How safe is Cuba for travelers?

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel

• Since 16 July 2026 the UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the whole of Cuba. Not because of crime - because of the fuel, power and supply situation, protests and flight disruption described below.
• Check what that does to your insurance. Most policies void cover, or the whole policy, for travel against your own government's advice, so read the wording before you book rather than after something happens.
• Other governments word it differently. Canada and the United States have their own levels; look up yours, because it is your insurer's reference point, not the FCDO.

Crime

• Cuba remains safe by Latin American standards, and violent crime against visitors is rare.
• Opportunistic crime is rising because of economic hardship. Muggings happen in Havana; pickpocketing and bag-snatching in crowded places and on public transport.
• Do not hail a taxi or accept a lift from anyone you do not know.
• Do not carry large sums of cash - and note that the card situation means you are carrying more than you would anywhere else. Split it and leave most of it locked up.

The shortages

• Fuel shortages make petrol and diesel difficult to get, which cascades into transport.
• Severe shortages of basic medicines - see the health section. This is the shortage most likely to affect you personally.
• Power cuts are routine.
• Food shortages affect what a restaurant can actually serve, and a menu is often aspirational.
• None of this is dangerous. All of it is friction, and a trip planned with slack in it works and one planned tightly does not.

Politics and photography

• Cubans cannot demonstrate freely, and unapproved political demonstrations may be broken up by the authorities. Do not attend, film, or stand near one.
• Internet access can be blocked during political tension.
• Do not photograph or film military zones or restricted areas. The FCDO's warning is stronger than usual: possession of photographs relating to military areas can be regarded as espionage.

Drugs

• Cuba has strict laws on use, possession and trafficking, and courts give severe sentences. There is no visitor leniency.

Roads

• Do not drive at night - poor lighting, unlit vehicles, cyclists and carts.
• Coco-taxis may be in an unsafe condition.

Hurricanes

• Season runs June to November, with heavy rain, flooding and landslides.
• Cuba's civil defence system is genuinely good and evacuations are organised and taken seriously. Follow instructions.