Cuban Perfumes by Suchel Camacho: Havana's Aromatic Legacy

When discussing Cuban products, rum, coffee, and cigars usually steal the spotlight. But there’s a lesser-known aromatic treasure that has captivated noses for generations: the Cuban perfumes of Suchel Camacho, the island’s most emblematic fragrance house.

The History of Cuban Perfumery

Cuba’s perfume tradition runs deep. Since the late 19th century, houses like Crusellas, Gravi, and Sabatés established Havana as a Caribbean center for fragrance creation. The tropical climate, with its abundance of flowers and aromatic plants, provided exceptional raw materials.

The Old Havana Perfume Museum, known as “Habana 1791,” preserves this history and continues crafting artisanal fragrances using traditional methods.

Suchel Camacho: Cuba’s Perfumery Giant

Suchel Camacho S.A. is today the leading company in perfumery, cosmetics, and personal care in Cuba. Their catalog includes over 80 fragrances ranging from fresh colognes to sophisticated eau de parfums.

Iconic Fragrances

Coral Negro - Arguably the most internationally recognized Cuban perfume. This feminine fragrance combines:

• Top notes: Citrus and galbanum
• Heart: Rose and tropical jasmine
• Base: Sandalwood, amber, musk, and patchouli

Mariposa - Inspired by Hedychium coronarium, Cuba’s national flower. A white floral fragrance evoking Havana’s gardens.

Vegueros - For men, paying tribute to Cuba’s tobacco tradition with woody and spicy notes.

Alicia - Created in collaboration with the Cuban National Ballet, an elegant and sophisticated fragrance.

Camerata - Another perfume inspired by the world of Cuban classical dance.

Fragrances That Tell Stories

What sets Suchel Camacho perfumes apart is their connection to Cuban culture:

• Montecristo - Inspired by the legendary cigar brand
• D’Habana - An olfactory tribute to the capital
• Gato Negro - Evoking mystery and the tropical night

Where to Find Cuban Perfumes

Though historically difficult to obtain outside the island, several options now exist:

1. Suchel Forever - Miami-based store specializing in original Cuban perfumes and inspirations
2. Amazon - Limited selection of Suchel Camacho fragrances
3. MallHabana - For direct shipments to Cuba

Cuban Colognes: Liquid Nostalgia

Beyond perfumes, Cuban colognes hold a special place in collective memory. Fragrances like Violetas evoke childhood memories for generations of Cubans, while Agua de Florida colognes remain popular in Santería rituals.

The New Generation

Suchel Camacho continues innovating with modern lines:

• Blue Moon - Fresh contemporary fragrances
• Elements - Sophisticated men’s collection
• Romeo y Julieta - Romantic duo for couples

They’ve also expanded into makeup with Suchel Colors, offering eyeliners and lipsticks at accessible prices.

One Scent, A Thousand Memories

For the Cuban diaspora, these perfumes represent more than fragrances: they’re memory capsules. The scent of Coral Negro can instantly transport you to a quinceañera in Havana, or Violetas to afternoons with grandma on the porch.

Cuban perfumes from Suchel Camacho are part of Cuba’s sensory heritage—small bottles containing the essence of an island that always finds ways to express its elegance, even in difficult times.

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Have you tried any Cuban perfume? Tell us your favorite in the comments.