Cuba: Urgent Travel Advisory Due to a Severe Energy Crisis (as of July 16, 2026)

As of July 16, 2026, travel to Cuba is currently strongly discouraged. The reason is an acute energy crisis compounded by an infrastructure that is already dilapidated and prone to breakdowns. Since oil and fuel shipments from abroad have largely ceased, there are significant energy and fuel shortages nationwide that are affecting virtually all aspects of daily life. Scheduled power outages lasting up to 20 hours a day are now the rule rather than the exception.

Particularly serious: Between July 6 and 14, 2026, there were three unplanned, island-wide power outages. It took about a day and a half to fully restore power each time. As fuel for the large generators needed to restart the system is becoming increasingly scarce, it will be increasingly difficult to restart the system in the event of future outages. Anyone planning a trip to Cuba or who has already booked one should take this development very seriously.

Air travel has also been severely affected: Since early February 2026, foreign aircraft have no longer been able to refuel in Cuba. Numerous airlines have reduced or temporarily suspended operations, and only a few carriers still offer direct flights to Europe with a refueling stop. Many hotels are closed or operating with limited services. Travelers must expect further restrictions—some at short notice—regarding accommodations, transportation, and return travel at any time.

The supply situation in the country is strained: Due to power outages, the water supply is also functioning only on a limited basis, and food supplies are limited even in foreign-currency stores. Public transportation, street lighting, traffic lights, ATMs, and communication and security systems are severely disrupted in many places or are occasionally completely out of service. As a result, there are repeated isolated protests by the population, which should be avoided at all costs.

Another important point to consider when planning your trip: As of June 6, 2026, payments with VISA or Mastercard are no longer possible in Cuba. Travelers should therefore carry sufficient cash in convertible currency to cover local payments and exchange for local currency. Medical care is also severely limited due to shortages of medications and medical supplies, as well as the energy crisis; options for repatriation in the event of illness are currently not guaranteed. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to think very carefully about traveling and to bring sufficient travel medications with them.

Anyone planning a trip to Cuba despite this situation should carefully verify in advance whether booked accommodations and flights are actually available and factor in alternative travel routes. For formal travel preparations, we assist with applying for the necessary entry documents, such as the e-visa for Cuba or a business visa for Cuba, and provide transparent information about the costs of a Cuba visa. However, given the current security situation, we strongly recommend carefully reconsidering your travel plans and preparing for significant restrictions on supplies, mobility, and medical care.