From South Africa to Cuba
When travelling from South Africa to Cuba: None of your South Africa plug types fit in Cuba. You will need a travel adapter. Voltage is different (230V → 120V). Check your charger label; if it doesn’t list 120V you’ll also need a voltage converter. Frequency differs (50Hz → 60Hz). Modern phone and laptop chargers are usually fine, but some clocks, motors, and appliances may behave incorrectly.
South Africa
CubaYour plugs
Type C
No fit
Type M
No fit
Type N
No fit
Accepted in Cuba
Type A
Type B
0 of 3 plug type(s) match
You: C, M, N • Cuba: A, B
No fit for: C, M, N
Voltage: 230V → 120V
Different voltage
You may need a voltage converter.
Frequency: 50Hz → 60Hz
Different frequency
Check device supports both 50/60 Hz.
You will need an adapter and likely a converterAdapters you may need
Your plug shape does not fully match. Voltage differs; check for 100–240V support.
About electricity in Cuba
Cuba uses 120V/60Hz with Type A and B sockets, broadly North American compatible.
Grid & history
Cuba’s grid is in chronic crisis, aging Soviet-era oil-fired plants, fuel shortages, and limited investment have caused multi-hour scheduled outages nationwide. Tourist hotels usually have generator backup.
Availability
Very unreliable nationwide. Tourist hotels almost always have generators.
Sockets & hotels
Officially Type A/B at 120V, but some older buildings still have 220V sockets (from the Soviet era). Verify before plugging in.
Energy mix
Practical tips
- US plugs fit modern Cuban sockets directly.
- Bring a high-capacity power bank, outages are routine.
- Older buildings may still have 220V Type C sockets in places. Verify voltage first.
Frequently asked questions
- Will my South Africa plug work in Cuba?
- No. None of your South Africa plugs (Type C, Type M, Type N) fit in Cuba sockets (Type A, Type B), so you will need a travel adapter.
- What plug type does Cuba use?
- Cuba uses Type A, Type B. The supply is 120V at 60Hz.
- Do I need a voltage converter for Cuba when travelling from South Africa?
- Cuba runs on 120V, while South Africa uses 230V. Check your charger label for a 100 to 240V rating; if it does not list 120V you will also need a voltage converter.
- Is the electrical frequency in Cuba the same as South Africa?
- Frequency in Cuba is 60Hz, while South Africa uses 50Hz. Modern phone and laptop chargers handle either, but clocks, motors, and some heating appliances may behave incorrectly.