Best Time to Visit Cuba
Last updated: November 9, 2025
Cuba is a Caribbean treasure — a land of rhythm, colour, and timeless charm. From the classic cars and colonial architecture of Havana to the white sands of Varadero and the rolling tobacco fields of Viñales, this island nation offers an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. While Cuba enjoys warm weather all year, the best time to visit depends on whether you prefer lively festivals, sunny beaches, or peaceful escapes.
🌸 Dry Season (November – April): Sunshine, Sightseeing, and Perfect Beaches
The dry season is the best time to visit Cuba. Days are sunny, humidity is low, and the sea is calm — perfect for exploring cities, relaxing on beaches, and enjoying outdoor adventures. This is also the most popular time to visit, so book early if you’re travelling in winter.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (24–29 °C)
- Best conditions for Havana, Trinidad, and Viñales
- Ideal for beach holidays in Varadero and Cayo Coco
- Havana Jazz Festival (January) and cigar harvest season
☀️ Shoulder Months (May – June): Warm Weather and Fewer Crowds
May and June are transitional months offering warm temperatures and good value. There’s more humidity and the occasional afternoon shower, but plenty of sunshine too. It’s a great time to explore the island before the summer crowds and heavier rains begin.
Highlights:
- Hot temperatures (27–32 °C)
- Lower hotel prices and quieter beaches
- Great for diving and snorkelling in clear Caribbean waters
- Early summer festivals and authentic local experiences
🍂 Wet Season (June – October): Tropical Showers and Cultural Life
The wet season brings heat, humidity, and tropical showers — usually short-lived and followed by sunshine. While this is hurricane season in the Caribbean, serious storms are infrequent. The countryside turns lush and green, and the island’s cultural energy is at its peak.
Highlights:
- Hot temperatures (28–33 °C)
- Afternoon rain showers refreshing the air
- Santiago de Cuba Carnival (July) and Havana Carnival (August)
- Great value for flights and accommodation
❄️ Late Autumn (October – November): Calm Weather and Local Charm
October and November mark the transition back to the dry season. The weather improves, rain becomes less frequent, and the island feels calm and relaxed before the winter rush. It’s an excellent time to enjoy Cuba’s beaches and heritage sites in peace.
Highlights:
- Pleasant temperatures (25–30 °C)
- Quieter tourist spots and balanced weather
- Beautiful green landscapes after the rains
- Excellent travel deals and smaller crowds
🇨🇺 In Summary
- Best for beaches and sightseeing: December – April
- Best for culture and festivals: July – August
- Best for fewer crowds and good value: May – June and October – November
- Best for photography and lush scenery: June – October
From Havana’s salsa-filled nights and the colonial streets of Trinidad to the emerald valleys of Viñales and the beaches of Cayo Santa María, Cuba offers a warm welcome in every season. Whether you’re after sunshine, rhythm, or romance, this Caribbean island dances to its own timeless beat — and it’s always ready to be explored.
Top Travel Tips for Cuba
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Note for US Travelers
Travel to Cuba for tourism purposes is not permitted for US citizens under US law. You must travel under one of 12 authorized categories, the most common being "Support for the Cuban People." This requires you to have a full-time itinerary focused on activities that support private Cuban businesses (like staying in *casas particulares*, eating at private restaurants, and hiring private guides). Furthermore, US-issued credit and debit cards DO NOT work in Cuba. You must bring all the cash you need for your entire trip.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Tourist Card (Visa) & D'Viajeros Form
Most visitors (including from the UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) must obtain a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) *before* traveling. This is typically purchased from your airline or the Cuban embassy. Additionally, ALL travelers must complete the digital D'Viajeros online form within 72 hours before arrival to receive a QR code for immigration.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Currency (Bring Cash!)
The only official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). However, foreign currency like the Euro (EUR) and US Dollar (USD) are widely used in the private economy (private restaurants, taxis, and *casas particulares*). The official bank exchange rate is extremely poor. It is highly recommended to bring plenty of cash (EUR or USD in small denominations) to exchange on the informal market or use directly. Do not rely on ATMs, as they are scarce and non-functional for many foreign cards.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Internet & Wi-Fi
Internet access is limited and often slow. The most common way to get online is by purchasing a NAUTA Wi-Fi card from an ETECSA store (bring your passport) and using it at public Wi-Fi hotspots in parks and plazas. Some hotels and *casas particulares* now offer Wi-Fi. It is highly recommended to download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps, Maps.me) and a VPN before you arrive, as many US-based websites (including banking) are blocked from Cuba.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Do Not Drink Tap Water
The tap water in Cuba is not safe to drink. Always use sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are at a high-end hotel that uses purified water.
ℹ️ Power Plugs: Type A, B & C
Cuba's electricity is a mix. Most places use Type A and B sockets (the same as the USA and Canada) with 110V. However, many newer hotels and some *casas* use Type C (European two-pin) with 220V. It is best to bring a universal travel adapter to be prepared for all situations.
Things to do in Cuba
Ride in a classic car down Havana's Malecón, explore the colourful colonial streets of Trinidad, learn how to roll cigars in the Viñales Valley, or relax on the white-sand beaches of Varadero. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: