How to Legally Travel to Cuba

For US travelers hoping to step back in time, savor vibrant culture, and explore some of the Caribbean’s most historic and beautiful towns, Cuba offers an experience unlike any other. While it is still necessary to navigate specific travel regulations to explore this fascinating island nation, it is entirely possible to make the trip run smoothly—and we make it even easier on our new journey, Cuba: A Cultural Odyssey. This guide covers all you need to know about traveling to Cuba legally and shares insight into some of the incredible places we visit on our adventure.

What are the current travel restrictions for Cuba?
The US-Cuba relationship has a complex history stretching back to the 1960s. In 2016, the United States marked a historic change by allowing US citizens to travel under the “people-to-people” category (license), lifting a decades-long limit that restricted virtually all travel to the island nation. But by the following year and under a new administration, the US reinstated new sanctions that prohibited Americans from using specific hotels, restaurants, and businesses that were owned, affiliated, or funded by the Cuban government. These sanctions remain today, so it’s not surprising that many are left wondering how to legally travel to Cuba.
Here’s the good news: according to the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) guidelines, US citizens can legally travel to Cuba if they fall under one of the 12 authorized categories or licenses, including visiting family, educational activities, religious activities, and humanitarian projects. The license that most travelers fall under, and the one we operate under for our cultural journey is the new “Support for the Cuban People” license. This is the most popular category, and it requires that travelers engage in activities supporting Cuba’s independent businesses, like dining at paladares (privately owned restaurants), staying in casas particulares (private homes), and engaging in cultural exchanges It’s worth noting that bringing back Cuban cigars and rum to the US are strictly prohibited under any category.
What do you need to do to legally travel to Cuba?
One of the great things about traveling with Wilderness Travel is we provide a detailed itinerary that complies with the “Support for the Cuban People” category. We only stay at approved hotels that are not owned by the government (complying with all US and Cuban laws). To travel to Cuba, you’ll need:
For more information about travel requirements to Cuba for US citizens, we suggest visiting the Cuba Visa Services website FAQ page.
Can I fly directly to Cuba from the United States?
Yes, there are daily flights to Havana and Santa Clara, Cuba from major US airport hubs, including Miami, Houston, New York, and more. As of January 20205, major US airlines that fly to Cuba include American, United, and Delta, just to name a few.
Top Places to Explore in Cuba
Cuba is an enticing blend of colorful colonial architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and a warm, welcoming culture. Its cities are filled with history, art, music, and traditional Cuban cuisine, making it one of the Caribbean’s most unique destinations. Here are our top three must-see destinations on your Cuban journey.

Havana
No visit to Cuba would be complete without experiencing the heart and soul of the nation. This lively capital is known for its iconic vintage cars, music-filled streets, and awe-inspiring architecture.

Cienfuegos
Known as the “Pearl of the South,” Cienfuegos is a beautiful coastal city with French influences and stunning architecture, making it feel distinctly different from other Cuban cities.

Trinidad
Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a gem of Cuba’s colonial past, where you’ll feel transported back to the 1800s. This colorful town is surrounded by mountains and sugar plantations, making it ideal for travelers seeking history and nature.