Rent a car with driver in Cuba: all you need to know

Why a Car with a Driver is the Best Way to Explore Cuba

Navigating the Nuances

• Your driver is an expert at handling Cuba’s variable road conditions, which can range from modern highways to poorly maintained rural tracks. They are familiar with the frequent lack of signage and the unique, unwritten rules of the road.
• Fuel availability can be unpredictable for independent travelers. Your driver manages all refueling logistics, ensuring your journey remains uninterrupted by supply issues.

More Than Just Transport

• Think of your driver as a cultural facilitator, local guide, and problem-solver all in one. They can provide valuable context, act as a translator in simple interactions, and help navigate any logistical hurdles that arise.
• They can introduce you to authentic local spots, from the best family-run restaurants (paladares) to scenic viewpoints and experiences you would likely not discover on your own.

Comfort and Efficiency

• With a private driver, you can maximize your valuable holiday time. You will be free to absorb the scenery and culture instead of focusing on navigation, parking, and the logistics of travel.
• Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned, private vehicle—a welcome retreat between sightseeing stops.
• This service provides complete peace of mind, offering a seamless and stress-free way to travel that stands in stark contrast to the significant challenges of self-driving or the unreliability of public transport in Cuba.

What Your Service Typically Includes (And What It Doesn’t)

Included in Your Pre-Paid Rate:

• The vehicle for your exclusive use for the number of hours and days specified in your itinerary.
• The professional driver’s salary and all associated costs.
• All fuel costs. This is a significant advantage, as fuel can be difficult for tourists to find and purchase, often requiring long queues and specific payment methods.
• The vehicle’s insurance and all routine maintenance.

Costs You Will Pay Directly in Cuba:

Driver’s Expenses (for multi-day trips)

• Driver’s meals: You are responsible for the driver’s meals during the service. You can either invite them to dine with your party or provide a daily allowance. We recommend an allowance of approximately $20-25 USD per day.
• Driver’s accommodation: If your itinerary includes overnight stays outside the driver’s home city, you must cover the cost of their lodging. They are very resourceful and can typically find their own simple, affordable room in a local private home (casa particular), which you will pay for directly.

On-the-Road Expenses

• Parking fees at various attractions, national parks, and restaurants.
• Any highway or tunnel tolls encountered along your route.
• These costs are generally minor, but it is wise to have small denominations of local currency or USD/Euros readily available to cover them as they occur.

The Vehicle: Types and What to Expect

Classic American Cars

The Experience

Riding in a beautifully restored 1950s American classic is an iconic part of the Cuban journey. These cars are photogenic, full of character, and offer a truly unique way to see the island.

The Reality

• Many of these cars have been retrofitted with more modern engines (e.g., Hyundai, Kia) for reliability, while maintaining their vintage chassis and aesthetic.
• Air conditioning can be variable in its effectiveness or may not be present at all. If A/C is a high priority for your comfort, please confirm the vehicle’s specifics with us.
• It is common for classic cars to lack seatbelts in the rear seats.
• Luggage space is often limited. We advise packing in soft-sided bags and packing light, or confirming the vehicle’s trunk capacity with us before your trip.
• It is important to set realistic expectations. While lovingly maintained, these are sixty-year-old vehicles. We encourage you to embrace the unique experience over the expectation of modern luxury.

Modern Vehicles

The Experience

For longer journeys across the island or for travelers who prioritize contemporary comforts, a modern vehicle is an excellent choice. It offers a more conventional and comfortable travel experience.

The Reality

• These are typically standard sedans (e.g., Peugeot, Geely) or minivans for larger parties, offering reliable air conditioning, modern safety features, and a smoother ride.
• While they lack the “classic Cuban” charm, they are highly practical for extensive travel.
• Modern vehicles generally offer significantly more luggage space than their classic counterparts.

The Logistics: How It Works Day-to-Day

Your Itinerary & Flexibility

• Your driver will receive a copy of your confirmed itinerary and will follow the planned route and schedule.
• You have the flexibility to make spontaneous stops for photos or to explore a point of interest along the planned route. Simply discuss this with your driver.
• Please note that significant deviations from the itinerary or route may incur additional costs for fuel and time. Such changes should be discussed with our local representative first.

Communication with Your Driver

• Most drivers who work with travelers have a basic to conversational level of English, but fluency is not guaranteed. A friendly attitude and patience go a long way.
• We highly recommend downloading a translation app like Google Translate, including the offline Spanish language pack, to facilitate smooth communication.
• Your driver is a professional. They will be personable and happy to share insights but will also be discreet and respect your privacy during your journey.

Typical Working Hours

• A standard service day is typically 8-10 hours, inclusive of any driving or waiting time.
• Your day begins at the pre-arranged pick-up time at your accommodation.
• If you require the driver for services in the evening beyond the standard hours, please try to arrange this with them in advance. Overtime is subject to an additional cost, typically around $10-15 USD per hour, payable directly to the driver.

Your Driver: Guide, Chauffeur, and Local Friend

Their Role

• Your driver is a professional chauffeur, expert in navigating Cuban roads safely and efficiently.
• They are a wonderful source of local knowledge and can suggest the most scenic routes, authentic places to eat, and interesting stops you might otherwise miss.
• It is important to understand that they are NOT official, licensed tour guides. They cannot enter historical sites, museums, or other official attractions with you to provide explanations. Their expertise is the road and the local culture, not historical narration.

Tipping Etiquette

• Tipping is a customary and highly appreciated way to show gratitude for excellent service.
• A suitable guideline is between $15 and $25 USD per day, for the entire car (not per person).
• It is best to give the tip in cash directly to your driver at the conclusion of their service with you. USD or Euros are the preferred currencies.

Confirming Your Service & Practical Tips

Before You Go

• Review Your Voucher: Carefully check your travel documents for the confirmed pick-up time, location, and the duration of your car service. The name and local contact number for your driver will be provided to you by our ground team upon your arrival in Cuba.
• Pack Smart: Keep your vehicle type in mind when packing. Soft-sided bags or duffels are often much easier to fit into the limited trunk space of a classic car than large, hard-shell suitcases.
• Bring Cash: Ensure you have a sufficient amount of cash in small denominations (USD or Euros) to cover the extra costs you will pay directly, such as the driver’s meals and lodging, tips, tolls, and parking fees.

On the Ground

• Be Punctual: Your driver will pride themselves on being on time for your daily start. We ask that you extend them the same courtesy to make the most of your day.
• Offer a Drink: It is a simple and kind gesture to offer your driver a water or a soft drink when you stop for refreshments.
• Road Conditions: Travel between destinations in Cuba can often take longer than the distance might suggest due to road quality. The best approach is to relax, trust your driver, and enjoy the journey. You are on “Cuba time.”