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Challenges and progress on the road to digital networking
In Cuba, the availability of internet and mobile data has improved in recent years, but remains rather limited compared to many other countries. The development of the internet infrastructure in Cuba has long been hampered by political and economic restrictions. Nevertheless, the government has taken steps in recent years to improve access to digital means of communication.
The Internet in Cuba is mainly made accessible via public WiFi hotspots and Internet cafés. These hotspots are often located in public places, hotels or government facilities and usually require the purchase of access codes or credit cards for use. The speed and reliability of the internet can vary and the cost of access is often high compared to other countries. Mobile data is also available in Cuba, but coverage and speed are not consistent everywhere.
✓ Buying a local SIM card
✓Using publicWiFi hotspots
✓ Preparing for slow connections
✓ Checking roaming charges
✓ Restrictions on internet use
✓ Alternative communication methods
The two state-operated mobile phone providers in Cuba are Cubacel and T-Mobile, which offer various data tariffs. Tourists can buy SIM cards from these providers to use mobile data, but must be aware that roaming costs for foreign SIM cards in Cuba are often very high. With a Cuba SIM card, you can conveniently use mobile internet to stay online while traveling.
However, there are still restrictions regarding Cuba Internet as the government controls or blocks certain websites and content. Despite these challenges, the increasing availability of internet and mobile data shows a positive trend towards a more connected and digital society in Cuba.
Despite the challenges, Cuba's increasing digitalization has had a positive impact on the population by facilitating access to information, education and communication. Social media and messaging apps in particular are becoming increasingly popular for keeping in touch with family and friends at home and abroad and for exchanging information.
Overview of providers: Cuba Sim Card mobile Internet
Cubacel is the state-run mobile operator in Cuba and is part of Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A. (ETECSA), the Cuban telecommunications company. Cubacel offers comprehensive mobile services for locals and tourists, including telephony, SMS and mobile data.
T-Mobile (a US telecommunications company) has entered into a cooperation with ETECSA to offer mobile services in Cuba. This enables travelers from the USA to use roaming services on the island. T-Mobile also offers SIM cards and mobile data packages for tourists.
Calling in Cuba
To call in Cuba, you use the Cuba country code +53. Additionally, each city has its own area code. Larger cities like Havana, Santiago de Cuba and Holguín typically have shorter one- or two-digit area codes.
- Area code for Havana: 7
- Area code for Santiago de Cuba: 22
- Area code for Holguín: 24
Example - If you want to call your contact in Havana from England:
Cuba Internet - WLAN hotspots
In Cuba, you can use Wi-Fi hotspots in many public places and busy locations, especially in larger cities and popular tourist areas. To use Wi-Fi hotspots in Cuba, you will need a prepaid internet card, which you can purchase from state-run ETECSA branches. With this card, you can log into the available hotspots and stay online.
These WLAN hotspots are often located at the following locations:
Many city centers, parks and public places are equipped with WLAN to facilitate access for locals and tourists.
In larger shopping centers, you will often find WLAN hotspots to provide customers and visitors with Internet access.
Most hotels and resorts offer WLAN access for their guests, often free of charge or for a fee.
There are often Wi-Fi hotspots in places like airports and bus stations to make it easier for travelers to access the Internet.
Wi-Fi is often available in cafés and restaurants, either free of charge for customers or for a small fee.
The state provider ETECSA offers information about WLAN hotspots and locations on its official website.
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Frequently asked questions: Internet and mobile options
The cost of internet in Cuba can vary depending on the type of access and the duration. Wi-Fi hotspots are available in public places such as parks or near hotels, and you can buy access cards that cost around 1 to 2 USD per hour. Mobile data is also available through the Cuban telecommunications provider ETECSA. Prices for the different data packages vary, but generally range from 5 USD for 400 MB to 30 USD for 5 GB. Prices for hotel Wi-Fi can vary depending on the accommodation, but access is often subject to a charge.
Internet in Cuba is often slower and less reliable than in many other countries. Coverage can be limited in rural areas, while it is better in larger cities. Internet prices can be higher than in other countries, and access may be limited by time or data volume. It is also important to note that some websites may be blocked or restricted due to government policies. It is usually advisable to temper your expectations of internet speed and availability in Cuba.
You can purchase an internet card for access to public Wi-Fi hotspots in Cuba from stores run by the state telecommunications provider ETECSA. These stores can be found in most cities and larger towns. In some cases, you can also buy the cards in hotels or from local retailers, especially in tourist areas. Note that demand is often high, so it is advisable to buy cards in advance if you need them.
You can usually buy a SIM card directly at the airport when you enter the country. The Cuban telecommunications provider ETECSA often has sales stands in the arrivals areas of the larger airports where you can purchase SIM cards and data packages. However, it is advisable to be prepared for possible waiting times, as the crowds can be high.
When surfing in Cuba, it is important to observe a few security precautions:
1. use VPN: Use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your online privacy and bypass geo-restrictions.
2. use secure websites: Make sure to only visit websites that use HTTPS to ensure your data is encrypted.
3. use public networks carefully: Be careful when accessing sensitive data such as bank accounts or emails on public Wi-Fi hotspots.
4. updated software: Make sure your device and apps are up to date to close known security gaps.
5. passwords and authentication: Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
6. avoid phishing: Watch out for suspicious emails, links and messages that may try to scam you or steal personal information.
7. comply with local laws: Be aware that Cuba regulates or restricts certain Internet content and activities.
8. do not leave devices unattended: Make sure your devices are always protected and not left unattended, especially in public areas.
By following these precautions, you can make your online experience in Cuba safer.
What alternatives are there if I don't want to buy an Internet card?
If you don't want to buy an internet card, there are still various ways to get online in Cuba. Many hotels offer their guests WLAN, either free of charge or for a fee. In larger cities, you will also find internet cafés that offer access to computers and sometimes Wi-Fi for a fee.
Private accommodation such as casas particulares often provide Wi-Fi for their guests; just ask at your accommodation.some restaurants or bars, especially in tourist areas, also have Wi-Fi that you can use when you dine or order drinks there.
These options allow you to go online without having to buy an internet card.
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