Is Cuba Safe for Travellers? Crime, Shortages and Practical Precautions

Last verified: July 24, 2026.

Cuba is not a destination where every traveller will experience a security problem, but current conditions require more preparation than a normal resort holiday. Shortages of fuel, electricity, food, water and medicine can affect transportation, hotel services and access to assistance. The Government of Canada currently advises avoiding non-essential travel to Cuba.

Understand the current advisory

An official travel advisory is not a prediction that every trip will go badly. It is a warning that services and conditions may deteriorate quickly and that travellers should reconsider whether their trip is necessary. Check the advisory again immediately before departure because airline service, fuel availability and consular capacity can change.

Crime and personal belongings

Opportunistic theft, pickpocketing, bag-snatching, luggage theft and overcharging can occur. Keep your passport, cash and cards secure. Do not display expensive jewellery, large amounts of money or other signs of wealth.

• Do not place valuables in checked luggage.
• Use the hotel safe when it is reliable and keep a separate copy of important documents.
• Avoid isolated areas and walking alone at night.
• Use registered taxis or transportation arranged through a reputable provider.
• Confirm prices before accepting a taxi, tour, drink or service.

Power outages and shortages

Long and unpredictable power cuts can affect lighting, air conditioning, refrigeration, water pumps, Internet access, card terminals and medical equipment. Large resorts may use generators, but fuel shortages can limit how long backup systems operate.

Carry a charged power bank, flashlight, essential medication, safe drinking water when available, non-perishable snacks and offline copies of reservations, insurance and travel documents.

Transportation risks

Fuel shortages can disrupt transfers, taxis, buses and excursions with little notice. Confirm your airport transfer before departure and again before the return flight. Allow extra time and keep enough cash for an alternative registered taxi if your original arrangement fails.

Demonstrations and local laws

Avoid demonstrations, political gatherings and large crowds. Follow local authorities and do not photograph police, military installations or sensitive infrastructure. Internet access may be restricted during periods of political tension.

Emergency preparation

• Police: 106
• Medical assistance: 104
• Firefighters: 105

Save your insurer’s emergency number and your country’s consular contact information offline. Travel insurance should cover medical care, interruption and evacuation according to your personal needs.

Practical safety checklist

• Check the official travel advisory before paying and before departure.
• Register with your government’s traveller registration service when available.
• Carry more than one payment method and divide cash between secure locations.
• Keep phones and power banks charged whenever electricity is available.
• Download offline maps and save hotel, airline and transfer details.
• Tell someone your itinerary when leaving the resort.
• Avoid excessive alcohol when travelling alone or handling money.

Related English guides

• Cuba power outages: traveller preparation
• Cuba currency guide
• Transportation in Cuba
• Cuba packing list
• Healthcare and emergency preparation
• Emergency help in Cuba for Canadian travellers

Official sources

• Government of Canada travel advice for Cuba
• United Kingdom travel advice: safety and security in Cuba
• United States travel advisory for Cuba