Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Cuba?
What is the Climate Like in Cuba?
How Safe is Cuba?
What Should I Pack To Cuba?
What Should I See in Cuba?
Canadian Embassy to Cuba
Cuba is an excotic travel destination that is slowly opening up for more tourists.
Strong influences from Spanish and African roots make it culturally diverse. Exotic rhythms like salsa and rumba can be found everywhere in Cuba, as many dances and music originated there.
Cuba has remained relatively untouched by outside influence, making it a unique destination.
Do I Need Vaccines for Cuba?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Cuba. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Cuba: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, rabies, and influenza.
| Vaccine | How Disease Spreads |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids (Sex, needles, etc.) |
| Cholera | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Dengue is one of the few mosquito-borne diseases present in Cuba. Unlike many other Caribbean nations, Cuba was able to avoid a major Zika outbreak. Mosquito repellents and netting are recommended for Cuba.
Rabies is present in the country as well. Consider vaccination, especially if going to rural areas or staying for more than two weeks.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Cuba?
Those visiting Cuba for a maximum of 30 days for tourism purposes do not need a visa. If you are entering Cuba for business purposes a visa is then required. Those who have permanent residency in Canada also do not require a visa to enter Cuba for tourism purposes so long as they can produce a legitimate PR card and a valid passport.
| Is A … | A Cuba Entry Requirement? |
|---|---|
| Passport | Yes |
| Passport Validity | Must be valid at entry |
| Blank Passport Pages | Two pages for entry/exit stamps |
| Tourist Visa | No |
| Vaccinations | Recommended |
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like in Cuba?
The climate in Cuba is sub-tropical. The average year-round temperature is approximately 25°C and there’s plenty of sunshine.
The hottest time of the year is summer, from June to August. Summer is also the most festive time of the year with carnivals and event held in many cities throughout the country.
Cuba has a rainy season from May to October. Occasional bursts of rainfall can be expected in the afternoons. Cuba remains a popular summer destination, as the rainfalls bring relief in the heat.
December, January, and February are the coolest months of the year. During the winter months, occasional cold fronts can decrease the temperatures to the low 50’s for short periods of time.
How Safe is Cuba?
Cuba is a relatively safe country for travellers. The roads are good condition, but driving at night should be avoided, as there are no streetlights. Crimes are very uncommon in there. There are virtually no firearms or illicit drugs.
But, still practice common sense, since pickpocketing and opportunistic theft are popular as in every tourist resort.
Strong military and police presence can be expected. The biggest threat to traveller’s safety is attending demonstrations and gatherings, as even peaceful demonstrations can turn confrontational without warning.
What Should I Pack for Cuba?
While more developed than many other Caribbean nations, it is still important to bring key items with you to Cuba.
- Cash – Most transactions are carried out in cash. Currency can be changed in most national exchange offices. Make sure to bring enough cash to last during your vacation.
- Swimsuit – Get ready for a warm weather and hot sun! Bring your own swimsuit, to make sure you enjoy your holidays to the fullest.
- Sunscreen – The endless hours by the pool might start to sting if you don’t protect your skin. Bring your own sunscreen, as outside of Havana and Varaderoas it might be hard to find.
- First-aid kit – Cuba’s pharmacies can only offer a small selection of medications. Pack your own medicine kit equipped with bandages, pain killers, digestion medicine and any prescriptions.
- Insect repellent – Tropical insects can carry various diseases. To avoid any health threats caused by the insects, it is important to protect yourself from them. It is best to bring your own repellent, as the Cuban stores and pharmacies may have a limited selection.
What Should I See in Cuba
There are many gripping sights and attractions peculiar to Cuba. The number of old American cars on the streets leave an impression as the time in Cuba had stopped somewhere in the 1950’s.
When visiting as unique destination as Cuba, it is important to bring souvenirs back home. The most exclusive souvenirs are Cuban cigars. Tourists are allowed to take up to $100USD worth of cigars with them.
Canadian Embassy in Cuba
Once in Cuba, the information for the Canadian Embassy is:
Canadian Embassy in Cuba
Calle 30 No. 518 (esq. 7ma)
Miramar (Playa)
Ciudad de la Habana
Cuba
Tel.: (+53-7) 204-2516 / (+53-7) 204-7097
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
