This guide covers what guests ask us most often on WhatsApp before arriving.
Money: the most important part
In Cuba the only official currency is the Cuban peso (CUP). The old convertible peso (CUC) disappeared in 2021, although you will still see references in older guidebooks.
- Bring cash in notes. It is by far the most practical way to pay. Euro notes usually get a better rate than dollars in the private sector; coins are not accepted for exchange.
- International cards barely work. Visa and Mastercard issued outside Cuba have stopped operating in the country, and ATMs fail often, especially during blackouts.
- Budget everything in cash, including breakfasts, parking, tours and transport.
At the guesthouse we accept cash and also cryptocurrency. If you would like to pay that way, let us know before you arrive.
Tips are given in notes, never coins. In restaurants 10% is usual; check whether it is already included.
Getting here
Santa Clara sits practically in the geographical centre of Cuba, which makes it a natural stop between Havana, Varadero and the east.
- From Havana: about 267 km, 3 to 4 hours by car. Around 5 hours by Viazul bus.
- From Varadero: 172 km, about 2.5 hours.
- From Trinidad: 89 km, 1.5 to 2 hours — the easiest trip in the area.
- From Cienfuegos: 60 km, around an hour.
Viazul is the bus option for foreign travellers: book on the official website and buy in advance in high season. Shared taxis (colectivos) are faster and door to door.
The Abel Santamaría airport (SNU) is about 11 km from the centre. If you would like us to arrange a trusted driver, just ask.
One piece of advice we always give: do not drive at night. Roads have unlit stretches, potholes and loose animals.
Electricity and plugs
Cuba uses 110-120 V at 60 Hz with type A and B plugs (flat US pins). In colonial houses like ours there are also 220 V type C and L sockets.
If you come from Europe, bring an A/B adapter and check that your chargers accept 100-240 V. We have loan adapters at the guesthouse.
Blackouts are frequent and can last many hours — which is why we installed the solar system. Even so, bring a power bank and a torch.
Internet and phone
- Cubacel Tur is the tourist SIM: bought online with your passport and collected at ETECSA offices.
- ETECSA WiFi requires a Nauta account with time cards. There are hotspots at Parque Vidal.
- International eSIMs work on the ETECSA network.
At the guesthouse you have WiFi in the common areas. It is the house connection, shared: fine for messaging and email, less so for video.
Water and health
Tap water is not drinkable in Cuba. Always drink bottled or treated water, and avoid ice that is not made from bottled water. We provide filtered water at the house.
The medical insurance is mandatory to enter the country and must cover at least USD 10,000 in emergency medical costs, plus evacuation and repatriation.
Entry requirements
Since 2025 the paper tourist card has been replaced by a digital e-Visa applied for on the official portal and delivered by email. Print a copy.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months.
- Return ticket.
- Medical insurance covering Cuba.
- The D'Viajeros form filled in shortly before travel.
When to come
The best season is December to April: pleasant temperatures, less rain. September is the worst month, with heavy rainfall and the peak of the hurricane season (1 June to 30 November).