Information about Cuban money
There is a change occurring in Cuba with their monetary system as the country moves from a dual currency; Cuban Convertible Peso & Cuba National Peso, to the US dollar as their main currency. Visitors arriving from the US will no longer have to convert their US dollars to Cuban Pesos, you will be able to use US dollars for purchases. Updated: January 27, 2023.
Credit cards
U.S. credit cards are generally not accepted in Cuba, and even so, you would not be able to use them in many places (it is an evolving situation). Cuba is still a cash economy, we recommend that you bring all the money you will need for your trip in cash. Bring a credit card for emergencies only. In some government shops, in major hotel chains, and in some of the more upscale paladares you should be able to use a credit card if the Internet is working.
Exchanging money
Cuban bureaus de changes are called Cadecas. Only exchange at Cadecas or a major hotel chain. Make sure that you receive a receipt for the transaction and count your change. Do not ever change money on the street; these hustlers are trying to fleece you with money-changing scams.
