Visiting Cuba

Havana

There are two tiers of money in Cuba, convertible pesos (CUC) and national pesos (CUP).

Things used by locals are priced in CUP. Things for tourists are priced in CUC.

It’s a much better deal to buy something in CUP if possible.

This goes for snacks, food, drinks and things in local stores as well as all tips.

The rate for CUP is about 32:1, so you can easily give 10 peso tips to those who serve you. This is a great value.

When exchanging money, get about 10 dollars or 10 euro worth of CUP.

It is invaluable in saving money on small things and getting good deals.

Havana

Changing money in Havana, Cuba is a bit complicated.

You’ll generally need to get convertible pesos (say “pesos” or CUC).

If you have USD, you’ll wind up paying .80 USD = 1 CUC, which is pretty high.

The better deal is to have either CAD, GBP or EUR.

Euros are most favorable, so if at all possible plan on buying euros ahead of your trip.

Unfortunately if you’re currently in the US, it’s not very easy.

There’s a money exchange (“Cadeca”) in the airport that charges the same as everywhere else, so feel free to change a lot of money when you step off the plane at the airport in Cuba.