Cuba for Solo Travellers: Tips, Safety, Where to Stay & Meet People

The largest Caribbean Island is famous for many things; from its sugar-white beaches to its local rum and cigars, pulsating music, authentic cuisine and more. It’s no wonder so many people flock to Cuba for a taste of the local culture.

And while it’s a fantastic place to base your family summer holiday (hello all-inclusive beach hotel in Varadero), it’s also a popular destination to explore solo. A country enveloped in so many layers, there’s so much about Cuba that wanderlusts are eager to unwrap – from its world-famous capital of Havana that buzzes with nightlife to the rural countryside of Viñales Valley, peppered with unique mogote limestone hills. It really is as diverse as they come.

As friendly as the locals are – famously so, in fact – Cuba isn’t the type of country you should turn up to on a whim. It’s important to do your research and have a forward plan in place, particularly if you’re visiting solo. And since we’re experts in this area (if we do say so ourselves), we’re on hand to help you do just that.

From safety precautions and practical tips to memorable experiences and places to stay – we’ve covered everything you need to know in our extensive guide below. All that’s left for you to do is pack your suitcase and book that all-important flight – via Love Cuba, of course.

Safety & Practical Tips

Navigating Cuba as a solo traveller can be an enriching experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. If nothing else, it’s wise to organise things like transport, money and communication prior to your travels, saving you from any potential hiccups – and unnecessary stress – along the way

Transport

For transport, stick to official taxis – these are the yellow “Cuban Taxi” cabs – or pre-booked transfers where possible, and avoid unlicensed drivers.

Money

When it comes to money, remember that Cuba is largely a cash-based society, so bring enough U.S dollars, euros, or Canadian dollars to exchange at official currency exchanges. Please note, that credit cards linked to U.S. banks often won’t work, and cash machines are few and far between, and most of the time they are empty.

Communication

Staying connected can also be a challenge; Wi-Fi is available in designated hotspots or hotels, but don’t expect constant coverage – particularly in the more rural areas. Before you head out the door, consider downloading offline maps and translation apps to ensure you can get from A to B smoothly.

General Safety

Cuba is a very safe country with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. The people are genuine and welcome, however, you should always practice common sense. Valuables should not be left unattended; we do not recommend wearing expensive jewellery or accepting invitations to strangers’ homes. In cities, it’s not uncommon to be approached by people asking for cigarettes, offering their services as a guide, or offering to change up money for you. While you do not need to feel threatened, it’s best not to engage, as they can be quite persistent. We recommend you politely say “No thank you” and walk on.

Best Areas to Base Yourself

There are so many exceptional regions across Cuba, each with its own unique charm. This makes it hard to pinpoint where to start. Whether you’re eager to find a solid base to explore from, or you fancy hopping between them all, some of our favourite areas to stay are listed below.

It’s impossible to feel alone in the famous city of Havana. The vibrant capital is a great starting point or general base for independent travellers as it offers an effortless blend of culture and city life – plus it has bundles of variety. Bursting with history, music and culture – awe-inspiring architecture, thriving art, lively street life and entertainment can be found at every corner – it’s the perfect spot for soaking up Cuba’s energy.

Trinidad – Best for a slower pace

If you’re interested in exploring Cuba’s calmer side, Trinidad enchants with its beautifully preserved cobbled streets and colonial architecture. It’s easy to meet like-minded travellers in this region thanks to its lively squares, where the sound of live music spills from local bars. Due to its location close to neighbouring Valle de los Ingenious and Playa Ancón, visitors staying here will have opportunities for exciting day trips packed with natural beauty.

Viñales – Best for outdoor enthusiasts

If you consider yourself a lover of the Great Outdoors, you’ll no doubt be drawn to Viñales Valley. Surrounded by lush tobacco farms and striking limestone mogotes, this valley is ideal for hiking, cycling and even horse riding. Staying in a casa particular here is ideal for those seeking an authentic experience in Cuba, offering a tranquil space to recharge between travels.

Varadero

If your idea of bliss involves swathes of white sand and turquoise waters, Varadero is the place to drop your suitcase. Delivering some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches, this tourist destination is popular with families (for obvious reasons), but offers a balanced mix of culture, adventure and relaxation for solo travellers, too.

From salsa lessons to casa stays and local tours, there’s so much to unpack when you visit this corner of the Caribbean. The saying “do as the locals do” is what immediately springs to mind when you visit a destination so friendly, welcoming, and as rich with local culture as Cuba. The live music, delicious cuisine, pulsating dancing and fascinating history simply awaits exploration – and the community holds it all together like glue.

Stay in a Casa Particular

One of the most wholesome ways to explore Cuba is by staying in a Casa Particular, translating to “private house”. These accommodations consist of a rented room or home stay with a local family and operate as a bed and breakfast – and they’re the best way to soak up the local culture. Not only will you get a unique insight into everyday Cuban life, but these are typically cheaper than hotel stays – making it a fantastic choice for solo travellers on a budget.

Attend a Festival

You won’t need to worry about visiting during a particular time of year, since Cuba’s social calendar is full to the brim with vibrant festivals and events. From the lively Carnival in Santiago de Cuba to the prestigious International Ballet Festival of Havana and culturally rich Romerías de Mayo in Holguín – there’s (quite literally) something to celebrate all-year-round.

Try Salsa Dancing

Whether it’s on the cobbles listening to a street performer or in a dedicated club, salsa dancing must be on the agenda during your time in Cuba. This famous Cuban pastime is pretty infectious, making it impossible not to move your feet once the music plays. Don’t worry, you don’t have to nail the technical foot-work or take lessons (unless you want to, of course) – simply feel the rhythm and go with it! One of the most popular spots to let your hair down is Club 1830 in Vedado, at the end of Havana’s Malecon.

Eat

Whether you take up a cooking class, get stuck into aromatic street food, or try Grandma’s speciality dish at the local restaurant – foodies will feel as though they’ve died and gone to hearty heaven. Sumptuous stews, famous Cubanos, oozy croquetas and tender Lechón dishes – these are just a few of the must-try foods on the menu in Cuba. If you want the whole experience, be sure to sample a few of these local delights – you won’t be disappointed!

Solo Itineraries

With so much to experience, there’s no doubt you’ll be eager to board the next flight out to this Caribbean paradise. And, luckily for you, at Love Cuba, we waive the single supplement for six months of the year – making our deals hard to turn down.

It can be overwhelming researching flights, hotels, locations and excursions – especially in a destination you haven’t visited before. That’s why our dedicated itineraries are on hand to help plan your entire trip, from the moment you touch down in Cuba until it’s time to head home…

City Stay

Nestled in the heart of Havana’s historic Old Town, Hotel Sevilla Habana by Meli á boasts a desirable location close to the city’s famous attractions – including La Bodeguita del Medio and Plaza Vieja. On top of this, first-class facilities include a garden, outdoor pool, fitness center, spa, wellness centre and restaurant. For evening aperitifs with a view, head to the roof terrace for views over the city.

The capital is a great spot for solo travellers to visit and stay, particularly if you’re an extrovert. With a pulsating atmosphere, rich history and bundles of things to see and do, solo explorers will be in their element.

Beach Retreat

If you prefer sand to sights, Sol Varadero Beach is one of Varadero’s beachfront resorts, designed for adults aged 16 and above. The property is all-inclusive and has a private ambience, making it the perfect hideout for those seeking comfort and style by the sea. Featuring a choice of restaurants and bars, plus a freshwater swimming pool, wellness and sports areas – there’s ample entertainment for guests.

Best of Both

If you’re the type of person who likes to hop from location to location (that’s solo travelling 101, isn’t it?), then Love Cuba’s Escorted Tours were made for you. Join a fully escorted group tour – departures, transfers, hotels and various meals included – where you’ll tick off some of the most famous landmarks in key locations across Cuba.

Explore fast-paced city life in Havana, admire rolling countryside in Viñales Valley, marvel over the well-preserved colonial architecture in Trinidad and relax on Varadero’s pearly-white beaches.

All of this and so much more available when you book our exclusive tours.

Conclusion

Now you’re clued up on what to pack, where to visit, and the best places to stay, we hope you consider this tropical island for your epic solo excursion.

Cuba is not only one of the safest destinations in the world, but with Love Cuba’s exclusive local reps peppered across the island, you’ll always have expert support close at hand. From the moment you arrive to the day you leave, you can relax knowing that your holiday is in safe, knowledgeable hands – leaving you free to focus on making unforgettable memories.