How to Make Calls in Cuba (2025–2026): A Practical Connectivity Guide for Travelers
Staying connected in Cuba can be a challenge if you arrive unprepared.
Unlike most countries, Cuba's telecommunications system is still controlled by a single state provider. Internet access exists, but it can be slow, expensive, and sometimes unreliable. Because of this, travelers visiting Cuba in 2025 or 2026 should plan their communication setup before they arrive.
The good news is that connectivity has improved significantly over the past decade. Mobile internet, Wi-Fi hotspots, and tourist SIM cards now make it possible to stay connected across most major cities and tourist areas.
This guide explains the best ways to make calls and use the internet while traveling in Cuba.
Cuba's Mobile Network Basics
All telecommunications services in Cuba are run by a government company called ETECSA, which operates the mobile network Cubacel.
The country currently uses the following network standards:
| Network | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2G GSM | 900 MHz | Mostly used for voice calls and SMS |
| 3G | 900 / 2100 MHz | Common in smaller cities |
| 4G LTE | 1800 MHz (Band 3) | Available in Havana and major tourist areas |
| 5G | Not available | No rollout expected before 2026 |
If you plan to use a local SIM card, your phone must support LTE Band 3 (1800 MHz). Most modern phones do, but older or budget devices may not.
Network speeds can also slow down during busy hours, especially in crowded areas like Havana's Old Town.
Tourist SIM Cards (Cubacel Tur)
The easiest way for most travelers to make calls and access mobile data is with a Cubacel Tur tourist SIM card.
These SIMs are designed specifically for visitors and include both data and limited calling minutes.
Tourist SIM options
| Plan | Price | Data | Calls | SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cubacel Tur Básico | ~$14 | 4GB | 20 min | 20 | 7 days |
| Cubacel Tur Plus | ~$35 | 10GB | 100 min | 100 | 30 days |
The Tur Plus plan is usually the better option because it includes more minutes and data.
Some plans also offer unlimited WhatsApp messaging, which allows travelers to communicate without using their main data allowance.
Where to Buy a SIM Card
Buying a SIM card in Cuba can take time if you wait until arrival.
The easiest method is to pre-order online through official resellers such as:
- SuenaCuba – official reseller with airport pickup service
- RecargasACuba – convenient online ordering and activation
After ordering, you can pick up the SIM card at José Martí International Airport in Havana, where ETECSA has a 24-hour service desk.
Activation Tips:
Once installed, activate the SIM by dialing *666
You can check your remaining data by dialing 222887#
Setting Up Mobile Data
Many travelers think their SIM card is broken because they see signal bars but no internet.
This usually happens because the APN settings are missing.
To fix this, set the APN manually:
- APN name: nauta – enter this in the name field
- APN: nauta – enter this in the APN field
Once configured, mobile data should start working immediately.
International Roaming (Usually Not Worth It)
Roaming with your home carrier works in Cuba, but it is extremely expensive.
Typical roaming costs:
| Carrier | Price |
|---|---|
| AT&T | ~$12 per day |
| Verizon | ~$10–15 per day |
| T-Mobile | ~$35 for a 10-day pass |
Pay-per-use roaming is even worse. Some carriers charge around $2 per MB, which means one gigabyte could cost over $2,000.
Because of this, roaming should only be used as an emergency backup.
eSIM Options for Cuba
A few international providers now offer eSIM data plans for Cuba. For a detailed comparison of eSIM providers, see our guide to Airalo eSIM and Holafly eSIM options.
Popular options include:
- GigSky – reliable global eSIM provider with Cuba coverage
- Roamless – flexible data plans for multiple countries
- CelleSIM – affordable eSIM option for Cuba travelers
These plans allow you to activate data before you arrive.
However, most of them are data-only, meaning you won't get a Cuban phone number.
This can cause problems with certain local services that require SMS verification.
How to Dial Cuban Phone Numbers
Cuba's phone system is straightforward once you know the format.
Calling Cuba from another country
Dial: Exit code + 53 + number
Example: 011-53-7-XXXXXXX (Havana landline)
Mobile numbers always start with 5.
Example: +53-5-XXXXXXX
Calling another country from Cuba
Dial: 119 + country code + number
Example: 119-1-XXX-XXX-XXXX (USA)
Most smartphones also allow you to use the + symbol, which automatically replaces international prefixes.
Public Wi-Fi and Nauta Cards
Even with mobile data available, public Wi-Fi is still common in Cuba.
These networks use Nauta login cards, which provide a username and password.
Typical price: ~25 CUP per hour (about $1 USD)
You can buy these cards at official ETECSA offices.
Avoid buying them from street vendors because they are often sold at higher prices.
Important tip: always log out
If you disconnect from Wi-Fi without logging out, your time will keep running.
To log out, open a browser and go to: 1.1.1.1
Why You Should Install a VPN
One of the biggest surprises for travelers is that many websites don't work in Cuba.
Because of U.S. sanctions, services like:
- PayPal – payment service blocked from Cuban IP addresses
- Venmo – money transfer app unavailable in Cuba
- Banking apps – many US banks block access from Cuba
- Travel websites – some booking platforms restrict Cuban access
may block Cuban IP addresses.
A VPN helps bypass these restrictions.
Reliable options include:
- NordVPN – fast servers and strong encryption for travelers
- ExpressVPN – reliable connection with good Cuba support
- Surfshark – affordable option with unlimited devices
Install your VPN before arriving in Cuba, because some VPN websites cannot be accessed from inside the country.
Useful Apps for Cuba
Internet connections can drop unexpectedly, so it helps to install apps that work offline.
Recommended apps:
- WhatsApp – primary messaging app used throughout Cuba
- Maps.me – offline maps with detailed navigation and points of interest
- La Nave – Cuba's official ride-hailing service for taxis
- Zapya – file sharing app that works without internet connection
- El Toque – displays current informal exchange rates for currency
Emergency Phone Numbers
Save these numbers before traveling.
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 106 |
| Fire | 105 |
| Ambulance | 104 |
The U.S. Embassy in Havana can be reached at: +53 7 839 4100
Final Tips for Staying Connected in Cuba
Connectivity in Cuba requires more preparation than most destinations.
Before your trip:
- Check phone compatibility – make sure your device supports LTE Band 3 (1800 MHz)
- Install a VPN before arrival – download and configure it while still at home
- Download offline maps – get Maps.me and download Cuba maps in advance
- Pre-order your SIM card – arrange airport pickup through official resellers
- Bring sufficient cash – USD or EUR for connectivity expenses and top-ups
With the right preparation, you'll be able to stay connected, make calls, and navigate Cuba without major problems.
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