Orientation briefing in Cuba

The native Amerindian population of Cuba began to decline after the arrival of Christopher COLUMBUS in 1492, as the country was developed as a Spanish colony during the next several centuries. Large numbers of African slaves were imported to work the coffee and sugar plantations, and Havana became the launching point for the annual treasure fleets bound for Spain from Mexico and Peru. Spanish rule eventually provoked an independence movement, and occasional rebellions were harshly suppressed. US intervention during the Spanish-American War in 1898 assisted the Cubans in overthrowing Spanish rule. The Treaty of Paris established Cuban independence from Spain in 1898, and after three-and-a-half years of subsequent US military rule, Cuba became an independent republic in 1902.

Cuba then experienced a string of governments mostly dominated by the military and corrupt politicians. Fidel CASTRO led a rebel army to victory in 1959; his authoritarian rule held the subsequent regime together for nearly five decades. He handed off the presidency to his younger brother Raul CASTRO in 2008. Cuba's communist revolution, with Soviet support, was exported throughout Latin America and Africa during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. Miguel DIAZ-CANEL Bermudez, hand-picked by Raul CASTRO to succeed him, was approved as president by the National Assembly and took office in 2018. DIAZ-CANEL was appointed First Secretary of the Communist Party in 2021 after the retirement of Raul CASTRO and continues to serve as both president and first secretary.

Cuba traditionally and consistently portrays the US embargo, in place since 1961, as the source of its socioeconomic difficulties. As a result of efforts begun in 2014 to reestablish diplomatic relations, the US and Cuba reopened embassies in their respective countries in 2015. The embargo remains in place, however, and the relationship between the US and Cuba remains tense. Illicit migration of Cuban nationals to the US via maritime and overland routes has been a longstanding challenge. In 2017, the US and Cuba signed a Joint Statement ending the so-called "wet-foot, dry-foot" policy, by which Cuban nationals who reached US soil were permitted to stay. Irregular Cuban maritime migration has dropped significantly since 2016, when migrant interdictions at sea topped 5,000, but land border crossings continue. 

Cuba is ruled by a single party, with a high level of social control. Opposition parties are not allowed. There are restrictions on freedom of speech, association and assembly for Cuban nationals. Any political demonstrations not approved by the government may be broken up by the authorities.

Avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings and follow the advice of the local authorities. Internet access can sometime be blocked during times of political tension.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Cuba

Protests in Cuba

Cuba is experiencing a worsening economic situation with shortages of fuel, electricity, water and basic necessities. This is affecting tourism services and disrupting travel within the country.

The situation has led to frequent protests. To date most of these have remained peaceful but be aware that protests can escalate. You should stay away from large gatherings, monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of the local authorities.

The situation is also leading to an increase in opportunistic crime, but levels remain lower than in the UK. See ‘Crime’ on the Safety and security page.

Power outages and fuel and water shortages

The Cuban National Electric grid has collapsed a number of times over the last few months. Given current circumstances, further grid collapses are likely. Low fuel reserves are leading to severe and sustained disruption to essential infrastructure and basic services, including transport, medical care, communications, water supply and street lighting. Authorities have introduced fuel rationing, scaled back public services, and made changes to healthcare, education, transport and tourism operations to conserve severely limited energy supplies. Access to safe drinking water and wastewater management can be problematic.

Take precautions by conserving fuel, water, food and mobile phone charge, and be prepared for significant disruption.

Travel disruption 

Cuban authorities have announced that all of its international airports are without aviation fuel. Only Terminal 3 at José Martí International Airport is currently in operation. Some airlines, including all Canadian airlines, Air France, Iberia, World2Fly and LATAM, have suspended flights to and from Cuba. Other airlines are keeping their routes under review. Options for leaving the country could reduce further if the situation worsens.

If you are currently in Cuba, carefully consider if your presence is essential. The situation has the potential to deteriorate quickly and without warning. Make sure you are ready to change your plans quickly if needed. If you are considering leaving Cuba, check for messaging from your airline or tour operator for up-to-date information. Ensure your travel documents remain valid and confirm you have any required visas for onward travel.

Continue to monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities. Subscribe to FCDO email alerts and read our guidance on how to deal with a crisis overseas. 

International card transactions

The Cuban Central Bank has announced that international cards such as Visa and Mastercard are no longer accepted in Cuba. Available payment methods include cash and Cuban prepaid cards. You will not be able to withdraw cash through ATMs with an international card.

If you need to visit Cuba, you should bring enough cash to cover your expenses for the entire length of your stay and in case of an emergency (such as medical treatment or delayed departure). US dollars and euros are widely accepted and can be exchanged in Cuba. See ‘Money’ on the Safety and security page.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. Make sure your travel insurance covers Cuba.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Cuba

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Cuba, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Cuba is ruled by a single party, with a high level of social control. Opposition parties are not allowed. There are restrictions on freedom of speech, association and assembly for Cuban nationals. Any political demonstrations not approved by the government may be broken up by the authorities.

Avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings and follow the advice of the local authorities. Internet access can sometime be blocked during times of political tension.

Crime    

While crime has reportedly increased in recently months, data suggests that levels of crime are generally lower than in the UK or regional averages, but the difficult economic situation is leading to an increase in opportunistic crime. There have been reports of muggings in Havana and of burglaries at properties, with instances of violent crime. Siphoning of fuel from parked vehicles is a regular occurrence.

Exercise caution, particularly at night. Keep your personal belongings, including your passport, in a secure place, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or showing signs of affluence. Always carry a photocopy of your passport. Pre-arrange transport and avoid walking at night.

Protecting your belongings

There is a risk of theft from luggage when baggage is being handled on arrival or departure at the airport. You should:

• not pack valuables in your hold luggage
• lock suitcases
• shrink-wrap luggage before check-in if possible

Be aware of pickpockets and bag-snatching:

• in the streets of Old Havana or any crowded areas
• on public transport
• in nightclubs

Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive-looking jewellery. Mobiles and laptops are particularly attractive to thieves. Leave valuables in a hotel safe.

Beware of theft from your accommodation, particularly from private guest houses (‘casas particulares’).

Fake taxi drivers

There are a small number of criminals who pose as tour operators or taxi drivers. These fake drivers operate at the airport and around Old Havana. Only travel with your tour operator. If you need to use a taxi from the airport, make sure it’s a registered yellow taxi.

Vehicle crime

There are sometimes car-related crimes and muggings in Havana, and other tourist areas. Do not hail taxis or accept lifts from anyone you do not know. Take care when driving in central Havana, particularly at night. Keep doors locked and windows closed.

There have been attacks on foreigners in hire cars after deliberate puncturing of tyres. If you are in a remote area with a punctured tyre drive on to the nearest town before stopping. Do not pick up hitchhikers.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs penalties   

Cuba has a zero tolerance policy against the use, possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. Cuban courts can give severe penalties for drug-related offences. Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry items for anyone else.

Using cameras in restricted areas

Avoid all military zones and other restricted areas. Do not take photographs or videos in these areas. Possession of photographs or information relating to military areas or installations can be regarded as espionage and could result in a prison sentence.  

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Cuba, but gender diversity is not fully accepted by the general population. Same-sex marriages are recognised under Cuban law.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Risk of detention

If you break the law, or are suspected of causing injury to someone, you may be stopped from leaving Cuba during the investigation and trial, and you could be imprisoned. Contact the British Embassy in Havana as soon as possible for assistance.

Money

The Cuban Central Bank has announced that international cards such as Visa and Mastercard are no longer accepted in Cuba. Available payment methods include cash and Cuban prepaid cards (CLASICA card). You will not be able to withdraw cash through ATMs with an international card.

If you need to visit Cuba, you should bring enough cash to cover your expenses for the entire length of your stay and in case of an emergency (including medical costs or if your departure is delayed). US dollars and euros are widely accepted and can be exchanged in Cuba.

It is illegal to exchange money anywhere other than Cadeca exchange houses, including with any individuals who may offer exchange services. If you’re caught making an unauthorised exchange, you could be fined or get a prison sentence.

Check with your hotel and tour providers on how to make payments ahead of your arrival in Cuba, and whether these can be made in advance via international bank transfer. Take precautions when carrying large amounts of cash.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you’re planning to drive, see information on driving abroad.  

You can drive in Cuba with a UK driving licence for up to 6 months. After 6 months, you must pass a driving test and get a Cuban driving licence.

You can hire a car in Cuba, but fuel shortages can make it difficult to get petrol or diesel, especially for long distances. If you hire a car with a driver, they may know where to source fuel but supply is intermittent.

Motorcycles and scooters

If you hire a moped or motorbike, check the condition of the vehicle carefully. All drivers and passengers must wear a crash helmet.

Taxis

Three-wheel Coco-taxis may be in an unsafe condition. Tourists have been injured and killed when riding in these vehicles.

App-based taxi services are available but Wi-Fi and data signal is limited. Pre-book a return journey if possible.

Official yellow taxis are generally reliable. Avoid private taxis and old private classic taxi cars as it is unlikely that they will be properly licensed or have modern safety features. It is best to book rides in old classic cars from reputable companies.

Road conditions

Driving standards are variable. Many vehicles, including public transport, are badly maintained. Drivers are prone to stop suddenly and may not signal. There is little if any street lighting at night and roads are badly sign-posted. Avoid driving at night as animals and unlit vehicles are a danger and you may not see hazards such as potholes.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Hurricanes

The hurricane season in Cuba is from June to November each year. Heavy rains often cause flash floods and landslides. After a hurricane, power, communications and water supplies can be disrupted. In extreme weather conditions, flights to and from Cuba may be delayed or cancelled. Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

As a result of Hurricane Melissa in October 2025, infrastructure and services, including access to electricity and water, remain severely impacted in the East of Cuba.

Earthquakes

Cuba is in an active earthquake zone, but strong earthquakes are not common. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 104 and ask for an ambulance.

The ambulance service is limited and generally unreliable, particularly in emergencies outside urban areas.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Cuba 

• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The Cuban government had declared an arbovirus epidemic in 2025 following the significant increase in cases of mosquito-borne diseases in Cuba, including Dengue, Oropouche and Chikungunya. Although the epidemic warning is no longer live, these viruses continue to circulate. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a notice (“Practice Enhanced Precautions”) in response to a Chikungunya outbreak in Cuba.

See what health risks you’ll face in Cuba, including: 

• dengue 
• zika virus 
• malaria 
• oropouche virus disease
• chikungunya

You should take precautions to avoid or prevent mosquito and other insect bites.

To control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, the Cuban authorities may carry out chemical fumigation measures across the island. The chemicals used may cause some discomfort if you come into contact with them.  

Medication

There are severe shortages of basic medicines, but clinics treating foreigners are more likely to stock basic medical supplies. Many medicines, pharmacy items and sanitary products that are easily accessible in the UK, are not available in Cuba.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, do not expect to buy medication in Cuba. A letter from your GP stating treatment and dosage may be helpful if you need treatment from a medical practitioner.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Cuba  

Medical facilities in Havana are better than elsewhere in Cuba. If you need medical treatment, you or your insurance company will need to pay with foreign currency (most likely USD) before any treatment, bearing in mind that Visa/Mastercard payments cannot be made. Make sure you have accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Cuba where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Psychiatric care facilities for foreigners are limited and difficult to access.

FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.