Can You Buy Cuban Cigars in Puerto Rico? Your Complete Guide to Procuring the Best Stogies

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 01/04/24 •  12 min read

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If you’re wondering, “can you buy Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico?”, it’s important to note that due to the Cuban embargo, purchasing Cuban cigars in American territories like Puerto Rico is prohibited. However, Puerto Rico has a rich history of tobacco cultivation and offers a unique alternative with local brands such as Flora de Cuba.

Moreover, as a savvy cigar enthusiast, it is vital to know how to avoid counterfeit or low-quality cigars which are often passed off as genuine Cubans. Meanwhile, if you are an American citizen abroad, there exists some leeway for personal use and enjoyment of Cuban cigars.

Lastly, exploring native homegrown and hand-rolled varieties made from the rich Puerto Rican soil might just be the unexpected delight for those keen on discovering new flavors outside of the famed but banned Cubans.

can you buy cuban cigars in puerto rico
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Understanding the Cuban Cigar Ban in Puerto Rico

Now that I think about it, Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico have become something of an enticing yet elusive myth.

The question on everyone’s lips seems to be, “Can you buy Cuban cigars in puerto rico?” Well, here’s the truth – not legally. Being a US territory, Puerto Rico upholds the same laws and any Cuban cigars sold there would either be fake or illegally obtained.

The Legal Status of Cuban Cigars in Puerto Rico

In any case, just to make things crystal clear – If you’re pondering over importing Cuban cigars from Puerto Rico back to the mainland US or even so much as purchasing authentic Cuban cigars while visiting this tropical paradise, you’re out of luck.

Keeping up with tobacco laws in Puerto Rico, none of these acts are within legal boundaries.

Exploring High-Quality Alternatives to Cuban Cigars in Puerto Rico

All things considered though and moving away from the legal technicalities for a bit – You can still enjoy an invigorating smoking experience while in Puerto Rican terrain owing to several other high-quality alternatives available.

Cigar shops in puerto rico, such as Habanacuba Cigar, Wines & Spirits, Casa de Montecristo among others are noted for their wide array of premium cigar brands and exclusive blends crafted specifically for cigar enthusiasts like us.

The Unique Appeal of Puerto Rican Tobacco and Flora de Cuba

You see,Puerto Rican tobacco, while different than its famed Cuban counterpart has a unique quality and character all its own that deserves appreciation. A local variant that caught my attention is the Flora de Cuba. It’s an attractive option selling for around $80 for a bundle of 25 which isn’t too shabby.

By the way, many sellers also carry Cuban-seed tobacco which can craft a similar experience to smoking an authentic Cuban cigar.

How to Avoid Buying Counterfeit or Low-Quality Cigars in Puerto Rico

In any case, while on your quest where to buy Cuban cigars, keep your eyes peeled. Souvenir shops especially might be carrying low-quality items masquerading as authentic premiums.

It’s crucial to ensure the authenticity and quality of your purchased goods from reliable sources. Be confident in your purchases – your pleasurable smoking experience depends on it!

Enjoying Cuban Cigars Abroad: A Silver Lining for American Citizens

All things considered, if you’re still yearning for those premium Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico, fret not! Thanks to leniencies introduced by Obama’s administration, Americans can now enjoy smoking their favorite Cuban cigars while traveling abroad!

Sadly though, President Trump did decide to rain on this parade by reinstating strict regulations against Cuba thereby disallowing any Cuban alcohol or tobacco products from being brought back into the country.

The Silver Lining – Smoking Genuine Cubans Abroad

Therefore it’s possible for us U.S citizens to purchase and smoke genuine Cuban cigars abroad but we cannot bring those items back into American territory legally – this includes Puerto Rico since it is considered U.S soil.

Exploring Native Homegrown and Hand-Rolled Varieties in Puerto Rico

If you’re looking forward to enjoying a good smoke while in Puerto Rico, searching for native homegrown options or hand-rolled varieties might prove more beneficial than searching for elusive Cubans.

So, while we may not be able to legally purchase premium Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico, or bring back any duty-free Cuban cigars from our travels abroad – the vibrant landscape of Puerto Rican tobacco definitely has enough to offer!

can you buy cuban cigars in puerto rico


When considering reasons to move to Puerto Rico , one may be the exciting prospect of purchasing and enjoying authentic Cuban cigars. Cuba’s close proximity has allowed for a unique trading relationship over the years, strengthening the cultural bond between these two Caribbean islands.

Puerto Rico is not only famous for its tobacco products, but also for its cuisine. Authentic Puerto Rican dishes, some of which you can prepare at home with our easy Puerto Rican dinner ideas, often form part of the daily lives and special occasions of the locals. Exploring such culinary delights can surely add an extra touch to your cigar sampling sessions.

Once you have settled down in this vibrant destination, you might want to explore the possibility of travel between islands. Specifically, many wonder if it’s feasible or allowed to visit Communist Cuba from U.S.-linked Puerto Rico. You can learn more about this in our post on whether Puerto Rico can go to Cuba.

Additionally, while residing in Puerto Rico and indulging in Cuban cigars, knowing how similar or different these two places are could provide interesting context. For instance, understanding their shared histories and divergent paths reveals many intriguing factors that have shaped each island’s current state; delve into this by reading about how Puerto Rico is similar (or not) to Cuba.

My Personal Take about Can you buy Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico?

Hello, my friend!

As Steve, your trusty guide to all things Puerto Rican travel, one question I often get asked is; “can you buy Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico”?

Now that I think about it, stepping into a local tobacconist’s store to select from the finest choice of cigars- where their lovely scent serves as an immediate reminder of our Latin heritage – is something incredibly seasoned travelers tend to look forward to. You see, countries like ours have heartbeat pulses of culture and tradition ticking under daily life subtleties.

In any case, yes, you can indulge yourself with luxurious Cuban stogies right here in sunny Puerto Rico! By visiting specially certified cigar stores on the island and making well-informed choices there. Ahh… words of advice? There’s nothing more relaxing than looking out at our beautiful beaches while enjoying a piece of Caribbean craftsmanship.

Trust me; it not only fuels the desire.. but also deepens the hope and inspiration for unforgettable journeys within this vibrant corner of paradise we call home. All ready to snag a ticket? See you soon!

 
 
 
 
 
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Frequently Asked Questions about Can you buy Cuban cigars in Puerto Rico?

Before you go…

Takeaway 1: Authentic Cuban cigars are not legal in Puerto Rico

Well, here’s the deal folks. If you’re in Puerto Rico and dreaming of puffing on a genuine Cuban cigar, I hate to burst your bubble. But it ain’t gonna happen. You see, Puerto Rico may be part of the good ol’ US of A, which means they follow the same laws as the mainland. And guess what? Buying authentic Cuban cigars is a big no-no here. So any Cubans you come across are either fake or illegally obtained.

Takeaway 2: Explore local hand-rolled cigars for a premium experience

But don’t throw in the towel just yet! Puerto Rico has its own smoking hot cigar scene with plenty of options to tickle your taste buds. We’re talking about local shops that offer a wide range of premium cigar brands and exclusive blends for all you cigar aficionados out there. Keep an eye out for places like Habanacuba Cigar, Wines & Spirits, and Casa de Montecristo – they’re known for their top-notch selection of high-quality cigars.

And let me tell you a little secret: Puerto Rican tobacco has its own unique charm that’ll leave you craving for more. Check out Flora de Cuba – it’s a local variant that packs quite a punch and won’t burn a hole in your pocket (around $80 bucks for 25 sticks). You can also find sellers who offer Cuban-seed tobacco which gives you that similar experience to smoking an authentic Cuban.

But hold your horses! Not all sellers have your best interests at heart. Those sneaky souvenir shops might try to sell you low-quality stuff while pretending it’s gold. So be smart and make sure to buy from reliable sources that guarantee authenticity and quality – trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Takeaway 3: Americans can’t bring Cuban cigars back into the US

Now listen up, my fellow Americans. I’ve got some news that might burst your bubble again. While you’re gallivanting across the globe, enjoying every puff of those precious Cuban cigars, don’t get too attached. Because when you come back to the good ol’ United States, Uncle Sam won’t let you bring any Cuban alcohol or tobacco products with you. Yeah, I know it sucks! President

If you’re planning your next trip, here are some significant reasons to vacation in Puerto Rico that will surely convince you.

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Steve Dez

Also known as Richport, is a Puerto Rican creator and writer. He grew up in the island and always had a passion for writing, he wrote his first play at the age of 12 and has been creating content ever since. He's now a well-known blogger and creative who writes posts, songs and poetry that showcase his love for his roots, blending traditional stories with modern themes always with some adobo and boricua flavors in the mix.