Internet in Cuba can combine WiFi, ETECSA mobile access, CubacelTur and roaming, with offline maps and documents as essential backup.
Connectivity plan
Internet in Cuba: WiFi, ETECSA, WhatsApp and offline maps
Internet access in Cuba can be slow, intermittent and affected by power outages. Prepare more than one connection option and save essential information offline before departure.
Main ways to connect
| Option | Useful for | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel WiFi | Messages, email and basic browsing | Coverage and speed vary by lobby, room and occupancy |
| ETECSA / Nauta | Public or hotel WiFi access | Login issues, queues and outages |
| CubacelTur or local mobile data | Messaging, maps and mobility | Coverage, activation and device compatibility |
| Canadian roaming | Emergency backup | High cost and limited reliability |
Prepare your phone before departure
- Update WhatsApp and save important contacts.
- Download offline maps for Varadero, Havana and transfer routes.
- Save passport, insurance, flight, hotel and D’Viajeros files offline.
- Enable a secure screen lock and account recovery methods.
- Bring a power bank, cables and a plug adapter if required.
Hotel WiFi expectations
The strongest signal is often in the lobby or common areas. Room coverage can be weak. Video calls, cloud backups and large downloads may fail, especially during busy periods or power interruptions.
WhatsApp and emergency communication
Send relatives your hotel name, travel dates, flight information and a backup contact before departure. Agree on a simple check-in schedule. During an outage, repeated calls may drain the phone without improving the connection.
Security precautions
- Avoid sensitive banking on open WiFi when possible.
- Do not leave accounts permanently logged in on shared devices.
- Use official apps and avoid unknown WiFi login pages.
- Keep backup authentication codes offline.
Common mistakes
- Relying on one eSIM or one hotel network.
- Downloading maps after arriving.
- Keeping all documents only in email.
- Forgetting that outages affect routers and charging.
- Assuming high-speed video calls will be dependable.
Related English guides
- Cuba tourist SIM and eSIM guide
- Varadero hotel WiFi guide
- Cuba power outages
- Cuba entry requirements
- All English Cuba guides
Internet and communication guides
Calling and translation tools
Offline Spanish, saved phrases and backup preparation.
Calling Cuba from Canada and network backup options.
Offline navigation and transportation backup
Offline Maps for Cuba explains how to download GPS coverage, save hotel and taxi details, store travel documents and test everything without Internet.
Transportation in Cuba covers taxis, buses, Viazul, Varadero transfers and backup planning when schedules or connectivity fail.
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