Canada is advising travellers to avoid non-essential trips to Cuba as worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, food, water and medicine continue to disrupt daily life and tourism services.
The Government of Canada’s travel advisory says the situation could worsen during the Atlantic hurricane season and warns that consular assistance from the Canadian embassy in Havana could become limited if conditions deteriorate further.
As of September 22, 2026, the advisory listed Cuba under the “avoid non-essential travel” risk level.
It says travellers already on the island should consider leaving while commercial flight options remain available.
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Why Canada is warning travellers about Cuba
The advisory points to long and unpredictable power cuts, including occasional nationwide outages that can last more than 24 hours.
Fuel shortages are affecting transportation, taxis, public services and the operation of generators at hotels and resorts.
Canadian officials say the availability of fuel is difficult to predict, making travel between destinations across the island especially challenging.
Resorts may also face shortages of food, bottled water, running water, hot water and electricity.
Power failures can contribute to food spoilage and affect restaurants and accommodation providers, even in major tourist areas.
Public transportation is described as scarce, unreliable and overcrowded.
The advisory also warns that some travellers have become temporarily stranded after rental vehicles ran out of fuel.
Canadian airlines have suspended Cuba service
The Government of Canada says all Canadian airlines have suspended service to Cuba until further notice.
Air Canada said it postponed the resumption of service between Canada and Cuba because of the operating conditions on the island.
WestJet has also indefinitely suspended flying to Cuba, while Air Transat announced an indefinite suspension of its operations.
Commercial flights through international airlines may still be available, but Canada warns that those options could become limited with little notice.
Travellers with existing bookings should contact their airline or tour operator directly before going to the airport.
Customers affected by cancellations may be offered refunds, destination changes or rebooking options, depending on the company and the type of reservation.
What Canadians should know before travelling
Canadians who decide that travel is essential are being told to prepare for disruptions that would be unusual at a typical resort destination.
- Carry enough cash for the entire trip because payment systems and ATMs may not work reliably.
- Bring necessary medication, toiletries and other personal supplies that may be difficult to find locally.
- Keep phones charged and carry printed copies of emergency contacts and travel documents.
- Confirm that travel insurance includes medical treatment, hospital stays and emergency evacuation.
- Register with the Government of Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
- Monitor airline, hotel and local-authority updates throughout the trip.
Canada’s advisory also says Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards will no longer be accepted in Cuba starting June 6, 2026.
Travellers are advised to carry sufficient cash, with U.S. dollars and euros generally more widely accepted than Canadian dollars.
Canadian provincial health coverage is limited outside the country and does not provide emergency air evacuation.
Travellers may also be required to show proof of medical insurance when entering Cuba.
Other safety concerns for visitors
The Canadian government says the local security situation has deteriorated alongside the economic crisis, fuel shortages and frequent blackouts.
Petty theft, bag snatching and theft from hotel rooms or vehicles remain concerns, particularly in crowded tourist areas.
Officials also warn that police and emergency services may have difficulty responding quickly because of infrastructure constraints.
Demonstrations against the Cuban government are illegal, and authorities may detain people near protests or unsanctioned gatherings.
Canada advises travellers to avoid demonstrations and monitor local information.
Health risks listed in the advisory include dengue, hepatitis A, Zika, chikungunya and Oropouche virus disease.
Travellers are encouraged to consult a health professional before departure and take precautions against mosquitoes and unsafe food or water.
What happens next for Cuba travel
The travel outlook will depend on whether Cuba can stabilize fuel supplies, restore reliable electricity and maintain essential services through the hurricane season.
For Canadians planning a winter vacation, the advisory means flight availability and resort operations should be confirmed immediately before departure rather than assumed from an earlier booking.
The Government of Canada says the situation may change quickly.
Travellers should review the official Cuba advisory, check directly with their airline and be prepared to change or cancel plans if transportation or essential services become unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Canada’s current travel warning for Cuba?
Canada advises Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to Cuba because of worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, food, water and medicine.
Are Canadian airlines flying to Cuba?
The Government of Canada says all Canadian airlines have suspended service to Cuba until further notice. Travellers should check directly with airlines for the latest changes.
Can Canadians use Visa or Mastercard in Cuba?
Canada’s advisory says Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards will no longer be accepted in Cuba starting June 6, 2026. Travellers should carry sufficient cash.
What should Canadians already in Cuba do?
They should monitor local and airline updates, keep documents secure, maintain access to cash and communication, and consider leaving while commercial flight options remain available.
Does Canadian health insurance cover medical emergencies in Cuba?
Provincial health coverage is limited outside Canada and does not include emergency air evacuation. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Fact-Checked: Key details were checked against the Government of Canada’s Cuba travel advisory and official airline service updates. ([travel.gc.ca](https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/cuba%23security?wbdisable=true&utm_source=openai))
Disclaimer: Travel conditions can change quickly, so Canadians should review the official advisory and confirm arrangements directly with their airline or tour operator before departure.