Weather in Cuba in March

updated 24.01.2025

Average temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), with minimal rainfall, meaning the weather in Cuba in March is ideal for visitors. The dry season is still in full swing, ensuring plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities. At the same time, this is also a great time to explore Havana’s vibrant streets, enjoy Cuba’s lively music scene and indulge in local cuisine. There are few better times to take a dip in Varadero’s turquoise waters or hike the trails of Viñales. With its mix of comfortable weather and cultural vibrancy, March is an excellent month to visit Cuba.

Cuba in March at a glance

The weather in Cuba in March offers warm, sunny weather, making it ideal for enjoying everything this Caribbean marvel has to offer. Whatever your interests, the dry season continues, providing excellent conditions for exploring cities, beaches, and natural landscapes alike.

  • Average temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), with plenty of sunshine and low humidity. Rain is rare, allowing travelers to fully enjoy outdoor activities.
  • March is a great time to explore Havana’s lively streets, relax on Varadero’s pristine beaches, or hike through the tobacco fields of Viñales. The warm weather also makes it perfect for water sports like snorkeling and diving, with the water still clear and inviting.
  • March attracts a steady flow of tourists due to its favorable weather, so popular destinations may feel busy, and accommodations can be expensive. Planning ahead ensures the best choice of options and prices.

Is March a good time to visit Cuba?

Whatever attracts you to Cuba, March is an excellent time to visit. The weather is warm and the skies are clear, which seem to combine to create a lively atmosphere. As part of the dry season, the month is perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, as well.

Average temperatures in Cuba in March range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), with plenty of sunshine and low humidity. This pleasant weather makes it ideal for visiting historical sites, such as Old Havana, or relaxing on the beaches of Cayo Santa María. The countryside, particularly Viñales Valley, is also stunning, offering scenic hiking and cycling opportunities with some impressive views to enjoy thanks to the kind March climate.

The flipside of the ideal Cuba weather in March is that it is popular with tourists seeking tropical warmth, so expect lively energy in major destinations. While accommodation and flights may be pricier, reservation early ensures better options.

With its combination of perfect weather, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures, Cuba in March is an unforgettable destination for travelers with myriad interests.

palacio-de-valle-cienfuegos-cuba-shutterstock_1135478519

Palacio de Valle Cienfuegos, Cuba @ Shutterstock

Average daily temperatures in March

March in Cuba brings warm and sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). This month is ideal for outdoor activities – particularly snorkeling while the waters remain clear – and exploring the island’s diverse attractions.

In Havana and central regions, daytime highs hover around 82°F (28°C), with cooler evenings dipping to 68°F to 70°F (20°C to 21°C). These mild conditions are perfect for sightseeing or enjoying Havana’s vibrant nightlife.

Coastal areas like Varadero and the Cayos experience slightly higher temperatures, with daytime highs reaching 84°F (29°C) and refreshing breezes keeping the heat comfortable. Warm sea temperatures make this an excellent time for swimming or diving.

Eastern Cuba, including Santiago de Cuba, is warmer, with highs near 86°F (30°C) and lows around 73°F (23°C). The warmer climate enhances the region’s tropical charm, making it perfect for exploring its rich cultural heritage and lush valleys.

March’s balanced temperatures and sunny days create the perfect environment for enjoying Cuba’s beaches, historical sites, and natural beauty.

What about the crowds and cost?

While not quite as busy as the earlier months of the year, March remains a popular month for travel in Cuba. The pleasant, some may say ideal, March weather draws tourists to beaches, cities, and countryside attractions. Destinations like Varadero and Cayo Santa María can feel lively but not overwhelming.

Accommodation and flight costs can be relatively high compared to other months due to the continued appeal of the dry season, so it pays to grab your deals as early as possible. Beach resorts and guided tours often need to be booked in advance to secure the best options and avoid being disappointed when you find the best is full on the day.

While there’s steady tourist activity, March doesn’t reach the peak levels of January or February. This balance of manageable crowds and excellent weather makes it a great time for both relaxation and cultural exploration – before the weather hits up and the rains arrive.

Clean beach Caribbean Sea. Playa los Cocos. Cayo Largo. Cuba © Shutterstock

Playa los Cocos. Cayo Largo. Cuba © Shutterstock

Things to do in Cuba in March

The weather in Cuba in March is warm and sunny, offering pretty much perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the island’s cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Cuba in March to get the most out of your trip.

Relax on Playa Ancón

Located near Trinidad, Playa Ancón boasts golden sands and calm turquoise waters. It’s an idyllic spot for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a catamaran tour to nearby cays.

Take a walking tour of Old Havana

Explore Havana’s rich history and architecture with a guided walking tour. Learn about the city’s colonial past while visiting landmarks like Castillo de la Real Fuerza and Plaza de Armas.

Visit the Escambray Mountains

Hike or take a jeep tour through the Escambray Mountains near Trinidad. Trails lead to hidden waterfalls like El Nicho, where you can cool off in natural pools surrounded by lush forests.

Stroll the Malecón at sunset

Havana’s iconic seafront promenade, the Malecón, is an excellent place to watch the sunset and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Cuba in March is about the perfect time for a leisurely walk along this iconic attraction.

Basilica view in Santiago de Cuba © Vadim Nefedoff/Shutterstock

Basilica view in Santiago de Cuba © Vadim Nefedoff/Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Cuba in March

March in Cuba brings a variety of cultural and local celebrations that highlight the island’s artistic and traditional diversity. The weather in Cuba in March is still dry and cool enough to enjoy the events to the max without worrying about the rain or energy-sapping higher temperatures that will come later in the year.

  • Festival de la Trova Pepe Sánchez: Held in Santiago de Cuba, this music festival celebrates trova, a traditional Cuban music genre. It features live performances by prominent and emerging artists.
  • Book Fair (Feria Internacional del Libro): This month-long event tours various Cuban cities, promoting literature through book signings, readings, and cultural activities, with Havana as its main hub.
  • Havana World Music Festival: This multi-day music festival in the capital showcases Cuban and international artists from diverse genres, blending contemporary and traditional sounds. In short, there’s a different sound, not to mention plenty of dancing, to enjoy around every corner.
Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 24.01.2025

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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