5 Best VPNs for Cuba — Tested and Still Working in 2023

Cuba is a beautiful country, but be warned – the government can snoop on every message you send to family abroad and every picture of Caya Coco you try to upload. So, you need a VPN that has strong security features to protect you and keep your personal information private.

The truth is that it’s hard to find a good VPN for Cuba. Some may unblock the services you need but leak your IP address, negating the point of a VPN at all. And, because the Cuban internet is already slow, you don’t want a VPN that impacts your speed so significantly that your streaming and browsing slows to a crawl.

My team and I tested dozens of VPNs to find the best-performing services for the country. ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Cuba — it’s the fastest VPN we tested, even over long distances. You can try it without risk since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Get ExpressVPN for Cuba >>

Important! There are restrictions on using VPNs in Cuba. The team at vpnMentor and I don’t condone illegal activity. Please inform yourself of the latest laws and regulations regarding VPN use and website bans in Cuba so you don’t accidentally break any rules.

Best VPNs for Cuba — Full Analysis (Updated 2023)

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds and Automatic Obfuscation to Maintain Your Privacy in Cuba

ExpressVPN keeps your Cuban browsing private with automatic obfuscation, which means it disguises your data as regular internet traffic when it detects Deep Packet Inspection (DPI). While VPNs are legal to use, they may arouse suspicion when they’re detected in Cuba even though you’re using them for legitimate purposes. So, this is an important extra safety net.

In addition, ExpressVPN was the fastest of the VPNs I tested for this article. It’s normal for a VPN to make your connection around 20% slower. I experienced a speed drop of only 3% when I connected to a local server using its proprietary protocol, Lightway. The internet in Cuba is slow enough before you switch a VPN on, but I wasn’t worried about my connection crawling to a stop with ExpressVPN.

Lightway offered better battery performance, making it a good choice for Cuban WiFi hotspots

The VPN’s huge network also lets you access websites from almost anywhere. In the US alone, there are servers in 24 locations, so you can use your streaming services from back home while visiting Cuba. During my tests, I was able to watch Netflix US and Disney+ without any buffering or lag.

You can try ExpressVPN without risk since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this out by contacting its 24/7 live chat to request a refund. I got an immediate response, and the agent didn’t ask any questions. 5 days later, my money was back in my account.

Useful Features

• Malicious site blocker. ExpressVPN keeps you safe by blocking sites that host malware. It also stops trackers that share your data with third parties, helping you to keep your activity as private as possible.
• Kill switch. If your VPN disconnects, ExpressVPN will disable all internet traffic. Unstable public WiFi hotspots (like those in Cuba) can interrupt your VPN connection, so this ensures you’re safe from data leaks.
• British Virgin Islands-based. ExpressVPN’s HQ is outside the 5/9/14 Eyes data-sharing alliance, so it’s not subject to government snooping. (US and many European VPNs sometimes are forced to hand over any user data to government agencies upon request.)
• TrustedServer technology. Each ExpressVPN server is RAM-only, which means that its memory is wiped clean with every reboot. This further prevents ExpressVPN from logging your activity.

Get ExpressVPN for Cuba >>

2. CyberGhost — Specialty Servers for Streaming and Torrenting in Cuba

CyberGhost has a reliable network with servers optimized for torrenting and streaming. Unlike most VPNs, CyberGhost continually tests these to ensure these servers haven’t been blocked by streaming sites. When I tested its streaming-optimized servers, I watched Netflix US and UK with no issues, which impressed me given how vigilant Netflix is with VPN blocks.

CyberGhost also has servers for torrenting

This VPN is also very fast; I was also able to watch Netflix in Ultra-HD with no noticeable buffering. Local servers slowed my speed by just 4%. It’s not as fast as ExpressVPN on long-distance connections, though. My speed dropped by 48% when I connected to a server in Australia, which is detrimental if you’re using an already quite slow Cuban internet connection.

The app’s intuitive design makes it a good choice if you’ve never used a VPN before. Every setting is pre-configured. Plus, the Best location setting automatically connects you to the fastest server. Just be warned you won’t be able to choose a server location, so it’s not as useful if you want to stream content from outside Cuba.

You can test CyberGhost for Cuba risk-free since it is covered by a 45-day money-back guarantee (longer than the industry-standard 30 days). All the apps are available in Spanish, and you can contact its support staff 24/7 on live chat for assistance.

Useful Features

• NoSpy servers. These RAM-based servers are in CyberGhost’s iron-clad HQ in Bucharest, which is outside the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance. This means that CyberGhost isn’t required to share user data with any country, helping to keep your information safe.
• WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. The industry-leading, open-source protocols to keep your connection secure. WireGuard is the fastest option, but OpenVPN offers slightly better security.
• WiFi Auto-Protect. This automatically connects your device to CyberGhost when you enter a WiFi hotspot. I strongly recommend enabling this feature if you’re in Cuba as you’ll likely be relying on public WiFi hotspots instead of private networks.
• 7 simultaneous connections. You can use multiple devices in Cuba without having to log out of your account.

Get CyberGhost for Cuba >>

3. Private Internet Access — A Large Server Network to Unblock Global Content in Cuba

Private Internet Access (PIA) allows you to unblock sites from many locations with servers across 84 countries. I could access Cuban channels like Tele Rebelde using servers in Florida or Mexico. Plus, I was able to switch to a UK IP address and access my favorite streaming sites, including Disney+ and BBC iPlayer.

You can click the arrow at the bottom of the PIA app to switch to Advanced View

While PIA isn’t as fast as CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, it still has great speeds. There was a minor 5% dropoff from my base speed. I could even play StarCraft 2 lag-free on a server in the Bahamas.

When I was adjusting PIA’s settings, I had the option to choose between 2 levels of encryption — 128-bit and 256-bit. Although 128-bit encryption is faster, 256-bit provides better security. Alongside these are protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, which you can easily switch between. That means you can tailor the VPN connection depending on your priorities.

You can test PIA with your favorite Cuban sites without risk with a money-back guarantee. If it’s not exactly what you wanted, you’ve got 30 days to claim a full refund.

Useful Features

• Unlimited device connections. Protect all your devices on a single account so you never have to log out when you’re online in Cuba.
• Multi-Hop servers. This sends your data through a proxy before it reaches the VPN server. It boosts your security in Cuba by making it harder to trace your original IP address.
• Split tunneling. Allow specific URLs or apps to bypass your VPN connection. As Cuba’s internet is already slow, you can reduce additional slowdowns by leaving some browsing activity unprotected and only using the VPN on riskier websites.

Get PIA for Cuba >>

4. NordVPN — Threat Protection to Block Malicious Websites

NordVPN’s Threat Protection stops malicious sites, phishing scams, and trackers at the DNS level. It works even when you aren’t connected to a VPN server, so you’ll still get some protection if you’re like me and you forget to turn your VPN on. Not only does this keep you safe, but it may improve your browsing speeds because you don’t need to wait to load ads. This will certainly help in Cuba.

Threat Protection Lite is the in-app version of NordVPN’s cross-device Threat Protection blocker

I appreciate the fact that NordVPN provides an array of specialized servers suitable for use in Cuba. Double VPN servers route your data through two different sites, granting extra security. The Onion servers enable you to reach the.onion versions of sites, which are typically inaccessible in Cuba, by connecting to the Tor network through your usual browser. However, I was unable to make this function work on my macOS.

It was easy for me to access popular streaming sites with NordVPN during my tests, including Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. I could start watching my shows in just a few minutes on local servers, but I found that the further away the servers were, the longer it would take me to connect.

NordVPN’s plans come with a 30 day money-back guarantee, so you can try it for yourself risk-free. If you find you’d prefer a different VPN for Cuba, then claiming a refund is simple.

Useful Features

• NordLynx protocol. WireGuard is fast, but it’s not quite as secure as OpenVPN. NordLynx is built around WireGuard to give it a security boost, making it a great choice for Cuba.
• Auto-connect. Choose a safe location to automatically connect to when you enter a WiFi hotspot in Cuba.
• Meshnet. Connect remotely to any of your devices when you’re in Cuba. It’s great if you’re visiting Cuba as you could use your desktop computer to easily access home services.

Get NordVPN for Cuba >>

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Simultaneous Connections to Safeguard All Your Devices in Cuba

Surfshark offers unlimited connections with just one subscription, making it great value if you’re sharing it with your family or a group of friends while traveling in Cuba. I tested it on 4 of my devices simultaneously and didn’t notice slowdowns — the performance was almost the same as if I was only using one device. My speed loss on local servers was just 4%.

You also get Multi-Hop locations for extra protection that move your traffic through 2 VPN servers. There are 12 pre-made configurations, but you can choose your own – this impressed me as most VPNs restrict you to only pre-set pairings. It’s a great extra safety net to have in Cuba, particularly if you’re sending sensitive information.

First, select your entry location and then your exit — you can also use the nearest or fastest location

You can try Surfshark in Cuba or abroad for 30 days with a money-back guarantee. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, then claiming a full refund within this period is straightforward.

Useful Features

• Camouflage mode. Surfshark can obscure your VPN-protected data so it appears as regular internet traffic. If the Cuban government snoops on your traffic, they won’t be able to see that you’re encrypting your data.
• Static IP. A drawback of VPNs is that your IP address changes every time you connect, meaning you have to solve annoying CAPTCHA tests often. A static IP ensures your browsing in Cuba is CAPTCHA-free.
• P2P-friendly servers. Surfshark offers around 60 torrenting-optimized servers so that you can share files safely in Cuba.

Get Surfshark for Cuba >>

Tips on Choosing the Best VPN for Cuba

Most importantly, if you’re traveling to Cuba, I recommend you install your VPN before you arrive in the country because most VPN websites, the Google Play Store, and the Apple App store are blocked there. This is particularly important if you need to pay with a US credit card because US sanctions also prohibit their use in Cuba.

If you’re already in Cuba, you’ll need to use a proxy server to spoof your location and access the VPN’s website. I recommend these free proxy servers.

Other than that, I used rigorous testing criteria to shortlist reliable VPNs for Cuba and all my recommended services meet these specs. You can also use this as a checklist if you prefer to perform your own VPN tests.

• Strong security features. I looked for VPNs with AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and secure protocols like OpenVPN. I’ve also highlighted VPNs that offer obfuscation, which means that the government won’t be able to see that you’re using a VPN.
• No-logs policy. Every VPN on this list has a no-logs policy that’s been verified by third-party auditors. This means that, even if the Cuban government or any other organization requests your internet history, there’s no data available for them to see.
• Plenty of servers near Cuba. Local servers are usually faster than international servers, so you won’t have to deal with any huge slowdowns on top of Cuba’s already slow internet. Conversely, I’ve found VPNs with a large selection of international servers so you can access your content when you’re traveling in Cuba.
• Fast speeds. When I was testing VPNs, I looked out for those that offered the best connection speeds and fast protocols like WireGuard. That way, you get buffer-free streaming, quick torrenting, and smooth online gaming.
• Easy to use. Every VPN I’ve recommended has a quick connect button that automatically finds the best server based on your location. Live chat support is also a bonus so you can get timely assistance.
• Trustworthy money-back guarantee. There should be a way to try the service risk-free and get a refund quickly if it isn’t satisfactory.

Get ExpressVPN for Cuba >>

Other Ways a VPN Can Help You in Cuba

In accordance with Cuban legislation, individuals who express anti-government views online can be subject to detention and imprisonment. Journalists, whistleblowers, and digital activists face a heightened risk of being fined, detained, or incarcerated. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to utilize a robust VPN while in Cuba, especially if you operate as a journalist or whistleblower.

While in the country, you can only get online via a Cuban SIM card or an ETECSA internet card. You will have to give your name and address before you can log in. The Cuban government closely monitors all web traffic in the country, and the requirement to use these documents can make it easier to track internet traffic back to you.

Due to Cuba’s restricted internet network, you’ll likely be using one of Cuba’s government-approved WiFi hotspots to access the internet. As with most public WiFi hotspots, these are unsecured, which puts you at risk of man-in-the-middle attacks. A VPN will protect you from certain types of these attacks, which helps you to stay safe in Cuba.

Cuba also has a history of blocking access to certain websites and services. This includes popular social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, encrypted communications apps like Telegram, and international news outlets like the BBC. A VPN will allow you to circumvent these blocks and access international services or communicate with friends and family.

Get ExpressVPN for Cuba >>

FAQs on Using a VPN for Cuba

Is it legal to use a VPN in Cuba?

It’s complicated. VPNs aren’t explicitly illegal, but Cuban law prohibits “anonymizing and encryption tools” unless these are approved by the government. Despite this, VPNs are now very popular in Cuba for protecting data and privacy. I still recommend using a VPN with robust security and fast speeds to keep you safe in Cuba.

As always, my team and I don’t condone illegal activity. Please inform yourself of the latest laws and regulations regarding VPN use and website bans in Cuba so you don’t accidentally break any rules.

Why do no VPNs have servers in Cuba?

The Cuban government has strict controls on which entities can set up internet services in the country. This means that VPN providers can’t set up servers in Cuba without obtaining permission. However, just because there aren't any VPN servers in Cuba doesn't mean you can't use a reliable VPN to protect your online privacy and access global content.

Can I use a VPN for Cuba on all my devices?

Yes. A reliable VPN for Cuba should work on all your devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. Whether you're using a Windows PC, a Mac, an iPhone, or an Android device, you can install and use a VPN to protect your online privacy and access worldwide content.

Once you sign up for a VPN, you can easily download and install the app on all your devices. Most VPN providers offer dedicated apps for various platforms, making it simple and easy to set up and use a VPN on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and even Fire Stick.

Can I use a free VPN for Cuba?

Yes, but I strongly advise against it. Free VPN services often have few server locations and impose bandwidth and data caps. They can also pose significant risks to your online privacy and security, which you don’t want anywhere — least of all in Cuba. Many free VPNs have been caught engaging in shady practices like logging user data and selling it to third parties.

Instead, I recommend using a safer VPN service with a money-back guarantee to ensure your online privacy and security in Cuba. These VPNs offer unlimited data, a wide range of server locations, robust encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. They also have dedicated customer support should you encounter any tech problems in Cuba.

Get the Best VPN for Cuba

Not all VPNs can keep you secure in Cuba. Some aren’t fast enough to cope with Cuba’s sluggish internet speeds. Others don’t have nearby servers. That’s why I set out to test dozens of VPNs for Cuba to find ones that offered robust security, fast speeds, and plenty of local and international servers to choose from.

After months of testing, I can reveal that ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Cuba. It has automatic obfuscation on every server, which will protect you from the Cuban government’s use of DPI. Plus, it’s the fastest VPN on this list, so your already slow Cuban internet connection won’t be slowed down even more.

You can even try ExpressVPN risk-free since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If it’s not perfect, claiming a full refund is easy.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for Cuba...