Best Way to Call Cuba From the US

International Calling Guides

Calling Cuba from the United States isn’t always straightforward. Between high calling rates, limited mobile infrastructure, and government restrictions, staying connected with friends and family in Cuba has historically been difficult—and expensive.

But in 2025, things are changing. With new technologies and more competitive services, there are now faster, more affordable, and more reliable ways to call Cuba from the US.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best options, updated calling rates, technical challenges to consider, and how services like ZenCall are making it easier than ever to connect.

Why Calling Cuba Is Still Complicated

Even in 2025, Cuba remains one of the most expensive countries in the world to call. Here’s why:

  • Government control: Cuba’s telecom infrastructure is state-run, limiting outside competition.
  • High interconnection fees: U.S. providers are charged premium rates to connect calls to Cuba.
  • Limited alternatives: Voice apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime require stable mobile internet, which remains inconsistent in many parts of Cuba.
  • Blocked or unstable VoIP: Some services are restricted or throttled in Cuba, particularly unofficial calling apps.

If you’ve ever tried calling a Cuban number and got poor quality, long delays, or an unexpected bill, you’re not alone.

What to Expect When Calling Cuba

✅ You Can Call Both Landlines and Mobiles

  • Cuban landline numbers start with +53 7 (for Havana) or other area codes.
  • Mobile numbers usually begin with +53 5.

Make sure to dial the full international number, including Cuba’s country code +53, when calling from the U.S.

💰 Standard Rates Are High

Here’s what calling Cuba usually costs:

Provider Typical Rate to Cuba (2025)
Verizon $1.49/min
AT&T $1.19–$1.59/min
T-Mobile $1.00–$1.50/min
Google Voice $0.60/min
ZenCall From $0.65/min

While Google Voice and ZenCall offer better rates, most traditional carriers are still expensive, even with international calling plans.

The Best Ways to Call Cuba From the US

Let’s break down the current options for calling Cuba in 2025, including their pros, cons, and pricing.

1. ZenCall – Best Browser-Based Option

ZenCall is one of the few platforms offering modern, browser-based calling to Cuba without requiring downloads or contracts. It’s a great fit for both personal and professional users.

Why it works:

  • No SIM card or app needed
  • Rates from $0.65/min
  • Call from any laptop or mobile browser
  • No subscription or hidden fees
  • Works reliably even on slower connections

Whether you’re calling Havana or Santiago de Cuba, ZenCall gives you a simple way to dial international numbers with transparent pricing and solid audio quality.

💡 Great for anyone who needs a no-frills, affordable solution to call Cuba from the U.S. regularly.

2. Google Voice – A Familiar Option (With Caveats)

Google Voice allows calls to Cuba for $0.60/min—a better deal than most phone carriers. However:

  • You must have a U.S. number and be logged into your Google account
  • You’ll need to fund your account with Google credit
  • You may experience delays or dropped calls
  • Mobile reception in Cuba can still be spotty for app-based calls

It’s a decent choice for occasional use, but it’s not always reliable—especially if your contact has poor connectivity on the Cuban side.

3. International Phone Cards – Still Around, But Risky

Some people still use calling cards to contact Cuba, especially if they’re unfamiliar with apps or browsers. These cards advertise rates as low as $0.50/min, but:

  • Most include connection fees and round-up billing
  • Minutes often expire after a short period
  • Access numbers vary in quality and reliability
  • You usually need to dial a 10-digit PIN before placing the call

⚠️ Hidden fees and expired credits are common. Not ideal in 2025.

4. Messaging Apps (WhatsApp, IMO, Telegram)

Apps like WhatsApp and IMO can be used for internet-based voice calls, but with several limitations in Cuba:

  • Users need strong 3G/4G or Wi-Fi connections
  • Not everyone has smartphones or consistent internet access
  • Calls often get dropped or have low audio quality

These apps are fine if both users are online with good service, but don’t count on them for reliable landline or mobile calls.

How ZenCall Makes Cuban Calling Easier

If you’re looking for the best balance of price, reliability, and convenience, ZenCall is a strong option.

✅ No App or SIM Card

Unlike mobile carriers or calling apps, ZenCall works directly in your browser—on your laptop, desktop, or phone.

✅ Works Anywhere

Whether you’re in the U.S., Canada, or traveling, ZenCall works globally with just a mic and internet connection.

✅ Transparent Pricing

Rates to Cuba start at $0.65/min. No connection fees, rounding, or subscriptions. You only pay for what you use.

✅ Perfect for Families & Businesses

Many Cuban Americans use ZenCall to stay in touch with relatives. Entrepreneurs and freelancers also use it for client communication.

Step-by-Step: How to Call Cuba With ZenCall

  1. Go to zencall.com
  2. Create an account (free, takes 1 minute)
  3. Buy call credits (as little as $5 to start)
  4. Enter the Cuban number in the dialer (+53 format)
  5. Click Call and connect instantly

🕓 Pro Tip: Cuba is in the Cuba Standard Time zone, 1 hour ahead of Eastern Time. Try calling during local daytime for better reliability.

Tips for Clear, Cheap Calls to Cuba

  1. Use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data to improve call quality
  2. Avoid calling during peak evening hours when networks are congested
  3. Save frequently called Cuban numbers to reduce dialing time
  4. Track your credit in ZenCall so you never get cut off unexpectedly
  5. Let your contact know ahead of time if you’re calling a landline—they may need to be home to answer

Common Questions About Calling Cuba From the US

Can I text Cuba instead of calling?

Texting Cuban mobile numbers from the U.S. is possible, but it’s expensive—often $0.20 to $0.50 per message through major carriers. Most people use WhatsApp or Telegram for texting when Wi-Fi is available.

Why are calls to Cuba so expensive?

Cuba’s government sets high interconnection rates that foreign providers must pay. This drives up the cost for any service routing calls to the island, including digital ones like Google Voice or ZenCall.

Is it legal to call Cuba?

Yes. While some U.S. sanctions remain, making personal calls to Cuba is allowed. Business-related communication is also permitted under general licenses—though you should always check the latest OFAC guidelines if your use case is commercial.

Final Thoughts

While calling Cuba from the U.S. has historically been difficult and expensive, 2025 brings new tools and opportunities. Traditional carriers are still overpriced, calling cards are outdated, and apps are unreliable due to internet issues on the Cuban side.

That’s why ZenCall stands out—a browser-based, no-nonsense way to make affordable calls to Cuba, with clear pricing and reliable quality.

🇨🇺 Ready to stay connected with Cuba for less?

Try ZenCall now and start calling for just $0.65/min—no app, contract, or SIM card required.