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Road traffic in Cuba
Road traffic in Cuba is characterized by a unique mix of different means of transport and road conditions, offering both challenges and interesting insights into the Cuban way of life. There are many different means of transportation on the roads of Cuba, which characterize the traffic pattern: Both modern vehicles and many vintage cars from the 1950s, which give Cuba a nostalgic flair. Public transport such as Viazul buses, which are specially designed for tourists, as well as local buses, which are mainly used by locals. Bicycles and horse-drawn carts are particularly common in rural areas and small towns and can pose an additional challenge for drivers. Motorcycles and scooters are also common and offer a flexible way to get around.
In Cuba, as in most countries worldwide, people drive on the right-hand side of the road. This corresponds to the traffic rules in North and South America as well as in Europe, which is a relief for tourists from these regions.
The quality of the roads in Cuba can vary greatly. In urban areas and on the main roads, the roads are predominantly well constructed and asphalted. These roads offer a relatively smooth ride and are better lit and signposted. However, roads in rural areas are often less well developed. There they can be in poor condition, with potholes, unpaved sections and poor lighting. This can make driving at night or in bad weather dangerous. The poor road conditions require careful and anticipatory driving. Pedestrians, animals and improvised means of transportation such as horse-drawn carts can spontaneously appear on roads. It is important to be attentive at all times, especially as the driving behavior of other road users can be unpredictable. We therefore recommend driving defensively or using cabs and public transportation. Both options are usually reliable, safe and relatively inexpensive.
Round trips by coach - an overview
In Cuba, there are various bus lines that cover different needs for both tourists and locals. From comfortable Viazul buses for travelers to the inexpensive local guaguas, the Cuban bus system offers a variety of options. In this overview, we present the most important bus lines so that you can make the best choice for your trip.
An overview of the different buses in Cuba
Target group: Tourists
Description: Viazul is a bus company in Cuba that specializes in tourists and has been offering comfortable and reliable bus connections since 1996. Viazul provides regular connections between the main cities and tourist destinations. Bookings can be made online, at the bus stations or in travel agencies. Prices range from 5-10 € per 100 km route.
Target group: Locals
Description: Ruteros are shared cabs or minibuses that serve fixed routes in the city. They offer a cost-effective alternative to regular cabs and often cover routes that are not adequately served by public buses.
Target group: Tourists and business travelers
Description: Transtur is a leading Cuban transport company specializing in the tourism sector. It is not as well known as Viazul, but also offers a variety of services, including comfortable coachesand hop-on hop-off buses. Transtur is known for its modern, well-maintained vehicles that offer a high level of comfort and reliable service.
Target group: Locals and foreigners with a temporary residence permit
Description: ASTRO buses are primarily intended for locals and offer less comfort than Viazul buses. These buses also serve many of the same routes as Viazul, but are often cheaper as the tickets of this state bus company are subsidized. Tourists can only use these buses to a limited extent and tickets are more difficult to obtain for foreigners.
Target group: Local people
Description: Caminones are converted trucks that primarily serve as improvised buses in rural areas. They are very simple and often overcrowded, but inexpensive.
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Railroad Cuba: History and use
The Cuban rail network has a long and remarkable history. Cuba was one of the first countries in the Spanish colonial empire to introduce a railroad system. The first railroad line from Havana to Bejucal was opened as early as 1837.
Cuba was one of the first countries in the Spanish colonial empire to introduce a railroad system. The first railroad line from Havana to Bejucal was opened as early as 1837. This made Cuba one of the first countries in the world, apart from the USA and a few European countries, to have a railroad. Over the years, gaps in the rail network were closed and renovations were carried out time and again. However, the railroad was never a high priority and suffered from slumps due to a lack of resources and the economic crisis of the 1990s.
The main line runs from Havana in the west of the island to Santiago de Cuba in the east. In addition to this main line, there are several branch lines that connect smaller towns and rural areas. One advantage of traveling by train in Cuba is the low cost, especially compared to European or North American standards. Prices are additionally subsidized for locals. However, a major drawback of the Cuban railroads is the long journey time. For comparison: for a distance of 200 kilometers, which roughly corresponds to the distance from Frankfurt am Main to Cologne, the Cuban train takes a whole seven hours. In comparison, bus journeys are significantly faster and often more comfortable. We therefore recommend preferring bus travel for longer distances in Cuba.
Further important information for a relaxed journey
Learn some vocabulary about transportation to help you find your way around the area and overcome possible language barriers overcome possible language barriers.
Find out in advance about the planned route, the fair price and the expected duration of the journey. That way you'll arrive at the right time and won't miss any highlights!
It is advisable to always small change for transportation, as many public transport and shared cabs only accept this.
Keep your bags closed and close to you and avoid carrying large amounts of money or valuable items in plain sight.
If possible, book your means of transportation in advance so that you don't have to improvise if they are fully booked at short notice.
Always keep the necessary documents and driving licenses that are required for the use of your vehicle, otherwise there may be legal consequences.
Transportation in Cuba: Frequently asked questions
Cuban traffic regulations are similar to those in Germany:
Inner cities (urban areas):
- Cars and motorcycles: 50 km/h
- Trucks and buses: 40 km/h
Out of town (rural areas):
- Cars and motorcycles: 90 km/h
- Trucks and buses: 70 km/h
Freeways:
- Cars and motorcycles: 100 km/h
- Trucks and buses: 90 km/h
Whether you should use a rental car or a cab in Cuba depends on your individual needs.
A rental car offers flexibility and comfort and allows you to reach remote places. However, the cost of a rental car is high, road conditions are often poor and parking problems can occur.
Cabs, on the other hand, offer convenience, cost control and benefit from local driver knowledge. However, flexibility is limited, long distance trips can be expensive, and price negotiations are often necessary.
Yes, traveling in Cuba by bus is possible and a common way to explore the island. There are two different types of buses in Cuba: those for locals and those for tourists. We recommend using the buses specialized for tourists, such as those from Viazul. Although these are considerably more expensive, they offer space for larger pieces of luggage as well as increased comfort and security against theft.
Yes, you can rent classic cars in Cuba. These classic vehicles from the 1950s are a popular highlight for tourists. There are numerous agencies and private providers who offer classic cars for city tours or for longer trips.
Unforgettable group trips to Cuba
Experience Cuba with Sprachcaffe! Discover the island in group tours, learn Spanish, immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy unforgettable adventures. Don't miss out on our offers:
Highlights of Cuba
- 8 selected highlights in 8 days
- Havana, Viñales, Trinidad, Cienfuegos etc.
- Hiking in the Topes de Collantes National Park
Treasures of the Caribbean
- green Viñales Valley with its tobacco plantations
- Mexico's Mayan sites, e.g. Chichén Itzá
- Dream beaches Tulum and Playa del Carmen
Cuba's green west
- Cuba's most beautiful landscapes
- Dreamlike white sandy beaches on Cayo Levisa
- Orchid gardens, waterfalls and the tobacco factory in Pinar del Río
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