How to access the 4G/LTE network in Cuba#
More than one million Cubans have connected to the 4G/LTE network, a quarter of all users who access mobile data on the island.
This network is the fastest option for connecting to the internet in most of the world. In Cuba, the difference is even more noticeable compared with other alternatives. For example, Nauta Hogar reaches only 4 megabits per second in its most expensive offer, and 3G is usually below 5 Mbps. 4G, meanwhile, exceeds 25 Mbps.
Another advantage is that Cuba’s only telecommunications company, ETECSA, launched cheaper plans in June, exclusively for users with access to the fourth generation network.
Requirements to connect to 4G/LTE in Cuba#
- Have a mobile phone compatible with the 1800 MHz network frequency. To check whether your device supports 4G, send a free SMS to 2266 with the text “LTE”.
- Have a USIM card, which can be bought at any ETECSA commercial office for 3 CUC. To check your card type, also send a message to 2266 with the text “SIM”.
- The third and final requirement, logically, is being in an area with 4G/LTE coverage.
If you meet all the requirements and still cannot connect, change your phone settings to “prefer 4G or LTE” and restart it.
Where is there 4G/LTE coverage in Cuba?#
According to the latest official data, 4G is available in 53 of Cuba’s 168 municipalities, or about one third.
Havana is the only province with full access to this network. In the rest of the country, it is usually found in provincial capitals and tourist areas.
How can you buy data packages?#
Simple: dial *133# and a menu with several options will appear. Select the first option, “Datos”. Then, if you want to access the exclusive 4G plans, choose the fifth option, “Paquetes LTE”, or the fourth to see the rest of the “Paquetes”. Finally, a list organized by megabytes will appear. Buy the one you want and wait for the Cubacel confirmation SMS.
- Dial *133#
- Select option 1: “Datos”
- Choose between option 4 (“Paquetes”) and option 5 (“Paquetes LTE”)
- Buy the package you want
- Wait for the confirmation SMS
- Turn on mobile data on your phone and connect
Fonoma is a service for recharges to Cuba. Visit the website :
