5 tips for solo female travellers in Cuba

Cuba is a thrilling and captivating destination for solo female travelers, but it's wise to take certain precautions. Here's how to stay safe and make the most of your adventure

1: Dress appropriately for the Cuban climate

Opt for breathable clothing such as maxi dresses, midi skirts, shirts, vest tops, and long shorts made from cotton, tencel, or linen for optimal comfort. You can dress up more for evenings out, but otherwise, embrace the casual style like the locals in Cuba.

With high humidity, it's wise to carry a fan, hat, and sunglasses. Trainers and comfortable sandals are ideal for navigating the uneven streets, and a kaftan or cardigan is useful for cooler evenings. During the monsoon season (May-October) and beyond, it's essential to have an umbrella and raincoat handy, as rain showers can be sudden and heavy.

2: Be ready to stand out

All women, whether they are Cuban female travelers or visitors, encounter catcalling and wolf-whistles, referred to as piropos, from men. This is common and typically non-threatening, occurring regardless of whether you're wearing shorts (which are generally acceptable in most places) or a full-length dress.

You can either ignore the comments or respond in Spanish with ‘no me moleste’ (pronounced ‘no mee mol-ES-tay’), meaning ‘don’t bother me’. Try not to take offense; these catcalls are an annoying consequence of machismo culture, but they are not a cause for concern.

3: Disregard recommendations from jineteros

Solo Female Travel is not yet widespread in Cuba, and it's even less common for women to travel alone. As a result, you'll stand out more to the tourist touts, jineteros or jineteras, who are eager to get their hands on the sought-after CUC (tourist currency) cash. They might offer to guide you around or take you to their favorite bar, expecting a significant fee in return. These individuals are often connected to the black market. It's best to simply walk away and avoid engaging with them.

Instead, consider taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour in Havana, Vinales, or Trinidad. This option is much cheaper than the typical classic car tour, and it allows you to learn how to get around without being bothered. Alternatively, join a walking tour, where you might meet other solo travelers with similar interests. If you find yourself lost, head to a café or shop to check your map. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to feel more independent, and carry a phrase book as a backup.

4: Remember to pack toiletries and cosmetics

Be sure to bring tampons, sanitary towels, shampoo, and toilet paper with you, as these items are hard to find here. Consider leaving any unused toiletries at your accommodation, as local women will appreciate them.

Cuban women take pride in their grooming routines and often have impeccable hair and makeup. However, they are accustomed to waiting in line for products, so visiting one of the country’s gradually emerging beauty salons can be time-consuming. If you desire a beauty treat in Havana, head to Habana 1791 and indulge in traditional handmade Cuban perfume, just as women from all over the country do.

5: Consider personal safety

Be cautious with your handbag: if for no other reason, to avoid wasting holiday time dealing with Cuban police bureaucracy. When you're out, carry only the necessary amount of money, preferably in a travel wallet, and use a secure, zipped bag with a strong strap.

While Cuba is generally safe, petty theft is common in places like the Malecón (Havana’s picturesque seaside promenade) and the resort town of Varadero. After a long day of sightseeing, consider taking a coco taxi, which resembles a tuk-tuk and is safer than walking alone at night in these popular tourist spots—especially if you've enjoyed a few daiquiris and are not with a group. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, and your safety is far more important than saving a few CUCs.

Conclusion : Safety is a primary concern for solo female travelers, and Cuba is considered one of the safest countries in the Caribbean. Violent crime is rare, and Cuban culture places a strong emphasis on hospitality and respect for women. However, travelers should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and take precautions against petty theft. Understanding how to handle catcalling, scams, and cultural nuances will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.