In cities like Matanzas and Cárdenas, public buses (guaguas) are cheap but crowded and unreliable. Official tourist taxis (marked, often modern) are available in Varadero and cities; agree on fares beforehand. Classic car taxis are a popular tourist experience. For flexibility, rent a car from state agencies (like Cubacar, Via Rent a Car) in Varadero or at airports, but book well in advance as supply is limited. Bicycles are a good option in Varadero. For intercity travel, Viazul buses connect Varadero, Matanzas city, and Havana. Horse-drawn carriages (coches) are common for short trips in smaller towns. Ride-hailing apps are not available.
December to April is the dry season, offering sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rain—ideal for beach and outdoor activities. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds, especially in Varadero. May and June are good shoulder months with warm weather and fewer tourists, though brief afternoon showers increase. July to November is the wet season and hurricane season, with higher humidity, frequent rain, and risk of storms; prices are lowest, but some activities may be disrupted.
Cubans are warm and sociable; a friendly greeting is appreciated. Dress is generally casual but modest when not at the beach; cover up when visiting towns or churches. Tipping is not mandatory but is expected and appreciated in the tourism economy (e.g., 10% in restaurants if service charge not included, small amounts for hotel maids, guides, and musicians). Always ask before photographing people. Respect local music and dance culture—rumba has deep Afro-Cuban roots. Be patient with slower service and bureaucratic processes. It's polite to use 'por favor' and 'gracias' frequently.
Matanzas is generally safe for tourists, with violent crime being rare. Exercise normal precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) can occur in tourist hubs like Varadero and bus stations. Avoid isolated areas after dark. Be cautious of 'jineteros' (hustlers) offering overly friendly assistance, guided tours, or black-market cigars, which are often scams. Only use official taxis. Keep valuables in hotel safes. The Zapata Peninsula's remote areas require guided tours for safety. Police are generally helpful to tourists.
Travel health insurance is mandatory for entry into Cuba. Public hospitals in major cities like Matanzas and Varadero provide basic care, but facilities may lack advanced equipment and medications. Private clinics (clínicas internacionales) in Varadero offer higher standards for tourists. Bring a comprehensive supply of any prescription medications. Common concerns include traveler's diarrhea, sunburn, and dehydration. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present; use repellent. Recommended routine vaccinations are up-to-date (MMR, DTaP) plus Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Tap water is not safe to drink; consume bottled water only.
