When to go to Cuba
Seasons and climate
Cuba has an eternal summer. It's hot year round – averaging 26C (78F) and the temperature varies only slightly with the seasons.
June to August are the hottest and wettest months, when intermittent rain comes in the the form of tropical storms or brief afternoon downpours that quickly clear.
June to November is hurricane season – you’re more likely to experience tropical storms than a true hurricane, but be prepared! (It’s also worth noting that Cuba is extremely well prepared for tropical weather, with no lives lost to hurricanes in decades.)
November to February see the lowest temperatures, averaging around 24C (75F) and very occasionally dropping to around 15C (59F).
Climate-wise the most pleasant season is between December and April, and this coincides with peak season for visitors from the northern hemisphere. Availability may be limited at this time – especially at casa particulares in smaller towns, so be sure to book well in advance.
Low season runs from June to September. Availability is better and you’ll have more to yourself, but bring rain gear just in case.
About the authors
Susana Corona Cruz
Susana is a Cuban-born travel writer, blogger and translator. Now based in Europe, Susana returns to her motherland at least once a year to rediscover, photograph and write about her birthplace. She works as an editor and translator for online and offline publications and her work has appeared in The Luxury Report and London magazine Latino Life.
Jim O'Donnell
Freelance journalist, author and photographer, Jim O’Donnell focuses on conservation, human rights, and travel. A former archaeologist, O’Donnell is the author of Notes for the Aurora Society as well as numerous articles, several sordid tales, various angry letters-to-the-editor and other scribblings. He lives in New Mexico with his two children.
