Cuba Scams: Taxis, Currency Exchange and Overcharging

Quick answer: common scams affecting travellers in Cuba are often straightforward: a price that changes after the service, an unofficial middleman, an unverified taxi or guide, questionable cigar sales, street currency exchange or an unclear bill. The safest habit is to confirm the total price and currency before agreeing, keep your cash discreet and use official or verified services whenever possible.

Verified September 30, 2026 using Government of Canada travel advice for Cuba, updated September 28, 2026.

Important scams and overcharging risks

Overcharging after a ride or service

The Government of Canada warns that some businesses, taxis and classic-car rentals may try to charge exorbitant prices. Before entering a taxi, ordering food or accepting an activity, confirm the total price, currency and what is included. Avoid open tabs and check the bill before paying.

Unofficial guides, taxis and tour agents

Travellers may be approached by people offering to act as guides, drivers or intermediaries. Canadian travel advice also warns about fraudulent tour agents and taxi drivers, including at Havana’s international airport. For an important transfer, use a provider confirmed by your hotel, tour operator or another reliable source and keep the driver or service details.

“Official” cigars at an unbelievable price

Hustlers may offer to facilitate cigar purchases. A bargain price or urgent story does not prove authenticity. If the purchase matters to you, use a recognized retailer and keep proof of purchase.

Street currency exchange

The Government of Canada states that the Cuban peso (CUP) is Cuba’s currency and that exchanging money on the street or anywhere other than an authorized entity is illegal. Airport exchange bureaus, banks, major hotels and official exchange bureaus are among the options listed. A spectacular street rate therefore adds both legal and fraud risk.

Why cash needs extra care in 2026

Canadian travel advice states that, starting June 6, 2026, Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards are no longer accepted in Cuba. Cash and certain domestic prepaid cards remain available, while banking access may be unreliable. Travellers are advised to bring sufficient cash and small bills. That makes it especially important to separate daily spending money from emergency reserves.

Do not display your entire cash reserve to a vendor or driver.
Keep small bills accessible and the rest stored separately.
Count your change before leaving.
Confirm whether a quoted price is in CUP, USD, EUR or another currency.
Do not let a payment card disappear from your sight.

Taxi: the 20-second check

Before getting in, confirm the destination, total fare, currency and whether the price covers all passengers and luggage. For important rides, keep the vehicle or service information. See our Transportation in Cuba guide for additional planning.

If the price changes after the service

Stay calm and ask for an itemized explanation. Show the agreed price if you have it in writing. Avoid a physical confrontation. If you feel threatened, leave when it is safe and seek help from your hotel, tour operator or local authorities. The Government of Canada lists 106 as Cuba’s police emergency number.