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Varadero is Cuba’s top beach resort town—expect long white-sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts, short excursion options, and basic but friendly services. Plan for Cuba-specific entry rules, limited connectivity, cash handling, and modest local infrastructure.
Visa / Entry requirements
- Most travelers need a Cuban tourist card (visa) valid for 30 days—often called a Tarjeta del Turista. Check if your airline or consulate issues it or apply at a Cuban embassy/consulate.
- Passport must be valid for the length of stay (6 months recommended by many countries). Bring return/onward ticket and proof of health insurance (Cuba requires it; some nationals are checked).
- U.S. travelers: direct tourism to Cuba remains restricted; check current US regulations and allowed categories of travel. Flight/transit rules change—verify before booking.
- COVID rules: verify any current health entry requirements before travel (testing, forms, etc.).
Best time to visit
- Peak season: November–March (dry, cooler, more tourists, higher prices). Ideal for winter escapes.
- Shoulder seasons: April–June (warmer, fewer crowds, good deals).
- Low season / hurricane season: June–November (hot, humid, higher chance of storms; travel insurance recommended if visiting Jun–Nov).
Safety tips
- Varadero is generally safe for tourists. Common issues are petty theft and scams—watch belongings on beach and at crowded spots.
- Use hotel safes for passports and valuables; carry a photocopy of your passport daily.
- Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious with late-night beach visits.
- Drink bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach—many travelers prefer it.
Local customs & etiquette
- Cubans are warm and polite; a greeting is customary. Use basic Spanish greetings (hola, buenos días) — it’s appreciated.
- Dress is casual at resorts; cover up when visiting churches or government buildings.
- Tipping: not mandatory but appreciated—small tips to hotel porters, housekeeping, servers, and tour guides are common.
- Photography: ask permission before photographing people; avoid photographing military or government buildings.
Currency & money matters
- Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP). Tourists primarily use foreign currency (Euros, Canadian dollars, GBP, or USD exchanges). Note exchange fees and the possible 10% fee on converting USD—use Euros/CAD/GBP if possible.
- ATMs are limited; many travelers bring cash (Euros/CAD/GBP) to exchange at banks or CADECAs. Credit/debit cards (especially US-issued) may not work everywhere—check your card’s usability and notify your bank.
- Keep small bills and coins for tips and small purchases.
Transportation
- Varadero is about a 2–3 hour drive from Havana (approx. 140 km). Options: private transfer, shared shuttle, taxi, or organized tours.
- Within Varadero: taxis, private drivers (almendrones), bicycles, and short local buses. Many travelers stay on resort grounds and use hotel shuttles.
- Renting a car is possible but paperwork, insurance, and road conditions make it less common; driving rules are similar to many countries but watch for local driving styles.
Must-know tips & local insights
- All-inclusive resorts dominate Varadero—if you want more local flavor, split time with a homestay (casa particular) or a day trip to Matanzas or Havana.
- Book popular excursions (Havana day trip, Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, snorkeling, catamaran) in advance during high season.
- Internet access is limited and mostly paid via ETECSA Wi‑Fi cards or hotel Wi‑Fi (often slow and metered). Buy Wi‑Fi cards from ETECSA offices or kiosks.
- Health care: resorts have medical posts; bring prescription medicines with original labels and a small first-aid kit.
- Electricity: 110V and 220V can be found; bring an adapter and plug converter if needed.
- Respect local prices—haggling is common in markets, but be fair.
Quick packing checklist
- Passport, tourist card, travel insurance, local currency (or Euros/CAD), credit card that works abroad
- Lightweight clothing, sun protection, reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, mosquito repellent
- Basic meds, copies of documents, portable charger, universal adapter
Enjoy Varadero’s beaches and relaxed pace—plan ahead for documentation, money, and connectivity to make the most of your stay.