How to Stay Connected?

If you're planning a trip to Cuba and want to stay connected to the internet while you're there, getting a SIM card is a great option. Here's everything you need to know about getting one as a tourist in Cuba.

1. What's Available in Cuba for Internet Access

Accessing the internet in Cuba is getting easier. There are more public Wi-Fi spots now, and many hotels and guesthouses offer internet access. Some international mobile providers also have agreements for roaming in Cuba, but it can be expensive(for example Fido in Canada offers roam like home with a $15 a day charge to use your phone plan with no restrictions in Cuba).

Now, tourists can buy a SIM card in Cuba to access the internet conveniently while on the move.

NOTE: This is a MUST if you want access to all the social apps, VoIP, etc. You must install the VPN app while still in Canada because you won’t be able to do it in Cuba. The VPN is a must even if you are using WiFi in the hotels as ALL the internet traffic that goes in/out of Cuba is filtered and possibly tracked by the government. It also protects you from being hacked while connected to a public WiFi.

We recommend using NordVPN that you can get it at a discounted price here:

2. How to Get a Cuba SIM Card

You have a few options for getting a tourist SIM card in Cuba:

• Pre-order Online: You can buy a tourist SIM card online before your trip and collect it upon arrival. Websites like SuenaCuba offer this service.

Once you click on the link above, make sure you select your language in the top right corner, then click on "Tourist SIM CARD" menu and enter all the required information below:





• At the Airport: You can also buy a SIM card at the Jose Marti Havana airport. It's quick and easy.

3. Where to Pick Up Your Tourist SIM Card

You can collect your tourist SIM card from Cubacel booths at various airports in Cuba, including Havana, Varadero, Santa Clara, Camaguey, Holguin, and Santiago de Cuba. You'll need to show your ID to collect the card, and it should match the information you provided when ordering. Preordering makes the things faster, as you don’t want to miss your bus to the hotel.

4. What's Included in the Tourist SIM Card

The tourist SIM card package typically includes:

• 6GB of data
• 100 SMS
• 100 minutes
• Valid for 30 days

5. Cost and Recharging

• The cost of the Cuban tourist SIM card is US$34.95.
• You can recharge your SIM card online using SuenaCuba or other providers, with options for 10GB, 20GB, or 50GB plans at different prices.
• The SIM card is active immediately upon activation and is valid for 30 days.

6. FAQs About Cuban Tourist SIMs

• Compatibility: Your phone needs to be unlocked and compatible with certain network bands and frequencies:
• 3G: Bands 8 (900MHz) and 1 (2100MHz)
• 4G: Band 3 (1800MHz)
• Setting Up Mobile Data: You'll need to set up a nauta access point on your phone to use mobile data. Don’t worry, the booth stuff is very helpful and they will do it for you.
• Extension: The SIM card is only valid for 30 days and cannot be extended.
• Call Charges: There are no charges for receiving calls, whether national or international.
• Recharging Options: You can recharge your SIM card using various providers listed, or at any ETECSA location:

• www.SuenaCuba.com
• www.cubaceltur.com
• www.ding.com
• www.recargasacuba.com
• www.DTOne.com/reloadcuba
• www.csqworld.com
• www.moviles.compra-dtodo.com
• www.globaldsd.com

7. Checking Usage

To check your remaining data, minutes, and SMS allocation, you can use the code *222*887# on your phone.

In summary, getting a tourist SIM card in Cuba is a convenient way to stay connected during your visit. Whether you pre-order online or pick one up at the airport, it's a simple process that ensures you can access the internet and make calls while exploring this beautiful country.