Cuba Currency: What to Bring & How Much for a Week

Planning a trip from Canada to Cuba? One of the most common questions is about the best currency to bring. Navigating Cuba’s financial landscape can feel a bit complex, especially with its dual currency system historically. But don’t worry, we’re here to break down exactly what cash you should pack for a week-long adventure.

Understanding Cuba’s Currency

For many years, Cuba operated with two currencies: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Convertible Peso (CUC). The CUC was pegged to the US dollar and was primarily used by tourists. However, as of January 1, 2021, Cuba unified its currency, eliminating the CUC. This means the Cuban Peso (CUP) is now the sole legal tender. While this simplifies things, it’s crucial to understand its implications for your travel budget.

What Currency Should You Bring to Cuba?

The most straightforward answer is that you should bring Canadian Dollars (CAD) or Euros (EUR). While US dollars were once widely accepted and exchanged, there have been restrictions and limitations in the past, and bringing them can sometimes lead to less favorable exchange rates or additional fees. Canadian dollars and Euros are generally well-received and can be exchanged for Cuban Pesos upon arrival.

Important Note: It is highly recommended to bring clean, crisp banknotes, especially for Euros. Older or damaged bills may be rejected.

Where to Exchange Your Currency

You’ll find exchange facilities at the airport upon arrival, as well as in major cities. These are typically “Casas de Cambio” (CADECA). Exchange rates are set by the government and are generally consistent across authorized locations. While ATMs are available, they are not always reliable for tourists and can have transaction limits. Relying on cash is the most dependable method for most transactions.

How Much Cash Should You Bring for a Week in Cuba?

Determining the right amount of cash depends heavily on your travel style, planned activities, and accommodation choices. A week is a good timeframe to get a feel for the country, but it’s always better to err on the side of having a little extra cash than running short.

Estimating Your Weekly Budget

Here’s a breakdown to help you estimate:

• Accommodation: If you’re staying in casa particulares (private homestays), expect to pay between 25-50 CAD per night. For hotels, prices can range from 80-150+ CAD per night.
• Food: Eating at paladares (private restaurants) can cost 10-20 CAD per meal. Local cafeterias or street food will be significantly cheaper, perhaps 3-7 CAD per meal.
• Activities & Tours: Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, and guided tours can add up. Budget around 15-30 CAD per day for attractions and excursions.
• Transportation: Taxis within cities are generally affordable (5-10 CAD for short rides). Longer distances or special trips will cost more.
• Souvenirs & Extras: Allow a buffer for souvenirs, tips, and any unexpected expenses.

Sample Weekly Cash Budget (per person)

For a comfortable, mid-range week, here’s a rough estimate:

1. Accommodation: 7 nights x 40 CAD/night = 280 CAD
2. Food: 7 days x 2 meals/day x 15 CAD/meal = 210 CAD
3. Activities/Tours: 7 days x 25 CAD/day = 175 CAD
4. Local Transportation: 7 days x 10 CAD/day = 70 CAD
5. Buffer/Souvenirs: 100 CAD
6. Total Estimated: 835 CAD

Therefore, for a week, bringing between 700 to 1000 Canadian Dollars per person is a reasonable range. This allows for flexibility and ensures you can enjoy your trip without constantly worrying about your cash supply. Remember, this is an estimate, and you can adjust it based on your personal spending habits.

Tips for Managing Your Cash in Cuba

• Keep Small Bills: Having smaller denominations of CUP will be useful for smaller purchases and tips.
• Separate Your Cash: Don’t keep all your money in one place.
• Be Aware of Exchange Rates: While official rates are set, always double-check when exchanging.
• Inform Your Bank: Let your Canadian bank know you’ll be traveling to avoid any card issues, though cash is king.

By preparing with the right currency and an estimated budget, you’ll be well-equipped for a fantastic and hassle-free trip to Cuba. Enjoy your adventure!

For further insights into Cuban travel, check out TripAdvisor’s Cuba Travel Forum or the official IATA Travel Centre for the latest entry requirements.