How do I bring money with me to Cuba?

by Sharon
(Sydney, Australia)

I am going to Cuba next week (and staying for a week, travelling totally independently - nothing pre-paid) and want to know the best way to bring money with me. I am Australian and have a visa card and debit card. Is it best to rely on ATMs to withdraw money, or better to bring cash (eg Euros) with me? Which would be cheapest/ safest?


ANSWER by Vic Webmaster Havana-guide.com

In Cuba cash is King! A debit card is almost useless in Cuba. Use your VISA credit card. Visa cards have limits, the lowest limit is normally 2500 Euros. Sometimes this is not enough so talk to your bank, it seems that you can preload your card with extra money and lower the expenses. When you use your card withdraw enough money in one transaction. The transaction costs are high, one withdrawal of 1000 CUC (1000 Peso convertible) is cheaper than two times 500 Cuc. There are very few ATM's in Havana and none on the country side. Don't rely to much on the ATM's, machines in Cuba are not reliable. I always go inside the bank or the Cadeca office ( official State exchange offices) and talk to a cashier. When exchanging your money, ask for a receipt and count your money in front of the cashier, short giving is a widespread desease in Cuba. I recommend to bring a fair amount of cash certainly for three days or one week.
Exchanging cash is cheaper than your visa card, you can use your visa as a backup.
Don't use US dollars, there is an extra 10% tax on the US dollar. Use Euro or Pound Sterling. Keep a low profile with money, don't pay with large banknotes (50 or 100 cuc) Keep in mind that the salaries in Cuba are 20-25 CUC per month. A mojito in a bar cost 3 CUC (average) when you drink two mojito's (6 cuc) this is half a month salary for some Cubans. Very frustrating for the Cubans. When you stay in a hotel you can put your money in a safe. I recommend to wear an (invisible) money belt under your clothing, divide your cash over different pockets. Don't put to much money in your handbag. Cuba is a safe country but similar to other countries... stealing of handbags happens.
More info:

Money in Cuba
Most important ...enjoy Cuba one of the most beautiful islands on earth.
Have a nice trip!