How To Get To Cuba

Travel to Cuba is safe and easy. Many travelers are unaware of this fact as changes regarding cruises and flights to the island have created much confusion and misunderstanding. From choosing a commercial airline to locating direct flight channels, this Cuba travel guide will send you on your way to the magical island of Cuba.

Although all planes from the United States to Cuba must go to Havana, you can reach all other island destinations, like the charming city of Trinidad, by car.

Cruising to Cuba was canceled June 5, 2019, after the Trump administration released a Cuba travel policy update. However, you can still travel to Havana, Cuba by plane.

Commercial flights

Commercial flights are the most common method of transportation for most travelers from the United States to Havana. Many major airlines, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta, and United, fly nonstop from the United States to Havana. You may book your flight to Cuba directly with your preferred airline, just as you would to any other destination in the world.

Tips for Booking a Flight Since the Pandemic

Cuba is open, however, many U.S. airlines have been slow to increase their supply of flights to Havana. American Airlines, Jet Blue and Southwest offer flights to Havana from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. The best tool to search for flights to Havana is Google Flights. Other flight tools like Kayak and Expedia may not show all of the options for Havana flights.

Each street, building and balcony in Havana tells a story. The best way to understand the intricacies of this magical island is to witness them firsthand.

Nonstop commercial flights to Havana

You can get to Havana from anywhere in the US with a short drive and layover. Prior to March 2020, the following cities offered nonstop flights to Havana:

• Atlanta, Georgia
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Houston, Texas
• Miami, Florida
• New York, New York
• Orlando, Florida
• Tampa, Florida

Vibrant vintage cars cruise the narrow streets of La Habana Vieja turning heads as they drive by. Ask us about our classic car experience and see the city from a whole new perspective.

Purpose of Travel

When booking your flight, you’ll be asked to provide an authorized purpose for travel. There are 12 authorized travel licenses for US travel to Cuba. The preferred license for most travelers is the “Support for the Cuban People” license. There are three main requirements for the “Support for the Cuban People” license. When traveling with Cuba Candela, we take care of all of the legal requirements for you.

In addition to selecting a purpose for travel license, American travelers to Cuba must purchase a Cuban travel visa. The visa may be purchased at the airport on the day of arrival for commercial flights. Cuba Candela travelers have the option to purchase the visa ahead of time. Once you land in Cuba, you will be asked to present your visa at customs.

Note that your boarding pass with commercial flights will also serve as proof of health insurance should you need it.

The first flight to Cuba is unforgettable. Unlike many international destinations, Cuba sits just 90 miles off of the coast of Florida. Regardless of where you are coming from, the first trip is typically filled with anticipation. It’s the perfect time to enjoy an inflight cocktail while dreaming of the magic that awaits you. Gazing out the window as you approach the island you can see miles of coastline. The scenic views below glisten under the island sun, showcasing the deep blue tones of the warm Caribbean Sea, creamy stretches of golden sand, and vibrant tropical greens. Before you know it, your flight descends and touches down in the historic city of Havana, marking the start of a trip you will never forget.