The first few hours in Cuba set the tone for the whole trip. How to get through arrivals, reach your casa without stress and settle in on night one.
Arrival is the easy part — with preparation
Most first-trip problems in Cuba happen in the first few hours: long queues, no phone signal, no small bills and a driver who can't find the address. A little preparation before you fly turns arrival into the easy part.
Before You Fly
- Complete your arrival paperwork. Fill in Cuba's online arrival form (D'Viajeros) before departure, and make sure you have your eVisa and proof of travel insurance. Requirements change, so check the current rules with your airline a week before you travel.
- Send your host your flight details. Share your flight number, arrival time and the number of people and bags. Hosts track arrivals and can adjust if your flight is delayed.
- Ask your host to arrange a pickup. Most casas work with a trusted driver. Agree on the price in advance and confirm whether the driver will wait if your flight runs late.
- Bring cash in small bills. Carry enough euros or US dollars for the transfer, a tip and your first day, in small denominations. Exchange options at the airport can be limited and queues long.
- Save everything offline. Download your casa address, host phone number, booking confirmation and an offline map of the city. Don't count on having data when you land.
At the Airport
International flights to Havana arrive at José Martí International Airport, about 25 to 40 minutes by car from the city centre. Expect immigration, a health check and customs, then a wait at baggage reclaim that can be long at busy times.
Finding your driver: Your driver will usually wait just outside the arrivals exit holding a sign with your name. If you can't see them, wait inside the arrivals area rather than accepting an offer from someone else, and ask staff or a fellow traveller if you can borrow a phone or Wi-Fi to message your host.
If you didn't pre-book: Official taxis queue outside arrivals. There are usually no meters, so agree on the fare before you get in, and show the driver your casa's full address, including the cross streets.
Getting connected: If you plan to buy a local SIM card or arrange an eSIM, sort it before you travel where possible. Airport phone kiosks may be closed or have long queues for late arrivals.
For more detail on airport transfers and transport options across Cuba, visit Cuba Transit.
Arriving at Your Casa
Check-in: Your host will ask for your passport. By law, casas register every guest with the authorities, so this is a normal and good sign that the casa is properly licensed.
The house tour: Ask your host to show you how the keys, door locks, air conditioning, hot water and Wi-Fi work, and whether there's a curfew or a buzzer for late returns.
Power and water: Ask what happens during a power cut and whether the house has a backup supply or water tank. A small torch or headlamp in your hand luggage is worth packing.
Breakfast: Confirm what time breakfast is served and the price if it isn't included. After a long flight, a casa breakfast is often the easiest first meal.
Late-Night Arrivals
If you land after 9 pm, plan to stay in for the night. Ask your host if they can leave bottled water and a light snack in your room, or if they can prepare a simple dinner. Restaurant options thin out late, and wandering an unfamiliar neighbourhood at night isn't the best start.
First-Night Checklist
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Printed or offline casa address | Drivers may not know smaller streets |
| Host's phone number | In case your driver is late or missing |
| Small bills in euros or dollars | For the transfer, tips and first purchases |
| Arrival form and eVisa | Required to enter the country |
| Torch or headlamp | Useful during power cuts |
| Snacks and water | Shops and restaurants may be closed late |
Other Arrival Airports
Some travellers fly directly to Santa Clara or Holguín. The same steps apply. Ask your host to arrange a pickup in advance, since taxi supply at smaller airports can be limited, especially for late flights.
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