TL;DR: Roamless is the best eSIM choice for Cuba because of its $16.95 for 1GB price fixed plan, pay-as-you-go option and international calling feature directly from the app. Buy an eSIM for Cuba.

When traveling to Cuba, having reliable mobile data is important for accessing online maps, checking local services, and navigating the country. Roaming charges from your home carrier can quickly become expensive, making it less efficient to use traditional SIM cards. Instead, a global eSIM offers an affordable way to connect to local networks without needing to swap out your SIM card. In this guide, you'll find all the information you need to choose the best eSIM for Cuba in 2025, ensuring you have the right mobile connectivity throughout your stay.

What is the Best eSIM for Cuba?

Roamless is the best eSIM for Cuba for international tourists seeking a flexible and cost-efficient option with a pay-as-you-go model that allows carrying over unused data without expiration, a 100 MB free trial, an international calling feature from $0.01 per minute, and unlimited hotspot support. Below is a comparison of popular eSIM providers to help you find the best eSIM for your Cuba trip:

Table 1: Comparison of Best eSIM Providers for Cuba

Note: Prices, plan details, and technical features in the table were verified on 16 October 2025 based on the information available from each eSIM provider’s official website.

Disclaimer: Please verify the current information directly with each eSIM provider before making a purchase.

Choosing the Best eSIM for Cuba

When selecting the best eSIM for Cuba, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your needs. These include network coverage, data speeds, plan flexibility, and additional benefits that enhance the overall mobile experience. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when choosing your eSIM provider for Cuba:

• Network Coverage: Choose an eSIM provider that partners with reliable networks in Cuba, ensuring strong coverage in both urban and rural areas.

• Speed and Performance: With the availability of 5G and 4G in certain parts of Cuba, you’ll want an eSIM that supports fast data speeds, especially for streaming and real-time navigation.

• Flexible Data Plans: Some eSIM providers offer flexible pay-as-you-go plans, while others provide fixed-duration plans. Look for one that allows you to control your data usage without any unwanted charges.

• Extra Benefits: Consider providers that offer additional services, such as in-app calling or data management tools, to help you stay connected easily and manage your usage.

By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the eSIM that best fits your travel needs in Cuba.

Why Roamless eSIM Stands Out

Roamless is one of the right eSIM options for travelers to Cuba due to its combination of flexible plans and reliable service. Here are some of the features that set it apart from other eSIM providers:

• Unlimited Speed with No Throttling: Roamless offers high-speed data without any speed limitations. This makes it suitable for activities like streaming, browsing, or using navigation apps, ensuring a smooth online experience.

• Hotspot and Tethering Support: Roamless allows unlimited use of hotspot and tethering, giving users the flexibility to share their data connection with other devices without restrictions.

• Flexible Pay-as-you-go Option: The pay-as-you-go plan has no expiration date, meaning your unused data does not expire over time. This allows you to keep any remaining data for future trips instead of losing it, ensuring no data waste.

• International Calling Feature: Pay-as-you-go plan also includes an international calling option, which can be a more affordable alternative to traditional roaming charges, allowing calls at lower rates.

• Automatic Activation and Free Trial: Roamless provides automatic eSIM activation and free trial, simplifying the setup process and enabling immediate access to data once activated.

These features offer a balance of convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, making Roamless a reliable option for mobile connectivity during travel to Cuba. 

For more information, you can visit our page on eSIM Cuba.

eSIM in Cuba's Popular Destinations

Cuba is home to historic cities, coastal resorts, and cultural hubs that attract visitors year-round. An eSIM can make it easier to navigate, book activities, and access local information without having to look for a physical SIM card.

Havana

Havana is the country’s largest city, known for its colonial architecture, lively streets, and rich history. With an eSIM, you can use maps to explore neighborhoods like Old Havana, check museum opening times, or arrange guided tours. Messaging apps and translation tools can also help you communicate with locals and get the most out of your visit.

Varadero

Varadero is one of Cuba’s most popular beach destinations, offering long stretches of sand and resort facilities. An eSIM allows you to look up excursion options, reserve water sports activities, or find local dining spots without leaving the beach area. You can also share photos and updates instantly with friends and family back home.

Santiago de Cuba

Santiago de Cuba is a cultural center in the island’s east, known for its music, festivals, and historic landmarks. With an eSIM, you can find event schedules, learn more about local traditions, or book day trips to nearby attractions. It’s also useful for navigating the city’s hilly streets and finding recommended restaurants or cafés.

Other Cuban Destinations

Beyond the major cities, Cuba has many other places worth visiting. In Trinidad, you can check walking tour routes through its cobblestone streets. In Cienfuegos, you might use your eSIM to locate boat tours around the bay. In Holguín, it can help you arrange transportation to nearby beaches. Wherever you go, having an eSIM lets you handle bookings, directions, and local information from one device.

How Much Data Do I Need for Cuba?

The amount of data you need while traveling in Cuba depends on how you plan to use your mobile device. The table below outlines possible daily and weekly needs based on different usage levels:

Table 2: Estimated Data Needs for Cuba Based on Usage Habits

Disclaimer: Actual data usage can vary depending on file sizes, the quality of media you view, and the amount of time you spend online. Always monitor your data consumption to avoid unexpected costs.

For more information, you can check out our post on How much data do I need for travel abroad.

Roamless Fixed Data Plans for Cuba eSIM

Roamless provides fixed data plans for Cuba eSIM, each valid for 30 days. These plans are suitable for international visitors to Cuba who already know how much data they will need during their stay.

Table 3: Fixed Data Plans for Cuba with Roamless eSIM

Note: Pay-as-you-go options are also available for Cuba, starting at $15.45 for 1 GB with no expiration, allowing users to choose any data amount as needed.

Disclaimer: Prices, data amounts, and other technical details are accurate as of October 16, 2025, and may change over time. For the most up-to-date information, please verify details directly with Roamless.

Roamless Network Partner and Its Coverage in Cuba

Roamless’s network partner in Cuba is Cubacel, operated by ETECSA, the country’s only mobile network operator [1]. Cubacel manages the national mobile infrastructure and provides both voice and data connectivity across the island.

Coverage:

• According to nPerf’s Network Coverage Map, 4G service is available in major urban areas such as Havana, Varadero, and Santiago de Cuba, as well as along key intercity routes [2].

• 3G connectivity remains active in several rural and low-density regions where the national 4G expansion is still in progress [2].

Note: Limited 5G pilot zones are present in certain parts of Havana, reflecting ongoing network development by ETECSA. [2]

Network Speed and Technology:

• According to nPerf’s Download Bitrates Map, download speeds in Havana typically range between 10 and 20 Mbps, reflecting stable 4G connectivity in most central and residential areas [3].

• In Varadero, speeds are generally higher, fluctuating between 15 and 30 Mbps, with the most consistent performance observed along the coastal and hotel zones [3].

• Santiago de Cuba shows lower performance overall, with download speeds varying from 5 to 12 Mbps, particularly decreasing in suburban and hillside areas [3].

Table 4: Average mobile download speeds in major Cuban cities

Disclaimer: The download speeds shown in the table are based on nPerf’s public data for Cubacel, accurate as of October 16, 2025. Actual performance may vary depending on local network conditions and device type. For the most up-to-date information, please verify details directly with ETECSA, the national network operator.

Roaming Charges for Cuba

Roaming charges in Cuba can be much higher than in many other countries. If you use your home carrier’s SIM card, you may face expensive fees for data, calls, and texts, which can quickly add up. These charges are often significantly higher than domestic rates, making it easy to rack up unexpected costs. A travel eSIM, like Roamless, offers a more affordable alternative by connecting you to local networks in Cuba, allowing you to avoid the high roaming fees typically associated with international travel.

For example, major international carriers charge substantially more for data when used in Cuba. O2 charges around £7.20 per MB [4], Movistar Spain up to €12.10 per MB [5], and Verizon USA about $2.05 per MB [6]. In comparison, the Roamless fixed plan costs $16.95 for 1 GB, which represents a saving of over 90% compared to traditional roaming charges in Cuba.

For more information, you can read our guide on Roaming Charges in Cuba and visit our page on eSIM Cuba.

Disclaimer: Prices and roaming charges referenced are based on publicly available information from carrier websites as of October 16, 2025 and may vary by plan or currency exchange rates. Users are advised to verify the latest roaming costs directly with each mobile operator before traveling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which eSIM is best for Cuba in 2025?

- Roamless is the best eSIM for Cuba because it offers both pay-as-you-go and fixed data plans, instant activation, a free trial, and the ability to make international calls directly from the app.

How much does an eSIM cost for a Cuba trip?

- Most Cuba eSIM fixed data plans cost between $15 and $25 for 1GB of data. For instance, Roamless offers both fixed and pay-as-you-go options within this range.

How much data do I need for a trip to Cuba?

- You need about 1GB–4GB of data per week for basic activities like using online maps or messaging, while those who use mobile data more often for streaming or video calls may need 5GB or more per week.

Can I make international calls with an eSIM in Cuba?

- Yes, but only with certain eSIM apps. Roamless allows users to make international calls directly from its app, starting at $0.01 per minute.

Does Roamless work in rural areas of Cuba?

- Yes, but coverage is more consistent in major cities like Havana and Varadero.

How does the Roamless free trial work in Cuba?

- Roamless offers a 100MB free trial in Cuba. It activates automatically when you install the eSIM and can be used to test connectivity before purchasing a plan.

How to install a Roamless eSIM for Cuba?

- Download the Roamless app, sign in, and go to the Data tab. You can activate your eSIM with one-click installation or by scanning the provided QR code. Once installed, select Roamless for mobile data and start using it during your trip to Cuba.

Sources:

[1] Columbia Law School. Cuba Capacity Building Project, ''ETECSA: The Canary’s Eye'', July 6, 2025. - https://horizontecubano.law.columbia.edu/news/etecsa-canarys-eye

[2] nPerf. ''Cubacel's 3G / 4G / 5G coverage map in Cuba''. Accessed October, 2025. - https://www.nperf.com/en/map/CU/-/1995978.Cubacel/signal?ll=21.40193383224862&lg=-79.10620073872761&zoom=7

[3] nPerf. ''Cubacel's 3G / 4G / 5G bitrates map in Cuba''. Accessed October, 2025. - https://www.nperf.com/en/map/CU/-/1995978.Cubacel/download?ll=21.580827078667415&lg=-79.60040775962881&zoom=8

[4] O2. ''Using your phone abroad''. Accessed October, 2025. - https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[5] Movistar. ''Roaming: Activación y Tarifas''. Accessed October, 2025. - https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Cuba

[6] Verizon. ''International services & pricing while traveling outside the US''. Accessed October, 2025. - https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing