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Travel to Cuba 2021: Your Questions Answered

ViaHero
Updated March 1, 2021

So you're wondering... "can I travel to Cuba in 2021?" 

Although travel to Cuba is complicated at the moment — thanks, Covid — it is possible for Americans to go to Cuba in 2021. 

Read on below to learn more about the latest Cuba travel news, as well as what Americans need to do to travel to Cuba legally. 

"Linelly helped us beyond anything we could've planned ourselves. Everything she suggested for us was spot-on, and I feel we got the best experience by following a local's guidance."
—Kate, Recent Traveler
Kate, Recent Traveler
Table Of Contents

Can Americans still travel to Cuba in 2021?

Yes! Travel to Cuba in 2021 is still possible for Americans who wish to travel independently. You just need to pay attention to the rules.

Americans are allowed to travel to Cuba under 11 different travel categories of authorized travel that reflect the activities travelers will do while in Cuba. There’s no “tourism” category, but there are categories that will allow you to have an incredible solo trip and enjoy the activities you love, such as the Support for the Cuban People category. 

Even during the coronavirus pandemic?

Yes, Americans can travel to Cuba—there are flights between the United States and Havana. 

However, travel is especially tricky at the moment. Here are the latest coronavirus policies that travelers to Cuba should know: 

February 22nd: 

There are flights from American airports to Havana. However, the government plans to reduce incoming flights to curb coronavirus cases. 

To enter the country, you will need a negative PCR test that is no older than 72 hours old. You will also need to take another test at the airport.

From there, you'll be required to stay in a hotel for up to six days. And you will need to take another PCR test before you can leave your quarantine. 

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Even after the June 2019 travel restrictions?

As of June 2019, American cruise ships can no longer dock in Cuba. Don't worry—there are still plenty of ways to enjoy all that Cuba has to offer. 

As an American traveler, all you must do to travel to Cuba in 2021 is to choose one of the 11 Categories of Authorized Travel, plan your trip so that it fits within your chosen category, and keep all your receipts and records for five years. If you go in 2021, you’ve got to keep your records through 2025. It’s that simple.

You can book accommodations ahead of time online with sites like Airbnb. You can get help from Cuban travel experts who will do the heavy lifting of planning. And you can book flights on major airlines from your hometown airport to Cuba.

Yes, flights will still run between the US and Cuba in 2021. But some airlines are cutting routes due to uncertainty in the Cuba travel market. Alaska Airlines has ended its daily flights from LA to Havana, but other airlines are maintaining their current service to Cuba. As of 2019, you’ll be able to travel to Cuba from the US on JetBlue, American, United, Delta, and Southwest.

Still have questions about travel to Cuba?
Why not ask someone who lives there? ViaHero connects you with a local to help plan your trip. They’ll create a guidebook based on your personal travel style.
You’ll see a unique side of a destination and travel independently—all while saving time and money in the planning process. Find a local today.

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