AMERICAN TRAVELERS
YOU CAN LEGALLY VISIT CUBA!
Our comprehensive guide for Americans clarifies all approved travel categories and regulations, ensuring a smooth and compliant trip to this vibrant island. It's important to understand: While visiting Cuba purely as a "tourist" and staying in hotels (owned by the Cuban government) is generally prohibited by US regulations, you absolutely can go! The legal way to visit involves staying in Airbnbs (casas particulares), having a full itinerary directly supporting Cuban private businesses and individuals with your visit. Check out all the details below.
GUIDE FOR AMERICANS VISITING CUBA
Are you planning a trip to Cuba, either as a solo traveler or as part of a tour organized by an agency? Before embarking on this exciting journey, there are a few key things Americans should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. At Cubanisms, we understand the unique needs of American travelers and strive to provide exceptional services tailored to your needs.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
Prior to your trip to Cuba, it's essential to ensure you have the necessary travel documents in order. This typically includes, A VALID PASSPORT (with more than 6 months of validity remaining), A VISA (referred to as a CUBAN TOURIST CARD which can be purchased online HERE - keep in mind that if coming from the U.S. you need to travel under one of the 12 U.S. government-approved categories to purchase this visa, most popular category "Support for the Cuba people", more detailed information below) and HEALTH INSURANCE (it's worth noting that health insurance is often included in the airfare price for Americans, but it's wise to confirm this with your airline beforehand, if not included you will need to buy one). Additionally, you will need to complete a CUSTOM FORM "DVIAJEROS" to present at your arrival at the Cuban airport (it's essential to fill this out within 72 hours before departure. Once completed, you'll receive a PDF with a QR code and your visa number. We recommend printing it or downloading it on your phone since internet access might be limited upon arrival. Cuban custom's form HERE, how to fill the form HERE). Summarizing, to visit Cuba you will need, a valid passport, a visa (the most popular category to apply for is "Support for the Cuban people"), airfare with health insurance or purchase it separately and, the Cuban custom form. DOCUMENTATION COSTS: VISA ($85), CUSTOM FORM "DVIAJEROS" (FREE).
THE U.S. GOVERNMENT APPROVED CATEGORIES FOR AMERICANS TO VISIT CUBA
SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE
The SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category is often recommended for travelers visiting Cuba from the USA. This category allows travelers to engage in activities that directly benefit the Cuban people and support independent businesses, thereby fostering positive interactions and exchanges between Americans and Cubans. Plus, it offers a flexible framework for travelers to explore Cuba's culture, history, and society while ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations.
TRAVELING TO CUBA UNDER THE SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE CATEGORY
SOLO TRAVELER EXPERIENCE: Traveling solo means exploring Cuba independently or with a small group of family or friends. To comply with the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category, you'll need an schedule of daily activities with private businesses, excluding Cuban government entities. This includes staying in “casas particulares” or Airbnbs instead of government-owned hotels, dining at “paladares” or private restaurants, and engaging in activities that support independent businesses. Recently, some airlines have started requesting, randomly, to see a detailed itinerary of activities before allowing passengers to board flights to Cuba. While the necessity of this requirement by the airline is a subject of debate, it is a current practice that travelers should be prepared for. As specialists in Cuban travel, we offer a tailored service of preparing customized itineraries specifically designed to enhance your visit to Cuba. Our itineraries help you take advantage of each minute, ensuring you have a rich and fulfilling experience. Additionally, our itineraries meet the criteria of the "Support for the Cuban People" category, making them suitable for solo travelers. Our recommendations cover lodging, dining, transportation, tour guides and more, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip to Cuba. Additionally, we can handle reservations on your behalf for added convenience.
AGENCY ORGANIZED TRIP: Joining an agency-organized trip, whether with your own group or an open group, means having your travel fully managed by us at Cubanisms or another reputable travel company. With Cubanisms, we'll provide a daily schedule of activities with private businesses as itinerary, aligned with the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category. Our team handles all arrangements in Cuba, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without worries. When choosing another agency, ensure they comply with U.S. regulations, provide a detailed daily schedule of activities with private businesses and avoid government-owned hotels. Opting for a Cuban-owned/managed agency, preferably with ties to the USA, enhances understanding of both Cuban culture and American needs while ensuring adherence to U.S. regulations. At Cubanisms, we're dedicated to facilitating meaningful and legally compliant travel experiences, regardless of your chosen travel style.
THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR TRIP?
SOLO TRAVELER EXPERIENCE: Embarking on a solo trip to Cuba, either alone or with a small group of family or friends, you'll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace, without being tied to a group schedule. In this scenario, it's essential to adhere to the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category, requiring a meticulously crafted daily schedule of activities with private businesses. As specialists in Cuban travel, we offer a tailored service of preparing customized itineraries specifically designed to enhance your visit to Cuba. Our itineraries help you take advantage of each minute, ensuring you have a rich and fulfilling experience. Our itineraries also meet the criteria of the "Support for the Cuban People" category, making them suitable for solo travelers. Additionally, our recommendations encompass all aspects of your journey, including lodging, dining, transportation, and guided tours. Notice that in Cuba, cash is king, as credit cards and ATMs are not widely accepted, so be sure to bring enough cash for all expenses. Ultimately, while solo travel to Cuba offers unparalleled freedom and opportunities for personal growth, it also requires careful planning, awareness, and self-reliance to ensure a fulfilling experience.
AGENCY ORGANIZED TRIP: Opting for an agency-led trip, especially with Cubanisms, streamlines the travel experience and ensures a hassle-free journey. Prior to your departure, we engage with the group to understand their interests and expectations, crafting a daily itinerary tailored to the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category. Our services cover all essential services and activities, including lodging, transportation, meals, and guided tours. Throughout the trip, a dedicated host ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying Cuba's culture, history, and traditions. Traveling with Cubanisms guarantees meaningful interactions with locals and support for their businesses, as well as contributions to charitable initiatives. With a track record of organizing successful trips since 2016, including various interest-based groups, Cubanisms ensures a memorable and enriching Cuban experience. When choosing another agency, ensure they comply with U.S. regulations, provide a detailed daily itinerary, and offer transparent pricing to avoid unexpected expenses.
Regardless of your choice, solo or agency travel, prioritize adherence to U.S. regulations and thorough planning to maximize your enjoyment of Cuba.
ABOUT US
CUBANISMS is a US-based cultural organization dedicated to curating unforgettable experiences in Cuba and fostering connections between people from both countries through immersive trips and musical adventures. Established in 2016 by Dalida T. Pupo Barrios, a native Cuban, and Michael McClintock, hailing from the USA, our company is passionate about promoting cross-cultural exchange and creating lasting memories for our travelers. For more details about our founders, feel free to visit our homepage linked below.
We're HERE to assist you every step of the way.
Category "Support for the Cuban people" (CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS website) HERE
FAQ, about traveling to Cuba (DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY website) HERE
REVIEWS
EXCELLENTTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dalida provided a truly unique and unforgettable Cuba experience through her company, Cubanisms. Every detail of our trip was thoughtfully tailored to exactly what we were hoping for—and then some. From the moment we arrived, Dalida made us feel completely comfortable and cared for, welcoming us not just as travelers, but as guests. Thanks to her expertise and connections, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in Cuba’s vibrant art scene, incredible music, and rich culture. Each experience felt authentic, meaningful, and personal. Dalida’s warmth, knowledge, and gracious hosting turned our trip into something far beyond a typical tour. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to experience all that Cuba has to offer.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a fantastic time we had in January 2026 at the Havana Jazz Fest in Cuba. Yes, the country is open. Yes, the people are dancing. The secret is travel with Cubanisms under the direction of Dalida Pupo Barrios. My wife went in 2025, had such a good time I went in 2026. Viva Cuba!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A visit to Cuba with Cubanisms is like visiting your best friends. Dálida and Michael share the history, attractions and culture with equal enthusiasm for Cuba and for your enjoyment of it. Our group of seasoned travelers all agree : best trip ever. KVKPosted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Traveling solo for work can be tough, but I was able to extend my trip to France with a couple of extra days in Paris, and Dalida made the experience absolutely perfect! I reached out to her, and she immediately secured me a spot in a charming, comfortable boutique hotel right in the city center. It was a wonderful, seamless booking process. She wasn't just organized—she was my fantastic guide! Dalida put together an incredible two-day itinerary tailored for my short window, and she personally joined me to see the sights. Her dedication and enthusiasm made the tour feel so special; it was a lovely mix of expert-level planning and genuine warmth. If you want a trip handled with both professionalism and heart, book with Dalida!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Si quieres guardar en tu memoria como un tesoro, un viaje a París, que siempre se sueña y en algún momento la vida te regala el privilegio de hacerlo. No dudes ni por un instante hacer la planificación con "Cubanisms". Cada mínimo detalle está perfectamente planeado. Vas a disfrutar a plenitud y puedo asegurar que en una semana te puedes llevar prácticamente las mejores experiencias de ese maravilloso sitio. Créeme luego vas a decir: allí estuve yo y te vendrán a la mente momentos de felicidad.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nuestro viaje a París fue maravilloso🤩 Nuestra anfitriona Dálida nos preparó un itinerario personalizado de acuerdo a nuestros intereses para los dos días de nuestra estancia en París, muy organizado y completo. Pudimos aprovechar al máximo el tiempo y visitar lugares imperdibles. Nos asistió con la compra de tickets para las principales atracciones y nos dio excelentes recomendaciones sobre transporte y comida local. Todo estuvo perfectamente coordinado y adaptado a las necesidades de nuestra familia, lo que hizo que nuestra experiencia fuera fluída, auténtica e inolvidable. ¡Gracias, Dálida, por hacer de nuestro viaje a París algo realmente especial! 🌟 Recomiendo 100% esta agencia y la compañía espectacular de Dálida. Regresaremos en otra ocasión para disfrutar de otros atractivos junto a ustedes!!! Muchas gracias por su acogida y compañía. Saludos y éxitos🤗Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing Experience!!! Dalida y Michael hacen que París te arrope con esa calidez y gentileza únicos!!! Explorando sitios icónicos y otros que te hacen ver la ciudad luz en una perspectiva 360 de placer, descubrimiento, glamour, cercanía... De su mano la ciudad se muestra con todos sus matices y cautiva, tanto por el encanto natural parisino cómo por su inmejorable compañía. Que suerte tenerlos chivos!!! Ou revoir!!!!Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband surprised me with a trip to Paris for our 25th wedding anniversary. He contacted Dalida Pupo Barrios and asked her to put together a two week itinerary with 10 nights in Paris and four nights in Reims (the Champagne area). Dalida furnished him with a wonderful and very detailed ten page typed itinerary outlining hotels, arranged transportation, lunch and dinner recommendations, as well as tickets for our tours of the sights. She personally contacted the three different hotels and relayed our needs in French as we do not speak the language. Our highlight at the end of our trip was a late lunch at Jules Verne on the second level of the Eiffel Tower. Her attention to detail was absolutely amazing. I would highly recommend her services to anyone wishing a fabulous trip to France.Posted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently returned from a week in Paris, and I was able to fully enjoy this vast and complex city thanks to Dalida and Cubanisms, her travel cultural project. I was able to relax and make the most of my short visit to the world's most cosmopolitan city. Navigating into the city from the airport can be daunting, and without the driver she arranged, I would have wasted time and energy trying to figure out transportation into Paris. Most importantly, Dalida had selected a boutique hotel (built in 1638) for my stay, which was charming. The staff was wonderful and the location allowed me to walk everywhere. The art galleries, cafes and scenic overlooks along the Seine provided perfect opportunities for people watching, one of my favorite past times. I comfortably walked to the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame cathedral and the ticket Dalida arranged for me to tour the Louvre was greatly appreciated. In the evenings, I enjoyed fabulous French cuisine in intimate restaurants, all of which were pre-selected from Dalida's curated list. Using the Metro allowed me to get around like a true Parisian, and I received clear instructions on navigating the underground rail system without missed stops of getting confused. My visit was a wonderful whirlwind of French culture, all thanks to Dalida and Cubanisms. Matt Mayes in FloridaPosted onTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cubanisms is truly a cultural project and worth hiring if you are interested in visiting and exploring all that the country has to offer--- The island's natural beauty (not yet spoiled by over development), it's famed music, salsa, organic meals at private/family owned restaurants, and most of all the warm-hearted and welcoming people. Dalida, who is a native of Cuban now living in Paris with her jazz musician husband, is a consummate travel professional and will take care of your every need. Through her many years of experience, she has developed connections to private professional drivers, private restaurant owners and a host of other professionals. She will organize everything from accommodations, tours, VIP entry to jazz events, meals at the best restaurants, etc. Moreover, through a personalized approach (eg, dinners and dance parties hosted by her close friends) she provides something entirely unique to the experience, which you won't find with other tour operators. Further, if you are discouraged from a Cuba trip because of the bad press about resources, that is understandable-- I almost didn't go because of the barrage a negative news. Keep in mind, there are two sides to these reports. Yes, Cuba is resource deprived, wi-fi is intermittent, and there aren't chain retail stores on every corner to satisfy your every need and desire. (Think of buying coconut water to drink from the shell at a local stand, instead of bottled water! Yum!!) Too, there is indeed much need for repair of infrastructure outside of Old Havana (Note: Old Havana has been impeccably restored, btw!). However, this, in a way, is the beauty of the Cuba's inner soul. People have struggled and have over time learned to make do with much less. Food isn't wasted. There are no traffic jams (few people own cars). You don't see kids and adults walking around with EarPods and eyeballs glued to a screen. There is no violent crime, nor rampant homelessness. There is no upper-middle class or ultra rich tech- or finance-elite living luxuriously well, while the 95% of the population struggles. So, yes, relative to a rich nation, they are all very, very much struggling economically. But they are *all* doing so together, and doing so while not having lost their collective souls to overconsumption and a barrage of media addictions. Truly, it was a refreshing trip to the past, back to a simpler time. As you consider this trip also keep in mind that tourism is an important source of income for the country. It goes a long way to supporting Cuban families. (Dalida also accepts donations for school children.) I'm glad I went and you will be too! Just be sure to pack a different set of expectations, lots of patience and an open heart to accept the outpouring of kindness and love from those you meet.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. 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