Travelling to Cuba is different from visiting many other destinations. Some things work a little differently from what you may be used to.

Because I live in Cuba myself, I know how important it is to prepare well before your trip. Below you’ll find practical tips to help you enjoy your stay with peace of mind and avoid unnecessary surprises.

Buy SIM card in Cuba

Do you want to use mobile internet during your vacation? Then a Cuban tourist SIM card, the CubacelTur, a good possibility.

This SIM card works via ETECSA, the Cuban telecom provider. You can choose from different packages with mobile data, call minutes and SMSIsa.

You can order the SIM card in advance through an authorized provider (www.suenacuba.com) and pick it up after arrival at a designated point of sale, for example at the airport. Take your passport with you and make sure your phone is unlocked.

View the current possibilities at the ETECSA website.

Does an eSIM work in Cuba?

Yes, there are international eSIM providers that offer mobile data for Cuba, including GigSky, Nomad, and Yesim.

Not every eSIM provider supports Cuba. Therefore, before purchasing, make sure that Cuba is actually included in the package.

An international eSIM is often more expensive than a local SIM card, but has the advantage that you can install it before you leave. Just make sure that your phone supports eSIM.

Internet and Wi-Fi in Cuba

Internet is available in many places in Cuba today, but the connection is not always fast or reliable.

Many hotels and casas particulares offer Wi-Fi. When booking, ask if Wi-Fi is available, if it is free and if it will work even during power outages.

In addition, there are public Wi-Fi points from ETECSA, where you can connect to a Nauta internet account, unfortunately these do not work when there is no power.

Please note that both Wi-Fi and mobile internet may fail. Accessibility may be limited, especially during prolonged power outages.

My tip: Download important information, addresses and offline maps (Mapsme) before you leave.

Electricity and sockets

Power outages are unfortunately a part of daily life in Cuba. The duration and frequency vary by region.

Fortunately, more and more casas particulares have solar panels or other facilities to provide their guests with electricity.

In Cuba you will find both 110 and 220 volts. American sockets with flat pins are common, but other types are also common.

Therefore, take a universal travel adapter and a good power bank with you. Check whether your electrical appliances are suitable for the voltage present.

Money and payment

I recommend travelers to take cash Euros to Cuba.

In many private accommodations and for certain services, you can use eurosFor restaurants, shops and other daily expenses, Cuban pesos often handy.

Don’t rely on your debit or credit card. ATMs don’t work.

During your trip, inquire about the current exchange rate and exchange your money in a secure way. For more information about exchange and the exchange rate, please contact me.

Health and useful items

Bring enough personal medication for your entire stay, preferably in the original packaging.

Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, care products and other personal essentials are also wise to take with you from home.

Do not drink untreated tap water. Use safe bottled water or water that has been properly purified.

Useful apps for your trip

A few apps can make your trip a lot easier:

• WhatsApp: Contact your CASA, driver and family.
• Google Translate: useful if you don’t speak Spanish. Download the language in advance.
• Google Maps, maps.me or Organic Maps: Download your maps so you can navigate even without the internet.

In addition, keep your property’s address and phone number and important reservations offline.

Do you have any questions about traveling to Cuba?

No trip to Cuba is exactly the same. What works well today may be different tomorrow.

I live in Viñales myself and like to help travelers with up-to-date information, reliable accommodations, transportation, and planning their trip.

Feel free to contact me. I will be happy to help you!

Hasta pronto!

Francisca