Travel insurance for Cuba
Key takeaways
Travel insurance is a requirement for all visitors to Cuba and you may be asked for proof on arrival.
Every visitor to Cuba must obtain a tourist card before arrival, this card acts as a visa and is separate from your passport.
Most worldwide travel insurance policies do not cover the Caribbean, so you will need to make sure that you have a valid policy before you visit Cuba.
Travel insurance for Cuba
Cuba is a fascinating travel destination that caters for every type of holiday – from relaxing beach breaks to backpacking adventures.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, from scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters to trekking through lush, tropical landscapes. And, of course, no Cuban experience is complete without unwinding to the rhythm of salsa with a mojito in hand. However, it is all too easy to run into complications. So, to ensure your holiday remains worry-free, it's crucial to consider the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance.
Do I need travel insurance for Cuba?
Yes, travel insurance is not just recommended for a trip to Cuba; it's mandatory. All visitors are required to have valid travel insurance, covering healthcare costs, to enter the country. Immigration officials at the border might ask for proof when you enter.
But aside from being a requirement, travel insurance is a helpful safety net while you’re abroad. It provides peace of mind, covering unexpected events such as illness, accidents, lost baggage, and theft. These incidents can happen to anyone and, without insurance, you could be facing significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Travel insurance can also be a financial lifesaver if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances or if you encounter emergencies that cut your holiday short.
What type of travel insurance do I need for Cuba?
Because Cuba is in the Caribbean, it’s not covered by an ordinary worldwide travel insurance policy. You will have to buy travel insurance that specifically covers the USA, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. These tend to be a little more expensive, but they're tailored to the unique requirements of the region.
Which type of policy you buy will depend on your plans. If you are planning a single trip to Cuba for a short period of time then a single-trip policy is probably the best bet. If you travel often and will make multiple trips overseas each year then an annual multi-trip policy might be better value.
If your trip to Cuba is part of a longer trip passing through multiple countries then backpackers travel insurance might make the most sense.
What should my Cuba travel insurance include?
These are a few of the things that a standard travel insurance policy for Cuba should cover:
Medical treatment: your insurance should cover emergency medical treatment, as healthcare in Cuba can be expensive for tourists.
Cancellation: insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or cut short due to emergencies.
Repatriation: if you need to return to the UK unexpectedly, repatriation cover will handle the costs.
Lost luggage: traveling always comes with the risk of lost or stolen luggage. Baggage cover ensures you're not left out of pocket if your belongings go missing.
Gadgets: cover for items expensive items can be purchased as an add-on. It will pay out if they are lost, damaged or stolen.
Passport: travel insurance can pay the cost of replacing a passport while overseas.
What won’t be covered in my Cuban travel insurance?
There will be some things that your travel insurance won’t cover. Common exclusions include:
High-risk activities: adventure sports, such as scuba diving or jet-skiing, may not be covered by standard policies.
Pre-existing medical conditions: you need to tell your insurer if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or you may not be covered.
Civil unrest, war, or terrorism: incidents related to these are typically not covered by travel insurance.
Accidents linked to alcohol or drugs: if substance abuse is involved, claims are likely to be denied.
How much does travel insurance for Cuba cost?
You can compare quotes to Cuba from £29.50
Policy Type | Median Cost |
|---|---|
Worldwide | £73 |
Backpackers | £201 |
How much should my travel insurance excess be?
Where you set your excess - the amount you pay towards a claim - depends on your personal preferences and finances.
A higher excess can lower your premium. Raising it is one way to find cheaper travel insurance, but you should always choose an excess that is affordable. You can also choose no-excess travel insurance.
When should my travel insurance policy start from?
It's best to start your insurance coverage from the day you book your trip, not the departure date, to cover any cancellations.
Travel risks in New Zealand
How can I get cheaper travel insurance for Cuba?
The easiest way to bring down the cost of travel insurance is to opt for a higher excess. This is the amount you'll pay towards any claim.
However, be careful not to increase your excess to an amount that you cannot afford if you need to make a claim.
You can also compare travel insurance with MoneySuperMarket to find the best deal that suits you.
Can I get cover for adventurous activities and extreme sports in Cuba?
Yes, you can – but you might need to buy cover as an additional add on. If you are planning on engaging in adventure sports while in Cuba then make sure to check if your policy includes cover for them. If not, then you can purchase the optional add on.
When should my Cuba travel insurance policy start?
It’s a good idea to buy your travel insurance policy as soon as you book your trip. This means you are covered for cancellation before you leave. Other claims will only be valid on the dates that you are travelling.
Do I need vaccines to visit Cuba?
There are no vaccines which are mandatory to visit Cuba. However, it could be a good idea to consider vaccines for Hepatitis A, Rabies and Tetanus. A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if transiting via certain countries (source). Speak to your doctor with plenty of time before you travel.
Do I need a visa for Cuba?
Every visitor to Cuba must obtain a tourist card before arrival. This card acts as a visa and is a separate requirement from your passport.
The process for applying for a tourist card is straightforward and can be done online, and it's possible to extend your stay in Cuba beyond the initial period granted by the card.
Get the best price on travel insurance for Cuba
To ensure you're getting the best deal on your travel insurance for Cuba, it's important to compare policies. Travel insurance is essential, and with the right policy, you can enjoy your Cuban adventure with complete peace of mind.
MoneySuperMarket's comparison tool makes it easy to find the most suitable travel insurance for your needs. We work with 60
Travelling to Cuba: Key Information
Here's a quick reference for your trip:
Currency: Peso (though there’s a special currency tourists are asked to use) - compare travel money
Emergency Services Number: 104 (ambulance), 106 (police) or 105 (fire)
Embassy Details: British Embassy
Telephone: +53 7214 2200
FCDO Travel Advice: Check the UK gov website for the latest details.
Author
Sam Meadows
Home Insurance Expert
Sam is a freelance journalist with experience covering personal finance and consumer affairs for four years at the Daily Telegraph. Sam has also written for the Times, the Mail on Sunday, the...
Reviewer
Saarrah Mussa
Former Content Writer
Saarrah was a MoneySuperMarket's in-house pet insurance expert. With broad experience writing across insurance products Saarrah is acutely aware of the complexities and costs consumers have to face...
