Havana and Western Cuba are best visited from November to April during the dry season. Temperatures are perfect (22-28 °C), humidity reduced, sky clear and cyclonic risk zero. It is also the peak tourist season: book casas particulares 2-3 months ahead for December-February, and even further out for Christmas and New Year.
December-February are the most pleasant climate-wise but also the most expensive and busiest. March-April offer an excellent compromise: still-perfect weather, lighter crowds, slightly more accessible rates. The tobacco harvest period (January-March) in Viñales is particularly interesting — the casas del tabaco fill with curing leaves, agricultural activity is in full swing.
The wet season (May-October) combines intense heat (30-32 °C), crushing humidity (up to 90% in August) and daily tropical storms. The hurricane season (June-November, peak in September) is the main risk — Pinar del Río is regularly hit by major hurricanes (Ian 2022, Irma 2017). If you travel in summer, it's to experience Cuban school holidays (festive atmosphere in Havana, Carnival in August) — accept the climatic conditions.
Read also
- Havana, the frozen capital — UNESCO Old Havana, the Malecón, American classic cars, nightly salsa: the Cuban heart.
- Viñales and the tobacco valley — Karst mogotes, tobacco fincas, horseback rides: authentic rural Cuba.
- Cuba — Complete country guide: visa, currency, regions, best time to visit.
- Central Cuba — UNESCO Trinidad, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara: the colonial and revolutionary heart.