Outdoor Activities
Rock climbing is catching on in Cuba, especially in the Viñales Valley. Pico Turquino in the Sierra Maestra National Park is the island's highest peak (6,562 ft.) and a popular hiking destination, while the eastern town of Baracoa is a hot spot for rafting on the Rio Toa.
Lodging
Cuban has every form of accommodation, from five-star beach resorts to budget hostels. But a great option is the ubiquitous "casas particulares," private homes whose owners are licensed to rent out rooms.
Transportation
A rental car is a great way to get around the island, and there are a number of government-owned agencies like Cubacar and Rex that provide the service. Cubana airlines has commuter flights around the island, Ferrocuba is the passenger train service, and Viazul is a recommended bus company.
Money
Cuba has two currencies: the Cuban convertible peso (CUC$) and the Cuban peso (CUP$). The government levies an exchange tax on U.S. dollars, so bring another currency, like euros.
Visa
Visitors must purchase a CUC$15, 30-day tourist card (usually issued by an airline or travel agent) and pay a CUC$25 departure tax. United States citizens may not travel to Cuba without a special license from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
