The best things to do in Cuba with children
Traveling to Cuba? Endless music, classic cars, beautiful beaches, and cultural charm will ensure memories from the country that last a lifetime.
This colorful and lively nation with a can-do attitude is fascinating. Cubans love families – which means your children will be treated like little gods and goddesses. Staying in a casa particular (a Cuban B&B) will ensure the most attentive treatment. However, it is important to remember that Cuba’s ongoing economic crisis means that traveling here is not the easiest – especially when it comes to transportation.
Preparing for the trip
It is the adventurous family that can take on challenges with a smile who will get the most out of this fascinating island. Here’s how you can make a trip to Cuba with children possible.
Cuba is both an easy and a challenging place for families to travel. Expect a relaxed, safe, and family-friendly island with excitement for everyone. On the other hand, fuel shortages, unreliable transport, and difficulties obtaining supplies complicate any stay here.
Families should bring essentials, including (and especially) medication. Pack diapers, baby gear, and special snacks, as these are difficult or impossible to find on the island.
Bring a bottle with a built-in filter. Mosquito repellent is especially important to keep the dusk insects away. Seek help finding what you couldn’t bring, knowing that Cubans are experts at solving problems.
Where to stay?
Rooms in casas particulares with multiple beds will be cheaper than hotels (discounts for children sharing rooms in hotels vary). If you need a crib, contact your accommodation in advance.
Public toilets are only found in hotels, restaurants, and some museums – and it’s always best to bring extra toilet paper.
Transport and supplies
Cuba’s sidewalks are not really suitable for strollers, so bring your baby carrier. Finding supplies in markets is hit or miss. The best places to stock up on snacks and delicacies are new private grocery stores such as Havana’s Bodegón 21 and Home Deli.
When should you travel?
The weather is perfect during Cuba’s high season from November to April with warm, dry days – and prices to match; shoulder seasons offer better value. Hurricane season runs from June to November and should be avoided.
Family-friendly activities
Cuba’s rich tapestry of wonderful beaches, shallow seas, music, art, dance, sport, and wild areas is a gift for families. Every city in Cuba has parks and cultural events for children; ask your casa particular hosts for tips.
Find adventure in the UNESCO-protected Valle de Viñales; cultural highlights and classic cars in Havana; dazzling white sand beaches and shallow seas at Varadero’s beach resorts; snorkeling at the laid-back Bay of Pigs; and music, dance, and waterfalls around the beautiful, colonial Trinidad.
Food experiences and nature
Food-loving children can sign up for a cooking class under the palms with a famous chef at the dreamlike Finca Tungasuk. Fancy a whole roast pig? Organize a day in the countryside and feast around Trinidad.
Cuba’s northern coast beaches have shallow, turquoise seas that are perfect for little ones. Think Playas del Este, close to Havana, and the top-class beach resort Varadero.
Adventures for older children
Cuba is a playground for natural adventures, and older children will find plenty of activities to keep the adrenaline pumping. Try zip-lining in the mountains at Las Terrazas and in the Valle de los Ingenios, outside Trinidad.
Go horseback riding in the beautiful Viñales Valley and around Trinidad. Climbers can tackle the limestone mountains around Viñales or the cliffs around Jibacoa.
