🇨🇺 Travel Insurance for Cuba

Quick Facts: Risk Level: Medium • Tourist card required; travel insurance mandatory

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Cuba?

Cuba legally requires all visitors to have travel insurance with medical coverage. This is verified at immigration on arrival. US-based policies may not be valid — purchase from a non-US insurer if needed.

Healthcare & Medical Costs in Cuba

Cuba has a unique two-tier system — Cuban citizens use the public system while foreigners must use designated international clinics (Clínica Internacional Cira García in Havana). Cuban doctors are well-trained but facilities lack modern equipment and medications due to the embargo.

Consultation at international clinic: $25–50 CUC. Hospital day: $150–350. Medication availability is unpredictable — bring your own prescriptions. Cuba is relatively affordable for healthcare but quality is limited by equipment shortages.

Key Risks & Safety Concerns

Medication shortages — bring all personal medications in original packaging. Zika and dengue risk. Food safety concerns due to limited refrigeration in some restaurants. Hurricane season (June–November) can disrupt travel significantly. Limited internet access makes contacting your insurer difficult.

Recommended Coverage for Cuba

$50,000+ medical coverage with an insurer that explicitly covers Cuba — some US-affiliated companies exclude it. Evacuation to Mexico or the US may be necessary for serious conditions. Trip interruption coverage for hurricane season.

Insider Tips for Cuba

Cuba REQUIRES travel insurance — immigration officials check and will sell you a policy at the airport if you don't have one. US-based insurance companies may not cover Cuba due to sanctions — verify before departure. Bring printed policy documents as internet access is unreliable. Medical repatriation is complicated due to limited international flights.

Emergency numbers: 104 (ambulance), 106 (police)