Cuba has a long history of church and humanitarian travel, and it is also one of the destinations where rules change most. This guide covers how the trip works in practice, and sends you to official sources for the rules.
Cuba at a glance
- Main gateway: Havana (HAV). Varadero (VRA) and other airports have international flights.
- Busiest fare periods: December to April, which is the dry season, and holiday weeks.
- Often better-value periods: May to November, which is hotter and wetter.
- Hurricane season: roughly June to November.
US travel rules
US law restricts travel to Cuba to specific authorized categories, and general tourism is not one of them. Religious activities, family visits, educational activities and support for the Cuban people are among the categories. You keep records that show your trip fits a category, and you should confirm the current rules and any restrictions on where you may stay and spend money through the official US Treasury and State Department sources before you book. Rules have changed repeatedly, and they can change again.
When to fly
The dry season, roughly November to April, is the most popular, and the hurricane season runs from about June to November. Because US flight service has changed quickly, book with a flexible plan and check your airline’s schedule close to departure.
Routings and baggage
Flights have operated from Miami and other US cities, with scheduled airlines and licensed charter operators. Baggage allowances differ widely, and charters often have their own limits. Check them on the exact ticket, and ask us to confirm what is operating.
For donated goods and project materials, carry a letter from your host, an itemized list, and any documents your host advises, and declare what you bring. Cuban customs rules for donated goods and medicines are specific, so ask your host before you pack.
Airports and getting around
Havana’s international airport is south of the city. Arrange a pickup through your host or hotel. Power cuts and shortages of fuel and other supplies have affected travel in recent years, so ask your host about conditions, and carry cash, because US-issued cards often do not work in Cuba.
Before you go
Check passport validity and Cuba’s entry requirements, including any online traveler form and tourist card, through the official Cuban sources. Medical insurance valid in Cuba is also required in many cases, and some airline tickets include it. A yellow fever certificate is needed only if you arrive from a risk country. See the CDC page for Cuba. Book a travel clinic visit four to six weeks before departure, because some vaccine courses take time. Health notes reflect the CDC’s Travelers’ Health pages as last checked in October 2026, and notices change quickly.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our Cuba flights page, our mission travel page, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
Can US citizens fly to Cuba?
Yes, but not for general tourism. US travelers must travel under one of the authorized categories, such as family visits, educational or religious activities, or support for the Cuban people. Rules have changed repeatedly, so confirm them through official US government sources.
Are there scheduled flights from the US to Havana?
Some US airlines and charter operators have flown to Havana and other Cuban airports, but service has changed sharply and several airlines have cut flights. We confirm what is operating when we quote.
What should a mission group carry?
Carry the permitted-category documents, a letter from your host organization and an itemized list of what you are bringing. Ask your host about customs rules for donated goods, and declare everything.
