Havana is the largest city, province, major port, and leading commercial center of Cuba. The city has a population of 2.1 million inhabitants. It spans 781.58 km2 – making it the largest city by area, the most populous city, and the fourth largest metropolitan area in the Caribbean region.
Warnings & Dangers in Havana
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Usually, there are no dangers for tourists in Havana, especially if they do not walk in non-tourist places and do not attract attention to themselves with cash and jewelry. Double-check everything when shopping for souvenirs and merchandise from local stores.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is generally safe. However, you should beware of pickpockets. Use only licensed taxis for transportation. The unlicensed ones can be dangerous, and the fare will be overpriced.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Petty pickpocketing is not uncommon in Havana. Especially in tourist spots, train stations, and public transport. Keep a close eye on your belongings and your surroundings.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Havana has a hurricane season that runs from June to November. The city is prone to earthquakes that can trigger tsunami waves. If you are the victim of a natural disaster, you should follow the advice of the authorities.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Havana. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Havana. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
A lot of scams are directed against tourists and hoping to cash in on them. Therefore, be especially careful when shopping for souvenirs or taking a taxi. Use only licensed taxi services.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Havana. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Havana for Tourists?
The crime rate in Havana is quite low.
Because of this, traveling to this city is considered quite safe.
The main problems in the city are related to corruption and petty theft.
The city welcomes tourism, so the police try to monitor and protect tourist sites from accidents.
Therefore, you do not need to be afraid of attacks during the daytime.
Jail sentences for tourist crimes are extremely harsh, well known to residents, adding an extra layer of deterrence.
Violent crime is rare.
Walking around Havana at night is relatively safe compared to other Latin American cities, although pickpocketing and theft are common, so don’t leave your things unattended.
Always keep an eye on your pockets and your surroundings.
Beware of counterfeit tourist souvenirs like cigars.
There are many scams of this kind in the Varadero area.
Also, be careful with those who offer to take a photo of you.
Then they can ask for a significant tip for the service.
The city is quite safe during the day, but do not forget to be more careful at night and do not walk in remote parts of the city.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Havana?
Visitors to Cuba must obtain a visa before travel or a tourist card from one of the Cuban diplomatic missions, travel agencies, or authorized airlines unless they come from one visa-exempt country. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Havana?
In Cuba, until 1 January 2021, there are two currencies, both called peso. One is the “Cuban peso,” and the other is the Cuban convertible peso (often called “dollar” in the spoken language). Both currencies are subdivided into 100 centavos.
How's the Weather like in Havana?
In Havana, the summers are hot, oppressive, and overcast, and the winters are short, comfortable, humid, windy, and mostly clear. The rainy season starts in May and lasts up to October.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Havana?
In Havana, Jose Marti International Airport, with three separate terminals, is the largest and busiest airport in Cuba, used for all other international flights.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Havana?
In its 16th-century Old Havana core, Spanish colonial architecture includes the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a fort and maritime museum. The National Capitol Building is an iconic 1920s landmark. In Old Havana is the baroque Catedral de San Cristóbal and Plaza Vieja, whose buildings reflect the city’s vibrant architectural mix.
Is the Water in Havana Safe to Drink?
Tap water in Havana is generally safe for hygiene in hotels, though it is advisable to drink only bottled water anytime traveling to an international destination.
Is Uber Safe in Havana?
There is no Uber taxi in Havana. You can use any other local taxi services.
