Real experience of people from chats on «Transport» in Cuba — as it is, no fluff. For your case — ask Luky.
From real experience
As of June 17, 2026, Cuba is implementing new transportation restrictions. National bus routes will be reduced to three times a week, and train services to once every 16 days. The APK Viajando ticket booking system will be suspended, and ticket sales through agencies will be prohibited. Despite these changes, some reports indicate that tourist conditions remain manageable, with some amenities like piña colada still available. There are concerns about potential withdrawal of major hotel operators like GAESA due to new sanctions, potentially affecting popular brands like Melia and Iberostar. Travelers should monitor the evolving situation regarding transportation and hotel availability.
Travel options from Havana to Varadero: 1. Viazul bus: inconsistent schedule, often expensive, requires extra local taxi travel to/from stations. 2. Collectivo: shared taxis offering door-to-door service, avoids complex negotiations. 3. Hotel transfer: reliable daily service between hotels, price is approximately 15 EUR, available through Cubatur offices.
In the Varadero area, Cuba, traditional taxi availability is limited due to fuel shortages. Tricycles (both electric and gas-powered) are a common and reliable alternative for local transport, including trips between Santa Marta, Varadero, and Cardenas. Prices for collective taxis (colectivos) can be around 800 pesos.
In Santa Marta, Cuba, the cost for a round trip via tricycle is approximately 6,000 CUP (approx. $9 USD). Local vendors often speak Russian, and while caution regarding authenticity is advised, some buyers note that the alcohol sold is often genuine or salvaged/pilfered from hotels rather than counterfeit.
Travelers to Cuba face significant fuel shortages affecting ground transportation. Viazul bus tickets from Havana to Varadero cost approximately 22-28 EUR per person. Private taxi prices are highly unstable, ranging from 100 to 700 USD due to supply-demand imbalances. Cancellations of scheduled transport are common due to fuel availability.
Discusses taxi costs in Cuba, mentioning that prices have increased significantly (e.g., from $80 to $150 for a trip from Havana to Trinidad). Notes that official taxis are largely inaccessible to tourists, and locals rely on private drivers who sometimes face challenges sourcing fuel. Implies that fuel prices and availability are a concern.
Travel situation in Cuba: Severe infrastructure issues including intermittent electricity (often 2-4 hours/day), fuel scarcity, and lack of reliable tourist transport. Official fuel price is ~2/L (with 20L/day ration for rentals), black market is ~7-12/L. Electricity reliability varies by region (Cienfuegos is better on weekends). Tourist activity is currently low, causing many agencies and hotels to be closed. Recommended transport: local collectivos or rental scooters (prices vary: electric ~18/day, gas ~25-40/day). Flights from Russia to Havana are currently only available with connections (e.g., via Istanbul).