According to the world tourism body, FITUR, Cuba is considered the safest place to visit.
When we think of Cuba, we imagine dancing to her Salsa music, smoking her Cuban cigars, and drinking her famous Havana Club Rum.
The Republic of Cuba has an exciting colonial history, and the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the late 1400s is a reminder of the Spanish influence seen in colonial architecture.
The government of Cuba does not release official crime statistics.
However, reports of crimes are on the rise with below-average police intervention and low incidences of gun use.
The murder rate is far below the average of other Latin countries.
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10 Safest Cities in Cuba
1. Havana
It is the largest city in Cuba, with a population of 2.1 million.
Havana is a very safe city.
Havana has been rated 46 on the Safety Index because tourism is the linchpin of Cuba’s economy.
The safety of tourists in Havana is of the utmost importance, and penalties are harsh for an offense against a tourist.
As one would expect in any city, one should take care of one’s personal belongings.
The economy of Havana is pretty diverse; on average, the highest income is $20 per month.
The cost of living for an average family of four is estimated to be in the region of $2,222, excluding rent.
2. Santiago De Cuba
Cuba’s second-largest city has a population of about 431,272.
Santiago de Cuba is relatively safe, although the crime levels have been increasing as there has been a moderate increase in home break-ins.
In contrast, the incidence of violent crime is low.
Santiago is considered to be much safer than a similar-sized American city.
Most tourists visiting Santiago de Cuba fall victim to the pettier types of crime, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching.
Also, begging can be a bit of a nuisance in parks and tourist areas in Santiago de Cuba, but these areas are safe.
Policing is effective in the city.
Tourists are advised not to show wealth as this attracts criminal elements.
Also, when driving, be on the lookout for roaming livestock on the road.
Santiago De Cuba has a rich cultural life because it is the home of many world-famous Cuban musicians and the birthplace of Salsa.
3. Camagüey
The city has a population of over 311,396 inhabitants and is considered the third largest city in Cuba.
There are hardly any violent crimes, but the city does have its fair share of crimes, mostly committed against tourists.
The majority of these crimes are petty offenses such as pickpocketing.
The city of Camagüey is relatively safe, which can be attributed to the strong presence of the police.
The violent crime incident rate is very low.
The average worker earns 21,500 CUP per month, but salaries vary according to career.
The cost of living in Camagüey is very close to the world’s average cost of living, which is about $1,215 and is ranked in the top 80% of the best places to live in the world and is ranked as the 14th best city to live in Cuba.
4. Holguin
This is the fourth largest city and has a population of about 326,740.
Holguin is also a reasonably safe city, and the crime rate in Holguin is pretty low.
Tourism is very important to the economy.
Visible policing makes Holguin the fourth safest city in Cuba.
Holguin offers something unique, especially for tourists who would love to experience a vibrant culture.
It is the perfect destination for lovers of music and merry-making.
The cost of living in Holguin is pretty reasonable.
Violent crimes committed in Holguin are hardly ever heard of.
There are seldom violent crimes committed against tourists.
Most of the crimes are non-confrontational and mainly involve prostitution and solicitation.
The most frequently reported things in Hologuin’s tourist areas are hustling, theft, and counterfeit cigars.
5. Guantánamo
This city has a reasonably sized population of 244,603 and is the seventh largest city in Cuba, situated in southeast Cuba.
The city is supported by sugar, cane, and cotton wool. Guantánamo is known to be a very safe city.
This is due to the Guantánamo Bay detention camp being located in Guantánamo, a United States military prison.
High-security requirements for this location make this city very safe, with hardly any crime and zero tolerance for breaking the law.
The median income of Guantánamo Bay and the cost of living, according to Livingcost.org, is $1,261.
The high cost of living makes it a city in the top 35% of the most expensive cities in the world.
The median take-home wage after tax is $576, which can cover living expenses for 0.5 months.
6. Santa Clara
The capital city of the Cuban province of Villa Clara is the fifth-most populated city, with nearly 250,000.
It was also founded by two prominent families living in the area.
Santa Clara University is recognized as one of the top universities in the country.
Violent crime in Santa Clara is hardly ever heard of. This makes it one of the safest places in the world to visit.
There is no reason to worry about your safety.
The crime rate is extremely low.
The median income of the city and the cost of living in Santa Clara is very similar to the world’s average living expenses.
The crime rate has dropped drastically over the years.
Walking at any time of the day and night is safe.
The chances of being attacked or robbed are very slim.
Santa Clara is a very tolerant city.
Tourists from all over the world feel very safe when visiting Santa Clara.
7. Las Tunas
Las Tunas is the 8th largest city in Cuba and is home to 187,438 inhabitants.
Locals know it as the ‘’City of Sculpture’’ because of the art installations dotted over the city.
Finding a place to stay is not a problem as there are two international hotels.
Las Tunas is unique and captures the pure essence of Cuban life; this is an ideal place for holidaymakers and is well known for its beautiful beaches.
Violent crime in Las Tuna is also not common and is one of the safest cities for tourists.
The median income of Las Tunas is in the top 33% of the most expensive cities in the world.
Monthly living costs are roughly $1,322.
The low crime rate makes Las Tuna a very safe place for tourists.
8. Bayamo
Bayamo is the 6th largest city, one of the biggest in Cuba, and has a population of 222,118 residents.
Bayamo is unique because it is the oldest colonial city in Cuba and is where Cuba gained its independence.
Violent crime in Bayamo is low and ranks 27 out of a total of 140 countries, measures 33.24 out of 100, and scores 74.56 out of 100.
Higher numbers are better; residents reported feeling very safe in Bayamo.
The cost of living in Bayamo is average, and the take-home income after tax is $569, enough to live on for 0.5 months.
9. Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos is located about 250 kilometers from Havana and has a population of around 150,000 residents.
The city is Cuba’s leading industrial hub.
The city’s name translates to ‘’one hundred fires.’’
The overall crime rate in terms of violent crime is pretty low.
The only type of crime to be wary of is being ambushed or pickpocketed.
LivingCost.org states that the average income of $1,136 is sufficient to get by and is close to the average global cost.
It is in the top 78% of the best places to live in the world.
10. Pinar del Río
Pinar del Rio is the 10th largest city and has a population of 139,336.
Pinar del Rio gets its name from the pine trees.
Violent crime in Pinar del Río is very low and makes it a safe city to visit.
The average take-home salary after tax is $572 and is adequate to live on.
Five Safety Tips for Traveling to Cuba
The United Kingdom Government suggests a few things to keep an eye out for:
- Luggage theft: To reduce theft from luggage handling when arriving and departing, remove all valuables, lock suitcases, and have them shrink-wrapped before checking in.
- Car-related crimes and mugging: Be vigilant when traveling at night, as car-related crime is prevalent at night.
- Car tires: If you are on a remote road and your tires have a puncture, avoid stopping, use common sense, and carry-on driving to the nearest town.
- Be wary of hitchhikers: Avoid stopping for hitchhikers as they are known to assault.
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash: Carry only the cash you need.
Cuba Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Cuba Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to apply for a visa before entering The Republic of Cuba?
Tourists visiting Cuba require a tourist visa valid for 30 days and can be extended twice in Cuba.
When is the best time of year to travel?
November through May are the best times to travel.
Is Cuba a safe holiday destination?
The International Tourism Fair in Spain rated Cuba as the ‘’safest country in the world’’ in 2018.
Violent crime is rare.
Most crimes committed are petty.
The only danger is the hazardous condition of the pavements and roads, and due care is required when driving or walking.
These cities set a great example for the rest of the world, showcasing the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments for travelers. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Safety is a collective effort, and it’s heartening to see these cities making consistent efforts to maintain and enhance the well-being of their residents and visitors.