Best Way to Get Around Cuba (2024 Guide)

Looking for the best way to get around Cuba? The island nation of Cuba is known for its colonial architecture, vintage cars, rich history and culture, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking countryside. Since returning from my trip to Havana, Cuba, I received many questions about getting there and where to stay. If you’re a first-time reader, I suggest reading my tips on planning a trip to Cuba as a US citizen.

Getting around Cuba can be challenging for a first-time visitor, so understanding the best ways to travel within the country can enhance the experience. The majority of our trip was via taxi, and we negotiated everything. Here are several transportation options, travel tips, and insights for getting around Cuba safely.

Things to Know Before Traveling in Cuba

Before diving into specific transportation options, here are some general tips for traveling in Cuba

Get a Visa: To visit Cuba, you need a visa or Tourist Card. After determining your eligibility, apply for a tourist card via the embassy or before boarding your flight.
Bring Cash: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Cuba, and U.S. Citizens cannot use credit or debit cards. Carry enough cash (Cuban Pesos or CUP) to cover your travel costs.
Learn Basic Spanish: Spanish is the official language in Cuba, and English is not widely spoken, especially outside tourist areas. Basic Spanish phrases will be helpful when interacting with local Cuban people.
Plan Ahead: Cuban transportation can be unpredictable. When possible, purchase flight and bus tickets in advance and have a flexible itinerary.
Connectivity: Internet access is limited. Download maps and travel apps before your trip.

Best Way to Get Around Cuba

Below are the best ways to get around Cuba as a visitor, whether you’re in a major city, traveling long distances domestically, or visiting rural areas.

Havana and Major Cities

Taxis

Taxis are a convenient way to get around larger cities like Havana, Santiago de Cuba, and Trinidad. If you’re traveling between Old Havana, Vedado, and Centro Havana, the fare is usually between $3-5 CUPs. There are several types of taxis in Cuba:

Cubanacán and Panataxi: Cuban Government-run taxis that are reliable and have meters.
Private Taxis: Often old American cars. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Collective Taxis (Almendrones): Shared taxis that run fixed routes. They are cheaper but can be crowded and less comfortable.
Bicycle taxis (Bicitaxis ): Bicitaxis are available for short rides around central Havana and other major cities in Cuba.

*Travel Tip* Some taxi drivers choose not to use the meter when picking up tourists. Negotiate a price before entering the vehicle.

Public Buses

Public buses, known as Guaguas, are the cheapest way to travel within cities. However, they usually are in poor condition, can be crowded during peak season and uncomfortable. It is best to use guaguas for a short trip within the city.

Bicycle Rentals

Havana and other cities offer bicycle rentals. This is a great way to explore at your own pace and enjoy the city’s sights. Ensure you have a lock and are aware of local traffic rules.

Maquinas or Almendrones

Maquinas are generally old American or Soviet cars. This transportation option is a cheaper alternative to the yellow taxi. They are like carpools and have set routes that drive along the main road.

*Travel Tip* When you get in, look for doors that say ‘No tirar’—these are very fragile, so you must shut the door gently.

Intercity Travel

Shared Taxis (Colectivo Taxi)

Colectivos are shared taxis that offer an affordable and faster alternative to buses. They typically operate between popular tourist destinations and can be booked via casas particulares or a travel agent. The cost is higher than public transportation but lower than private taxis.

Domestic Flights

Air travel can save time when traveling between major cities within the island. Airlines like Cubana de Aviación and Aerogaviota operate on routes between Santiago de Cuba and Havana. Book internal flights in advance and be prepared for occasional delays or cancellations.

Viazul Buses

The Viazul bus service connects Havana to most major cities and provinces in Cuba. These buses cater to tourists and are comfortable, air-conditioned, and reasonably priced. To secure your seat, book your Viazul bus ticket online in advace or at the bus station as tickets can sell out during high season. Itineraries, departure times, and prices can be found on the Viazul website.

*Travel Tip*: Reservations and ticket payments should be made 7 days in advance, and you should arrive 30 minutes before departure. Only a few buses operate, and seats aren’t always guaranteed.

Local Buses

Buses run throughout the city but aren’t very unreliable. If you’re not up for the long lines, or shoving to get on, this option isn’t recommended. Take the bus only if you or someone traveling with you know exactly where you’re going.

Cubatur

Most hotels have travel agencies organize transfers from Havana to other cities on the island via Cubatur. With Cubatur, you can arrange private transfers or share a bus with others. For our trip to Varadero, we paid $50 CUP via Cubatur which was the best option for us traveling from the Havana Libre Hotel to Barcelo Solymar.

Private Services

Rental Car

Renting a car in Cuba is possible, but it can be costly. Much like Martinique, a lot of rental cars have manual transmissions, but automatic cars are available. Automatic cars have a $5 CUP daily rate premium. Below are websites for rental companies in Cuba that you can research:

Private Drivers

Renting a private vehicle from the airport to the city costs around 25-30 CUP. If you want a chauffeur, check with your Airbnb or casa particular host for arrangements. The average rate is about 40-50 CUP per day. The cost is more if you travel outside Havana to other major cities.

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Unique Transportation Options in Cuba

Classic Cars

One of Cuba’s most iconic images is the classic American cars from the 1950s. Many of these vintage vehicles operate as taxis. Classic car tours are also available for a nostalgic and enjoyable experience.

Horse-drawn Carriages

Horse-drawn carriages are still a common mode of transport in smaller towns and rural areas. They offer a leisurely way to explore local scenery and are particularly popular in tourist areas like Viñales.

Best Way to Get Around Cuba (2024 Guide)

Things to Know Before Traveling in Cuba