Geography, climate and weather Cuba

Geography

Cuba is the largest Caribbean island with its 109 980 sq. km and a surface area equivalent to three and a half times that of Belgium. All in length, this "crocodile" as more or less 1250 km from the head to tail, but only about 200 km at its widest point. Note that Cuba, this is not just an island but ... islands.

Cuba is not just an island but the islands. Besides the main island, we must add the Isle of Youth (Isla de la Juventud), and a multitude of islands called cays, which are the delight of lovers of fine sand and turquoise waters: Cayo Largo , Cayo Coco, Cayo Levisa ...

The main island is divided very roughly into two: the West (Occidente) and is commonly known as Oriente. Do not forget the center, which focuses most important cities.

From an administrative standpoint, the country is divided into 15 provinces since the former province of Havana (Habana Campo) was cut into two new entities, and Artemisa Mayabegue, the city of Havana as a province to cash full.

Apart from the coast, the Cuban landscape is mostly flat, except for some small mountain ranges: the Sierras, including the famous Sierra Maestra, west of Santiago.

Climate

The climate is tropical. But Cuba is an island, it has its specificities. The tropics have really only two seasons distinct: a dry (winter) and wet (summer). The short dry season roughly from late November to May The average temperature in Cuba is 25 ° C. The rainy season starts in June and lasts until October-November. It is characterized by heavy rains of short duration. It is also warmer; the average temperature is 27-28 ° C.

Cyclones

Like all Caribbean islands, Cuba is not spared by hurricanes. The regions most affected are regularly the province of Pinar del Rio, the Isla de la Juventud and the province of Havana. Statistically, the month most exposed is that of October, but the risk period extends from June to November.

Civil Defense is now remarkably well organized; television and radio stations provide information 24h/24 and preventive evacuations can usually limit the number of victims.

When to go?

In general, it is considered the dry season (late November to May) as the best time to visit Cuba. The temperatures are milder but are not fresh, but some nights or at altitude. The sky is often blue. But be aware that in winter (December and January), there are often cold front passenger: nothing too serious side temperatures (submit a sweater at night), but they bring a few rain, the sky and can remain covered 2 or 3 days. Similarly, in this period, some beaches can be very windy or overgrown by algae, including the Cayos. However, the landscape is still green. May is also being quite rainy.

Contrary to popular belief, the summer is not a bad season for walking in Cuba. In August, the hot weather is past (everything is relative!), There are fewer tourists, and tour operators offering good promotions.