The Canadian government issued an updated advisory on Tuesday, cautioning travelers heading to Cuba for a winter getaway about escalating shortages of essentials like fuel and food that could impact resorts. The advisory urges a high level of caution due to the unpredictable situation, which may lead to flight disruptions at short notice.
Traditionally, Cuba has been a popular destination for Canadian tourists, attracting visitors with its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and affordability compared to other Caribbean options. However, recent data from Cuba’s national statistical agency revealed a 12% decline in Canadian visitors in December 2025 compared to the previous year.
The warning highlights the challenges faced by Cuba, including scheduled power cuts, unexpected outages lasting over 24 hours, and chronic shortages of basic necessities like food, water, and medicine. Fuel scarcity further complicates travel within the island, impacting public transportation and services at hotels and resorts.
Despite the hardships, the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto assured that resort operations are running smoothly for the current winter season. The board emphasized proactive measures taken to secure essential supplies and reported a 15% increase in Canadian arrivals for the Nov. 1 to Jan. 31 period compared to 2024.
While some travelers praise Cuba for its safety and beauty, others express concerns about their experiences, highlighting issues such as fuel shortages affecting recreational activities like diving. Travel experts caution against overlooking the broader implications of the ongoing crisis, emphasizing the potential risks associated with travel disruptions and infrastructure challenges.
Although the energy crisis in Cuba poses challenges, some experts suggest that tourists might not feel the full impact compared to local residents. However, concerns persist, especially in light of external pressures on the region, such as recent U.S. threats and geopolitical tensions that could affect travel advisories and visitor experiences.
