best cuba tours for us citizens

Get a taste of the real Cuba on a legal tour for Americans.

Legal Cuba Travel

We've the latest information you need as an American citizen on Cuba travel licenses, Cuba tourist visas, flights to Cuba, and advice to plan your Cuba trip, safely and legally.

Our Cuba Tours

Our Cuba tours are compliant with U.S. Government regulations. We offer 9, 11 & 15 day options, with groups limited to 12 travellers.      

Flights to Cuba

Choose your own flights to Cuba! All of our Cuba tours start and end in Havana. This gives you the freedom to choose the route to Cuba that is most convenient and economical for you

The Cuba Tourist Visa (or Tourist Card) is a document you need to enter Cuba. Read about what it is and how to obtain it!

" Our trip with Cuban Adventures exceeded all of our expectations. We normally do not travel on group tours but we are so glad we did. We learned so much from the guide about the history and the culture and the local hot spots to go to for food, drink and dancing. Thank you for making our trip to Cuba Amazing! We will definitely be back."

Top Cuba Tour Operators for Americans

Sir Francis Canker Photography/Getty Images

For the first time since the 1950s, Americans are allowed to travel legally to Cuba , but it's still not a simple process if you want to book a flight and hotel in Havana or Varadero, for both bureaucratic and supply related reasons. That's why Americans still book tours through companies that have won special approval from the U.S. State Department to run cultural-exchange trips to Cuba .

Going on a group tour means you're guaranteed not to run afoul of the still-sticky rules governing Cuba travel , which require that your trip focuses on cultural exchanges, not tourism (in other words, you should be meeting Cuban people and learning about their culture, not lying on the beach all day). Each of these companies has crafted tours full of cultural experiences that you'd be unlikely to arrange all on your own. Plus, you'll be traveling with companies that have had years of experience operating in Cuba and with guides who are intimately familiar with this fascinating country and its people.

Note that all Cuba tours are fully escorted, include all lodging and meals, and have a mandatory overnight in Miami for pre-trip trip orientation.

Insight Cuba

Insight Cuba is based in New Rochelle, N.Y., and has been bringing Americans to Cuba since 2000. Their tour schedule is especially diverse, with programs focused on music, baseball, and the Havana Marathon as well as tours that get visitors outside Havana to explore the still mostly undiscovered countryside. Their 4-day Weekend in Havana tour is a rare opportunity for a quick Cuban getaway.

Cuba Explorer

Canadians have been traveling to Cuba legally for decades— an experience that benefits this British Columbia based agency that also is licensed to bring U.S. citizens to Cuba. Programs include basic introductory tours, an Arts and Culture Tour to Havana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos, and a trip to the annual Havana International Jazz Festival.

Classic Journeys

Classic Journeys operates tours all over the world and has added Cuba to its offerings. Programs include a seven-night walking tour, a family-oriented program designed with children and teens in mind, and a Havana weekend tour that includes stops at Ernest Hemingway's house, salsa lessons, and a stay in Old Havana.

Friendly Planet Tours

In addition to the typical Havana and Cuba introductory tours, Friendly Planet offers an itinerary that includes a stop in Varadero, the beach destination most visited by non-U.S. travelers.

International Expeditions

This ecotourism company specializing in nature travel offers two Cuba tours: one focused on Havana and the city of Trinidad and a longer journey that includes visits to the wetlands of the Zapata Peninsula, a boat trip through limestone caves off the coast of Vinales, and a stop at a farm that raises tobacco for Cuba's famous cigars.

YMT Vacations

YMT Vacations is an international travel company that offers a single 8-night Cuba itinerary that includes stops in Old Havana, the historic towns of Santa Clara and Remedios, a tobacco farm, and the usual cultural, musical and artistic performances and visits required under the "support for the Cuban people" travel rules.

Central Holidays

Another legal Cuba travel pioneer, Central Holidays offers a 7-night "Havana: Then and Now" tour and a 9-day program that takes in Havana and the less-traveled historic cities of Camaguey, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos. 

In Touch Travel Services

In Touch offers four Cuba tours with some interesting twists, including programs focusing on the island's Spanish colonial history, Afro Cuban culture and music, and a rare chance to visit the east coast towns of Guantanamo and Baracoa.

Cuba is for seniors, too! ElderTrek's comprehensive, 13-day tour of Cuba takes in Havana, the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, the history of the Cuban revolution in Santa Clara, Afro Cuban music, and more.

Collette Tours

New England based Collette Tours, one of the nation's biggest tour companies, runs a Rediscover Cuba tour several times a year; the itinerary includes visits to Havana and Trinidad, a steam train ride to a sugar plantation, a choral concert, and more.

Cubas Capital City of Havana

Cuba Guide: Planning Your Trip

Licensed Cuba Travel Providers

48 Hours in Havana: The Ultimate Itinerary

Top Travel Destinations and Attractions in Cuba

The 5 Best Day Trips from Havana

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

Gay and Lesbian Friendly Destinations in the Caribbean

A Guide to Public Transport in Cuba

One Perfect Week in Cuba

The Top 17 Things to Do in Cuba

Cuba Travel Restrictions and Warnings: What You Need to Know

What Americans Traveling to Cuba Need to Know

The 27 Best Things To Do in Miami

The Best Women-Only Adventure Travel Companies

Best Tour Companies for Singles

Sign in with your email and password

Cubans love americans – explore our friendly island, cuba travel is legal for americans. come visit vibrant, safe cuba..

Havana tours just $ 1299

People-to-People travel is back: economical and effortless

We make legal Cuba travel easy for visitors from the United States so you can enjoy wall-to-wall fun.

National Geographic and TripAdvisor award Cuba best travel destination for 2024.

An exotic new world awaits you . In addition to the magic permeating our tropical island, you’ll be staying in the only country in the hemisphere deemed ecologically sustainable.

Discover Cuba with like-minded explorers on our popular Cuba tours. Or, ask us to assist with a private tour for family and friends.

Paradise is just a hop away . Our Cuba tour packages include awesome experiences, top-reviewed accommodations, and deluxe dining – at prices geared to regular Americans.

Cuba Explorer travel advantages and benefits

• $ 29 dollar tour deposit secures guaranteed departures dates
• Free Cuban Tourist Visas delivered to all tour guests
• Certificates of Legal Cuba Travel for US citizens and residents
• Flexible and generous terms and conditions for peace of mind
• No penalties for changing dates, itineraries, or early cancellations
• Family and group discounts for public and private tours
• We urge you to shop and compare our Cuba tours and travel services

Only the best Cuba adventures for our American guests

Private custom cuba travel.

Tell us the Cuba trip of your dreams. We’ll make it happen. Ideal for family and friends deserving something special. Free, fast, no-obligation itineraries designed by you together with Cuban experts in Havana.

Study abroad options in Cuba

Cuba provides the most engaging and rewarding study abroad possibilities in Latin America. Cuba Explorer has helped thousands of students delve into Cuba’s rich cultural roots and unique social fabric. We’re eager to assist teachers and students with experiential learning tours.

Weekend in Havana

Four magical days and three sensual nights in the Cuban capital known as the “Paris of the Americas.” A special getaway to relish music, dance, art and culture at an unbeatable price …

Havana extravaganza

Incredible offer A fabulous week of fun, frolic, and friendship. Culture, music, dance, nature and the beach. You’ll get to know Cuba together with locals eager to engage in …

Old Havana and the sea

Stay on the white sand beaches of magical Varadero, famed for its warm crystal clear waters. Experience Havana’s authentic culture, food, people, and rousing nightlife …

Wild Cuba adventure

Hike, bike and sail across awesome Cuba on this adventure romp with nature lovers. Much music, dance and time to mingle with locals. Experience an exotic tropical paradise …

Western Cuba culture

Visit UNESCO world heritage sites in Havana, Trinidad and Cienfuegos on this social and natural history expedition. Learn all about Cuban culture, and enjoy music, dance, arts …

Fast online Cuba visitor visas

Official Cuba visitor visas for US travelers delivered to your home. Note This service is for independent Cuba travelers. All Cuba Explorer packages include a free Cuban visa.

Weekend in Havana review

Very interesting. I did a lot of research so it was close to what I expected. Enjoyed the food, coffee, and general sightseeing. No problems with this trip.

Jason Harding Macomb, Michigan

I love the people. They were gracious, kind, and beautiful. I loved talking with the professor and learning about the history of the music. Our guide Geldrys ... read more

Deborah Parker Powell Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Eston Schwartz in Cuba review

People were so friendly and giving. We were walking on the street in Havana and people would come up to talk to us and never ask for anything ... read more

Eston Schwartz Columbia, Missouri

Beautiful place with lots of interesting venues, and people who are friendly and welcoming. I loved that we ventured out of the city center to see places we ... read more

Susan Moguel West Palm Beach, Florida

Moh Rahimi in Cuba review

We really enjoyed our trip to Cuba. people are very nice respectful and friendly, Cuba is very safe, even safer than the US. We walk late at night ... read more

Mohammad Rahimi Brentwood, Tennessee

Wild Cuba adventure review

Very interesting. I now have a better understanding of their history and culture, and can contrast the parts that are better than the US, and parts where the ... read more

Alan Hickox Aberdeen, Maryland

Western Cuba culture review

Without exception, everyone we met in Cuba, both on tour and our own, were warm, welcoming, engaging, and fun to be with: in a word, delightful. My wife ... read more

William West Ventura, California

We loved this trip. Everyone was friendly, the food everywhere we went was excellent, and the accommodations were terrific. Most special: the food, the people, our tour guide ... read more

Beth Neiderman Ventnor, New Jersey

It was a wonderful experience! The people were friendly and the food was delicious! I saw many interesting sites. I would recommend anyone to take this tour.

Karma Stark Mantua, New Jersey

Paul Kellett in Cuba review

The Cuban people are very helpful kind and sincere. Great prices on food and drinks – both were awesome. The experience was very laid back – no rushing from A ... read more

Paul Kellett Gadsden, Alabama

Cuba's hidden gems review

The trip was wonderful. The people were so friendly. I loved the antique cars. I would have liked more night spots!

Johnny Moore Birmingham, Alabama

Havana extravaganza review

Cuba is a wonderful place to visit but still needs investment to develop its tourist base. People are very nice, polite and helpful. People who work in the ... read more

Agata Woldan-Lopez Woodside, New York

Cuba discovery review

The people were so friendly and helpful. I loved all of the gardens and architecture.

Paula Rosenbaum Pontiac, Illinois

The people are so friendly, hard-working, interesting, and welcoming. Cuba is a mix of old and new, a beautiful place and so much history! Liked learning about the ... read more

Cynthia Rung Il, Illinois

People are friendly. Our designated stops were rich in history. Our tour guide Norberto was very knowledgeable and personable. Tour met my expectations.

Linda Kisberg-Katz Frisco, Texas

Cuba is fascinating, intriguing, alluring, spectacular, beautiful, mysterious and complicated all wrapped up together. The people of Cuba were so warm and welcoming. The architecture and American cars ... read more

John Mason Frisco, Colorado

Old Havana and the sea review

The Cuban people are hard-working and kind. It is a country with a very rich history. I loved our tour guide Otto Sanchez. He was excellent and able ... read more

Ruth Anne McGinley Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

I had a very positive reaction to the people despite their many limitations. We enjoy the intimate relationship with our guide and driver. The interaction was beyond my ... read more

Marcia Hajduk Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Cuba is an exciting country with a rich and colorful history. I really enjoyed learning about the intricate culture and history. The Cuban people are friendly, helpful and ... read more

Kirsten Jensen Vienna, Virginia

Rene Houghland in Cuba review

I can't get Cuba out of my mind. Gretel was the perfect hostess and guide. We learned more than I ever imagined. Can't wait to go back! I ... read more

Rene Houghland Nashville, Tennessee

Wonderful, warm people! I'll remember our walking tour of Old Havana and our guide Rachel forever.

David Prensky Yardley, Pennsylvania

Sharon Macias in Havana review

I was very impressed with the people, the culture, and the spirit of the people. I can see how they struggle for things we take for granted, wi-fi, ... read more

Sharon Macias Palm Desert, California

I was very surprised by the level of satisfaction the Cuban people have for the government and their situation which was contrary to what I supposed. Everyone was ... read more

Danielle Breaud New Orleans, Louisiana

Rachel Mullen in Cuba review

We loved every minute of our time in Cuba. Rachel, our tour guide, was absolutely perfect. She answered all of my pestering questions and was spot-on with ... read more

Daniel Mullen Nashville, Tennessee

Dream. Explore. Discover. Cuba with Angela Rose review

I loved Cuba, its people, and its culture. A gorgeous island with friendly people and great food! I enjoyed speaking with a Cuban real estate agent, and the ... read more

Angela Rose Atlanta, Georgia

Cuba is beautiful and its people are friendly and helpful. It’s nice to be someplace that hasn’t been overrun by commercial tourism (yet). I learned so ... read more

Stella Gevarguize Yonkers, New York

I was worried before travel that Cuba amenities would be sub-par. Instead, the hotel, restaurants, pool, and so on were all of an excellent standard. I loved Cuba! ... read more

June McCarthy Roswell, Georgia

Manuel Rivero in Cuba review

Cuba is a beautiful country. Its natural beauty is varied and often breathtaking. The music, art, and architecture are as beautiful and diverse as its natural gifts. We ... read more

Jennifer Vasile Forest Hills, New York

Growing up in America and the story of the Cuban Missile Crisis and Fidel Castro and flying over Cuba to Grand Cayman Island, I remember looking out the ... read more

Pete Mannion New York, New York

Visiting Cuba was everything I hoped for and more. The people are warm, the country is splendid, and the culture full of vibrancy and pulsating energy. Our tour ... read more

Kimberlee Sherbrooke Baltimore, Maryland

I love Cuba and was so happy to return for a second trip. I took my sixteen-year-old grandson, and he had a wonderful time as well. The people ... read more

Marjorie Forman New York, New York

My wife detailed our impressions here: https://beckygiovagnoni.wordpress.com/2019/08/13/heres-to-ten-years/Our guide Atila was the best. We had no problems whatsoever.

Christopher Giovagnoni Colorado Springs, Colorado

I plan to return. I enjoyed the tour thoroughly. The Cuban people are ultra-friendly. Every scheduled activity was exciting. Our guide Atila was nice and knowledgeable.

Roy Fox Memphis, Tennessee

Jet Royal Group in Cuba review

Not my first visit to Cuba as I was the group leader. Every time the people and culture are AWESOME! We received ongoing professional service from our tour ... read more

Dolores Roxan Collins Upper Marlboro, Maryland

I loved it so much! No complications. Agenda perfect.

Jeffrey Allen Smith Sammamish, Washington

Christal Badour in Cuba review

We loved our trip to Cuba! Everything was very well-organized, our guide and driver were fantastic. All of the people we met were extremely friendly and we loved ... read more

Christal Badour Hirsch Lexington, Kentucky

Cuba is beautiful. The locals are warm and welcoming. So much history and so many traditions were shared with us during this trip. The tour was packed with ... read more

Ana Theresa Barr Chula Vista, California

Marvin Murry in Cuba review

The people are very intimate with their music. It seems everywhere we went we saw singers, dancers, musicians or all three. We loved the diversity of the people ... read more

Marvin Murry Dallas, Texas

Illinois Legislators & Friends review

It was a very nice trip, lots to do, learned a lot about the culture and the people. The cooking and mojito lessons were tops. The city tour ... read more

Rita Mayfield Waukegan, Illinois

Lets Go to Cuba review

Caring, imaginative, loving people and nation. Definitely struggling, but strongly bonded as a community. Enjoyed the Muraleandro community project visit, suggested by our guide, Laura. She helped us ... read more

Alejandra Beatty Arvada, Colorado

I was surprised at the resilience and resourcefulness of the Cuban people, who have been cut off from purchasing from the U.S. and its allies. The people ... read more

Sandra Buckhoy Broadview, Illinois

This was one of the most memorable cultural and educational exchanges I've experienced during my adult life. Our travel to Cuba was an unforgettable educational experience. We had ... read more

Paul Williams Chicago, Illinois

I found the experience quite enlightening. I enjoyed learning about Cuban culture and people. I have a greater appreciation and respect for Cuba as a result of our ... read more

Great people, great history and wonderful learning experience. Loved each of the scheduled activities, and our very knowledgeable tour guides, as well as the visit with Professor Núñ... read more

Ruth McCoy Missouri City, Texas

Havana, Cuba was amazing. The people were all so friendly, the food was amazing, and I really enjoyed the music and dancing. Mojitos, mojitos, mojitos – I love them, ... read more

Katherine Phillips New York, New York

Matadial Manjushree in Havana review

Cuba was a phenomenal visit. Out tour guide was excellent and very knowledgeable about Cuba and the world. Pavel truly made our trip very enjoyable. I wish I ... read more

Manjushree Matadial West Orange, New Jersey

We enjoyed getting to know the Cuban people and the culture. We were sad that so many beautiful buildings are crumbling and in disrepair. We loved our trip ... read more

Cheryl Cagle Marietta, Georgia

After four days in Havana, I found the city to be beautiful and historically significant. All the Cubans with whom I came in contact were kind and generous. ... read more

Lauren Fischel Fairfield, Connecticut

Very nice people. Our Cuban tour guide Claudia was excellent, friendly and professional. The tour was without problems.

John Alderman, Iii Charleston, West Virginia

Cubans are resilient, beautiful, friendly. Loved the variety; getting to see and meet some locals, the different restaurants for the flavors of Cuba; the comfortable hotel; and ... read more

Bandele Adeyemi-Znidarcic Mamaroneck, New York

• 800-450-2822
• Travel Agents

Search form

• Your Booking
• insightCuba
• Classic Cuba
• Weekend in Havana
• Private Departures
• Custom-Made Tours
• Support for the Cuban People Travel
• Boutique Residences
• When to Go?
• Cuba Destinations
• Entry Requirements
• Travel Insurance
• Cuba Travel History
• Official Documents
• What to Bring
• Things to Know
• Health and Safety
• Regulations
• Electronics
• Havana Marathon

Cuba is ready to welcome you:

Cuba… a place and a people rooted in culture, history and curiosity. There is no better time to travel to Cuba… and see it for yourself. Join us, the leader in legal, small group Cuba travel, and experience firsthand this once-forbidden country in ways never before possible.

Featured Cuba Tours

Throw back the curtain on this vibrant city and discover, at long last, how its jovial soul has the power to delight and inspire you.

This exciting, eight-day tour of journey to Cuba's most famous cities will add the brushstrokes to the unfinished canvas of your vision of Cuba.

An immersive discovery where you’ll witness Cuba's incredible people, budding entrepreneurial scene, and dynamic rhythm and color.

Featured In

“…sign up with InsightCuba... The tour operator has taken Americans on tours of Cuba for the last 15 years.”

Thank you, insightCuba, for a trip of a lifetime.

"[InsightCuba] has been doing business in Cuba, and only in Cuba, for a long time, so its employees have the right relationships and know the country better than others."

Words cannot describe.... The people, the music, the architecture and rich history... Stunningly beautiful and magical!

"For half a century the vast majority of Americans have been barred from traveling to Cuba...with insightCuba, visitors interact with ordinary Cubans and get a taste of the forbidden fruit."

The trip was exactly what I was looking for. I liked going to the various schools and museums to get a real feel of the country. 

Subscribe to our Newsletter

101 Greenwood Ave, Suite 500 Jenkintown, PA 19046

• 914-380-8303
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

© Copyright 2000-2024 insightCuba. All Rights Reserved.

 Photos courtesy of Robin Thom.

* Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon options you select during the booking process. Prices and availability subject to change.

† The Carefree Booking policy is not travel insurance. With our Carefree Booking policy, if you book one of our scheduled departures and decide later not to travel for any reason, you can transfer all payments you've made excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets, towards another available departure date or package, with no change fees or penalties. Alternately, you can choose to receive a future travel credit for all payments made, excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets; or you can choose to receive a refund for that same amount, minus the deposit, per person future travel credit. You may use these credits anytime, however they must be used or transferred within 5 years of your bookings, and some restrictions apply. Travel protection premiums may be credited to your new tour provided: no claim is filed; (no vendor penalties such as Air, sea or rail etc have been incurred); and your new trip departs within 1 year of the cancellation of your original tour. Valid for bookings made on or after August 2, 2022. Changes or cancellations requested after final payment due date are subject to our regular change and cancellation fees & policies. For more information and some additional restrictions, see our terms & conditions .

†† $199 deposit available on select packages. Valid for new bookings only. Changes to your package, departure date, or flights may require an increased deposit. See additional terms & conditions .

THE 10 BEST Cuba Tours & Excursions

• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Views Of Cuba

2. views of cuba.

3. Cubaoutings

4. Free Walking Tour Havana

5. Old Cars Havana

6. Cuban Compass Tours

7. Havacubvision

8. Strawberry Tours

9. Discover Vinales

10. VC Tours

11. Cuban Connection Tour

12. Havana Journeys - Day Tours

13. ScubaLibre Varadero

14. Authentic Cuban Tours

15. Locally Sourced Havana Tours

16. Taxi Drivers Cuba

17. Taxi TurismoPorCuba

18. Hc tours Havana

19. Havana Vintage Car Tours

20. I Love Cuba Photo Tours

21. Bike Rental & Tours Havana

22. Legendarios del Guajirito

23. OldCarTours

24. Riding Vinales

25. RutaBikes

26. Nosotros Cubaneamos

27. Rebellecuba

28. Friendly Cuba Voyage

29. Havana 60 Classic Cars Tours

30. Cuba Among Cubans

What travelers are saying

• Delfinario De Cayo Guillermo
• Hershey Train
• Havacubvision
• Cubaoutings
• Free Walking Tour Havana
• Old Cars Havana
• Taxi TurismoPorCuba
• Cuban Compass Tours
• Bike Rental & Tours Havana
• I Love Cuba Photo Tours
• Cuba Among Cubans
• Trinidad Travels
• A Friend in Havana
• Gardner Tours
• Mi Cuba Querida
• Authentic Vinales Tours
• Hc tours Havana

JavaScript is either not enabled or not working in your browser, and quite a lot of stuff on our site won't work right.

Travel Notices

Friendly Planet has successfully operated fully compliant legal tours to Cuba for Americans since 2011, and we look forward to continuing to do so under the latest rules.

Just 90 miles from US soil, travel to Cuba is easier than ever! Our value-packed Cuba tours have been in high demand, and we've helped thousands of delighted travelers discover this once forbidden island. Experience the rich culture of indigenous, African, and European roots. Meet artists in their Old Havana studios and rural Cuban families in the Viñales Valley, a region renowned for the cultivation of tobacco, cassava, and taro.

From salsa dancing beneath the night sky in Havana and the sweet and earthy smell of hand-rolled cigars and the bright smiles (and wardrobe!) of warm and welcoming locals—experiencing the authentic side of Cuba is a bucket list item every traveler should check off!

We're proud to be one of the first U.S. tour companies awarded a license for Cuba travel, way back in September 2011. Since then, we've sent thousands of American travelers to this relatively unexplored destination to participate in unique, inspiring, and affordable encounters with the Cuban people.

Friendly Planet Travel operates legal tours to Cuba under the "Support for the Cuban People" travel category, in accordance with 31 CFR § 515.574 published by the Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

Tours & Packages

• Destinations: Cuba
• including closed packages

Trip Reviews & Photos

We love hearing your stories and seeing your photos! Check out our entire fan photo gallery and upload your photos.

Havana A throwback to another generation, Havana's old-world charm is a glimpse into the heart of this fascinating country. Old cobbled plazas and historic buildings turned museums are juxtaposed with popular nightclubs and hotels that still exude a 1950s atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore Habana Vieja (Old Havana), a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of narrow and winding cobbled streets and almost 1,000 buildings of historical significance. Paladares, private restaurants Amid a culinary revolution, dining in Cuba becomes an adventure as thousands of little-known (and sometimes even secret!) independent restaurants have exploded across the island. Relaxed government regulations on private business have facilitated this growing industry—with more than 2,000 newly opened eateries. Innovative restaurateurs have opened up in surprising locations, offering experiences that often rival dining in London or Paris. The flavorful food and atmosphere are comforting and authentic, and rich and complex dishes shatter the "rice and beans" stereotype. Don't forget to grab a freshly made mojito to follow your savory  ropa vieja  (braised, shredded beef)! Classic American cars Travel back in time as you ride in style in one of Havana's classic American cars. In the early 20th century, these incredibly-maintained automobiles were imported to Cuba for around 50 years; however, importing the classic cars came to a halt after the Cuban revolution. Today, Cuba is seen as a living museum for vintage cars, as it is common to see them in many different colors cruising along the streets. It's estimated that there are about 60,000 classic American cars in Cuba, with some dating back to the early 1930s! Casa Particular, Havana El Encanto de Perserverancia, the Cuban Bed and Breakfast on our  Authentic Havana  and  Authentic Havana & the Scenic Vinales Valley  tours, is a highlight in itself. This B&B, or casa particular, was hand-picked by our President Peggy Goldman during her many trips to Havana. It is a traditional colonial-style house that has been lovingly restored and converted into charming accommodations. The casa is privately owned, meaning your money goes directly into the pockets of the locals, and it offers a much more authentic, intimate, and satisfying stay versus the huge government-run hotels in the city. Our casa is also centrally located, only a seven-minute walk from the Malecon, the city's iconic sea wall. In addition, it is within easy walking distance of several trendy restaurants, including La Guarida, frequented by many American celebrities when they visit Havana. Plus, we give you the genuine experience of staying in a real Havana community with schools, cafes, and local shops nearby while only being a short drive from touristic Old Havana.

Already booked on one of our packages to Cuba? See everything you need to know before you go .

Emergency Banner Component

Cuba: A Cultural Odyssey

Select Year

Select the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Classic
• 2025 Classic

Accommodations

• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Five days of "Support For The Cuban People" educational exchange

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All hotel accommodations – 1 night in Miami at Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, Miami and 5 nights in Havana at GRAND ASTON La Habana

All day-to-day travel details taken care of for you 

Escorted travel from the moment your trip begins in Miami, accompanied by a professional Tauck Director and experienced local Cuban guides, all fluent in both English & Spanish

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Experiences of a lifetime

Meet face-to-face with local residents from different professions, share thoughts, gain knowledge, and connect with Cuba's cultural heritage as you discover the traditions of Cuban culture through music, sports and more!

Through cultural exchange activities built around key themes including Cuban culture and the arts, history, architecture, agriculture, cigars, vintage cars, baseball and more, you'll interact directly with the people of Cuba on Tauck's Havana-based People-to-People trip. Meet Cuban students, educators, entrepreneurs, architects, artists and artisans, dancers, musicians, technicians, baseball players and coaches and more. Explore Ernest Hemingway's life in Cuba at his preserved home. Discuss art and private enterprise with artists in their studios. Visit with agricultural workers to talk about agrarian reform, tobacco production and organic farming. Interact with members of Havana organizations about their work, from dance to historic preservation to baseball. Learn about Cuban cultural traditions… have meals at paladares (small, privately operated Cuban restaurants)… and connect with the people of Cuba, their passions and their culture in many ways through unique Tauck Experiences.

Connect with Locals

Connect, learn and discover.

Connect with locals of all ages in various outreach programs throughout the island. You'll visit various organizations that teach language and traditional music skills to youth, as well as sustainable farming productions that benefit the communities. Immerse in an incredible Afro-Cuban cultural experience with Project Beyond Roots, and feel the energy of the students at Havana Compas Dance. A trip to Cuba wouldn't be complete without the chance to dance along to cultural classics.

Learn about Cuba's agricultural products

Private tour of a tobacco farm.

Meet the owner of a private tobacco farm, Tabacco de Benito Camejo, and hear stories about his experience living in the countryside. He'll teach you about the process of growing tobacco and cigar rolling. As a fifth-generation cigar farmer he'll have lots to show you across his picturesque farm in the tobacco-region of the Viñales Valley.

Learn about Vintage American Cars

American vintage cars.

The glint of chrome from countless American vintage cars swathes the streets in Cuba. From taxis to vintage cars that are locally owned, you can find more than 60,000 pre-1959 American cars cruising the city streets of Havana. You'll have the chance to ride around town in one too!

Explore Ernest Hemingway's Home

Discover the inspiration for "the old man and the sea".

American novelist Ernest Hemingway loved Cuba and its people. He called Havana home for over twenty years from 1939 to 1960, and wrote some of his most well-known works here. You'll see his extensive library and beloved typewriter and learn more about his life amongst Cuban people and his hobbies along the coastline.

Download, Print Or Share

Take The Details With You

Download day-by-day details.

All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

Request A Tour Planner

Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Hyatt regency coral gables.

Coral Gables, Florida

GRAND ASTON La Habana

Havana, Cuba

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

Includes On-Tour Air

Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Please check back soon.

No departures found.

Try using less filters or select a different year.

Want More Detailed Information?

Request a Tour Planner

Call 800-788-7885

About Booking This Tour

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $499  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck trip for entry into Cuba. You will also need a visa to enter Cuba, the nature of which is somewhat different than what many other countries require. The Cuban government requires all foreign visitors to have a Cuban visa, sometimes referred to as a "Tourist Card," for which there is no official application process. Cuban immigration officials will collect one half of this two-part card upon your arrival in the country, and the other half upon your departure. Tauck will obtain your Cuban visa, which will be given to you in Miami, along with the documents for your included charter flight from Miami to Havana.

In addition, other special documentation will be needed to complete the requirements for travel to Cuba; more details about this required documentation will be sent to you with your booking confirmation. Please review the details in the Instruction Sheet and  Travel Affidavit . You must retain these documents for a period of at least five years.

Please Note: Because many of you are traveling as a U.S. citizen with Tauck on a People-to-People educational exchange travel itinerary operated under a license granted to Tauck by the United States Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), you are legally licensed and authorized to travel to Cuba.  Before departing on your trip, we will give you a Letter of Authorization from Tauck stating that you have permission to travel under that license, to keep as part of your travel documents.

If you are a citizen of another country but legally reside in the U.S., you may travel on Tauck's People-to-People trip to Cuba as long as you have a valid passport from your country of citizenship, as well as a residency card or alien card (or "green card") to establish your legal U.S. residency when returning to the U.S. from Cuba upon your arrival in Miami.

If you are a Cuban-born U.S. citizen, your travel document requirements depend on when you originally departed Cuba. If you departed Cuba prior to December 31, 1970, you will require either a PE-11 visa (which can take from six to eight weeks to process, is valid for a one-time entry for 30 days, and expires within 90 days of issue) or a Cuban passport; the choice is yours. If you left Cuba after January 1, 1971, you will require a Cuban passport, which can take from three to four months to obtain. If you will need help in obtaining one of these documents, please let us know at the time of booking.

If you are a citizen of another country and do not legally reside in the U.S., you may travel on Tauck's People-to-People trip to Cuba as long as you have the proper documentation that allows you to enter the U.S. for the start of the trip and return to the U.S. at the end of the trip. A multi-entry U.S. visa is required.

A travel affidavit is also required for all travelers to Cuba, regardless of nationality. Please use this link to apply for your travel affidavit at least 75 days prior to your trip: https://cubatravelservices.com/tauck-travel-affidavit/ 

Because all guests on this tour (U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens alike) will be arriving into Cuba from the U.S., a Cuban visa is required of all travelers. Tauck will obtain your Cuban visa for you during your tour.

Please note that you will not be traveling to Cuba as a tourist. You will be traveling as part of the People-to-People educational exchange.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen. You must retain these documents for a period of at least five years.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

Health Safety and Mobility

Our People-to-People cultural exchange activities in Cuba include visits to rural areas, agricultural facilities and small villages, as well as to various sections of Havana with centuries-old streets and buildings with limited access. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over unpaved and uneven terrain. Both the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove and the Meliá Habana are equipped with elevators.  The road conditions in Cuba are improving; however, paved roads, especially in rural areas, are often in poor condition. Some roads to rural locations are not paved and some out-of-the-way destinations are accessible only by these roads; other roads may be unpaved and bumpy. Our People-to-People cultural exchange itinerary includes several early morning starts and leaves little scheduled free time.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES:  This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey.  Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Travelers should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one traveler.  Travelers requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at the hotels on the journey, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on your motor coach.

The only hotel on this trip that allows smoking is the Meliá Habana in Havana.

Airline Disinsection

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click  here for more information.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

The Tauck Experience

Leave Your Worries At Home

One upfront price – no hidden costs, tauck directors – simply the best, never settle for ordinary.

• {{ forumDate }} {{ forumTopic }} ({{ totalForumComments }})

From the Forum

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

• Destinations
• Antarctica & the Arctic
• Australia & New Zealand
• Israel & Jordan
• Latin America
• United States
• Tours & Cruises
• Exclusive Partnership
• Family Journeys
• Guest Favorites
• River Cruises
• Small Groups
• Small Ship Cruises
• Awards and Accolades
• Our History
• Tauck Impact
• The Tauck Difference
• The Taucker Blog
• About Tauck
• Media Center
• Tutorial Video
• Agent Connect
• Register Your Agency
• General Information
• Travel Protection
• Newsletter Sign Up
• Order an eGift Card
• Request a Brochure
• Tauck Forums
• Travel and Health
• Travel Updates

Sign Up to Subscribe to Our Emails

• North America Tours

Cuba Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Cuba is an island that is full of life, history, and culture. It’s history with both Spain and Africa makes Cuba not only a culturally diverse place, but also a unique meeting of the eastern and western worlds. Looking for a good sandwich? How about a Cuban?...

• Cuba Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Cuba

68 Trips in Cuba with 226 Reviews

• Starts Havana, Cuba
• Ends Havana, Cuba

Cuba Getaway: Vibrant Culture, Great Beaches & More

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Independent Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Beach City sightseeing , Beach , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='15573'>+2 more
• Accommodation Resort, Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Train & Rickshaw
• Age Range 1-79 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Beautiful Cuba

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• Accommodation Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,705
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 256
• Total Price from: US$ 1,449
• May 18 Only 8 seats left
• May 25 Only 8 seats left

Round Trip: Best Of Local Cuba

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Beach City sightseeing , Beach & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='16831'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Bus, Rickshaw & Taxi

Best of Cuba

• Accommodation Guest House, Hostel & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, Flight, Taxi, Bus & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,285
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 343
• Total Price from: US$ 1,942
• May 12 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 23 10+ seats left

8 Day Original Cuba Tour

• Activities Walking tours & Local culture Walking tours , Local culture , National parks , Snorkeling , Party and nightlife , Art and architecture , Museum and gallery visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='38435'>+6 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Resort
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 2-80 yrs
• Operated in English, German, Spanish

Locally Cuba

• Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing City sightseeing , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Beach , Art and architecture , Farm and plantation visits , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='16167'>+5 more
• Accommodation Resort & Home-stay

Cuban Rhythms: Beachfronts & Havana Vibes

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4611'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 949
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 190
• Total Price from: US$ 759
• Jun 27 10+ seats left
• Jul 07 10+ seats left

9 Days: This Cuban Life

• Activities Local culture & Walking tours Local culture , Walking tours , Cooking classes , Museum and gallery visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='41562'>+4 more
• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel

Cuba Getaway - Havana & beyond in 5 days

• Activities Sightseeing Tours

A Taste of Cuba

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='7553'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, Train & Taxi
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Oct 05 Only 8 seats left
• Nov 02 Only 8 seats left

Cycling Cuba

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Transport Taxi
• Oct 12 Only 8 seats left
• Nov 09 Only 8 seats left

Treasures of Cuba

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort, Home-stay & Villa
• Transport Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,899
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 475
• Total Price from: US$ 1,424
• May 11 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 15 10+ seats left

Cycle Cuba: West

• Transport Bus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,430
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 143
• Total Price from: US$ 1,287
• Jul 01 10+ seats left
• Oct 07 Only 4 seats left

Cuba Libre!

• Activities Active and outdoor & Explorer Active and outdoor , Explorer , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='21843'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Villa, Resort, Tent & Guest House
• Transport Bus, 4WD Jeep, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,420
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 340
• Total Price from: US$ 2,080
• Oct 05 10+ seats left
• Oct 19 10+ seats left

Traveling to Cuba? Chat with a local travel specialist in Cuba who can help organize your trip.

Cuba Tour Reviews

Cuba - tour highlights and travel tips.

Cuba is an island that is full of life, history, and culture. It’s history with both Spain and Africa makes Cuba not only a culturally diverse place, but also a unique meeting of the eastern and western worlds. Looking for a good sandwich? How about a Cuban?

Tour Highlights

• Go and delight in the Ballet Nacional de Cuba, Cuba’s national ballet.
• Enjoy a game of baseball, football, cricket, or basketball.
• Listen and get your feet moving to mambo, cha-cha-cha, and salsa.
• See some of the classic cars that line the streets of Havana.
• Go and visit the small city of Trinidad.
• Soak up the sun on one of Cuba’s many beaches - a must do when on a trip to Cuba.
• Hike the Sierra Maestra Mountains, and enjoy the rural nature the island has to offer.

Travel Tips

• Bring a guidebook; Cuba has terrible Internet connection.
• Know your money; there are two different types of pesos.
• Don’t engage the hustlers on the street; if you appear disinterested, they’ll leave you alone.
• Don’t talk politics; with Cuba’s checkered history comes discomfort.
• Drink only bottled water.
• Learn Spanish; it will make your life easier during a holiday in Cuba.
• Don’t stay in hotels; go with Casas Particulares (private houses or homestays).

Cuba has seasonal weather so please do check up on the best time to visit Cuba before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Cuba, do check out our Cuba Travel Guide for more information.

• Cuba budget tours
• Eco tours in Cuba
• Cuba guided tours
• Cuba family tour packages
• Cuba luxury tours
• Cuba private tours
• Cuba self-guided tours
• Cuba small group tours
• Cuba solo trips
• Cuba tailor-made vacation packages
• Cuba tours for senior citizens
• Cuba tours for young adults
• Cuba group tours
• Cuba last minute deals
• Cuba travel deals

Popular Destinations

• Havana Tours
• Varadero Tours

Popular Activities

• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours
• Local culture tours

Upcoming Departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Destigmatizing mental illnesses through travel

Best Cuba Tours for American Citizens (Updated 2023)

Posted : October 2, 2023

Imagine touring Havana in a classic car. Visiting cherished sites of the Cuban Revolution. Strolling colorful Cuban streets. If you’re a US citizen, all of this is possible! I did them, and you can too.

For many Americans, Cuba is a mysterious island behind closed doors. Except it’s not. As long as you follow the entry requirements for US citizens , you can visit legally and without problems.

The best way for US citizens to experience Cuba is by taking a multi-day tour. That way, you can have the most fun and the least stress.

By law, American visitors who want to be a tourist in Cuba must follow the Support for the Cuban People license. This means you have to spend all day benefiting the Cuban people and economy: buying souvenirs, taking educational walks, and eating at privately-owned restaurants.

In other countries, it’s fun to explore a place on your own. But in Cuba, I found this limiting because of the unique restrictions Americans must follow.

Why worry about which restaurants are legal and how many activities you’re supposed to do? Take the tour so you can follow an itinerary to maximize your fun and time.

Plus, because Cuba is lacking in basic resources, being on a tour gives you peace of mind. If you run out of medicine or cash, you can borrow them from your guide or tour mates.

Technically, you can plan your own itinerary and be on your own, but I don’t recommend this . You’ll just be more stressed.

I’ve taken a tour in Cuba and researched other tours to find one that works best for you. Based on my own trip to Cuba, I know which tours would offer the best experiences.

Here are the best tours that American citizens can take legally and safely:

Best Overall: Intrepid’s Hola Cuba Tour

I took the Hola Cuba tour by Intrepid, and you can too ! I was impressed by their safety measures and the fun we had! It’s because of this tour that I now have epic memories of Cuba that are dear to me for life.

Intrepid’s “Hola Cuba for US Citizens” tour is specifically designed for American citizens. By taking this tour, you’ll follow an itinerary that meets the license requirements. Other tours for non-Americans have a less-packed itinerary. For American citizens, this means you’ll get to do even more fun activities!

They take safety seriously and are flexible enough to change plans to keep us safe. For example, our beach time at Playa Ancon was rescheduled from the afternoon to the morning to avoid the risk of heat exhaustion during Cuba’s hot season.

You’ll spend a few days in Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad. You’ll have time to take classic car tours, walk a tobacco farm (and buy quality cigars legally), and stroll colorful streets. You’ll also have short stops in Las Terrazas, the Bay of Pigs, Cienfuegos, and Santa Clara where you’ll visit a forest regrown by Cubans and landmarks of the Cuban Revolution. Along the way, your bus will stop to take beautiful pictures in secret places only Intrepid knows!

I trust Intrepid because when you take a tour with them, you feel good knowing that they have responsible practices that help the locals and the earth. From Diana, our Havana guide, to Floyd, our guide in Viñales National Park, Intrepid works with local people and gives them gigs or jobs. My guide, Will, has worked as an Intrepid guide for 13 years, and for most of those years with the same bus driver, George, who took us around Cuba. Instead of giving out single-use plastic bottles, Intrepid let us refill our water bottles from huge containers.

Will’s passion passion for his country made all the difference. Through his fascinating talks, I learned so much about Cuban lifestyles, history, places, and people.

The tour is nine days long, which is just right. You’re getting a well-rounded tour without feeling like it was cut short or dragging on for long.

Book the Hola Cuba tour to secure your spot.

Best for Havana: Cuba Adventures’ Havana Weekend

Want to spend more time exploring Cuba’s historically rich capital? Have only a weekend to take off? If so, take this Havana-only tour by Cuban Adventures. It’s shorter than the other tours, but you’ll really dive deeper into Havana. Some of my tour mates wished we had spent more time in Havana.

Cuba’s history can be divided into three stages: colonialism, American involvement, and the Cuban Revolution. This city will show you all three parts of the country’s history. This tour by Cuban Adventures takes you on a classic car ride, a project to celebrate Afro-Cuban culture, a Mafia tour, and a tour of Old Havana.

Rest assured, this tour was made for US citizens, so you don’t have to worry about your time spent and the businesses where you’re visiting. Many people rate Cuban Adventures highly, so you’ll be in good hands while exploring Havana.

Book the Havana Weekend tour to secure your spot.

Best for an In-Depth Cuba Tour: Cuba Adventures’ 15-Day Tour

Have more time? Have a keen interest in Cuba? Although my tour covered the highlights of Cuba, there were notable places we didn’t visit. This tour includes all the main highlights from the 9-day tour, so you’re not missing out.

This 15-day tour, also by Cuban Adventures, takes you to the less-visited but equally important eastern side of the country. Unlike other tours, you’ll get to visit famous sites of the Cuban Revolution in Santiago de Cuba. This tour will even try to arrange a viewing of the infamous US military base in Guantánamo Bay. You’ll get even more chances to swim in crystal-clear Caribbean waters across Cuba!

Cuban Adventures has crafted this tour with American citizens in mind, so your itinerary will meet the legal requirements for the license. This tour company specializes in Cuba, so they have lots of experience giving Americans a fun and thoughtful time.

Book the 15-day tour to secure your spot.

Despite what most people assume, US citizens can enter Cuba legally by following entry requirements . If you’re an American citizen, you can have a great time in Cuba like other nationalities!

You can visit Cuba without a tour, but I don’t recommend it for several reasons. Have the best time with the least stress by taking a multi-day tour. Tour operators follow legal requirements and make sure you stay safe and have fun!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies that are useful and the income goes to keeping the site community supported.

Disclosure: I am not a doctor or therapist. Do not use this blog as a diagnosis or official treatment/therapy. I only share my experiences, thoughts, and information with OCD and social anxiety, hoping that you’ll find them useful. Please visit a registered doctor and/or therapist before basing any mental health decisions from my website.

Related Posts

Is it Safe to Travel to Cuba as an American?

6 Activities to Do in Havana, Cuba

How to Pay for Things in Cuba

Can US Citizens Travel to Cuba for Vacation? (Updated 2023)

Can I Travel to Cuba with a US Passport? (Updated 2023)

What Do I Need to Travel to Cuba? (Updated 2023)

How Much Cash Should I Bring to Cuba? (Updated 2023)

Can I Go to Cuba without a Tour? (Yes, But Why You Shouldn’t)

How to Get the Cuba Tourist Visa for US Citizens (Updated 2023)

Cuba Entry Requirements for US Citizens (Updated 2023)

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

THREE FREE downloadables + weekly updates

✈️Mindfulness introduction ✈️Mindfulness grounding exercises worksheet ✈️Slides with resources and tips if traveling with a mental health condition

• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Custom Tours
• Browse All Tours

• Entrepreneurs
• Festivals & Events
• Family Travel
• Celebrations
• Solo Travel
• Affinity Groups
• Educational Groups
• Corporate Groups
• Yoga Groups
• Heritage Groups
• Photography Workshops
• Events & Conferences
• U.S.-Cuba Travel Rules
• Visa and Travel License
• Best Hotels in Cuba
• Why Visit Cuba
• When to Visit
• Where to Go
• Experience Gallery
• Meet the Cuban People
• Why Candela?
• Our Promise
• Safety First
• Meet Our Team
• Destination Specialist
• You Are Family
• Social Impact
• How to Get to Cuba
• Cuban Souvenirs: What You Can Bring Back
• The Ultimate Cuba Packing List
• Food in Cuba
• Cuba and the Art of Tobacco
• Money in Cuba

Family Travel: Teens and Tweens Tour

5 day holiday tour, classic cuba tour, entrepreneurs tour.

Privacy Overview

Cuba Travel Guide for U.S. Citizens: What to Know Before You Go (Updated 2023)

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

Planning this trip to Cuba was the most challenging thing I’ve done to date in the name of travel. Out of all 26 countries, thousands of miles, from 5 years of traveling the world.

Once we landed in Havana, I knew that this place was unlike any I’d visited before.

Had I allowed the logistical challenge of traveling to Cuba as a US citizen deter me from visiting this country, it would have been my greatest mistake.

This Cuba travel guide for US citizens is up to date as of early 2023, based on my experience traveling to Cuba in December 2022.

In this post, I will cover Cuba travel FAQ and share how to visit Cuba legally as a US citizen or from a US airport.

Before you read, please note that there are sanctions from the U.S. government that restrict travel to Cuba.

It is the responsibility of each visitor to follow all laws and regulations, at home and abroad.

This website has a limitation of liability policy that applies to all posts, which you can read here .

This post contains affiliate links. See more in the disclaimer .

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. And you can even do so independently.

The key is to visit legally, within the confines of OFAC (Office of Foreign Asset Control) regulations due to the embargo and sanctions.

IMPORTANT: These regulations also apply to non-US citizens that are departing from a US airport.

How to Travel to Cuba Legally

There are 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba under OFAC:

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research and professional meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Athletic competitions by amateur or semi-professional athletes or athletic teams
• Support for the Cuban People
• Humanitarian projects
• Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
• Certain authorized export transactions

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury

The most common is Support for the Cuban People, which requires the following:

§ 515.574 Support for the Cuban People. (a) General license. The travel-related transactions set forth in § 515.560(c) and other transactions that are intended to provide support for the Cuban people are authorized, provided that: (1) The activities are of: (i) Recognized human rights organizations; (ii) Independent organizations designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or (iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and (2) Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that: (i) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and (ii) Result in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba. (3) The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. Source: Code of Federal Regulations

It will not be a vacation where you go to the beach and prop your feet up, buy things wherever you want, and stay wherever you want.

You must have a full-time schedule of activities that result in meaningful engagement with Cubans.

For us, that looked like many, many art tours and private gallery visits where we connected with local artists and had countless meaningful, deep conversations.

No topic was off-limits.

Everyone opened up (including us) and shared our passions, life experiences, opinions, and learned about one another. And yes, we talked about politics.

We were on the go, all day, every day.

And we didn’t really spend time with other foreigners. We crossed paths with foreigners a couple times, but everyone else we spoke to and spent time with was Cuban.

Casas particulares and paladares

Aside from your full-time schedule, you should also stay in casas particulares and eat at paladares.

A casa particular is a room in someone’s house. It’s been a normal way to travel in Cuba for years. There’s an infrastructure around it. You can find them on Airbnb.

We highly recommend this casa particular in Havana and this casa particular in Viñales.

Paladares are privately-owned small restaurants. Download A La Mesa for a list of restaurants all over the country. Each listing shows if it’s privately-owned.

The app also works offline, which will make your life much easier in Cuba.

Pro tip: If you’re also a vegetarian, make sure you try Camino al Sol ! It’s an all-vegetarian paladar in Havana.

What you are banned from doing in Cuba

You cannot spend money in OR interact with any of the places on this list from the US Treasury Department.

Many are hotels, so pay attention!

I copied and pasted these into a list to have on my phone, then accessed it offline while in Cuba to ensure there wouldn’t be any issues.

Is Cuba safe to visit?

Absolutely.

As a young woman who visited 25 countries before going to Cuba, I’ve been in a few…sticky situations. Cuba was amazing.

I never worried about being robbed and just felt at ease the entire time I was there. I tend to be a more anxious person, so that’s new for me.

This is my personal experience and I was not in Cuba as a solo female traveler, so yours could be different.

Is Cuba open for travel right now?

As of late 2022, visitors no longer need to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or testing before entering Cuba. We brought our vaccine cards just in case, but no one asked to see them.

Please refer to this government site for updated information before your visit.

On our way back to the United States, we did have to share contact tracing information with our airlines using a form before we could check in. It was quick and easy.

Although many online sources claim masks are mandatory in certain settings, we did not see any places where masks were required in December 2022.

Accessing Money in Cuba: 2023 Updates

Everything you need to spend in Cuba must be in cash.

Because of the sanctions, your credit and debit cards will not work in Cuba.

If you try to use them, your bank will probably lock your account and it will take a lot of effort to get it unlocked.

In prior years, you would need to convert money to Cuban pesos before using it. Euros were the best to have because CADECA (the government exchange houses) charged a higher fee on USD exchanges.

As of late 2022, everywhere we went accepted U.S. dollars as payment. This was highly unexpected and deviated from every piece of advice I read online before leaving for Cuba.

However, it is still good to have some pesos for a fairer exchange rate. Some menu exchange rates were awful.

When we were in Cuba, we typically got 150 CUP for 1 USD. The CADECA rate was 110.40 CUP for 1 USD.

We exchanged money at our first casa particular and spent USD on activities, private taxis, and one of our casas. We usually spent pesos on art, food, and coffee.

Make sure you get cash in plenty of small bills. Twenties, tens, fives, and ones were useful. Anything larger than that will be annoying to deal with.

If your bank will only give you large bills, go to Publix and ask the customer service to break them when they’re not busy. Works like a charm!

Is it safe to exchange money on the street in Cuba?

You will be offered money exchange on the street wherever you go in Cuba. Just say “No, gracias,” and move on.

As a general rule of thumb, it is not safe or advised to exchange money on the street. This goes for wherever you are in the world.

The main reason it’s unwise to do this is forged currency. If it came from some random person, it may be counterfeit.

A local friend taught us how to know your Cuban pesos are real. Hold the bill up to the sun, and check the watermark.

The watermark will have a number on it, and that number must match the value of the bill.

If it’s a 100-peso bill, the number in the watermark should say 100.

Again, I do not recommend exchanging money in the street. We didn’t on this trip because we were able to get pesos from the front desk of our casa particular.

If you’re ever concerned about any bills you were given as change, use the tip from our friend for some peace of mind.

I also want to make it clear that we were never given counterfeit bills as change while in Cuba, but these things can happen anywhere.

You’re more vulnerable as a foreigner, because you don’t know exactly how the money is supposed to look.

Getting WiFi in Cuba

If a travel guide says there are only one-hour WiFi cards, it is outdated.

Now, you can access WiFi on a one-hour or a five-hour card.

WiFi is now cheaper in Cuba—it was $5 USD per hour; now, it’s $1 USD per hour.

We only needed one 5-hour card per person for the whole week.

Instead of waiting in the ETECSA line, we bought them from our first casa particular .

Overall, our Cuba WiFi experience was much easier than what we expected.

Don’t expect to be online all the time, but WiFi access is not as difficult as prior years.

Pro tip: The two main apps I highly recommend to download BEFORE you leave for Cuba are A La Mesa and Maps.me . Both work well offline and will save you such a headache.

On Maps.me specifically, also download the maps of each city/town you will visit in Cuba. In our case, I downloaded the maps for Havana and Viñales. When you have Internet access, put your casa particular addresses in a Note on your phone, so you copy and paste them into Maps.me whenever you need to. Same goes for any attractions you know you want to see.

If you want (and if your phone is unlocked), you could get a Cuba sim card, which comes with data. I don’t see the point for a one-week trip, but to each their own.

You can reserve those online in advance from Suena and pick them up at the José Martí airport (in Havana). If you go this route, you want the Tourist SIM Card from the top menu.

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

In short, no.

There was bottled water for sale everywhere on our trip in December 2022, but I read online before leaving that you can’t bank on that.

Instead, I bought this LifeStraw to have filtered water and it was the best travel purchase I’ve made. Ever.

Our Viñales casa particular hostess took one look at that bottle and pointed me to her giant drinking water spigot for us to have freely.

She was already familiar with the water situation for foreigners and told me it was smart to bring a reusable filtered bottle.

Highly recommend one of these !

Can you check in online for flights to Cuba?

There are too many documents the airlines must verify before they can issue a boarding pass.

You will also need a paper boarding pass for your Cuban health insurance, often included in your departure airfare.

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

Out of all Spanish-speaking countries I’ve visited, Cuba is the main one you need at least some language skills to visit.

There are people who speak English, especially young people, but it is not the norm.

If you don’t speak Spanish and you’re not traveling with a friend who does, download Google Translate for offline use before you arrive.

It won’t be ideal, but it will work when you need language help.

The best advice I can give is to travel with someone who speaks Spanish fluently. My best friend said many times while we were in Cuba that she would be toast without my language skills.

Can I bring Cuban cigars and rum back into the USA as souvenirs?

The answer used to be yes, as long as you purchased them from a private shop instead of a stated-owned one.

That answer is no longer the case, as of late 2022.

Now, you cannot bring any rum or cigars into the USA from Cuba, no matter how small the amount is or where they were purchased within Cuba.

When you arrive back into the USA, Customs and Border Patrol will ask if you have any rum or cigars. If you do, assume they will be confiscated.

What to Pack for Your Cuba Trip

I pack carry-on only and found Cuba to be one of the easier countries to pack for. The climate in December was perfect, with 80s in the day and 60s-70s at night.

Here is a short packing list of the things you need before going to Cuba:

• Mosquito repellent, because the insects in Cuba will eat you alive (I use these .)
• Comfortable shoes for lots of walking
• Cardigan or light sweatshirt
• Flowy/comfortable clothes (You can see one of the outfits I packed below.)
• One active wear outfit for hiking/horseback or bike riding (if you’re going to Viñales)

I hope this Cuba travel FAQ was helpful for you. I know how stressful it can be to figure out what to do when planning. If you have any questions, comment below and I’ll do what I can to help!

Read more Cuba travel guides:

• Cuba Pre-Departure Checklist
• What to See and Do in Cuba (Havana and Viñales)
• At Dusk in Havana, I Fell in Love
• Havana, the Art Sanctuary
• When It Destroys, It Starts with Us
• The Elephant in the Room: Socialism in Cuba

Save on Pinterest

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Hi, I'm Sarah

Welcome to my oasis! I am a writer and budding entrepreneur with a love for caffeine, capital gains, and seeing the world. If I'm not writing, you can find me reading a good book, trying out a new vegan recipe, or adding to my coffee mug collection. My goal in life? To see every country in the world. Come along for the ride!

• Cuba Travel Guide
• Cuba Travel Tips
• Cuba Gallery

Log in with user name:

Log in with social media:

Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.

• Travel Tips

Top Cuba Tour Operators

Even with the latest easing of travel restrictions, independent leisure travel to Cuba remains off-limits for Americans. Travelers wishing to visit Cuba independently may do so under an educational category called people-to-people visits. However, self-organizing such trips—and proving (should you be asked to) that your trip met the educational requirements—is not easy. Visitors are required to maintain a full-time schedule of activities that produce “meaningful interaction between the traveler and individuals in Cuba.” For now, the right tour operator is still the best option for travelers seeking all-access, worry free exploration of Cuba. Tour operators can arrange visits to music schools, artists' residences, and historic sights that would be very difficult to schedule individually. Their multiday excursions are jam-packed with cultural activities, led by guides with extensive historical knowledge. Itineraries may include agriculture, art, athletics, cuisine, dance, ecology, education, faith, folklore, health, history, literacy, music, politics, sociology, and theater. Some tours focus on an individual subject; others mix and match topics in a single tour. We highlight the best tour operators in alphabetical order below.

Access Trips. Access has two distinct specialties in its tours around the world: adventure sports and cuisine. Since the culinary aspect meshes better with the people-to-people requirements, that’s the focus of its excursions to Cuba. Bring back more than memories by learning how to whip up some Cuban food and beverage recipes for your friends and family. Ropa vieja, grilled fish, and ceviche are among the signature Cuban dishes on the menu. Small group sizes—a maximum of 10—mean that everybody gets a hands-on experience in helping to prepare meals. (You don’t need to do all the work; some of the meals are prepared for you as well.) Learning to make daiquiris Hemingway-style is also on the week’s syllabus, as are visits to cigar and sugarcane plantations. Destinations: Havana, Trinidad, Valle de Viñales. Popular packages: Cuba Culinary Tour, 8 days, from $3,590. What they do best: Fun and learning with food and drink, Cuban style. 650/492–4778 ; www.accesstrips.com .

Cultural Explorations Cuba. This operator offers an array of weeklong tours of the island with general themes. However, Cultural Explorations Cuba truly shines in its specialty tours that delve into Cuban art, churches, Judaism, cuisine, or LGBT issues. They've also entered the nascent meetings-and-incentives market in Cuba and can organize conferences and seminars for U.S.-based businesses and organizations. Standard cultural-exchange activities must be incorporated into such stays to satisfy people-to-people requirements. Destinations: Havana, Cayo Santa María, Cienfuegos, Playa Girón, Santa Clara, Trinidad. Popular packages: Journey Cuba, 7 days, from $3,599; Havana Art, 5 days, from $3,995. What they do best: Terrific selection of specialty tours. 561/921–2425 ; www.cultural-explorations.com .

Drod Culinary Adventures. Second-generation Cuban-American chef Douglas Rodriguez, award-winning master of Alma de Cuba restaurant in Philadelphia, has been leading culinary-themed tours to Cuba a couple of times a year since 2014. Rodriguez takes you to markets, farms, fields, and ports and lets you participate in the selection of the best fruits and vegetables and catches of the day. Tours include stays at some of Cuba’s finest hotels and meals at some of its most distinctive paladares —private homes licensed to open their doors to the public for dining. Standard sightseeing rounds out the tours’ itineraries. Destinations: Havana, Camagüey, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Varadero. Popular packages: Art, Food, & Culture of Cuba, 7 days, from $4,995. What they do best: In-depth look at Cuban cuisine, through the guidance of a master chef. 954/693–6562 ; www.chefdouglasrodriguez.com .

Insight Cuba. The Insight folks pioneered the people-to-people concept—they’ve been leading trips since 2000—and are one of the few tour operators in the world that focus strictly on Cuba. Insight really mixes it up in its itinerary offerings: a half-dozen general tours—one to two weeks in length—take in the entire island or sectors of it and give a terrific overview of the country. Alternatively, an impressive array of specialty excursions, often shorter, explore single themes such as Cuban jazz, baseball, or vintage cars. Insight can even set you up to run in the annual Havana Marathon. For a quick trip, the Weekend in Havana tour takes you on a short visit to the country’s intriguing capital. Insight also customizes tours for groups, within the bounds of the people-to-people requirements, of course. Destinations: Havana, Baracoa, Bayamo, Camagüey, Cayo Santa María, Cienfuegos, Holguín, Las Terrazas, Pinar del Río, Remedios, Santa Clara, Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad, Valle de Viñales. Popular packages: Classic Cuba, 9 days, from $4,695; Undiscovered Cuba, 13 days, from $5,595. What they do best: Top-notch guides with experience in a country they know like the back of their hand. 800/450–2822 ; www.insightcuba.com .

Road Scholar. Although the not-for-profit Road Scholar began life under the name Elderhostel, people of all ages participate in its highly regarded tours that focus on travel as part of lifelong learning. The company has been leading people-to-people trips to Cuba since 2011, and they come complete with the company’s expert lectures and panel discussions. Road Scholar offers the standard island-wide tours, some as long as three weeks, but also in the mix are shorter tours that focus on photography, family activities, and homestays in casas particulares. New to its offerings is a study cruise that circles the island and calls at several Cuban ports. Like most such tours, the majority of Road’s excursions depart from Miami, but a couple of its itineraries offer New York departures instead. Destinations: Havana, Camagüey, Cienfuegos, Holguín, María La Gorda, Santa Clara, Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad. Popular packages: The People of Cuba, 9 days, from $3,495; Cuba Today, 9 days, from $3,395. What they do best: Expert instructors who provide valuable background on what you’re seeing. 800/454–5768 ; www.roadscholar.org .

Previous Experience

Local Customs

Next Experience

Top Reasons to Go to Cuba

Find a Hotel

Fodor's Essential Caribbean

• Destinations
• Advertising

• Fodor’s Travel Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use. Copyright © 2024 by MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Fodor’s is a registered trademark of MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved.

Thank you for your interest!

Best Cuba tours for U.S. citizens

Cuba is relatively close to the U.S. In fact, the closest distance between these two destinations is just 103 miles. Despite its proximity, visiting Cuba as an American can feel like discovering a completely new world. Cuba and the U.S. are very different in many ways. For that reason, tours to Cuba for American citizens are a great option to explore the country. Tours are set itineraries designed to experience Cuba like a local, without having to worry about any of the logistics of the trip . 

There are different kinds of tours to Cuba for U.S. citizens. Nevertheless, some of them can be too rigid or stereotypical. At Espíritu Travel, we offer customized but flexible schedules which provide a balance of well thought out activities and free time . Our group tours to Cuba from the USA are custom-made, which means they can be adapted to your needs and wants. However, after years of creating trips for Americans visiting Cuba, we have a pretty good idea of the kind of schedules that normally catch their eye. Here are some of our favorite ideas of tours to Cuba for American citizens.

• Long weekend in Havana

If you are after a quick but fun weekend getaway, this group tour to Cuba from the USA is for you. This 4 days itinerary covers the best of the capital city of Cuba, so you can get a good taste of its history, culture and customs . Our five-star local guide will show you the secrets of the beautiful Old Havana, take you on a ride in a vintage American convertible car along the Malecón, and introduce you to the tasty Cuban cuisine. You can find more information about this itinerary here . 

• Havana & Viñales

Cuba is home to some spectacular natural wonders. One of our most recommended tours to Cuba for U.S. citizens who are into nature, is the ‘Havana & Viñales’ schedule. Viñales National Park is well-known for its endless tobacco fields and sprawling limestone hills, a unique landscape in the world. This 5 days itinerary will allow you to explore two sides of Cuba: the city of Havana and the amazing Cuban countryside . To read more about this schedule, you can visit our website . 

Scuba diving in Cuba 

Are you an adventurer looking for bold tours to Cuba for American citizens? Our ‘Scuba diving in Cuba’ itinerary could be a great option for you. Cuba has the third-largest reef in the world. Located on the southern coast of Cuba, Jardines de la Reina covers an area of 2,170 km which is full of untouched reefs, and an abundance of colorful fish, sharks, and even mighty crocodiles. The dream of scuba divers! Our 13 days itinerary will take you to the best channels, reefs and cliffs, always accompanied by an expert guide who will lead you on this adventure . Find out more about our scuba diving group tour to Cuba from the USA on our website . 

Hidden Cuba Photography Expedition

A unique way to discover a country is through the lens of a camera. During this 10-day tour open to all skill levels and camera types, you will explore the east side of Cuba accompanied by the author and photographer, Jim O’Donnell . The Eastern side of the island is a hidden paradise which remains untouched by mass tourism, making it the perfect destination for street photography. This area is home to different national parks and reservoirs, is rich in Afro-Cuban culture and is the birthplace of the Cuban Revolution! You can find more information about this schedule here . 

These are just some ideas for tours to Cuba for U.S. citizens. However, you can also check more pre-set schedules on our website , or contact us if you are looking for something else. At Espíritu Travel we are specialists in creating authentic and customized trips, all you need to do is let us know your requests!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our Trips to Inspire

• Havana & Varadero
• Week in Cuba
• Uncovering Cuba
• Explore Cuba
• Scuba Diving in Cuba
• Santiago & Eastern Cuba
• Havana Imagined Photography Workshop

Plan your Trip

• Accommodations in Cuba
• Flight information
• Itinerary disclaimer
• Cuban money
• Passports and visas
• Custom and private trips to Cuba

Additional Information

• Responsible tourism policy
• Travel Insurance
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cancellation policy

Espíritu Travel Offices

32a Stonehouse Lane Keene, NH 03431 +1 800 387 1370 [email protected]

Calle Apodaca #352 Old Havana 10200 [email protected]

Havana Tours & Vacations

In the charming Cuban capital of Havana, the colorful streets are filled with old-time American cars, Art Deco theatres, the wafts of cigar smoke, and laidback vibes. Feel the atmosphere of Buena Vista Social Club, brush up on  Cuba’s  political history at Museo de la Revolucion, or head to one of the city’s cool cafes or bohemian bars to say hola to a mojito. Strike out with these tours from Havana and see a greener side to the country in Vinales, pedal through sugar plantations in tropical Trinidad, discover Baracoa’s mountainous surrounds, and find your own rhythm in the birthplace of salsa.

Tours to Havana

The Cuban capital is all the things you imagined – the colors, the cars, the music, the crumbling buildings, the cigar smoke, the passion, and the life. These tours to Havana will take you to the heart of the iconic island, out into the countryside of Vinales, through the revolutionary history of the Bay of Pigs, adding in a slice of Caribbean Paris in Cienfuegos, and offering up the palm-fringed beaches of Trinidad along the way.  Cuba  is an island unlike any other, so get ready to move to its unique beat.

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Tours from Havana

Havana tour reviews.

Filter by rating

Cycle Cuba: East

Cycle Cuba: West

Articles of Havana

How to avoid scams and Havana bad time in Cuba

6 essential spots you don’t want to miss in Cuba

Cuban revolution: 11 things I learned while cycling through Cuba

Come out and playa: 6 of the best beaches in Cuba

Havana have-tos: the experiences you can’t miss in Cuba’s capital

A love letter to Havana, a city that taught me so much

Top 6 colorful cities around the world

• Travel Advice
• General Information

Traveling to Cuba as a US Citizen: 2024 Complete Guide

Last Updated: December 15, 2022 January 3, 2024

Cuba has been a country shrouded in mystery and wonder for many Americans. Just 90 miles off the shores of Key West, it’s no surprise why many Americans wonder if they can visit Cuba. With continuous changes to travel restrictions and policies regarding Cuba, Squaremouth has compiled a detailed overview of everything you need to know, updated with the latest information regarding Cuba entry requirements , travel advice, and much more.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? 

In short, yes, it is possible for Americans to visit Cuba. However, the country still remains off limits for tourist activities. This means U.S citizens currently cannot visit Cuba when the sole purpose of their trip is to sightsee, go to the beach, and explore.

In 2024, Americans that wish to travel to Cuba must fall into one of the 12 approved categories of travel, determined by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) .  Visiting Cuba is not as straightforward for Americans as it is for citizens of other nations, like Canada or the United Kingdom. U.S citizens can apply for a general license under one of the authorized categories, which can take anywhere from four to six months to process, according to regulation experts . The 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba include:

• Family Visits
• Journalistic Activity
• Professional Research and Meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious Activities
• Public Performances, Clinics, Workshops, Exhibitions, Athletic and Other Competitions
• Support for the Cuban People
• Humanitarian Projects
• Activities of Private Foundations, or Research or Educational Institutes
• Official Business of the U.S. Government, Foreign Governments, and Certain Intergovernmental Organizations
• Exportation, Importation, or Transmission of Information
• Authorized Export Transactions

To apply for a license, or to learn more about the different categories of approved travel, visit the official OFAC website .

Cuba Travel Restrictions & Requirements

The U.S Passport is welcome and accepted at the Cuban borders. Most of the policies in place that prohibit tourist travel to Cuba come from the United States. Below are some of the main travel restrictions and requirements to keep in mind when traveling to Cuba.

Cuba Entry Requirements 

To gain entry to Cuba, Americans are required to possess specific documents upon arrival. It’s important to start gathering these documents as early as possible to avoid issues at the border. Below is a simplified list of entry requirements, compiled by Cuba Unbound . 

• Return Travel Documents: Travelers must show proof of entry and departure dates in order to receive a valid visa. 
• Valid Cuban Tourist Card/Visa: U.S citizens traveling to Cuba must acquire a valid Visa, also known as a Cuban Tourist Card. These cards can be purchased online for $50-$100, are valid for 30 days, and take roughly 48 hours to process. 
• Certification of Travel Form: This document outlines the approved category in which U.S citizens are traveling to Cuba. 
• Valid Passport : Americans are required to have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay. 
• Proof of Travel Medical Insurance : Cuba requires all foreigners to purchase medical insurance prior to entry.

Cuba Travel Insurance Requirements 

Since 2010, the Cuban government has required all visitors from abroad to provide proof of medical insurance when visiting the island. While there are no requirements on the amount of coverage travelers need, U.S citizens visiting Cuba must purchase a policy that includes Emergency Medical coverage, as well as Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth recommends travelers visiting Cuba consider a travel insurance policy with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage, and at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth’s Cuba Travel Insurance page provides more information and specific policy recommendations for travelers planning to visit the country.

Typically, single trip travel insurance premiums will equate to 5-10% of a traveler’s total insured trip costs. According to Squaremouth data, the average Cuba travel insurance policy cost travelers roughly $200.

Visiting Cuba From the U.S.

For more than 60 years, U.S travel to Cuba has been a complex issue. With that said, there are plenty of reasons why Cuba, home to more than 400 white-sand beaches and over 3,500 miles of coastline, has remained a desirable destination for American travelers. In relation to neighboring Caribbean countries, many of which are consistently among the most popular destinations for Americans, Cuba has a relatively low crime rate. With that said, the U.S Department of State’s Cuba Travel Advisory recommends exercising increased caution when visiting the island due to petty crime, such as theft, sometimes targeted towards tourists.

What Airports Fly to Cuba From the U.S?

Regardless of the complexities of traveling to Cuba as a U.S citizen, there are still multiple airports and airlines that provide non-stop flights to Havana, the nation’s capital. According to Simple Flying , eligible U.S citizens traveling to Cuba can find non-stop service from the following airports: 

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Texas
• Tampa International Airport (TPA), Florida
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Florida
• Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida

For those interested in which airlines fly directly to Cuba, SkyScanner shares that American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, jetBlue, and United all provide such services to eligible U.S citizens. 

People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 0 most popular people-to-people cuba tours for us citizens trips. compare tour itineraries from 11 tour companies. 0 reviews. 5/5 avg rating..

All People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens

Best People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Tours by Price

Top People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Attractions & Experiences

Top People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Experiences

• Exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Havana
• Eating delicious seafood caught that day at a local 'paladares'
• Seeing the world's smallest bird in the Zapata wetlands
• Visiting with local artisans and watching them create their craft
• Taking a guided hike in Topes de Collantes National Park
• Touring the Havana rum factory, with a special testing to top it off

People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Tours & Travel Guide

People-To-People Cuba Tours For US Citizens Attractions & Landmarks Guide

People-to-people cuba tours for us citizens reviews & ratings, people-to-people cuba tours for us citizens tours faq.

1. Does Travelstride have all the tour operators?

2. How does the Member Savings program save me money?

3. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride?

4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?

Watch CBS News

Top Cuban official says country open to more U.S. deportations, blames embargo for migrant exodus

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

April 18, 2024 / 4:22 PM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Cuba's government is willing to accept more deportation flights from the U.S. of Cuban migrants, who have traveled to the southern border in record numbers over the past three years, a top Cuban official told CBS News in an exclusive interview. 

After a two-year pause, the U.S. restarted deportation flights to the island last year. Since then, the U.S. has been sending one flight with Cuban deportees to Havana each month.

But in an interview with CBS News this week, Cuba's Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío said Cuban officials are willing to accommodate more than one flight per month.

"We're open to having more" deportation flights, said Fernández de Cossío, who visited Washington this week to meet with Biden administration officials for the latest round of migration talks between the two countries.

Since the 1959 Cuban Revolution, the U.S. and Cuba have had a deeply contentious relationship. The Cold War-era rivals still bitterly disagree on many issues, from Cuba's human rights record and its ties to China and Russia to the decades-long American embargo on Cuban imports and exports.

But Washington and Havana have worked together on immigration, including by signing the 1994 U.S.-Cuba Migration Accords, which officials from both nations are discussing this week. The two countries' work on immigration has intensified in recent years amid the record arrival of hundreds of thousands of Cubans to the U.S.-Mexico border.

Since the start of fiscal year 2021, the U.S. has processed more than 450,000 Cuban migrants at the southern border, according to Customs and Border Protection data. The flow of Cuban migrants to the U.S. border has slowed since last year, when the Biden administration created programs that have allowed some Cubans to fly into the U.S. legally or appear at an official border crossing.

In the interview this week, Fernández de Cossío blamed the exodus from Cuba in recent years on the U.S. embargo and other American policies, including the 1960s Cuban Adjustment Act, which created a special pathway to permanent U.S. residency for certain Cuban migrants. Only Congress can change that law.

Fernández de Cossío said the U.S. is "aiming at destroying the Cuban economy" through its sanctions. He did not concede that economic mismanagement and repressive policies by Havana have also driven Cubans to flee the island, as the U.S. government has argued.  

"You can speak about other factors, but if you have a consistent policy by the most powerful economy in the world to try to destroy the livelihood of a whole population, 11 million Cubans, it is logical to expect people, a segment of the population, to want to leave the country," he said.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security assessed that "Cuba's deteriorating economic conditions and political repression continue to increasingly drive Cubans out of their country."

Fernández de Cossío also cited the lack of some legal channels for Cuban citizens to come to the U.S. for illegal crossings along the southern border by Cubans.

He urged the State Department to resume the processing of tourist and short-term visas in Havana. The Biden administration restarted immigrant visa processing in Cuba, but short-term visa seekers in Cuba still have to travel to a third country to have their cases processed. 

Fernández de Cossío said U.S. officials informed him they would resume full visa processing in Cuba in the future.

Representatives for the State Department did not respond to requests to comment on Fernández de Cossío's remarks.

Fernández de Cossío expressed some concern about additional U.S. sanctions if former President Donald Trump is elected in November. During Trump's tenure, the U.S. had a more aggressive stance towards Cuba, reversing the Obama administration's attempt to normalize relations with Havana.

"Of course we're concerned if there are additional economic measures [against] Cuba, regardless of who wins the election. The Biden administration has very faithfully applied the policies put in place by the Trump administration and added some," he said. "So we would not [be] surprised they would do it. It would be unfair, and we believe it would be immoral, but we have to acknowledge that would happen and [it] gives us room for concern."

Camilo Montoya-Galvez is the immigration reporter at CBS News. Based in Washington, he covers immigration policy and politics.

More from CBS News

Winner of $1.3 billion Powerball jackpot revealed

Voters in battleground states say the economy is a top issue

Rep. Summer Lee says "we don't" hear if college students are excited to vote for Biden

U.S. tourist arrested over ammo FaceTiming with kids as prison looms