Cuba is an island nation located in the Caribbean, south of the United States and east of Mexico. The country has a population of approximately 11 million people, with the majority living in urban areas. The official language is Spanish, and the country's culture is a blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences.

Havana is the capital and largest city in Cuba, known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and lively music scene. Other major cities in Cuba include Santiago de Cuba, Camaguey, and Holguin.

Cuba has a socialist economy with the government controlling most of the country's industries. The economy is heavily reliant on exports, including tobacco, sugar, and nickel. Tourism is also an important sector, with visitors drawn to the country's stunning beaches, rich history, and unique culture.

Cuba has a complex history, with indigenous peoples living on the island before the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 15th century. The country gained independence from Spain in 1902, and in 1959, Fidel Castro led a revolution that overthrew the government and established a socialist state.

Cuba has a highly developed healthcare system, with universal healthcare provided to all citizens free of charge. The country also has a strong education system, with literacy rates among the highest in the world.

Cuba has faced economic and political challenges, including a long-standing trade embargo by the United States. In recent years, the country has made efforts to open up its economy and improve relations with other countries.

Overall, Cuba is a unique and fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage and a complex history. The country's stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and fascinating history make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

National holiday
Triumph of the Revolution (Liberation Day), 1 January (1959)

Telephone Code
53

Local Emergency Phone
26811

Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations

Climate
Tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October)

Currency (Code)
Cuban pesos (CUP)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
110 V, 220 V / 60 Hz / plug types(s): A, B, C, L

Major Languages
Spanish

Major Religions
Christian 58.9%, folk religion 17.6%, Buddhist <1%, Hindu <1%, Jewish <1%, Muslim <1%, note: data is estimative as no authoritative source on religious affiliation in Cuba is available

Potable Water
Yes

International Driving Permit
Suggested

Road Driving Side
Right

Tourist Destinations
Old Havana; Varadero; Trinidad; Guardalavaca; Cayo Largo del Sur; Cayo Coco; Parque Nacional Viñales

Major Sports
Baseball, soccer, basketball

Cultural Practices
Cubans will point by puckering their lips in the direction of or at the person to whom they are referring.

Tipping Guidelines
In spas, restaurants, and barber shops, a 10% tip is appropriate. Tip the bellhop 1 peso per bag if he carries luggage to your room and leave housekeeping 1 peso per day.

Souvenirs
Cigars, rum, coffee, sugar, local art and handicrafts

Traditional Cuisine
Ropa Vieja — shredded flank steak cooked in tomato sauce and served with rice and/or beans and sweet plantain fritters

Geography
Area
total: 110,860 sq km
land: 109,820 sq km
water: 1,040 sq km

Climate
tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October)

Natural resources
cobalt, nickel, iron ore, chromium, copper, salt, timber, silica, petroleum, arable land

People and Society
Population
10,985,974 (2023 est.)

Ethnic groups
White 64.1%, Mulatto or mixed 26.6%, Black 9.3% (2012 est.)

Languages
Spanish (official)

Religions
Christian 58.9%, folk religion 17.6%, Buddhist <1%, Hindu <1%, Jewish <1%, Muslim <1%, other <1%, none 23.2% (2020 est.)

Population growth rate
-0.19% (2023 est.)

Government
Government type
communist state

Capital
name: Havana

Economy
Economic overview
still largely state-run planned economy, although privatization increasing under new constitution; widespread protests due to lack of basic necessities and electricity; massive foreign investment increases recently; known tobacco exporter; unique oil-for-doctors relationship with Venezuela; widespread corruption

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$137 billion (2017 est.)

Real GDP per capita
$12,300 (2016 est.)

Agricultural products
sugar cane, cassava, vegetables, plantains, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, milk, pumpkins, mangoes/guavas, rice

Industries
petroleum, nickel, cobalt, pharmaceuticals, tobacco, construction, steel, cement, agricultural machinery, sugar

Exports
$2.63 billion (2017 est.)

Exports - partners
China 38%, Spain 11%, Netherlands 5%, Germany 5% (2019)

Exports - commodities
cigars, raw sugar, nickel products, rum, zinc (2019)

Imports
$11.06 billion (2017 est.)

Imports - partners
Spain 19%, China 15%, Italy 6%, Canada 5%, Russia 5%, United States 5%, Brazil 5% (2019)

Imports - commodities
poultry meat, wheat, soybean products, corn, concentrated milk (2019)