Cuba has a tropical wet and dry climate with two distinct seasons, and knowing "whether" or not to go during certain times of the year can make or break your trip. This month-by-month guide covers Cuba's weather, hurricane risk, tourist seasons, and festivals so you can plan the perfect visit.
Cuba's Two Seasons
Dry Season: November–April
This is high season and the best time to visit for most travelers. Temperatures are warm but comfortable (24–28°C / 75–82°F), humidity is lower, rainfall is minimal, and the skies are generally clear. This time of year is the peak tourist season, so prices are higher, and popular casas sell out. December–February is when Havana feels perfect.
Wet Season: May–October
Hotter (28–32°C / 82–90°F), more humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common — typically these storms are short, intense bursts followed by sunshine. This period includes hurricane season (June–November). At this time of year, prices drop, crowds thin, and you get a more local-feeling experience. Many experienced Cuba travelers prefer shoulder months (May, November) for the best balance.
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season officially runs June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk in September and October. Cuba is struck by major hurricanes every few years — Hurricane Melissa (2025) caused significant damage. However:
- Cuba's hurricane preparedness system is among the world's best — evacuations are organized and effective.
- Most of the hurricane season (June–August, November) poses relatively low risk.
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is essential if visiting during these months.
Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak season. Temperatures: 22–26°C (72–79°F). Very little rain. Perfect beach and sightseeing weather. Havana is busy with tourists. Prices are at their highest. Christmas/New Year's celebrations overlap. Verdict: Excellent time to visit.
February
Still peak season with ideal weather. The Havana International Jazz Festival (moved in some years; check dates) and Havana Cigar Festival (Festival del Habano) attract global visitors. Dry, warm, and lively. Verdict: One of the best months.
March
Warming up (25–28°C). Still dry. Spring break travelers arrive from North America. A great time to combine Havana with beach destinations. Prices start to taper off late March. Verdict: Excellent.
April
The transition month. Temperatures rising (26–29°C), humidity starting to increase, and the first rain showers appear. Crowds thin out. Good value and comfortable weather. Verdict: Very good — sweet spot of weather and value.
May
Wet season begins. Afternoon showers are common and mornings are usually clear. Temperature: 27–30°C. Prices drop significantly. Fewer tourists mean easier bookings and more local interaction. Cuba Labor Day celebrations on May 1st. Verdict: Good for budget travelers who don't mind afternoon rain.
June
Hot and humid (28–31°C). More frequent rain. Hurricane season begins but risk is low in June. This is when the locals hit the beach — and, if Cubans think it's beach weather, it's beach weather. Verdict: Acceptable with preparation and flexibility.
July–August
The hottest months (29–32°C). High humidity, daily rain showers, and the Havana Carnival livens up the city with parades, music, and dancing along El Malecón (typically August). Beach destinations are at peak water temperature. Cuban school holidays mean domestic travel is heavy. Verdict: For heat-lovers and festival seekers.
September
The peak of hurricane risk. Hottest temperatures, highest humidity, and the rainiest month. This is genuinely the worst month to visit Cuba — prices are rock-bottom for a reason. Only visit if you're flexible and well-insured. Verdict: Not recommended unless you're a risk-taker.
October
Hurricane risk remains elevated but begins to decrease. Still hot and rainy. Very few tourists. The annual Havana International Ballet Festival (biennial, even years) is a world-class event. Verdict: Only for flexible, budget-minded travelers.
November
The sweet spot. Hurricane risk drops sharply. Rain decreases. Temperatures cool to comfortable levels (25–28°C). Tourist season hasn't fully started, so prices remain low and crowds are thin. Verdict: Underrated — one of the best months for value and comfort.
December
Peak season returns. Dry, warm (23–27°C), and festive. Cuban Christmas and New Year's celebrations are lively. Havana is buzzing. Prices climb back up and popular casas fill fast. Book well in advance. Verdict: Excellent for holiday travel.
When to Visit by Activity
- Beach vacation: December–April (dry, warm, calm seas)
- Diving: Year-round, but best visibility December–April
- Hiking (Viñales, Topes de Collantes): November–March (cooler, drier)
- Festivals and nightlife: February (Jazz Festival, Cigar Festival), August (Carnival), December (holiday season)
- Budget travel: May–June or November (shoulder seasons with good weather and low prices)
- Photography: November–February (best light, clear skies, and golden-hour magic on colonial architecture)
Some packing considerations
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ which expensive and scarce in Cuba so, bring your own. Please be a good environmental steward and look for coral reef safe brands such as, Manda reef-safe suncreen, Thinksport Safe Suncreen or Mama Kuleana Reef-safe suncreen. (Avoid aerosols, they disrupt biodiverse ecosystems.)
- Insect repellent with DEET (again, please avoid aerosols)
- A light rain jacket or compact umbrella (wet season)
- Comfortable walking shoes (Havana's cobblestones eat sandals)
- A sweater or light jacket for air-conditioned Viazul buses