Can I Travel to Cuba Legally from the US?
Cultural Island Travel has taken thousands of travelers to Cuba legally. We design itineraries that are fully compliant with the OFAC guidelines for the Support for the Cuban People category, including activities such as music and dance performances, artist visits, meals at private restaurants, and more. Tours are open to all US citizens and residents, and no application process is necessary. We are currently authorized to take any American to Cuba under a general license and our OFAC approved itineraries make sure that your travel is fully legal. Support for the Cuban people means you will have the chance to meet the local people of Cuba and have meaningful interaction with them. Cubans are very friendly and passionate, and the memories of these interactions make a lasting impression on even the most seasoned travelers.
Booking a flight to Cuba? Make sure you’re booking legally! Restrictions still apply.
Have you booked a flight to Cuba recently? You may want to check the fine print. Travelers going to Cuba from the US still need to fall under one of the 12 legal categories for Cuba travel. The most popular option is “support for the Cuban people,” which means you need to maintain a full itinerary of activities each day. When you book a trip with CIT you can rest assured that your trip is legal; we will provide you with an itinerary that meets all the requirements and prepare your visa and certificate of travel to Cuba ensuring ease of re-entry into the US.
Why should I travel with CIT?
CIT has over 15 years of experience with Cuba and its culture. We represent musicians in Cuba and provide our travelers a rare glimpse of the real Cuba. We are not interested in a cookie-cutter itinerary but rather a set of unique experiences, hand-picked to showcase the best people and talents that the island has to offer. We want you to see the real Cuba that we fell in love with in 1999 and watch you fall in love with it too. For more info see our about us page and our interview with our Cuba expert on our home page.
What does Support for the Cuban people travel mean?
Support for the Cuban people travel is the category under which Americans can visit Cuba.
A traveler is required to provide support for the Cuban people and promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba.
A traveler is required to engage in a full-time schedule of “Support for the Cuban People” activities. These include:
- Meeting with local artists, tobacco manufacturers and people who run their own business
- Meeting and engaging with musicians at a performance
- Explore independent museums
- Independent markets
- Dance classes
- Art shows and private galleries
- Discuss Cuban culture and society with locals
You must retain records, like receipts and itineraries, and keep them on file for five years.
A traveler must avoid all transactions with a military owned business.
Why is this the best time to go to Cuba?
It is only the third time since 1963 that Americans have been permitted to travel to Cuba legally. Visit Cuba before it changes, the time is now!
