Cuba Travel Essentials

Everything you need to know about power plugs, tap water, and tipping in Cuba

Cuba

Essential travel information

Power Plug

Type A, B, C, L

110V / 220V60Hz

Both 110V (Type A/B, US-standard) and 220V (Type C/L) outlets present; check hotel before plugging in high-wattage devices

Tap Water

Not Safe

Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or filtered water; ice in tourist hotels is generally made from purified water

Tipping

Expected

Tipping is very important as it forms a major part of income; CUC/USD preferred; 10-15% in restaurants; $1-2/day for hotel housekeeping; $1-2 for casas particulares staff

Ride App

No mainstream ride apps; use state taxis (yellow cabs) or negotiate with private cabs (almendrones)

Cuba Travel Tips

What power adapter do I need for Cuba?

Cuba uses Type A, B, C, L plugs with 110V / 220V at 60Hz.Both 110V (Type A/B, US-standard) and 220V (Type C/L) outlets present; check hotel before plugging in high-wattage devices

Can I drink the tap water in Cuba?

No, tap water is not recommended for drinking in Cuba. Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or filtered water; ice in tourist hotels is generally made from purified water

Do I need to tip in Cuba?

Yes, tipping is expected in Cuba. Tipping is very important as it forms a major part of income; CUC/USD preferred; 10-15% in restaurants; $1-2/day for hotel housekeeping; $1-2 for casas particulares staff