It’s not safe to drink tap water in Cuba, especially for those not used to local water quality.
Although Cuba treats its water in many cities, old pipes and local contamination mean that even locals often boil water before drinking. Bottled water is the safer option.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Based on guidance from the CDC, WHO, and local water authorities in Cuba.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
You could spend a fortune on bottled water over a two-week trip—or pack a filter bottle once and drink from just about anywhere. We’ve done the research to find out which ones actually work: bottles that remove bacteria, viruses, and even chemicals, while being small enough to fit in your daypack. Scroll down to see which ones we recommend.
Health Risks for Travelers
Travelers may be at risk of water-related illnesses, even though locals seem unaffected. This is often due to differences in gut flora, immune response, and exposure to local pathogens.
- Health risks from unsafe drinking water may include:
- Acute diarrheal disease caused by E. coli
- Parasitic infections like giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis
- Viral illnesses such as hepatitis A, especially in areas with poor wastewater management
- Toxic exposure to heavy metals or residual industrial waste
Contamination is more likely in:
- Villages or isolated areas with untreated surface water
- Places where flooding or poor infrastructure compromises sanitation
- Dwellings with outdated plumbing systems or neglected storage tanks
Clear water isn’t always clean water—invisible pathogens, bacteria, and pollutants can pose serious travel health hazards if consumed unfiltered.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Cuba, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Cuba
Water shortages and outdated infrastructure are common in Cuba, especially in cities like Havana. Some residents only get water a few hours a day, so storing water at home is a regular part of life. To make it safe, people often use sand filters or boil it. Public awareness efforts also promote water-saving habits—like shorter showers and reusing towels.
FAQs About Tap Water in Cuba
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
To avoid any digestive issues, it’s safer to use clean, filtered water for brushing your teeth in Cuba.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Yes, you can usually wash your face with tap water without any problems, as long as you don’t swallow it.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
In areas where tap water isn’t safe, it’s smart to avoid ice unless it’s clearly made from filtered or bottled water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Even if the water isn’t drinkable, it’s usually fine for washing your body.
Want to avoid unknown minerals or chlorine while you’re abroad? A travel-size shower filter might be worth it. It attaches in seconds—unless the showerhead’s built into the wall, which unfortunately means you’re out of luck. Many travelers swear by this one. Click here to view the latest deal.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
It’s safer to rinse produce with bottled or filtered water, especially if you plan to eat it raw.
Is bottled water expensive in Cuba?
While it might cost more in remote areas, bottled water is generally accessible and not too expensive.
Travelers to Cuba frequently extend their stay to nearby islands like The Bahamas, Jamaica, or The Cayman Islands, so it’s wise to check the water quality in those areas as well.