Best of Cuba

• Visas and travel insurance
• Spending money – budget for meals, snacks, drinks, limited souvenirs, laundry, tips and any extras
• International flights to/from the start/end of your tour and departure taxes  
• Tips on excursions, visas, travel insurance, personal items and single rooms.  
• Optional excursions - On each trip, you may find there are some excursions that are not included. This might be because they are not to everyone's taste or there may be various options of differing value to choose from. More information on the excursions we recommend is listed under each day of your itinerary though prices may vary. If you are after something in particular, don't hesitate to ask your tour leader.

Joining your tour

Your joining information will be provided around one month before departure. The documents will include further information on joining and details on your local guide plus phone numbers.

Airport transfers are included in the tour price. You must advise Tucan Travel of your flight details and arrival time so that this can be arranged. If your flight or travel plans change before joining your tour please ensure you contact our office to update us. If your plans change on the day, please contact the emergency number below.

Your airport transfer will be waiting just to the side of the Infotour bureau in the arrivals lounge with a sign with your name on it. Please note that we are not affiliated with Infotur, this is just an easy landmark to identify in the arrivals lounge.

Emergency Number

If your flight is delayed or travel plans altered please try and contact us as soon as possible on +5353070220 or +53 53967021.

Taxis

Can't locate your driver? If for whatever reason you can't find your transfer driver at the airport, please check both outside and inside the terminal. You should then try and contact us through the numbers provided above. If you do not have a mobile phone, please visit the airport information desk and ask them to call for you. On the very rare occasion that you cannot locate your driver or contact us, it is very easy to get a taxi at Havana airport. Taxis are always available from the taxi ranks in front of all the terminal buildings. A taxi ride from the airport to downtown Havana takes approximately 20-30 minutes and costs 20-25 CUC one-way. Always agree the fare first as some taxis have meters but they are rarely switched on. You can provide the taxi driver with the your joining accommodation address below.

Our Cuba tours stay in "casas particulares" which are local Cuban homestays. This is the best way to ensure the money is going back to the local communities and also provides travellers with a wonderfully authentic experience. Each casa will be different but you will always enjoy a private room for you and your partner/friend/roommate. From time to time, accommodation standard may vary and hot water, wi-fi or electricity may not be to a Western standard.

Twin Share

Accommodation on this trip is mostly on a twin share basis unless you have upgraded to your own room. If you are travelling as a couple and wish to book a double bed, please advise your Adventure Specialist at time of booking.

I'd like my own room

If you are a solo traveller, a private room is available on all occasions at an extra cost. This must be booked in advance.

Check-in Time

Although we endeavour to have hotel rooms ready in time for arrival, sometimes this is not possible especially if we arrive early in the morning. In this instance we will store our luggage and enjoy the destination before checking in later in the day.

This tour uses private vehicles to get between each destination. These are air-conditioned and the most comfortable way to travel in Cuba. It also means we can make toilet, food and photo stops whenever we like.

It is your responsibility to carry luggage on and off transport. You must be able to comfortably lift your luggage off transport and into hotels, perhaps up stairs.

Approximate travel times on this trip

The below information provides approximate travel times and modes of transport for your tour. Please note that modes of transport may be subject to change depending on the group size and timings may vary depending on the season and border crossings on the day.

• From Havana to Cienfuegos (via Bay of Pigs): 5 hours
• From Cienfuegos to Trinidad (via Santa Clara): 3 hours
• From Trinidad to Viñales: 7 to 8 hours
• From Viñales to Havana: 3 hours

Other Transport in Cuba

All the transport to get between destinations, as listed above, is included in the tour cost. If there is an optional excursion that you wish to enjoy that requires additional transport, your tour leader will be able to assist with booking this.

The state owns the vast majority of transportation options in Cuba. While we take the upmost care to select the best transportation for our clients in Cuba, it is ultimately the Cuban governments decision how they distribute the available vehicles and drivers to those requiring them in Cuba. Whilst we do our utmost to ensure that our clients receive the best vehicles available, we cannot guarantee which vehicle will be supplied, nor are we liable in the event of breakdowns during the tour. We do promise to do the maximum to solve any issues which may occur, speedily and to your satisfaction. You should always feel safe and comfortable when travelling on tour. If this is not the case, please let your guide know right away.

Luggage

You will be carrying your own luggage on tour. Please limit this to one piece per person plus one day bag.

It is important to bring luggage you can carry and lift comfortably, potentially up several flights of stairs in hotels where elevators are not available and between bus/train stations and hotels.

Packing List

Please consider which season you are travelling in and pack appropriately. All clothes should be lightweight, durable and easily washable. Please do not bring any military or camouflage-style clothing as it can be dangerous to wear and occasionally illegal. Nights can be cold, so it is a good idea to bring at least one pair of warm trousers or jeans plus several thinner sweaters / fleeces which you can layer.

In general, Central America is not as conservative as other regions, and you do not have to worry about keeping your legs or shoulders covered on a day to day basis. However, when visiting religious sites, you will need to cover up. We recommend having long trousers or a sarong to cover up for this.

What essential items should I bring to Cuba?

• A small daypack - This should have enough room to carry food and snacks for long hikes or day trips.
• Good, comfortable walking shoes or trainer AND flip flops. You will need comfortable trainers for walking and flip flops or other sandals are essential for the beach.
• Insect Repellent (DEET 35% min) and bite cream.
• Sunscreen - This should be a large bottle and enough to last you the whole week. Buying sunscreen in Cuba is expensive - around 25 dollars to it’s best to take some from home!
• Portable battery charger - this can come in handy if you are unlucky enough to experience power shortages and need to charge your camera or phone.
• Swimwear & towel - While the casas do provide towels you might want one for when you are at the beach or stopping over at areas like the Bay of Pigs!

Clothing

• A lightweight and waterproof jacket
• Jeans/trousers
• Underwear and pyjamas
• T-shirts/tops/shirts
• Shorts/dresses/skirts
• Trainers or walking shoes
• Sandals and flip flops
• Jumper/cardigan
• Swimwear/sarong/coverup

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Camera and charger
• Worldwide adaptor
• Portable battery pack
• Ipad/tablet/e-reader (great for long journeys!)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Small medical kit with paracetamol/plasters
• Antibacterial hand gel
• Insect repellent and bite cream
• Sun cream and lip balm
• Shampoo/conditioner/body wash - ideally in bar form
• Antiperspirant/deodorant

Other

• One small day bag
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Cloth bag for shopping
• Ear plugs and sleep mask

Documents

• Passport
• Visas
• Insurance
• Printed copy of your passport
• Printed copy of your emergency contacts numbers

Laundry

Most of the Casa Particulares have laundry facilities however your guide will be able to advise where is best to do your laundry on tour if this is required.

On a Tucan Travel tour you will experience a huge variety of amazing food in each location. Meals included are listed on the day to day itinerary and the "about your tour" section. On this trip, most breakfasts are included but lunch and dinner are at your own cost. Your tour leader will suggest restaurants in each location, and arrange evening group meals for those who wish to join. In the majority of Asian cities, there is a huge choice of both local and international restaurants.

If you have a specific dietary requirement it is important you advise us at the booking stage. We also recommend re-iterating this information to your tour leader on day 1. While we endeavour to assist as much as possible, it is ultimately your responsibility to research and arrange meals that suit your dietary preferences.

Breakfast varies from extensive buffets to simple local spreads. For early departures, you may be provided with a breakfast box. Breakfasts on this tour vary greatly. Depending on the location, you can find anything from a well put together western buffet to a continental breakfast or a smaller offering of local food.

Food in Central America varies between each country. Mexico is known for having some of the best food on the continent while Costa Rica is known for its fresh and tropical fruit. Vegetarians will have no problem finding delicious meals, as many of the dishes are rich in rice, beans, vegetables and eggs.

Local Markets and Street Food

Central America is known for having some of the best street food in the world. Eating at local markets is a great way to experience authentic food and at a fraction of the cost of restaurants. Your tour leader will be able to offer advice on markets and street food in each destination.

Currency

This tour uses the Cuban peso. Exchanging money is possible in Havana and Trinidad - there are special casa de cambios for this. They have very limited opening hours, so go early (speak to your tour leader to find the nearest one). ATM's are rare, but they do exist. Casa de cambios in Havana can charge the cards and give you cash however this has a high commission so is best avoided if possible. US Dollar's are not accepted in Cuba so a supply of euros can come in handy.

Cards

Some shops and restaurants in Cuba accept card but it is not common and we suggest not to rely on this. Please ensure you have access to cash for the duration of your stay.

Spending Money in Cuba

It is best to bring CAD$, Euro or Sterling to Exchange for CUC's in Cuba. Please note that the Cuban government surcharges an extra 10% to exchange USD$ in Cuba. With regards to the use of Credit or Debit cards in Cuba the following applies. No card issued by a bank that has any connection with the United States will be accepted in Cuba. Debit/ Credit cards with the VISA logo can be used in ATM's or to draw money from a Cadeca or Bank. MASTERCARDS will not be accepted in ATM's but, as with VISA cards, so long as they are issued by a non US based bank, can be used to draw cash at the counter of a Cadeca or Bank.

There are exceptions to the rules above, so please check with your bank/ payments provider before travelling to Cuba.

Please review this Trip Advisor link for further details

For US travellers - check out this recent article for an analysis of whether to convert your U.S. cash to another currency.

Tipping

Tipping is very common in Cuba and a way Cubans supplement their modest incomes. Etiquette suggests $1 per person per day for drivers, between $3 - $5 per person per day for your guide, and 15% for your waiters/waitresses.

Departing Cuba

The Cuban government does not allow for CUC currency to leave the country, therefore you should aim to spend it all before leaving for the airport. If you have currency on you, authorities have the right to confiscate this at the airport AFTER check-in. There are a few shops in terminal 3 (before check in) where you may spend CUC on souvenirs if you have some left. There is also a money exchange booth in terminal 3 where you can change remaining CUC into USD, CAD, GBP or EUR, however there is never a guarantee the booth will have enough money so we recommend not to rely on this for changing large amounts. In terminal 3, AFTER check-in, there is no where that will accept CUC and you must pay in either USD, CAD or EUR. These rules also apply to terminal 2.

Budget

Your budget should include additional meals, transport within cities, optional excursions, shopping and an emergency fund.

Backup Funds

Travel can be unpredictable. While we endeavour to plan for every situation there are some instances where it is out of our control, such as severe weather, strikes, civil unrest or natural disasters. If these result in unavoidable itinerary changes, you should have access to enough funds for you to return home unexpectedly.

Emergency Number

If you require urgent assistance prior to joining your tour please call (+51) 984-762-164 or (+51) 970-038-181.

Safety in Cuba

Cuba is generally very safe, even more so in a group. There are a few precautions which you should always take.

• Do not travel with valuables. While phones and cameras are inevitable, leave the expensive jewellery and watches at home.
• Make sure your handbag/daypack has a zip and is closed at all times.
• When in crowded areas keep your bag on your front.
• Do not walk alone after dark.
• Only use registered taxis and if possible have the hotel phone one for you.
• Do not take out large sums of cash at once and avoid keeping it all in the same place. Only take what you need for the day and leave the rest in a safe. Ideally, take more than one credit/debit card in case one is lost or stolen.
• Do not take photos of military, police or border control.

The safety of our travellers is a number one priority when operating our tours. As a British registered company the lead is taken from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Advice Service (FCO). Tucan Travel reserves the right to cancel, amend or continue the operation of a tour based on, but not solely restricted to, the advice of the FCO.

Hustlers

Cuba, just like many tourist destinations all over the world, has street hustlers looking to be your friend and make a quick buck. These people are harmless and not terribly aggressive, but we encourage you to check with your guide before taking what people approaching you on the street are saying or selling at face value. Jineteros and Jineteras are rarely trying to rob you, but they may be looking for something from you beyond just your friendship. We encourage you not to be too wary or mistrustful, but also to be cautious when people approach and befriend you on the street.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all Tucan Travel tours. Your tour leader will request your travel insurance details at the pre departure meeting which are immediately submitted to the office. Failure to produce these details will mean you cannot join the tour.

For US travellers - All U.S. airlines now bundle the medical insurance in the commercial flights from the U.S. directly to Cuba automatically. Save your boarding pass showing you entered Cuba from the U.S. as evidence you have the required medical insurance.

Pack a Medical Kit

A medical kit is handy for minor wounds and ailments. In areas with limited or dubious medical facilities, an emergency medical kit containing sterile syringes is also advisable. By law our staff are not allowed to administer first aid or give drugs to travellers, so please be prepared with your own supplies. If you are taking medication, please ensure you bring an adequate supply and a letter from your doctor to avoid potential issues at border crossings.

Vaccinations

It is important to consult your doctor or travel clinic in good time before your tour departs to determine what vaccinations you require. There are no official required vaccinations for Central America however if you are coming from a yellow-fever infected country then you must have had a yellow-fever vaccine and carry the certificate with you. It is also recommended to be up to date with typhoid, hepatitis A and B, TDap, Cholera and Diphtheria. Malaria risks vary according to location and season, so it is a good idea to seek the advice of your GP before travelling.

Horse Riding

All clients wishing to participate in horse riding or similar activities, whether included or optional, acknowledge that the availability of protective headgear can vary or be non-existent. Therefore Tucan Travel cannot guarantee that headgear will be provided or will be to the same standard as those available in the UK or your home country. Any client intending to partake in these activities should bring their own protective headgear and other protective equipment with them.

Age Restrictions

Our tours are perfectly designed for those aged between 18 and 65 years old. They are fast-paced and sometimes tiring, while packed with adventure, new experiences and feel-good moments. With customers from around the world, of different ages, backgrounds and nationalities, some groups can be more boisterous than others. As a result, we ask that anyone wanting to travel under the age of 18 or over 65 carefully consider whether a group tour is right for them. We may ask that you fill in our tour suitability form found here to guarantee your enjoyment of the trip. Please read through our Tour Suitability page or contact a member of our Reservations Team if in doubt. Please note that we do not accept children under the age of 16 on our group tours. If you are travelling with children please contact our tailor-made team for a bespoke holiday.

As a global tour operator, we understand the importance of running sustainable tours that have as low an impact on the environment as possible. Please read our comprehensive guide here before you travel.

Physical rating on your tour

The about this tour section will advise you on the physical rating of your chosen tour. This is scored from 1 to 5.

• Relaxing: Sit back and relax on this trip! There are no physically demanding excursions included. You will have to carry your own bags.
• Easy: Some easy physical activities are required on this trip though you won't need to prepare in advance. There may also be more strenuous optional excursions available which may require advanced preparation depending on your level of fitness. You will have to carry your bags, enjoy short walking tours in the heat or at altitude or perhaps travel on cramped public transport.
• Moderate: This trip will get your heart racing with tough one-day or easy multi-day hikes included. A good level of fitness is required to get the most out of the trip. You will have to carry your own bags and travel on cramped public transport.
• Serious: Preparing in advance for this trip will allow you to get the most out of it. Tough multi-day hikes at altitude, having to carry your own bags and travel on public transport all feature but this rating may relate to the length of your tour and the mental endurance needed to get to the end.
• Heart-pumping: Our most difficult physical rating. This trip will get your body moving and heart pumping. Prepare to be challenged both physically and mentally.