Although visitors are fewer than in January, February is, with good reason, still a very busy month, especially in Havana, Trinidad and Viñales. The sun shines without being overbearing, rain mostly stays away, and nighttime temps are refreshingly cool. Further afield the number of visitors thins, and it’s easy to find attractive off-the-beaten-track venues.
## Weather in Cuba in February
February often presents itself as the most pleasant time to experience the island nation of Cuba, with temperatures that are generally agreeable and rainfall at its minimal. In Havana, the average high temperatures hover around a comfortable 78°F (25°C), and most days are blessed with abundant sunshine. This makes it an ideal time to explore the vibrant capital city and soak in its unique atmosphere. February also distinguishes itself as the month with the least amount of rainfall in Santiago de Cuba, promising dry and sunny conditions for exploring this historic city. Expect temperatures there, as well as in Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and the cities nestled inland in Central Cuba, to be slightly warmer than those experienced in Havana.
However, it’s important to remember that nature can be unpredictable. Occasional cold snaps can indeed sweep across Western Cuba, causing the temperature to dip unexpectedly into the fifties Fahrenheit. These cooler periods are often accompanied by winter rainstorms that make their way down from the north. Therefore, while you should definitely pack your shorts and T-shirts to enjoy the sunshine, it’s also wise to bring along raingear and a fleece jacket to be prepared for any unexpected changes in the weather. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
## Crowds and Costs During February
February falls squarely within Cuba’s tourist high season, which means that prices for accommodation, transportation, and activities will generally be higher than during the spring and summer months. However, they are usually still lower than the peak-season prices that are common from mid-December to mid-January. If you’re considering a trip to Cuba in February, it is highly recommended that you book your accommodation and any car rentals several months in advance to secure the best deals and ensure availability.
Cuba’s three most popular destinations, namely Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad, are likely to be crowded with fellow travelers during this time. While there will also be a significant number of visitors in cities such as Camagüey, Santiago de Cuba, and Baracoa, they shouldn’t feel quite as congested. If you venture further afield, you can still discover plenty of opportunities for relative solitude and a more tranquil experience of Cuba.
## Where to Explore in Cuba
For those with a passion for art, architecture, and museums, Cuba offers a wealth of possibilities. Virtually every city in the country has something of historical and cultural significance to offer, but Havana stands out as a true treasure trove. It is recommended that you allocate several days to fully explore the capital city and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and rich history. After experiencing Havana, consider heading south towards the Bay of Pigs and Cienfuegos, a uniquely French-inspired bayside Caribbean city that offers a distinctive charm and architectural style.
A captivating circular road trip could encompass destinations such as the breathtaking El Nicho waterfalls nestled within the Sierra Escambray mountains. Dedicate two or three days to exploring the enchanting city of Trinidad, followed by visits to Santa Clara and the UNESCO World Heritage City of Remedios. For non-U.S. citizens, the itinerary could be further enhanced by including visits to the north coast beach resorts of Cayo Santa María and Varadero, where you can indulge in sunbathing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
For a different experience, consider Baracoa, a city surrounded by lush, rainforest-clad mountains. February represents the driest time of the year in this region, making it an ideal time to visit. The temperatures are also at their coolest, providing perfect conditions for hiking to the summit of El Yunque, a prominent table mountain. Complement your visit with cultural immersion in Guantánamo, where you can experience the vibrant Haitian music and dance traditions. Furthermore, consider including Santiago de Cuba, with its historical venues associated with the Revolution; the less-visited city of Bayamo; and even the off-the-beaten-track towns of Manzanillo, Niquero, and Cabo Cruz.
## Activities to Enjoy in Cuba
February presents an ideal opportunity to explore the island on two wheels, allowing you to experience Cuba alongside the locals themselves. Consider joining an organized group bicycle tour, renting a bike in Havana, or bringing your own. Some fantastic routes to consider include cycling west from Havana to Las Terrazas and Viñales. Another worthwhile route encompasses Trinidad and the provinces of Sancti Spíritus and Santa Clara. Alternatively, you could embark on a circular loop from Santiago de Cuba around the Sierra Maestra, passing through Bayamo, Manzanillo, and Marea del Portillo.
Cuba is virtually synonymous with music and dance. A fulfilling vacation can be crafted around experiencing its sensual sounds. Santiago de Cuba holds its place as ground zero for traditional trova and son music, while Matanzas serves as an epicenter of Afro-Cuban musical traditions. Meanwhile, Havana offers diverse musical options, from jazz cafés to electrifying salsa clubs. Consider taking some private dance classes before venturing out to the nightclubs to fully immerse yourself in the Cuban dance culture.
## February Events in Cuba
**Fería Internacional de Libro (International Book Fair):** Cubans possess a deep love of reading, and they enthusiastically flock to Havana’s Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña for this popular annual fair. The fair encompasses lectures, readings, and, in true Cuban style, music and dance performances. The event also takes place on a smaller scale in other major cities.
**Festival del Habano:** Havana plays host to Cuba’s most significant festival dedicated to cigars, drawing aficionados who are eager to savor Cuba’s most renowned brands. The festival concludes with a spectacular and unique gala event held at the iconic Tropicana cabaret.
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