🇨🇺 eSIM plans for Cuba

Cuba rewards travellers who plan ahead and stay flexible. Start in Havana and the western provinces, then move east if time allows. Varadero offers resort beaches with calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Viñales gives you limestone karst scenery, tobacco farms, and cave exploration. Stay in casas particulares (private homestays) for a genuine feel of Cuban life and better value than state hotels. Cuban music is everywhere; listen for live son, salsa, and trova in local bars and community centres. Bring small gifts such as toiletries or school supplies if you plan to visit families or rural areas. Cash is king in Cuba; carry enough euros, British pounds, or Canadian dollars to exchange, and be aware that US dollars incur a penalty. Always confirm opening hours and transport availability on the ground, as schedules change without notice.

Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) - A UNESCO World Heritage site of cobbled streets, colonial plazas, and grand fortresses. Walk the Maleón at sunset.

Varadero Beach - One of the Caribbean's longest stretches of white sand. Best for resort stays and water sports.

Viñales Valley - Dramatic mogotes (limestone hills), tobacco fields, and caves. Go hiking, cycling, or horseback riding.

Bay of Pigs (Playa Girón) - A historic 1961 invasion site with excellent snorkelling and calm turquoise coves. The museum provides context.

Cayo Coco - A pristine island connected by causeway. Known for all-inclusive resorts and flamingo colonies. Reachable by bus or rental car.

Ropa Vieja - Shredded beef in a tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions. Cuba's national dish, influenced by Spanish and African cooking.

Mofongo - Mashed plantains mixed with garlic, pork crackling, or seafood. A Caribbean staple with roots in African cuisine.

Arroz con Pollo - Chicken and rice seasoned with saffron, garlic, and vegetables. Simple, filling, and widely available.

Picadillo - Ground beef or pork cooked with onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes. Often served with rice and fried plantains.

Tostones - Twice-fried green plantain slices. A common side dish or snack, served with salt, garlic, or mojo sauce.

Cuba's high season runs from November to April. These months offer drier weather, lower humidity, and comfortable temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. This is also the peak for European and North American tourists, so book accommodation and transport well ahead. The wet season lasts from May to October, with June and September being the rainiest months. Afternoon downpours are common but usually brief. Hurricane season peaks from August to October; travel insurance with storm cancellation cover is wise. May and early June can be good for fewer crowds and lower prices, though expect more humidity. December and January are coolest, especially at night. For beach time, aim for March or April when the water is warm and the risk of storms is low.

Lightweight, breathable clothing - Pack linen, cotton, or quick-dry fabrics. Long sleeves and trousers help against mosquitoes, especially at dusk.

Sun protection - Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. The Caribbean sun is intense year-round.

Reef-safe sunscreen - Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect Cuba's coral reefs. Many local shops sell only limited varieties.

Comfortable walking shoes - Cobblestones, uneven pavements, and unpaved roads make sturdy trainers or hiking sandals essential.

Universal power adapter - Cuba uses 110V outlets with flat two-pin plugs (North American style). A universal adapter covers older buildings with round pins.

Your uPhone eSIM - Activate a Cuba-specific eSIM before departure for reliable mobile data. Local SIMs can be slow to set up.