Cuba is a country full of surprises. It’s not just about beaches and cigars — it’s a place where classic cars cruise down colorful streets, music fills every corner, and history lives in its old towns.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just love learning about different cultures, Cuba has so many interesting facts that will capture your curiosity.
From tiny birds to vintage cars, and from world-famous cigars to lively street music, let’s dive into some fun and fascinating facts about this unique Caribbean nation.
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1. Cuba Is the Largest Island in the Caribbean
Cuba isn’t just a tropical paradise — it’s the biggest island in the Caribbean! Stretching over 1,200 kilometers, Cuba is surrounded by over 4,000 smaller islands and cays.
This means endless coastlines with beautiful beaches, remote islands like Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo, and plenty of room to explore.
Whether you want to relax by the sea or venture into lush mountains, Cuba’s size offers something for every type of traveler.
2. Classic American Cars Still Rule the Roads
Walking through Havana can feel like stepping back in time. That’s because classic 1950s American cars — Chevrolets, Buicks, and Fords — are everywhere.
Due to a decades-old trade embargo, Cuba wasn’t able to import new cars for many years. Instead, locals kept these vintage beauties running with homemade parts and creative repairs.
Today, they’re part of Cuban culture and one of the most iconic things you’ll see while exploring the island.
3. Cuban Cigars Are World-Famous for a Reason
Cuban cigars aren’t just popular — they’re considered the best in the world. The tobacco used in these cigars is grown in special regions like Vuelta Abajo, where the climate and soil are perfect.
Each cigar is hand-rolled by skilled workers using traditional methods. Even if you’re not a smoker, visiting a tobacco farm or cigar factory is a great way to learn about this important part of Cuban culture.
4. The World’s Smallest Bird Lives in Cuba
Tiny but impressive, the bee hummingbird — the smallest bird in the world — calls Cuba home. Measuring just 5–6 centimeters long, it looks more like an insect than a bird at first glance.
It beats its wings around 80 times per second and drinks nectar from flowers. Bird lovers from all over the world come to Cuba just for the chance to see this incredible little creature in action.
5. Music and Dance Are Everywhere
In Cuba, music isn’t just entertainment — it’s part of daily life. From salsa and rumba to cha-cha-cha, Cuban rhythms are energetic, joyful, and deeply rooted in the island’s identity.
You can hear live music in public squares, watch people dancing in the streets, and even take dance lessons at local studios. It’s nearly impossible not to tap your feet or join in when you’re surrounded by such vibrant sounds.
6. Cuba Has 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Cuba has an amazing collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include historic cities like Old Havana, the beautiful town of Trinidad, and natural wonders like the Viñales Valley.
Each site tells a different story — from colonial architecture to traditional farming methods. Exploring them is like walking through Cuba’s past and present, all at once.
7. Cuba Once Had Two Currencies
Until recently, Cuba used two types of money: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). Locals used one, and tourists used the other.
While the system has changed and Cuba now mostly uses just CUP, it’s still useful for travelers to understand this bit of history. It’s a great example of how unique the Cuban economy has been over the years.
8. Baseball Is a National Passion
While many people associate Cuba with dance and music, baseball is actually the country’s favorite sport. Children play it in the streets, fans pack into stadiums, and the country has produced many top-level players.
If you’re in Cuba during baseball season, catching a game is a fun and exciting way to connect with the local culture.
9. The Internet Works Differently in Cuba
Internet access in Cuba has been limited compared to many other countries. Until recently, most people connected through public Wi-Fi spots in parks and plazas, using prepaid cards.
While access has been improving, many travelers find it refreshing to disconnect a bit while in Cuba — which makes it easier to enjoy real conversations and local experiences.
10. Ernest Hemingway Called Cuba Home
Famous American writer Ernest Hemingway spent over 20 years living in Cuba. His home near Havana, Finca Vigía, is now a museum open to visitors.
He also loved spending time at local bars like El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio, where you can still order his favorite drinks today.
Some of his most well-known stories, including The Old Man and the Sea, were inspired by his time in Cuba.
Final Words
Cuba is a land full of charm, color, and character. Every street, every song, and every sunset tells a story.
Whether you’re wandering through Havana, relaxing on a beach, or chatting with locals, you’ll discover that this island is far more than meets the eye.
These fun facts give just a glimpse into what makes Cuba so special. The more you explore, the more you’ll fall in love with its unique blend of history, nature, music, and soul.
FAQs
Yes, most travelers need a Cuban Tourist Card (visa) valid for 30 days (90 days for Canadians). It can be bought through airlines, travel agencies, or Cuban consulates. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Cuba is generally considered safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, though petty theft like pickpocketing can occur. Always exercise caution—keep an eye on your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas cayostravel.com.
Yes, U.S. citizens can legally travel to Cuba under specific categories (e.g., family visits, education, media). However, tourist travel is still restricted, so most must travel under a licensed category, such as Support for the Cuban People
Cuba has updated its currency system. Tourists typically use Cuban Pesos (CUP). Cash is crucial, as U.S. debit/credit cards don’t work there. Most transactions must be in cash.
Internet access is still limited. Public Wi-Fi is available at parks, plazas, or hotels via prepaid cards. Home internet is rare, so be prepared to disconnect, or plan to use hotspot access .
The best travel months are November through May, when the weather is cooler and drier. Summer and hurricane season (June–October) can bring heat and storms.
