Cuba Snapshot: Key Facts

Gain insights into Cuba's culture, economy, and politics

Vintage cars on colorful Havana street with futuristic overlay.

Geography & Demographics

Location

Cuba is a Caribbean island nation situated at the confluence of the northern Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean. It lies just 90 miles south of Florida, with Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula to the west, Jamaica to the south, and the Bahamas to the northeast.

Capital City

Havana (La Habana)

Population

Approximately 11 million people. This makes Cuba the most populous country in the Caribbean.

Language

Official Language

The official language is Spanish. You will quickly notice the unique characteristics of Cuban Spanish, which has a distinct Caribbean cadence. Speakers often omit the ‘s’ at the end of words and employ a rich collection of local idioms, making it a very expressive and musical dialect.

English Proficiency

English proficiency varies significantly across the island. It is generally limited outside of major tourist areas, hotels, and among official tour guides. We encourage you to learn a few basic Spanish phrases; a simple ‘hola’ (hello) or ‘gracias’ (thank you) is always warmly received. For a helpful primer, please refer to the ‘Useful Spanish Phrases’ section of this toolkit.

Government & Official Name

Official Name: Republic of Cuba (RepĂşblica de Cuba)

Government Type: Socialist Republic

Essential Traveler Facts

Time Zone

Cuba Standard Time (CST), which is UTC-5. The country observes Daylight Saving Time (UTC-4).

Daylight Saving Time typically runs from March to November, but the exact dates can vary and may not align perfectly with North American or European schedules. It is always best to confirm the local time upon arrival.

Currency

Official Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP)

Please note that Cuba’s currency system is complex and has specific rules for visitors. For your security and convenience, it is critical to understand how to manage your money correctly. Please refer to our dedicated ‘Cuban Currency & Money Guide’ section for essential, up-to-date information.

Electricity

  • Voltage: 110V (though some newer hotels may also have 220V outlets)
  • Frequency: 60Hz
  • Plug Types: Primarily Type A and B, the flat two- or three-pronged plugs common in North America.

We strongly advise you to bring a universal travel adapter. Before plugging in any devices, it is always a good practice to check the marked voltage in your accommodation.

Country Calling Code

+53