Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for Cuba. Consider Typhoid if you plan to eat street food. Update your routine vaccines like MMR and Tdap. Rabies is suggested for extended stays or high-risk activities, but it’s not mandatory. Always check current health advisories before you go.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Cuba, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for CubaCulture & Customs
Tip well in Cuba—locals rely on tips due to low wages. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Always greet with a handshake, and address people formally using ”Señor” or ”Señora” until invited to do otherwise. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially for LGBTQ+ couples, so keep it low-key. Avoid discussing politics; it’s a sensitive topic. For solo female travelers, catcalling can occur but usually doesn’t escalate; ignore and move on. Always confirm prices in advance for taxis and private accommodations to avoid misunderstandings.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Cuba.
- Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef cooked slowly with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices. It’s the national dish of Cuba, representing the island’s rich cultural mix and history.
- Moros y Cristianos: A classic dish of black beans and white rice cooked together. Named after the Moors and Christians, it symbolizes the country’s diverse heritage and is a staple at any Cuban gathering.
- Lechón Asado: This is roasted pork, commonly marinated in a mojo sauce (garlic, citrus, and spices). It’s the centerpiece of many festive occasions and gatherings, highlighting Cuban hospitality.
- Tostones: Twice-fried plantain slices, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re a popular side dish or snack, reflecting the importance of plantains in Cuban cuisine.
- Picadillo: Ground beef cooked with tomatoes, onions, olives, and spices. Often served with rice, this dish is a comforting, everyday meal that showcases Cuban flavors.
Generally, locals drink tap water in Cuba, but it’s not recommended for tourists due to potential digestive issues. It’s better to stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any unpleasant surprises. You can easily find bottled water at most shops and hotels.
The main language in Cuba is
Spanish. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Spanish skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Cuba includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
Get your local basic phrases 👉
Get the Travel Guide - In Cuba,
English is not widely spoken, especially outside major tourist areas. While many people in the hospitality industry, such as hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant employees in popular tourist destinations like Havana or Varadero, often have a basic understanding of English, the general population may have limited proficiency.
Spanish is the official language, and most Cubans communicate primarily in it. Travelers might encounter some younger people or those who have studied English, but it’s advisable to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance communication and enrich your experience.
In rural areas or small towns, English speakers are even rarer, and relying on gestures or translation apps can be helpful. Overall, while you can navigate tourist hotspots with some English, knowing Spanish will significantly improve interactions and deepen your understanding of Cuban culture.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Cuba is CUP (₱).
When backpacking in Cuba, cash is king. You’ll find that ATMs are scarce, especially outside major cities like Havana. Even when you find one, they might not accept foreign cards. So, it’s crucial to carry enough cash with you. Euros are generally preferred over U.S. dollars due to better exchange rates and fewer fees. Remember, U.S. dollar exchanges come with a 10% penalty.
Most local businesses, especially in rural areas, do not accept cards. The larger hotels and some restaurants in tourist areas might, but don’t rely on it. For exchanging money, stick to official Cadeca exchange offices or banks to avoid scams. Always count your money before leaving the counter to make sure you weren’t short-changed.
Tipping in Cuba is appreciated and often expected due to low wages. In restaurants, tip around 10% of the bill if service isn’t included. For hotel staff, a few dollars or small gifts from abroad can go a long way.
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Best Backpacking
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.