Important subjects you should know about traveling to Cuba
Cuba Info
FAQs
Cuba is a country rich in culture and history. During the mid-19th century, Havana was one of the most important cities in the western hemisphere. This provides a background rich in textures and colors. Still, most importantly, there are the incredibly gracious and hospitable Cuban people, who are wonderfully diverse, curious, and highly receptive to being photographed.
As of May 1, 2025, it is entirely legal to travel to Cuba. However, certain conditions must be met. One may not travel as a tourist or individual, and one must be traveling in a group affiliated with the United States and with an organized and robust itinerary of activities that do not use the services of Cuban agencies, transporters, and facilities on the restricted list.
EyeCuba only utilizes the lodging of approved hotels and the lodging and hospitality services of private companies and individuals. Any Cubans working with us are private individuals and are nongovernmental. Our trips qualify for general licenses under the definitions of “educational” and “in support for the Cuban People.”
A common source of confusion is that, as a U.S. citizen, you are not permitted to travel to Cuba for tourist activities. This is true; however, there are specific approved reasons, and therefore, it is legal. Conversely, as far as the Cuban government is concerned, a tourist visa (e-visa) is required to enter the country, which creates confusion. These are easily obtained online in the United States. See what I mean? You are not allowed to be a tourist, but you must get a Cuban tourist visa. We will help you navigate this swamp of political double-speak.
You are responsible for your flight to and from your destination cities in Cuba. Your flight will be met at the airport by the EyeCuba crew. All your lodging, transportation, location costs, tips, and breakfasts are included, as well as 5-7 lunches and 5-7 dinners, depending on the length of the trip. Some lunches and dinners are left open, allowing you to experience Cuba at your own pace or in a smaller group setting.
We recommend that each participant bring $500 for additional expenses, such as attending a show and/or purchasing art. It is rare for anyone to spend this much, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Of course, you can only sample Cuban Rum and cigars in Cuba. You may not bring them into the US.
The simplistic solution is to bring Dollars or Euros. EyeCuba will greet you at the airport and provide you with a small amount of spending money in Cuban Pesos, allowing you to make personal purchases.
On most trips, this is more than enough for the entire trip, but if you need more, we can assist you. Dollars are generally preferred in most establishments, but be sure to ask about the exchange rate before making a payment. Do not exchange money on the streets.
Most Cubans are in need and appreciate any assistance you can offer them. EyeCuba will take care of tips, fees, and honoraria for most locations, but small gifts go a long way. These small items for adults are always welcome: readers, pain relievers, toothbrushes (toothpaste), batteries, ballpoint pens, hand sanitizers, and make-up.
Good items for kids are: balls, jump ropes, jacks, card games, hair ties, head bands, baseball caps, baseballs, toy cars, and other miniature toys/figures. Larger and more expensive gifts are also welcome. These could be: old cell phones, used clothing, shoes, and unused or left-over toiletries and medicines.
For larger and more expensive items like this, we ask that you allow us to find them new homes so we can apply at least a perception of fairness. Often we have clients who either bring used clothing to parcel out, or used clothing they wore during the trip, but leave them at the end.
Cuba is generally considered a safe destination, but as a relatively impoverished country, it is advisable to remain vigilant against petty theft. That said, the EyeCuba crew will be there to keep an eye on you. There is more violent crime in a major US city in a night than in Cuba for a year. You are safe when alone on the streets, but you need to apply common sense like you would at home. Your places of lodging are safe for your equipment, and more often than not, there are strongboxes in each room.
Most EyeCuba trips have 2-3 staff dedicated to the trip, as well as the driver and a local guide, all of whom are there to take care of you. In the event of a medical issue, competent medical care is readily available. Of course, EyeCuba will ask that you fill out a form so we can be prepared for any medical, dietary, and mobility issues before your arrival.