Travel warning for Cuba: Crime and crisis overshadow vacation!

Travel warning for Cuba: Crime and crisis overshadow vacation!

Havanna, Kuba - The Federal Foreign Office has updated the travel instruction for Cuba, which indicates a tightening situation in the country. The reasons for these changes are increasing crime and the tense political situation in Cuba. In the first quarter of 2025, the number of foreign visitors fell by almost 30 % compared to the previous year, which is due, among other things, to political tensions and a profound economic crisis. Care crises, frequented power failures as well as an acute lack of food and medication burden the Cuban population and make the country unattractive for travelers.

In particular, crime has increased in tourist areas, such as in Havana and on the beaches. The Federal Foreign Office recommends that tourists safely stow valuables and be careful in busy areas. Sole travelers should not be traveling at dusk or darkness and avoid taxi rides. In the event of an attack, it is advised not to resist and keep important documents and money.

recommendations for travelers

The recommendations of the external office are clear: travelers should never leave bags and valuables unattended and do not carry unnecessary valuables. Special caution is required in larger crowds, and valuable objects should be transported in hand luggage. In addition, every theft should be reported immediately. Particular caution is also required for tire breakdowns and at petrol stations, where no hitchhiking should be taken.

The political situation in Cuba is still tense. The authoritarian leadership limits freedom of expression and press and suppresses the political opposition. Travel recommendations state that travelers should not speak publicly about the government and avoid demonstrations. Political discussions have to be avoided, especially those that affect Cuba and the USA. This also includes not taking photos of human accumulations or uniformed people.

Cuba experiences frequent power outages, and the country's infrastructure is severely affected. Power failures intensified in 2025, with the recently the electricity succeeded nationwide for two days. These problems are due to a dilapidated power grid, lack of fuel and lack of investments. Travelers should find out more about the latest news and weather reports and take personal security measures. Taking power banks, flashlights and candles is recommended.

health and security

In terms of health, some vaccinations, such as against hepatitis A and Dengue fever, are recommended when traveling to Cuba. Medical care is not sufficient to European standards. The Zika virus and dengue fever are further risks, which is why protection against mosquito bites is important. Travelers should always be informed about current health and security information and entry requirements and take out international travel health insurance.

The Federal Foreign Office also warns that cash is the most important means of payment in Cuba. As a rule, US credit cards do not work, and the availability of cash on machines is not always guaranteed. It is advisable for travelers to carry enough cash and to find out about possible fees. Registration in the crisis priority list "Elefand" of the Federal Foreign Office is also recommended. This measure enables better support in the event of a crisis.

The hurricane season in Cuba, which lasts from June to November, brings with it further difficulties in addition to the political and economic challenges. Travelers should therefore regularly follow weather reports and take storm warnings seriously.

The overall location in Cuba is characterized by numerous factors that represent considerable challenges for both the local population and travelers. For detailed information on security and travel instructions in Cuba, travelers can use the updated information of the external office to Auscertiges-amt.de and frekl.de view.