by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 3:00 PM ET, Thu February 5, 2026
A new warning from the Canadian government over fuel shortages in Cuba is making some travellers think twice about visiting the island usually so beloved by Canadians.
According to the Cuba Tourist Board, the Canadian market remains Cuba’s primary source of tourism. For the first quarter of the winter season (November 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026), arrivals from Canada grew 15 percent year-over-year; an increase of more than 30,000 visitors when compared to the same period last year.
“We are incredibly grateful to our valued travel partners and the Canadian public for their continued support. The positive feedback from returning visitors is the driving force behind our double-digit growth.” stated Gihana Galindo, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto
However, the updated warning may mean that that upward trajectory flattens. Martin Firestone, president of Toronto-based insurance company Travel Secure, told CBC News he thinks the issues plaguing Cuba's energy and fuel supply might scare some travellers, “especially since it could affect resorts, and cautioned people to think about Cuba beyond just the beach.”
He urged travellers to consider what would happen if they were not able to charge their phone, find gas for a rental car or possibly get proper medical attention.
Cuban tourism officials are working to allay concerns, issuing a statement assuring safety and stability for travellers, stating, “tourism remains a top national priority, with all resort operations functioning normally and securely for the 2025/2026 winter season.”
The Ministry of Tourism told media that it took proactive measures throughout the fall to ensure a seamless winter peak. “Supplies of fuel, food, and essential goods were secured well in advance through strategic reserves and the approval of new importing companies.”
Meanwhile, Global Affairs is advising visitors to exercise a high degree of caution due to “worsening shortages of electricity, fuel and basic necessities including food, water and medicine.”
While most resorts rely on generators to minimize disruptions, the travel advisory reminds travellers that the situation is unpredictable and could deteriorate, disrupting flight availability on short notice.
The notice also states that fuel shortages may make travelling across the island extremely challenging. "Public transportation services, including taxis, are often disrupted, leaving tourists with few options to travel. Some travellers have been temporarily stranded with a rental car. There are often long line-ups at gas stations that have led to altercations."
Furthermore, it notes that food shortages or food spoilage, as a result of power outages and fuel shortages, can occur in restaurants and hotels, while intermittent shortages of tap water provided by municipalities occur and may also affect resorts.
The government advises anyone travelling to Cuba be aware of the situation and to:
- Sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important updates.
- Make sure your travel documents are up to date and secure at all times.
- Be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice.
- Get insurance coverage that includes trip cancellation and interruption.
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