Car rental in Cuba

Getting around Cuba at your own pace has its advantages. If you’re interested in exploring cities, beaches and valleys without being tied to a schedule, car hire in Cuba could be the ideal option.
Although transport on the island is varied, renting a car allows you to visit less touristy places and make the most of your time. However, there are some important details you should know before hitting the road.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about renting a car in Cuba, from practical advice and options to suit your budget, to traffic rules and alternatives if you decide not to drive. We also include tips on how to get around Cuba safely, easily and without any unexpected surprises.

Practical tips if you are renting a car in Cuba

If you are travelling with a set itinerary, a car gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want, make last-minute changes or extend visits that you fall in love with. It also allows you to discover lesser-known destinations off the beaten track. Of course, the experience varies depending on the time of year, the area and how well you plan. That’s why it’s essential to know the ins and outs of car rental in Cuba before making your decision.

What’s more, travelling by road allows you to connect with the country in a more authentic way, discovering small villages, trying local food along the way and enjoying the scenery. For many travellers, touring Cuba by car is a way to experience the destination from the inside. But, like everything else on the island, you have to be prepared. We’ll explain how to do it right from day one.

Before booking, there are several things to consider:

Check the contract carefully and make sure you have insurance

Not all rentals include comprehensive insurance. Ask if there is an excess, and if it includes theft, punctures or roadside assistance. Although not mandatory, carrying a copy of the contract in the car can avoid misunderstandings. Also, be sure to check the car before driving off, take photos if possible, and check the lights, brakes and tyres.

Book in advance

During high season (July, August and December), cars are in high demand. It is best to book weeks in advance through reliable platforms. If you already know your dates and route, don’t leave it to the last minute. Many travellers are left without availability or have to accept very old vehicles due to a lack of alternatives.

Always fill up the tank

Petrol stations can be scarce on certain routes. As soon as you see one, take the opportunity to fill up the tank, even if it is not yet empty. Do not wait for the reserve light to come on. In addition, petrol is paid for in local currency, so check beforehand how much Cuban currency to take with you. Some types of petrol have different names, so find out beforehand which one your vehicle needs.

Drive during the day

At night, there is little lighting on the roads. You may also encounter potholes, cyclists or animals. It is best to leave early and arrive at your destination before nightfall. In rural areas, it is also common to encounter horse-drawn carts, people walking on the hard shoulder or loose animals. Always carry downloaded maps and avoid improvised routes if you do not have good visibility.

Check where you can park

Although there are many areas where you can park your car without any problems, some cities have restrictions or paid parking zones. Always ask at your accommodation if they offer parking or if they can recommend a safe area nearby. This will avoid unnecessary fines or surprises when you return.

Take into account the length of the journeys

Distances in Cuba may seem short, but journeys take longer than expected. Between the state of the roads and the traffic, what would be a two-hour journey in another country can take three hours or more here.
Plan with plenty of time to spare, especially if you have hotel reservations or connections to other activities.

Bring a car cigarette lighter adapter

Not all vehicles have USB or modern chargers. If you depend on your mobile phone for maps or communication, a cigarette lighter adapter can be essential.
Bring an external battery as a backup plan.

Be flexible and patient

Car rental in Cuba is not like in other countries. There may be last-minute changes, delays in delivery, or even changes to the model of car you booked. Stay flexible and deal with any unexpected issues calmly. It’s all part of the experience.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Car rental in Cuba: what options do we recommend for your trip based on your budget?

Official companies vs. private companies

The best-known rental companies in Cuba are Cubacar, Havanautos and REX. They all have similar rates and usually include compulsory basic insurance. These companies are well-known and offer greater support in the event of any incident. On the other hand, some people prefer to rent directly from licensed private individuals, who may offer lower prices but with fewer guarantees in the event of a breakdown or accident. If you choose this option, make sure that the car is in good condition and that the rental company has all the necessary paperwork in order.

Automatic vs. manual cars

Most cars available in Cuba are manual. If you are more used to driving automatic cars, you should specify this in advance, as there are few available and they usually come at an additional cost. Also, keep in mind that the automatic cars available are, in many cases, older models or have had less maintenance.

Combine car and public transportation

A smart strategy, especially if you’re on a tight budget, is to rent a car for just a few days and supplement the rest of your trip with other means of transport. For example:

• Use Viazul buses for longer journeys (Havana–Varadero, Havana–Trinidad).
• Rent a car for 3–4 days to explore rural areas such as Viñales or the south-central part of the country at your own pace.
• Explore Varadero, Cayo Santa María or Cayo Guillermo without a car, using organised tours or transfers.

Here you can find more details on how to plan a trip to Varadero if you decide to do without a car in the area.

Is it necessary to have an international driving licence?

It is not compulsory, but highly recommended. A Spanish driving licence is normally accepted, but if you plan to drive in many provinces, go through checkpoints or hire a car from different offices, an international driving licence can save you problems. It can be obtained from the DGT, costs around £10 and is valid for one year.

Maps.me, a good tool for getting around Cuba

In Cuba, Google Maps does not work optimally without a connection. For this reason, many travellers recommend using Maps.me, a free app that allows you to download maps by area and navigate offline. The maps are fed by other travellers, so they include rural roads, accommodation, restaurants and petrol stations. An essential tool if you are going to drive.

Are there enough petrol stations?

In urban and tourist areas (Havana, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba) you will have no problem. However, if you plan to travel to rural areas such as Viñales, Cienfuegos or Cayo Guillermo, it is advisable to refuel whenever you find a petrol station. Sometimes, stations may be out of fuel, have long queues or only accept cash. Always carry enough local currency and ask at your accommodation where the nearest and most reliable station is.

Is it dangerous to drive in Cuba?

Driving in Cuba is not particularly dangerous, but it does require constant attention and caution. The roads are in varying conditions: some are well paved, others have potholes, lack signage or even have animals loose in the middle of the road. Night lighting is scarce on long stretches, so it is advisable to avoid driving after sunset.

In general, if you stay alert, drive calmly and avoid unnecessary risks, you will be able to enjoy your trip without any surprises. Many travellers have driven around the island without any problems, but it is always a good idea to be prepared.

What is it like to drive among crabs?

A curious phenomenon unique to Cuba is the mass migration of crabs in certain coastal areas, especially in Cayo Santa María and Cayo Guillermo. This usually occurs between April and July, just after the first rains, when thousands of crabs cross the roads in search of the sea to reproduce.p>

Driving in these conditions can be tricky. It is best to:

• Reduce your speed.
• Do not make sudden manoeuvres.
• Avoid getting out of the car to record or take photos.

Here you can find more details about Things to do in Cayo Santa Maria.

What is the speed limit in Cuba?

In urban areas, the limit is generally 50 km/h. On motorways, it usually ranges from 80 to 100 km/h, although in practice many local drivers travel at different speeds. The recommendation is to always adjust your speed to the condition of the road and visibility. On winding roads, roads without hard shoulders or poorly signposted roads, reduce your speed.

What should you do if you are stopped by the police on the road? 

Police checks are common in Cuba. If you are stopped:

• Stay calm and greet them politely.
• Hand over your driving licence and car documents.

In areas such as Matanzas, checkpoints are common, so it is a good idea to find out in advance how to get around. Here is a guide on Things to do in Matanzas Cuba.

Safe car parking in Cuba

In many cities, you will find people who look after cars in exchange for a symbolic tip, known as ‘car guards’. Although it is not mandatory, leaving them a few pesos can guarantee more active surveillance. Also:

• Many hotels and private homes offer secure parking areas.
• In central areas, there are private parking lots that you can hire by the hour or by the night.
• Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight inside the car.

Alternatives to car rental in Cuba

If you ultimately decide not to rent a car, there are other efficient ways to get around Cuba:

• Viazul buses: inexpensive, with regular routes between tourist cities. Advance booking is required.
• Shared taxi: flexible option for journeys between cities. The price is agreed between the passengers and the driver.
• Car with driver: can be hired by the day, ideal for groups. Although more expensive, it avoids any worries.

To move around more freely and stay connected, you can also consider mobile internet options. Here is a comparison between Holafly vs. Saily that can help you decide which service to choose to stay connected during your trip.

What about medical insurance?

Although not directly part of car hire in Cuba, it is essential to travel with international medical insurance. If you are going to drive on the island and have an accident, fall ill or have any other incident on the road, having adequate medical assistance can make all the difference. In addition, some travel insurance policies also cover civil liability, delays, lost luggage or incidents with the rental car. Make sure you are well informed before taking out a policy, and always carry a printed or digital copy of your insurance with you.

The peace of mind of having everything covered in a destination where the healthcare system is different from the European one will make your experience much more comfortable.

Is it worth renting a car in Cuba?

Car hire in Cuba is a highly recommended option if you are looking for independence, flexibility and freedom when exploring the island. Although the process has its peculiarities, good planning can make the difference between a stressful trip and an unforgettable experience.

Places like Viñales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad and the Cayos are best enjoyed when you can move at your own pace. What’s more, driving around Cuba allows you to discover places off the beaten track, stop whenever you want and experience the trip from a different perspective. That said, it’s a good idea to be prepared: check the contract carefully, study the route and always have an alternative in case of unforeseen circumstances.

On the other hand, if you’re not keen on driving, there are other ways to get around Cuba that also work very well: buses, shared taxis or cars with drivers. The important thing is to adapt your transport to your preferred style of travel and the time you have available.

With these tips, you now have everything you need to decide whether renting a car in Cuba is the best option for you. Whatever you choose, get ready to enjoy a vibrant island full of contrasts, good music and unique landscapes.

Have a great trip!