelers to Cuba . You’ll be covered if you get heatstroke, dengue, or other illnesses!

Visiting Cuba in the Wet Season (May to October)

Cuba’s “wet season” earned its nickname thanks to the heavy rainfall that hits the island from late spring to early fall.

Due to the extreme heat, outdoor activities like backpacking and long-distance cycling may not be enjoyable. However, the beaches are absolutely perfect.

Average temperatures and humidity in the wet season

Cuba is HOT! This is true all year round, but especially during the wet season. High humidity levels magnify the heat, so prepare wisely if you travel during this time.

Rarely colder than 75 degrees Fahrenheit, daytime temperatures average in the 80s and 90s, which translates into felt-temperatures of 103°F or higher. Heat is worst around midday, so plan indoor activities between 11 am and 3 pm.

Cubans refer to this time of day as when “dogs don’t come after their master.” And when you do venture outside, bring lots of water and sunscreen !

Precipitation in the wet season

Spoiler alert: there’s a reason it’s called the wet season!

During this time, Cuba experiences most of its rain, getting anywhere from 4.7 to 6.7 inches of rain each month between June and September.

Daily thunderstorms are pretty common, especially during the afternoon. Expect the weather to worsen in late summer when hurricane season kicks off.

Sunshine and beaches in the wet season

Although you’re more likely to see dark clouds during the wet season, sunshine and blue skies are still plentiful.

Beaches are the place to be during Cuba’s wet season. The warm water and the trade winds are gentle so that you can look forward to idyllic days of swimming and relaxation.

Marine life is also pretty quiet during this time, so you won’t have to worry about jellyfish, algae, or seaweed ruining the view.

Mornings and early evenings are perfect for beachgoers, but watch out for dark clouds, rain, and choppy waters around midday. Stay safe by hopping out of the water as soon as you notice dark clouds or lightning on the horizon!

Read our ranking of the best beaches in Cuba for more tips about enjoying your summer vacation in Cuba.

Hurricanes in the wet season

Hurricanes usually make their appearance at the tail end of the rainy season. You’re most likely to experience a hurricane from mid-August through the end of October.

Mosquitoes in the wet season

Prepare for mosquitoes — lots of them. Mosquitoes breed when the weather is hot and damp, so Cuba’s wet season is their favorite time of year.

You won’t see as many mosquitoes on the beaches, but you’re sure to run into them if you leave the coast for the cities and countryside.

Remember that mosquitoes aren’t just annoying; they can also harbor diseases like Zika or dengue.

Don’t panic. Cuba is generally safe . Just pack lots of bug spray to keep them away. If you plan to camp outside, bringing a mosquito net is also a good idea.

Food in the wet season

Most fresh vegetables become scarce or frozen at buffets in the wet season, but fruits are in vogue. Mango, pineapple, avocado, mamey , banana, watermelon, papaya, and even greens like kimbombó , fava beans, pumpkin, and sweet potato are easy to find.

A steady drinking water supply is critical to surviving Cuba’s steamy wet season. Drinkable water is relatively scarce in Cuba , and we don’t recommend drinking tap water. Bottled water is hard to come by, even in the big cities, and virtually unheard of if you venture deep into the countryside.

This will require you to plan ahead. A reusable water bottle with a built-in filter will be your best traveling companion.

Important events in the wet season

Cuba’s rainy season isn’t quite as busy as the dry season. However, there are still plenty of exciting festivals and cultural events. Here’s what we recommend checking out:

International Workers’ Day (May)
Carnival (August)
Days of Cuban Culture (October-November)
Havana International Ballet Festival (October-November)

Visiting Cuba in the Dry Season (November to April)

If you don’t visit during the rainy season, you’ll be traveling in Cuba’s other season: the dry season. This occurs from November through April and is characterized by dryer, cooler weather.

Average temperatures and humidity in the dry season

The dry season brings cooler weather to Cuba. The average temperature from April to May is 78 degrees, while Cuba’s coolest months, December to March, hover around 72 degrees.

Temperatures fluctuate more during the dry season as cold fronts sweep down from the Eastern United States, so you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater .

Precipitation in the dry season

Did you know that Cuba only gets 30% of its annual rainfall during the dry season? That means precipitation is low, and storms are infrequent.

Sunshine and beaches in the dry season

Since Cuba doesn’t get much rain during the dry season, you can expect consistently clear, sunny skies. While the temperatures are cooler, the sun is still intense, so we recommend slathering on sunscreen when you head out.

One downside is that marine life also loves the dry season. Jellyfish swim near the coast and won’t hesitate to give you a venomous poke if you accidentally swim too close. Seaweed and algae will roll in one tide and wash up on the beaches.

Hurricanes in the dry season

Hurricanes during the dry season are exceedingly rare. You’re most likely to experience a hurricane in Cuba between August and October, so it’s safe to say your trip will be hurricane-free if you travel during spring or winter.

Mosquitoes in the dry season

Mosquitoes are big fans of humidity, so you won’t see as many during the dry season. However, remember that “fewer mosquitoes” doesn’t mean “no mosquitoes.” Cuba is a sub-tropical Caribbean island, so its warmth is favorable to year-long insect populations.

Food in the dry season

The dry season will be the best time to visit Cuba if you love fresh vegetables. This is the high run for harvesting. Lots of local greens become inexpensive delicacies… at least for the visitor´s pockets.

As a guest in a casa particular or Airbnb in Cuba , you can surely ask for red tomatoes, sweet peppers, cabbage, cucumbers, onions, and carrots. Salads, juices, and natural covers for the face and red skin will make you delighted.

If you love seafood, you’ll be pleased to hear that Cuba’s lobster season runs from June to February, so you can get your shellfish fix.

Important events in the dry season

There are plenty of exciting festivals and events to enjoy during Cuba’s dry season. These are all excellent choices:

Old Havana: City in Movement (urban dance festival)
Havana Biennial (every two years)
Feria Internacional Cubadisco
Havana International Jazz Festival (December)
International Festival of New Latin American Film (December)

During the dry season, you also get to appreciate popular Cuban traditions during Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Cuba

As a rule of thumb, the rainy season (May to October) is typically the cheapest time to travel to Cuba.

Your trip budget may vary depending on when you choose to visit Cuba.

Some travel costs to Cuba remain similar during most of the year, such as the cost of food and drinks, private transportation, Viazul buses , Internet, and entertainment.

Others, like the cost of flights and accommodations, may significantly increase depending on the travel season.

Peak season in Cuba (December to March, July, and August)

Flight prices: Prices run between $400 and $500 from the U.S. to Cuba. Traveling from the east coast of the USA is typically cheaper than the west coast.

Casas particulares : Casas fill up quickly, and you won’t see many vacancies, so booking your room well in advance is wise. If you can get a room, it’ll cost around $25/night.

Hotels: Like casas , hotels fill up quickly during peak season. A room in luxury resorts can run anywhere from $200 to $800 a night.

Shoulder season in Cuba (April, May, June, and November)

Flight prices: Ticket prices start between $300 and $350.

Casa particulares : Rooms are easier to find than during peak season, but we still recommend booking ahead of time. Nightly rates will cost roughly $25/night.

Hotels: $150-450 a night is pretty common.

Low season in Cuba (September and October)

Flight prices: Flights are more affordable at $250 to $300.

Casas particulares : Rooms are cheaper at around $20/night and much easier to find, even in popular areas like Havana. This is the perfect time for last-minute travelers.

Hotels: Vacancies are more common, but prices still run between $150 and $350/night.

We also recommend finding plane tickets and accommodations in Cuba on Skyscanner .

What Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

All facts about Cuba considered, the best time to visit Cuba is during the dry season (November to April). Specifically, March has been the most popular month to travel to Cuba for the last 5 years.

Sunny skies, consistently warm temperatures, and low humidity make traveling during the dry season fun and easy. This is especially true if you plan to leave behind the beaches and tackle urban travel or inland hiking. You’ll be grateful for the lack of thunderstorms and swarms of hungry mosquitoes!

In fact, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in outdoor activities, whether exploring the cities, hiking in the Sierra Maestra, or enjoying the countryside on horseback. Take a look at some of the exciting guided tours offered by Tour Republic .

A Word of Caution: The Worst Time to Visit Cuba

The “worst” time to visit Cuba is at the end of the rainy season when hurricanes start popping up on the map.

To avoid the risk of hurricanes, avoid traveling to Cuba from mid-August through October. Even if you don’t experience a hurricane, the weather will be scorching and humid, limiting what you can comfortably do outside.

When Should You Visit Cuba?

Cuba is an all-around awesome place to visit, so the best time to go to Cuba depends on what kind of trip you want to have. Your daily activities, budget, and even the fresh foods you eat will depend on the season. In either case, this list will help you decide the best time to visit Cuba for your upcoming trip.

So, when do you think is the best time to visit Cuba? Let us know in the comments!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card – If your Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa) isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through EasyTouristCard .

Travel Health Insurance – Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack – Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

First aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Water bottle with filter
Mosquito repellent
Pin adapter (for Europeans)
Travel guide
Spanish-English phrasebook
Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations – Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight – Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba?

Beach resort in Varadero

Photo: Shutterstock

In the heart of the Caribbean, close to the equator, Cuba is warm all year round.

Are you planning a trip to Cuba for the coming year? From its tropical beaches to internationally-renowned classical ballet performances, this curvy tropical island has fun activities for every taste. But as you try to narrow down your itinerary while in Cuba, you may wonder what the best time to visit Cuba is.

Will the weather allow you to do everything you want? Is there a festival that would put your experience on steroids? Read more here!

Cuba Climate: What To Expect Around the Year

The first thing that will change depending on the month of your visit is the weather. Like the rest of the Caribbean, Cuba is a land of “endless summer” – at least at first glance. While you can definitely find outdoor activities around the year, some months will have cooler climates, sunnier skies, or even lower prices.

man on small horse wagon by a church building

Church of the Holy Trinity overlooking Plaza Mayor, Trinidad

Seasons in Cuba

Cuba doesn’t have the traditional four seasons that temperate regions do. Instead, it has just two: a “dry” season and a “rainy” one.

The dry season lasts from November to April, and it is characterized by less frequent rain, although it’s far from completely dry. During December and January, average temperatures also dip slightly (but never reach “cold” levels under any definition), and the air gets a bit drier, which helps the air feel cooler overall.

The rainy season lasts from May to October. Expect short showers nearly every day and full-blown rainy days at least once a week during this season.

As local legend would have it, the first rains of May are particularly auspicious, as they can relieve chronic diseases and cleanse your spirit from impurities.

Hurricanes in Cuba

So what about hurricane season? Technically, hurricane season overlaps with the end of the rainy season, between June and November. During this time, the sky can go from bright to gray in a matter of minutes.

As for actual hurricanes – they rarely hit the island, and they are unlikely to affect your safety or your belongings. Cuban citizens like to joke that nothing works as well in Cuba as the Civil Defense office. You may need to spend a day safe indoors, but on the other hand, you will be able to experience one of the quintessential “island experiences.”

High versus low season

Let’s talk about tourism seasons, as they will affect the ease with which you book and the final cost of your trip.

There are two peak tourism seasons in Cuba. The first one goes from late December until March (or from Christmas to the Easter break). This is also the sunniest and coolest time of the year when the beaches are at their most enticing (and if you come from the Northern Hemisphere, that’s exactly what you’ll be needing).

The second “peak” covers most of July and August. During this time, Cuban schools will be on recess, so expect longer lines at many nature parks and museums, and you may need to share the beach with other humans.

The low season goes from early May to late June (prices drop as temperatures rise) and between September and October (tourism slows down at the start of hurricane season). During this time, expect lower prices, quieter beaches, and the opportunity to stroll around museums at your own pace.

group af male musicians with guitars and drums

Street musicians in Havana

Dealing With the Tropical Heat

If you live in a cooler or temperate country, you may be worried about handling Cuba’s tropical heat. The sharp temperature change can be a bit disconcerting, especially if you travel during your winter. Don’t worry! In my twenty-something years of living on this island, I’ve gathered a few pro tips that will help you handle the heat waves as the locals do:

- Make sure you wear sunscreen of at least SPF 50. Even if you don’t “burn and peel” easily, a mild sunburn will leave you with a permanent cloud of heat around your body the next day.
- Wear loose, thin clothes with long sleeves in cotton or linen. Try to keep the handcuffs and waistlines loose to allow air to flow around you.
- Remember, “siesta” was invented for a reason! Just because we all seem to disappear right after lunch doesn’t mean we are truly sleeping. Between noon and 3 PM, it’s best to plan an indoor activity (preferably somewhere with A/C)
- Check if your hotel room has A/C. If you’re staying at a rented apartment or home, look for one that has a sun porch or terrace and embrace the island schedule.

performers in colorful costumes walking on stilts

Dance performance in the streets of Havana

Festivals and Celebrations

Cuba is much more than its countryside. Its cities host a variety of festivals, summits, and parades that can be just as fascinating – it all depends on what you are looking for. From street parties to the chance of experiencing the biggest stars of vintage rhythms, it all depends on when you come.

Here are some of the highlights to look forward to:

January: The year kicks off with the country-wide celebrations for the Anniversary of the Revolution. In Havana, this is followed by the International Jazz Festival, which brings some of the genre’s biggest stars to the city.

February: The Habano Festival is all about one of the country’s top exports. You can visit Cuban cigar factories and tobacco farms, attend seminars, or book special cigar dinners that blend signature aromas with the right food pairings.

March: The largest Carnival on the island is held at Santiago de Cuba. Parades can easily last until 3 AM, but the party usually continues until sunrise.

April : The International Biennial of Graphic Humor, held at San Antonio de Los Baños, gathers cartoonists and satirists worldwide.

May : The Romerías festival combines a Spanish harvest festival with religious rituals. The town of Holguín dons its best clothes for a series of free concerts, parades, and a collective pilgrimage atop the local hill.

June : Head to Trinidad for the Fiestas Sanjuaneras or San Juan fest , which marks the longest day of the year. Dance to some of the oldest forms of African music still alive and beating.

July : During the Fiesta del Fuego (Fire Festival), the city of Santiago de Cuba loses itself in revelry to welcome back the Nzambi Congo , an ancient African deity, who is then paraded through the streets.

August : Havana’s International Hip-Hop Festival (Urban Potaje) takes place on the second week of August, just as the Havana Carnival cools down on the 7th.

September : The Feast of Our Lady of Charity (La Virgen de la Caridad) offers an unusual window into the island’s traditional religious fervor. As she is the island’s Patroness, expect her Feast to open the gates of every colonial church in Havana.

October : The International Ballet Festival of Havana may provide a window for traditional dancers, but in the smaller city of Matanzas, you can dance to the faster rumba rhythms during the Rumbero Bailador Fest.

November : In Majagua, the Red and Blue Bands Party divides the population into two teams for sports competitions, food fairs, and traditional dances.

December : In the city of Remedios, Christmas carols are replaced with Parrandas, loud and boisterous competitions in which each neighborhood prepares a special “surprise” while trying to spoil their rivals’.

mountain biker on road with old blue car next to large mountain

Mountain biking in Viñales

Outdoor Activities

If you need sunshine and fresh air to recharge, you may have a harder time choosing the ideal dates for your trip – especially if you are booking months in advance. These activities will depend heavily on the day’s weather, which is particularly unpredictable in Cuba.

However, that doesn’t mean that some dates won’t increase your chances of success. Here are a few considerations:

- Planning to hike, camp, or mountain bike? Then try to come during the dry season. During the rainy season, trails may be muddy, and some parts of the countryside may be inaccessible just as you’re passing by.
- Snorkeling and scuba diving technically just need a sunny, beach-worthy day. Try to leave a couple of “free” days on your schedule so you can rebook any activities.
- The fishing season in Cuba goes from March to June. If you’re interested in a specific species, check with your tour operator, and expect to “capture and free” your catch!
- If you want to sail or surf, avoid hurricane season. Even if no hurricane is headed for the island directly, one passing through a nearby island could make the Coast Guard keep you ashore.

Written by Liz Lezcano.

Published October 2022.