Is Havana Safe for Women?

Havana, like any other place, has its good and bad neighborhoods. In some places you can walk confidently and in others you should be extra careful. At night, I wouldn’t walk alone or carry my phone carelessly at all times, because if opportunity presents someone could take advantage of this. I could walk alone at night if I had to but I would always try to have someone with me or avoid long distances if possible. Kidnap or murder are definitely not common it’s mostly robbery what worries me the most but with due precaution you can feel at ease about it. In this case I’m always happy to provide tips. Cuba has the nasty reputation of the place where women are “easy” to get due to historical reasons so it’s common to see people who are overly friendly to women but Cuban women have made ourselves be respected so even if you were to find a person who tries to harass you, you would be surrounded by people who would also not let that stand. If you are in trouble in Cuba, you can be sure that someone near you will help you or guide you in the right direction. Just need to make sure that the person you are choosing to trust is actually being helpful and not trying to take advantage of you. Because let’s be honest, in every corner of the world there’s one of those.

Havana all in all is a safe city, compared to other LATAM cities. It used to be very safe, but this past few years it has gotten a bit dangerous. I wouldn't recommend walking alone at night or talking to strangers everywhere; most of them end up asking for money.

Havana is a dangerous city when you are a woman alone, especially at night. There are multiple cases of rape, murder, and kidnapping. The victims are usually women and children. However, this usually doesn't happen to tourists (I've never heard of a tourist being raped or murdered here), you might just be robbed. The security system is more effective for tourists than for locals, and you will have more protection than I, a local. In recent years, Havana has gone through many situations (political problems) that have left an impact on the people.

The violence rate in the country is generally low compared to other countries worldwide. However, there are the typical pickpockets who steal money, wallets, and glasses in crowded and distracting places, so always keep your backpack in front, not on your back. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less-traveled areas. If you plan to go out at night, it’s best to have direct transportation to your accommodation. Never tell strangers where you’re staying, don’t walk around with your phone in hand or anything valuable, as you could be robbed. Never accept drinks from strangers. Other than that, everything is fine.

Solo travel

Cuba was an amazing adventure. I entered homes as a guest and left as family. I saw beauty and hardship. I was overwhelmed by warmth and kindness. My new & temporary family and neighbors watched out for me, we shared stories and laughs. I ate amazing food. I experienced delight. I couldn’t see it all in one week, so I will definitely return. ❤️ I stayed in a Casa Particulare with a family and loved this experience. My Spanish was very limited and my host helped me with getting taxis and, in general, had the whole neighborhood watching out for me. I felt very safe the entire time traveling solo. The Cuban people are warm, friendly, and welcoming.