With heavy government surveillance and US restrictions, the only safe way to use the international websites and services you rely on in Cuba is to use a VPN. A VPN can help you by masking your IP and encrypting your traffic to keep your online activities private. Taking into account the special considerations for using a VPN in Cuba, I’ve tested many to find the most suitable options. ExpressVPN is my number-one recommendation for users in Cuba. Thanks to its obfuscated servers and military-grade encryption, it’s one of the safest VPNs around. It’s also one of the fastest, so you won’t have any issues streaming on Cuba’s slow internet. And, since it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free. Change Your Cuba IP Address »
Why You Need a VPN in Cuba
Internet access in Cuba is tightly restricted. Its telecommunications infrastructure is completely monopolized by the state-owned ETECSA. The government can block, throttle, or monitor any websites or online services. For example, there has been a social media blackout since 2021 to disrupt anti-government protests involving Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Telegram, and others. The Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) has completed an in-depth report on the situation in Cuba, confirming the blocking of more than 40 websites. The majority of blocked sites were local or international news sites that criticized the political regime, including the Cuban Free Press Project and Anonymouse. However, there is also an embargo by the US, preventing many businesses from operating in Cuba. This includes the official Android and iOS app stores, financial services like PayPal and Robinhood, and many other websites and online services. For example, users are no longer able to send money from and to Cuban PayPal accounts, and even transactions with the word “Cuba” in them are flagged or blocked. VPNs use a variety of means to mask your IP and hide your activity. They provide a number of servers in different countries, and all you need to do to change your Cuba IP to one in a different country is select a server from the list to connect to. Various measures, like IP/DNS leak protection, encryption, secure servers, and no-logs policies, prevent your activity or identity from leaking. With high broadband prices and limited internet infrastructure, people in Cuba still highly rely on public Wi-Fi, which is less secure, being more vulnerable to hackers and snoopers. Cuba is also one of the countries with the slowest internet speeds in the world. Any additional throttling by your ISP will make your connection nearly unusable. So it’s important to pick a fast VPN with servers near Cuba that will have a minimal impact on your connection. Keep in mind that VPNs can’t guarantee your safety if you choose to use them in ways that violate local laws. The vpnMentor team and I do not condone purposefully using VPNs for illegal activities. You should always make informed decisions by reading up on the local laws wherever you plan to use a VPN. Change Your Cuba IP With ExpressVPN »
How to Get a Cuba VPN: Step-by-Step Guide
Usually, getting a VPN is as easy as signing up for an account, subscribing to the service, and downloading and installing the app. Unfortunately, the official mobile app stores are banned in Cuba, and the government also has blocked access to some VPN websites. This will make it very difficult to download a VPN once you’re in the country. The good news is that many VPN services still work in Cuba. All you need to make sure is that you download and install the VPN before you get into the country. The best VPN providers offer native, easy-to-use apps for various devices. The exact steps to download, install, and use a VPN app will be slightly different, depending on the device you use. However, it’s usually very straightforward and goes something like this: Try ExpressVPN for Cuba »
Best VPNs to Change Your Cuba IP in 2023
1. ExpressVPN — Obfuscated Servers Designed to Enjoy Free Internet Access in Cuba
All of ExpressVPN’s servers are obfuscated, which makes it much harder for ISPs in Cuba to detect your VPN use and throttle your connection. You just need to use the Automatic or Lightway protocol option to enable obfuscation. As ExpressVPN regularly updates its IPs, I haven’t run into ones that were blocked. All US servers I tested were reliable and gave me a working US IP. I watched HBO Max content without any interruptions. ExpressVPN also has excellent speeds, fit for streaming in HD, UHD, or 4K. My connection only dropped from 104.68 Mbps to 96.68 Mbps using Smart Location, which barely makes any difference. While it doesn’t have servers in Cuba itself, ExpressVPN has plenty of servers nearby in Mexico, the Bahamas, and the US. The US Miami servers are particularly close to Havana, which means you don’t even have to give up speed to get a US IP. A built-in app kill switch (Network Lock) also prevents your data from leaking while you switch servers or if you accidentally disconnect the VPN. Even while you’re connected, ExpressVPN uses IP/DNS and WebRTC leak protection technology to make sure none of your identifiable information is ever exposed. I tested ExpressVPN’s IP leak protection by connecting to a server and using an online test, and it passed every time. ExpressVPN is one of the pricier VPNs around. However, with long-term plans starting at $6.67/month, there are still affordable options for signing up. As a bonus, you can get 3 months for free on its yearly plan as well as highly responsive 24/7 live chat support. You can even pay with Bitcoin, which I use for an extra layer of privacy. It also backs its service with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can try ExpressVPN out risk-free.
Useful Features
Smart Location. ExpressVPN will automatically identify the best server for you based on download speed, latency, and distance. By just opening the app and clicking the connect button, it will automatically connect you to the fastest server near Cuba. TrustedServer technology. All of ExpressVPN’s servers use diskless, RAM-only technology and are frequently rebooted to wipe all user information. So, none of your internet activity in Cuba while using the VPN will be recorded permanently. It even reinstalls all server software on each reboot to ensure nothing is left and that all servers are running the latest, most secure versions. Split tunneling. ExpressVPN’s apps for Windows, macOS, and Android have a split tunneling feature. You can configure it so that some apps on your device are either forced to connect through the VPN or can bypass it. For example, you can use it to play online games on an international server using the VPN while accessing your local Cuban online banking profile with your normal (ISP) connection. Easy to use apps. ExpressVPN has some of the most user-friendly apps of any VPN, particularly for iPhone and Android. You can also find native apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Fire TV Stick, and Kindle Fire, as well as various browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, and more) and router firmware. With up to 5 simultaneous device connections allowed, you’ll be able to use ExpressVPN on most of your devices in Cuba at the same time.
Change Your Cuba IP with ExpressVPN »
2. CyberGhost — Servers Optimized for Streaming, Gaming, or Torrenting Located Near Cuba
One of CyberGhost’s standout features is servers specifically optimized for streaming specific platforms, gaming, and torrenting. These servers are divided into tabs on the app, which made it easy for me to find the best one while testing CyberGhost. It even shows you the distance and ping next to each location. This means you can quickly connect to the fastest server for Cuba without having to experiment with different options. These servers are designed to give you a better and more reliable connection than the regular ones. You’ll be using a lot of unsecured public Wi-Fi in Cuba. CyberGhost has a unique feature for Android that protects you on Wi-Fi networks called automatic Wi-Fi protection. This lets you change how CyberGhost reacts when you connect to new Wi-Fi networks. For example, you can set it to ask to switch on Wi-Fi protection, automatically use protection, or disable protection. I always use this feature on my phone while traveling or hanging out in cafes. It uses military-grade 256-bit AES encryption and supports multiple secure VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard. CyberGhost will even automatically choose the best protocol depending on what you do and the network conditions. This is useful in Cuba, where the internet isn’t always the fastest or most predictable. The only catch is that its short-term plan comes with a shorter, 14-day money-back guarantee. However, you can get CyberGhost for just $2.11/month with a long-term plan that offers a 45-day money-back guarantee. This way, you’ll have ample time to test CyberGhost and still claim a refund if you’re not satisfied. All plans allow you to use the VPN on 7 devices at the same time.
Useful Features
Dedicated IPs. CyberGhost also offers dedicated IPs that you can buy as an add-on. While it’s not one of its default options, you can contact support and request a Cuba IP, and they might be able to arrange one for you. 9,074 servers in 90 countries. CyberGhost has one of the largest server networks of any VPN and is close behind ExpressVPN in the number of countries you can choose from. This includes various server locations near Cuba, such as Miami, the Bahamas, Venezuela, and Costa Rica. NoSpy servers. These servers use premium hardware for improved speeds and are located inside CyberGhost’s Romanian headquarters for an extra layer of privacy and security. You can get them for a small extra fee when subscribing. Transparency Reports. CyberGhost is one of the few VPNs that backs up its strict no-logs policies with frequent transparency reports. These are released every quarter and detail the number of requests for data it gets from various authorities to prove it doesn’t cooperate with them.
Change Your Cuba IP with CyberGhost »
Tips on How to Choose Which Cuba VPN to Get
Due to the unique internet situation in Cuba, you have to be extra careful when choosing a VPN. I managed to narrow down the best VPNs by looking for those with the following features. Feel free to use them to also find the best VPN for you:
Global server network — Servers in a larger number of countries outside Cuba make it easier to access a wider range of international sites and services. For example, you can get a US IP to watch HBO Max or a UK IP to watch BBC iPlayer. Servers in Cuba would be ideal, but almost no VPNs offer servers in the country itself. Unblocking capabilities — Online services, especially streaming services, regularly update their geo-blocking capabilities to prevent access from VPN connections. You should always look for VPNs with the proven ability to access your favorite streaming sites, like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, if you want to watch their shows while traveling to Cuba. The same goes for local Cuban services, like Canal Educativo, teleSUR, Cubanvisión, Tele Rebelde, and more. Robust security and privacy — You know you can trust a VPN with a strict no-logs policy, RAM-only private servers that have been audited by an independent third party to uphold your privacy. Strong security, like 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection, will also help keep you safe and private on any network. Obfuscated server technology — This is important in countries with strict censorship, like Cuba. Obfuscated servers hide the fact that you’re using a VPN. Some VPNs are blocked there, so having obfuscation comes in really handy. Fast speeds — Cuba has slow internet speeds, so you need a VPN with fast and reliable connections to not slow your connection down further. Servers closer to Cuba will help minimize lag and increase speeds as well. On average, a good VPN shouldn’t slow you down by more than 20–30%. Easy-to-use apps — A VPN should be quick and easy to use and should be compatible with many devices. All ExpressVPN apps have simple, user-friendly designs plus Spanish language support. Efficient customer support — You never want to lose the protection of your VPN just because of a technical issue. So, look for a VPN that offers 24/7 live chat support with agents that are helpful and polite. During testing, I had the best experience with ExpressVPN’s support team. Spanish translation is also built into its 24/7 live chat tool. That means you can converse with an agent in Spanish, even if they don’t speak it. Trustworthy money-back guarantee — The top VPNs all come with money-back guarantees that allow you to test their services risk-free. In the unlikely event that you’re not satisfied, you can simply contact support and request a refund.
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Are VPNs blocked in Cuba?
The Cuban government can and has blocked access to some VPN websites, even during times of protest. However, VPN services still work in Cuba, and many citizens and tourists rely on them to provide them with unfiltered access to the outside world. All the above VPNs work perfectly in Cuba. With the US embargo, the Play Store and the App Store are also blocked in Cuba. This means that if you want to get a VPN on your smartphone, it will be best to do so before traveling there. You shouldn’t have issues installing it on your computer or laptop as long as you confirm that your chosen VPN works in Cuba.
Can I use a free VPN to change my Cuba IP address?
No, I don’t recommend using a free VPN to change your Cuba IP. First of all, not even some of the best VPNs around offer servers in Cuba, so it’s almost impossible to find a free VPN that does. In fact, because free VPNs usually have smaller server networks in fewer locations, they might not even host options nearby. All my recommendations have servers close to Cuba in countries like the Bahamas, the US, or Mexico. Free VPNs are also not nearly as safe to use as premium VPNs. They typically don’t offer the same level of encryption, built-in security features, or no-logs policies that have been independently audited. That may leave you exposed when using public Wi-Fi, which you will be dependent on a lot in Cuba. In fact, many of them make money by selling user IPs or data, injecting websites with trackers or ads, or infecting devices with malware, like ransomware. In contrast, premium VPNs usually offer military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered unbreakable. They also offer IP/DNS leak protection, in-app kill switches, audited no-logs policies, and RAM-only servers that frequently delete all data. And, since most paid VPNs offer a minimum 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try them out risk-free and see why they are so superior.
Is it possible to get a VPN for iPhone in Cuba?
While the iOS App Store, as well as many online app services, are blocked in Cuba, you can still get and use a VPN for your iPhone. The only catch is that you need to sign up for a VPN service and install the app on your iPhone before you go to Cuba. Luckily, all of my top VPN picks for Cuba have user-friendly apps for iPhones with the same privacy and security features as the desktop versions. They are also covered by money-back guarantees.
How do I make sure that my Cuba IP address has changed to another country?
If you are already connected to the VPN, you can use vpnMentor’s free IP checker to see whether your IP has changed to that of a different country. If you still see your Cuba IP, you should check whether you followed the correct steps to connect to the VPN. If you are still having issues, try disconnecting and reconnecting the VPN or use a different server. You may also have to close your browser and delete your cache and cookies. If all else fails, you can always contact the VPN’s customer support team.
Can you use apps without a VPN in Cuba?
Yes, it is possible to use some mobile apps in Cuba, but not all due to the trade economic sanctions and government censorship. You’ll only be able to reliably access most social media apps, including WhatsApp, TikTok, Skype, Snapchat, and Zoom, with a VPN. The app stores are also blocked in Cuba due to an embargo by the US. For reliable access to app stores on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device, you need a VPN to change your IP.
Are there other ways (aside from a VPN) to change your Cuba IP address?
Yes, but none that I’d recommend using over a premium VPN. Proxy services can change your IP, but these don’t provide encryption to secure and privatize your connection. Proxies also typically have smaller server networks, which means you might not find ones to connect to close to Cuba. It’s also easier to detect and block proxies, which means there is little chance you can use them in a heavily censored country like Cuba. Many VPNs, like ExpressVPN, offer Smart DNS services. Smart DNS spoofs your DNS so that it looks like you’re connecting from a different location, but it also doesn’t encrypt your connection like a VPN. Premium VPNs offer military-grade 256-bit encryption and change both your IP address and DNS to keep your identity private. By physically routing your traffic through servers located in other parts of the world and frequently updating their IPs, VPNs are much less likely to get blocked. Change Your Cuba IP With ExpressVPN »
Change Your Cuba IP Address in Minutes
A VPN is an essential tool for life in Cuba to help you deal with heavy online restrictions and censorship, slow internet speeds, and security threats when using public Wi-Fi networks. Based on these criteria, ExpressVPN is my top-recommended VPN. Thanks to its large, high-speed server network, I had no problem watching shows from my favorite streaming platforms in 4K. At the same time, its privacy and security features, like obfuscated servers, IP leak protection, and a kill switch, will keep your connection reliable and safe even on public networks. Since ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it yourself risk-free.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs to change your Cuba IP address…
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