Havana – Travellers to Cuba are facing increasing challenges as the island nation grapples with widespread shortages of essential goods, including fuel, electricity, food, water, and medicine. The Canadian government has issued an updated travel advisory, urging citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” while visiting, a warning that is prompting some Canadians to reconsider their travel plans.
The situation, which has been deteriorating for months, is now impacting the tourism sector, a crucial source of revenue for Cuba. Reports indicate that some resorts are beginning to shut down or reduce services due to the fuel crisis. According to Canadian tourists currently in Cuba, the shortages are causing disruptions to transportation and daily life.
Monique Belliveau, a Winnipeg resident who has visited Cuba approximately 80 times over the past two decades, recently returned from a four-week stay in Guardalavaca with her husband and son. She reported no shortages or power outages during their January visit, but acknowledges the growing concerns. “This travel advisory… all Canada has done is scare everyone,” she told CBC News. Her experience highlights the unpredictable nature of the current situation.
The Canadian government’s advisory, updated on , specifically cites the worsening shortages as the primary concern. The advisory notes that the situation is “unpredictable and could deteriorate, disrupting flight availability on short notice.” This has led to uncertainty for travellers with upcoming trips, with some attempting to cancel or modify their bookings.
The fuel shortage is particularly acute, leading to restrictions on domestic travel and impacting transportation for tourists. Canadian tourists are reportedly being consolidated into fewer hotels to optimize resource allocation, according to CTV News. This move, while intended to mitigate the impact of the shortages, has raised concerns about overcrowding and potential disruptions to service.
The crisis extends beyond tourism. Shortages of basic necessities are affecting the daily lives of Cuban citizens, creating a challenging environment across the country. The lack of electricity is causing power outages, while limited access to food, water, and medicine is exacerbating existing hardships. The situation is particularly concerning given the historical context of economic challenges in Cuba, which suffered a setback in tourism in 2025.
Despite the advisory and the reported difficulties, some Canadians remain committed to travelling to Cuba. Many express a deep connection to the country and its people, citing the warmth, safety, and unique cultural experiences as reasons to return. However, travellers are being urged to prepare for potential disruptions and to take necessary precautions.
One key recommendation for Canadians travelling to Cuba is to make photocopies of their passports. This advice, highlighted in recent reports, is intended to help travellers navigate potential bureaucratic hurdles or unexpected situations arising from the current crisis. The Canadian government requires a visa for entry, typically included in holiday packages.
The Cuban Tourist Board has stated that the Canadian market remains Cuba’s primary source of tourism. The first quarter of the winter season saw a significant influx of Canadian visitors, but the current travel advisory and the worsening shortages raise questions about the future of tourism on the island. The situation is being closely monitored by both Canadian and Cuban authorities.
The impact of the shortages is not limited to Canadians. Travellers from other countries are also facing similar challenges, and the Cuban government is struggling to address the crisis. The root causes of the shortages are complex, stemming from a combination of economic factors, including limited foreign exchange reserves and the ongoing U.S. Embargo. The situation is further complicated by Cuba’s reliance on imported goods and its aging infrastructure.
The Canadian government continues to provide consular assistance to its citizens in Cuba, but travellers are advised to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates and emergency notifications. The situation remains fluid, and travellers are encouraged to stay informed and exercise caution throughout their stay. The long-term implications of the current crisis for Cuba’s tourism industry and its broader economy remain uncertain.
As of , the situation continues to evolve, with no immediate resolution in sight. The Canadian government’s advisory serves as a reminder of the challenges facing Cuba and the importance of careful planning and preparation for travellers considering a visit.
