Discover

Cuba

Cuba’s political history and artistic flair make it one of the world’s most unique destinations. Resorts in Varadero and Holguin offer golden beaches perfect for sun, relaxation, and watersports in the Caribbean Sea. However, Havana holds the key to understanding this remarkable country. Watch 1950s cars whizz past art deco buildings as you sip mojitos and enjoy salsa and jazz on the boulevards. Alternatively, explore the city’s art galleries, museums, and political iconography of Che Guevara and the Castro brothers. Havana also boasts an impressive dining scene, while its Latin flair shines through various fine arts festivals. Beyond the capital, Cuba’s countryside beckons with lush sugarcane fields, tropical birds, and breathtaking mountain vistas, ideal for exploration by bike.

 

What you’ll love most about Cuba

  • Immerse yourself in Havana’s vibrant culture, where colourful colonial architecture, vintage cars, lively music, and the iconic Malecón promenade blend the past and present beautifully
  • Explore Viñales Valley’s stunning landscapes of limestone mogotes, tobacco fields, and traditional villages, perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and visiting local tobacco farms to learn about cigar making
  • Step back in time in Trinidad, a UNESCO-listed town of cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and colonial architecture, where you’ll find historic landmarks, live music, and the nearby Playa Ancón
  • Relax on Varadero Beach’s powdery sands and turquoise waters, with all-inclusive resorts ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports under the Cuban sun
  • Discover the Bay of Pigs’ history and beauty, from coral reefs and mangrove forests to snorkelling, diving, and birdwatching at this iconic site of the 1961 invasion
  • Experience Santiago de Cuba’s Afro-Cuban culture, with its lively Carnaval, historic Castillo del Morro, and vibrant music and dance scene at the famous Casa de la Trova

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Havana’s weather patterns

Where to Book

  • Vinales Valley scenery, Cuba

  • Woman crossing the road in Havana, Cuba

  • Rio Canimar in Matanzas, Cuba

  • Colourful vintage cars, Havana

  • Palacio de Valle, Cienfuegos, Cuba

  • Vintage American car, Havana, Cuba

  • Varadero beach sunset

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 27℃
  • 27℃
  • 28℃
  • 29℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 32℃
  • 30℃
  • 29℃
  • 27℃
  • 7
  • 7
  • 7
  • 5
  • 8
  • 12
  • 9
  • 12
  • 12
  • 14
  • 10
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January is a popular time to visit Cuba, with dry and mild weather averaging mid-20°Cs. Havana’s streets come alive with music, making it perfect for exploring Old Havana, touring classic car routes, or enjoying salsa dancing. For beach lovers, Varadero’s white sands and turquoise waters offer a serene escape.

February

In February, the pleasant climate continues, ideal for exploring Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its cobblestone streets and colourful colonial architecture. Head to Viñales Valley to see the iconic tobacco farms and dramatic limestone cliffs known as mogotes.

March

March marks the beginning of slightly warmer days, with temperatures often reaching 28°C. It's a fantastic month for snorkelling or diving along the coral reefs of Jardines de la Reina or Cayo Coco. Havana’s rooftop bars are also perfect for sipping mojitos as the sun sets.

April

As April arrives, the dry season nears its end, and the island basks in sunshine. Enjoy lively Easter festivities or explore Santiago de Cuba, known for its rich Afro-Cuban culture and historic sites, including San Pedro de la Roca Castle.

May

May sees rising humidity and the start of occasional rains, but mornings remain sunny. This is a great time to visit the lush Ciénaga de Zapata National Park, where birdwatching enthusiasts can spot the Cuban trogon, the national bird.

June

By June, the rainy season is in full swing, though showers are often brief. The heat is offset by refreshing breezes along the coast, making Varadero or Playa Ancón near Trinidad ideal for swimming and relaxation.

July

July is one of the hottest months, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Santiago de Cuba hosts its vibrant Carnival, a spectacle of parades, music, and colourful costumes. The energy is unmatched, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in Cuban culture.

August

In August, the island remains hot and humid, but the beaches and cays provide a welcome respite. Head to Cayo Santa María for a more tranquil escape or enjoy Havana’s vibrant nightlife, from jazz clubs to traditional rumba performances.

September

September brings the peak of hurricane season, but for those who venture to Cuba, it’s a quieter time to explore. Museums and cultural sites in Havana are less crowded, while the Sierra Maestra mountains offer lush trails for hiking.

October

By October, the rains begin to taper off, and the weather becomes more comfortable, averaging between the high-20°Cs to 30°C. It’s an excellent time to visit Camagüey’s labyrinthine streets and art galleries or explore Holguín, known for its beautiful beaches and rolling hills.

November

November marks the return of the dry season, with warm days and cooler evenings. Varadero’s beaches are pristine, and Havana’s International Film Festival starts to take centre stage, attracting cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

December

In December, Cuba is at its most festive. With Christmas celebrations in full swing, Havana is a hub of activity, and Cienfuegos, known as the “Pearl of the South,” shines with its elegant architecture and waterside promenades. The comfortable 27°C weather makes this one of the most popular months to visit.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

WHERE TO BOOK


Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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