World City Guide

Getting Around

Public Transport
There are two types of buses that operate around town, known as guaguas (‘bus’) and camellos (‘camels’ due to their hump-backed roofs). Both types are overcrowded and have non-existent timetables. Most visitors avoid this form of transport in Havana unless they are familiar with the routes. There is a strict system of queuing and visitors should make sure they are at the end of the queue by asking for ‘el ultimo’ (the last one). The fare, 20 Centavos for camellos and 40 Centavos for guaguas, is payable on board. The service operates around the clock but there are very few buses in the middle of the night.

Taxis
There are two categories of taxis in Havana: those for the tourists, which charge in US Dollars, and local taxis, which accept Pesos. The official tourist taxis are numerous and comfortable, being air conditioned. Taxis can be flagged down in the street or found waiting outside the main hotels. Rates are about 90 cents per kilometre, and the meter should be turned on at the start of the journey. Visitors should note that there is a premium for cars such as Mercedes. Tipping is now allowed in Cuba and about 10% of the fare is always appreciated for good service. Reputable firms are Habanautos Taxi (tel: (7) 832 3232 or 950 323), Transgaviota (tel: (7) 339 780), Panataxi (tel: (7) 555 555), Turistaxi (tel: (7) 336 666) and Transtur (tel: (7) 553 252 or 338 384; website: www.transturcuba.com).

It appears that anybody who owns a car is willing to act as a taxi but these are unofficial and passengers are likely to be overcharged. Other than overcharging, however, there is little danger and since it is often the owners of beautiful old American cars that are the ones offering taxi services, many visitors are keen to take up their offers.

Bicitaxis
A pleasant way to move around the city is to hire a two-seater bicitaxi, which are similar to Asian rickshaws with the driver pedalling from the front. There is no need to look for them as the drivers solicit tourists continuously, seemingly unable to believe that anybody would choose to walk. In addition, there are the relatively new, but limited in number, bright yellow scooter rickshaws. Rates for both are similar to normal taxis (about 90 cents per kilometre).

Limousines
Rex (tel: (7) 339 160; fax: (7) 339 159) can provide chauffeur-driven limousines for US$325 per day. The weekly price is US$1625. They also provide luxury chauffeur-driven Audis and Volvos for US$240 and US$220 per day respectively.

Driving in the City
The volume of traffic in Havana is increasing rapidly and motorists will find that driving in the city can be a nerve-racking experience. The system at traffic lights (when they are working) is different from other countries – a flashing amber light means proceed with caution. It is also permitted to turn right on a red light if the road is clear. Road signage is similar to Europe but often the lettering has completely faded and is impossible to read, particularly at night. The grid system of roads in Havana makes it straightforward to negotiate the city, but the biggest hazard is the large numbers of cyclists and pedestrians meandering along the middle of the road. Night driving is particularly difficult as most cyclists ride without lights, street lighting is limited and there are many unmarked potholes. Parking is relatively straightforward, however, as most hotels have car parks for use by their guests, although there is generally a charge for this facility. There are also few parking restrictions around the city, so this is not a problem. However, at hotels where there is no secured parking, it is worth paying the doorman a small fee to keep an eye on the vehicle if parking overnight. Valuables should be kept out of sight as hire cars have special number plates making it obvious that it is being driven by a tourist.

Car Hire
The major car hire companies have offices in the city as well as at the airport: Cubacar (tel: (7) 337 233), Havanautos (tel: (7) 817 648). Havanautos has offices at the following hotels: Habana Libre (tel: (7) 333 484); Sevilla (tel: (7) 338 956); Riviera (tel: (7) 333 577); Nacional (tel: (7) 333 192); Micar (tel: (7) 553 535); Veracuba (tel: (7) 555 657); Via (tel: (7) 339 781) and Transtur (tel: (7) 338 384 or 553 991).

Renting a car is the easiest option for visiting places outside Havana, given the lack of and unreliability of public transport. However, it is an expensive way to move around Havana itself and most people prefer taxis. The minimum hire period is three days and the average cost for a four-door saloon manual car is US$65 per day on unlimited mileage. Payment can be made by credit card provided that it is not issued by an American bank. Petrol costs about 90 cents per litre and most service stations claim to be open 24 hours but this should not be taken literally.

The minimum age for hiring a car is 21 years. An International Driving Permit is not required, a valid national licence is sufficient. The purchase of insurance can only be arranged locally and costs about US$12 per day, although it is possible to opt to pay a large deposit, in lieu of insurance, which is refundable if the car is returned undamaged. It is worth noting that a driver involved in an accident is judged guilty until proved innocent.

The car hire companies in Cuba are all local, although car models for hire are Japanese, Korean or French. However, parts all have to be imported, which is a drain on hard currency, so standards are not always what a visitor would expect. Before driving any distance, it is advisable to check for any damage and that all parts, such as windscreen wipers, lights, tyres etc are functioning and in good order.

Bicycle and Scooter Hire
Some hotels hire bicycles for an average of US$10 per day and this is a convenient way to get around, although not recommended after dark. Again, bicycles for hire are imported and are not always well maintained. The state of the streets is also not good – with potholes causing problems, especially at night. Mopeds can be rented in the beach resorts but are strictly for use in the vicinity.