Everything You Need to Know Before Your Trip to Cuba

Before you go to Cuba, there are a few important steps to take care of and some handy tips to keep in mind. Read on to make sure you're fully prepared for an incredible journey through Havana, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos.

Requirement #1: Tourist Card (Visa)

All U.S. and Canadian passport holders must obtain a visa, known as a Tourist Card to enter Cuba. How and where you get yours depends on your passport:

U.S. Passport Holders

We recommend obtaining an E-Visa (electronic Tourist Card) before your departure through Cuba Travel Services.

• Cost: $85 USD
• Processing time: Within 48 hours
• Apply as soon as possible: don't leave this one to the last minute!

When completing your application, please note:

• Under "OFAC Category," select "Educational Activities"
• Under "Cuba Province," select "Havana"
• You'll need your flight information to complete the application (you can find this in your online account or mobile app)

Once your application and payment are processed, your electronic visa will be sent to the email address you provided.

Questions about your visa? Cuba Travel Services can be reached at 800-963-2822, weekdays from 8 AM to 8 PM EST.

Apply at: Cuba Travel Services

Canadian Passport Holders

As a Canadian passport holder, we recommend obtaining your Tourist Card upon arrival at Miami Airport — no need to apply in advance!

Here's what to do when you land in Miami:

• Head to the Kiosk near the American Airlines gate as soon as you land — there can be long lines, so go early!
• If prompted to select an "OFAC Category", select "Educational Activities"
• Under "Cuba Province", select "Havana"

Requirement #2: Online Customs & Health Declaration Form

All travelers, regardless of passport. must complete an online customs and health declaration form before flying to Cuba.

Timing: Complete the form no more than 48 hours before your departure to Cuba.

 https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio

Tip: To switch the form to English, select the language icon in the top right corner of the page.

After completing the form, you'll receive a QR code by email. Make sure to have an electronic or printed copy ready to show authorities when you arrive in Cuba.

Requirement #3: Mandatory Health Insurance

Cuba requires all travelers to have health insurance. The airline tickets Go Ahead purchased for you already include this required coverage, so you're all set!

Your boarding pass serves as proof of insurance, so keep it with you throughout your tour. We also recommend carrying a photocopy of your passport at all times.

Please note: This coverage applies only to medical-related incidents while in Cuba. It does not serve as broader travel insurance (e.g., trip cancellation, baggage loss, or airline delays).

Important Reminders Before You Go

Payment & Cash

Cuba operates primarily on cash:

• U.S. travelers: Credit, debit, and ATM cards issued by U.S. banks do not work in Cuba. Plan to bring enough USD cash for non-included meals and any personal purchases.
• Canadian travelers: Some Canadian credit cards are linked to U.S. banking systems and may not work in Cuba. Check with your bank before you travel to confirm whether your card will be accepted.

Once in Cuba, you can exchange USD for CUP (Cuban peso) at:

• Havana Airport
• Hotels
• Exchange counters

Your passport is required for all currency exchanges. A few things to keep in mind:

• The Cuban peso is a closed currency, so you cannot exchange USD for CUP before your trip
• A surcharge fee applies when exchanging currency
• Most places will not accept torn or marked bills

Tipping

Tipping is an important and valued part of Cuban culture. It's customary to tip your local guides, speakers, performers, and community leaders throughout the tour.

We recommend budgeting approximately $140 USD per traveler in small denominations to cover tips during your tour. Please factor in a separate tip for your Tour Director as well.

For more tipping guidance, visit the "Getting Ready" section of your online account or mobile app.

Medication

Most common over-the-counter medications are not available for purchase in Cuba. Please bring:

• All prescription medications
• Any over-the-counter medications you rely on
• Extra supply, just in case
• Everything in its original container

Connectivity

Cell phone service works differently in Cuba:

• U.S. travelers: U.S. cell phones do not currently work in Cuba, even with an international plan
• Canadian travelers: Canadian cell phones also do not currently work in Cuba

If you need to make a call, hotel phones are available, though calls to the U.S. or Canada can be expensive.

Wi-Fi options:

• Wi-Fi may be available for purchase through your hotel
• You can also purchase a Wi-Fi card for access at public hotspots, hotels, and airports (this can be arranged once you arrive in Cuba)

Your Pre-Departure Checklist

U.S. Travelers:

• Apply for your E-Visa (Tourist Card) through Cuba Travel Services as soon as possible 
• Complete your online customs & health declaration form (within 48 hours of departure) and save your QR code
• Keep your boarding pass handy as proof of health insurance
• Bring enough USD cash for the trip
• Pack all medications in original containers

Canadian Travelers:

• Plan to pick up your Tourist Card at the Miami Airport kiosk upon arrival 
• Complete your online customs & health declaration form (within 48 hours of departure) and save your QR code
• Keep your boarding pass handy as proof of health insurance
• Check with your bank about Canadian credit card compatibility in Cuba
• Bring enough USD cash for the trip
• Pack all medications in original containers