January 12-20, 2026
Rural & Landscape
Photography
• 9 Days
• Photographer | Guide
• Only 4-8 Guests
• Cuban Guide & Driver
• Upscale Casas
• All Meals
• Local Transportation
• OFAC Approved
• US Citizen Compliant
Support for the Cuban People
VANISHING CUBA | EASTERN CUBA
Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Cayo Granma, Guantanamo
VANISHING CUBA
HAVANA
EASTERN CUBA
CUBA PRIVATE
Explore the untouched eastern shores of Cuba for the ultimate authentic experience.
Our 9-day Eastern Cuba Photo Tour and Cultural adventure will explore the untouched eastern shores of Cuba for the ultimate authentic experience. The east of Cuba, known as “el Oriente,” is where all of Cuba’s revolutions and uprisings began, making it rich in history and heritage. This photo adventure includes frenetic cities, deserted beaches, and small municipalities in a part of the island that remains mostly untapped by tourism. Forget the wild west, this is the wild east.
Our Cuban journey starts in Santiago de Cuba, the country’s second city and former capital. Stepping out into its hot and heavy atmosphere, it’s clear how this place was such a hotbed of resistance and revolt. We will be visiting some of the city’s main museums to help us piece together the remarkable story of Fidel Castro and his Cuban Revolution.
We will also head to Cayo Granma in Santiago’s Bay, a sequestered island that is so small it can be covered on foot in just sixty minutes, yet you’ll be eager to stay for a lot longer. We will interact with the locals, photographing the few families that inhabit the key and dwell above the water on stilted rickety houses. Journeying outside of the city, we will drive towards the ethereal beacon of el Cobre church perched on the Santiago hillside. We will join devotees as they complete their pilgrimage to this hallowed ground where there are endless curiosities to photograph: bright yellow sunflowers and abandoned crutches left to Cuba’s patron saint as symbolic offerings.
Winding through the mountainous La Farola Road, we will then descend into the storybook village of Baracoa, Cuba’s very first capital and unquestionably the most paradisiacal part of the island. Picture virgin beaches, echoing canyons, and winding rivers that are integral to the local way of life. The national parks and protected areas we will visit in Baracoa are teeming with endemic wildlife at every turn, countless birds, mollusks with multicolored shells, and the world’s smallest frog.
Besides the nature photography, we’ll be photographing the locals of Baracoa, the island’s most hospitable. This includes a trip to a tiny hamlet to meet a community whose remote location has allowed them to keep their indigenous dance and culinary customs alive. We will also participate in a very special “Quinceañera” shoot, a time-honored tradition in Cuba to celebrate a girl’s transition into womanhood.
OUR CUBAN RECIPE FOR SUCCESS: We really know how to do Cuba right. With a small group of 6-7 guests, we stay in beautiful and authentic Casa Particulares (Cuban bed & breakfasts), traveling in air-conditioned vehicles and beautifully restored vintage American automobiles. We dine at some of Cuba’s best restaurants and authentic hidden gem paladars, and lastly, we expose you to both the most authentic and photogenic Cuba.
This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most picturesque locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and consider the cultural challenges of photographing in a foreign country as complex and unique as Cuba.
Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you go home with images to be proud of while also using your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general, turning an ordinary image into an extraordinary one through your own creativity. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. Cuba offers more photographic opportunities than any other adventure we offer. El Oriente is not to be missed!
Photo Workshop Adventures provides 100% legal and compliant Cuba travel under US Treasury Department’s OFAC License CT-2016-327909 / C.F.R. 515.567. This allows group travel to Cuba for “workshops” and “support for the Cuban people”.
Our Cuban journey starts in Santiago de Cuba, the country’s second city and former capital. Stepping out into its hot and heavy atmosphere, it’s clear how this place was such a hotbed of resistance and revolt. We will be visiting some of the city’s main museums to help us piece together the remarkable story of Fidel Castro and his Cuban Revolution.
We will also head to Cayo Granma in Santiago’s Bay, a sequestered island that is so small it can be covered on foot in just sixty minutes, yet you’ll be eager to stay for a lot longer. We will interact with the locals, photographing the few families that inhabit the key and dwell above the water on stilted rickety houses. Journeying outside of the city, we will drive towards the ethereal beacon of el Cobre church perched on the Santiago hillside. We will join devotees as they complete their pilgrimage to this hallowed ground where there are endless curiosities to photograph: bright yellow sunflowers and abandoned crutches left to Cuba’s patron saint as symbolic offerings.
Winding through the mountainous La Farola Road, we will then descend into the storybook village of Baracoa, Cuba’s very first capital and unquestionably the most paradisiacal part of the island. Picture virgin beaches, echoing canyons, and winding rivers that are integral to the local way of life. The national parks and protected areas we will visit in Baracoa are teeming with endemic wildlife at every turn, countless birds, mollusks with multicolored shells, and the world’s smallest frog.
Besides the nature photography, we’ll be photographing the locals of Baracoa, the island’s most hospitable. This includes a trip to a tiny hamlet to meet a community whose remote location has allowed them to keep their indigenous dance and culinary customs alive. We will also participate in a very special “Quinceañera” shoot, a time-honored tradition in Cuba to celebrate a girl’s transition into womanhood.
OUR CUBAN RECIPE FOR SUCCESS: We really know how to do Cuba right. With a small group of 6-7 guests, we stay in beautiful and authentic Casa Particulares (Cuban bed & breakfasts), traveling in air-conditioned vehicles and beautifully restored vintage American automobiles. We dine at some of Cuba’s best restaurants and authentic hidden gem paladars, and lastly, we expose you to both the most authentic and photogenic Cuba.
This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most picturesque locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and consider the cultural challenges of photographing in a foreign country as complex and unique as Cuba.
Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you go home with images to be proud of while also using your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general, turning an ordinary image into an extraordinary one through your own creativity. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. Cuba offers more photographic opportunities than any other adventure we offer. El Oriente is not to be missed!
Photo Workshop Adventures provides 100% legal and compliant Cuba travel under US Treasury Department’s OFAC License CT-2016-327909 / C.F.R. 515.567. This allows group travel to Cuba for “workshops” and “support for the Cuban people”.
100% Compliant and Legal Travel to Cuba for U.S. Citizens
Photo Workshop Adventures LLC travels to Cuba under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574 – Support for the Cuban People.
Group Size
4-8 Guests
Experience | Difficulty
- Beginner, amateur, enthusiast, semi-pro and pro photographers
- All camera formats
- Busy schedule
- Travel by air-conditioned van
- Minimal elevation changes and lots of walking
- (non-photographers are also welcome)
Weather | Sun
December to March – Temps 80/63 F 26/17 C Approx. Sunrise 7:10 | Sunset 6:17 (18:17)
Includes
- 9 Days
- Travel, street, people, landscape, and architecture photography
- Meet with Cuban photographers, students, musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs
- Professional photographer | guide
- Cuban guide and driver (English speaking)
- Photo walks & discussions
- Small group (4–8 guests)
- Upscale Cuban Casas
- All breakfasts
- 5 meals (including our Welcome and Farewell Dinners)
- Local transportation in vintage American cars and air-conditioned vehicles
- Travel under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574 – Support for the Cuban People
What To Expect
Cuba is not just unique but one of the most rewarding photographic and cultural experiences you will ever encounter. Because Cuba is so different, it requires an open-minded and rewarding sense of adventure. As is often said in Cuba, “It’s not what you want; it’s what we have.” Prepare yourself to be completely wowed.
Accommodations
The finest Cuban Bed & Breakfasts
Travel Information
Support for the Cuban People
Throughout each day, we are committed to “Support for the Cuban People” under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574. Our goal is to promote independent activity intended to strengthen and support civil society in Cuba and constitute a full-time schedule that enhances contact with the Cuban people and results in meaningful interaction between ourselves and individuals in Cuba. We never pay for lodging at any property on the CPA List to the extent prohibited by § 515.210. In addition, we will support Cuban entrepreneurs launching their privately-owned businesses. Our only accommodations are private Cuban residences (casa particulars). We only eat at privately-owned Cuban restaurants (paladares), and we only shop at privately owned stores run by self-employed Cubans.
Visas
U.S.-based airlines distribute Cuban Visas at the airport using our documents. A Cuban Visa cost $50 – $100 depending on the airline. International travelers who require a Cuban visa can get their visa through the Cuban Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries.
Helpful Links
> Venturing to Cuba for the First Time – by Darrell Miller
> Legal US Travel to Cuba – by Michael Chinnici
> Comparing Photo Adventures – by Michael Chinnici
> Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski Habana – by Michael Chinnici (no longer available to U.S. Citizens)
> How to Keep Cuban Cigars Fresh – by Michael Chinnici
> Iceland + Cuba – 14 Days of Discovery – by Michael Chinnici
> Coffee Around the World – by Ian Robert Knight
Eastern Cuba Prices & Dates
Adventure | Price | REGISTER | Available |
---|---|---|---|
From: $7,295 |
Photographer Leader
Michael Chinnici
January 12-20, 2026
*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
EASTERN CUBA 9 DAYS
Day 1 | Miami - Santiago de Cuba
We meet early at Miami International Airport (MIA) for our flight to Santiago de Cuba (SCU). Santiago is Cuba’s second city, known as a musical and historical hotbed. Santiago is a frenetic, passionate, and noisy city. Situated closer to Haiti and the Dominican Republic than Havana, it is culturally distinct from its capital, a crucial factor shaping this city’s unique identity steeped in Afro-Caribbean heritage.
We will settle into our casa upon arrival and begin our amazing EASTERN CUBA Photo Adventure. In the afternoon, we’ll explore the streets of Santiago, visiting and photographing key historical landmarks: Parque Céspedes and Museo de Arte Colonial, the residence of Diego Velázquez (Cuba’s oldest house), and a visit to Plaza Dolores. We will also have an interactive discussion with architect Norka Cabrales, Santiago’s leading expert in the preservation and conservation of historical heritage. We will also explore different areas of the city, including the old French Quarter, the suburbs of Vista Alegre, and down by the docks.
In the evening we’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at one of our favorite Cuban restaurants. (D)
Day 2 | Santiago - Baracao
Today, we depart Santiago for an amazing drive along the famous “La Farola” road, winding through Eastern Cuba’s Rainforest and mountain ranges to reach breathtaking Baracoa. Designated as Cuba’s first capital, Baracoa is not to be missed.
After a long drive, the late afternoon and evening is spent exploring the town. Its most interesting relic is the Parra Cross, which is said to be one of the 29 that Christopher Columbus left in the New World as a witness to the arrival of Christianity and is the only one that remains. The cross is exhibited in Our Lady of Assumption Parish Church and is the oldest Columbus-related artifact in the Americas. Apart from the breathtaking nature, its people also make Baracoa so special. The town is full of local characters keen to share their stories with us. (B) (L) (D)
Day 3 | Yumuri - Finca Las Mujeres - El Güirito
On our first full day in Baracoa, we take a trip to the Yumurí Canyon, a site inundated with natural wonders to photograph, including cascading waterfalls, rainforests, cliffs, and flora and fauna. We take a scenic boat ride along the Yumurí River that runs through the canyon and capture life along the river for the local “baracoenses.” We can also see Baracoa’s most famous and photogenic creature – the polymita snail.
We then pay a visit to the hamlet of El Güirito, home to one of the last remaining communities in Cuba that have maintained their indigenous customs. There, we meet with the locals and see them perform traditional Taíno dancing before getting together for a lunch spread of traditional indigenous dishes.
Finally, on our way back to town, we swing by an all-female Cacao farm run by eccentric local Daisy, who demonstrates the harvesting and artisan production process of the locals’ most loved crop.
The evening is spent dining at Cuba’s only vegan restaurant. (B) (L) (D)
Day 4 | Alexander Humboldt Park – Playa Maguana
Today, we get up early to drive along the very bumpy Moa Highway to Alexander Humboldt National Park, world-renowned for its high level of species endemism. We hop on a boat ride around the paradisiacal Taco Bay. As well as experiencing the diverse aquatic and bird life, we may even be lucky enough to spot the famous manatees that dwell in this inlet’s waters. The boat ride also takes us deep into the wild and shadowy mangrove forests, a vital yet endangered part of the park’s ecosystem.
On the way back, we spend the afternoon at one of Baracoa’s postcard-perfect beaches, Maguana, with many opportunities to photograph its crystalline seas, white sands, and enthusiastic locals or kick back and relax. (B) (L) (D)
Day 5 | Yara-Majayara – Quinceañera Photoshoot
Today we are up early and on a safari ride through thick tropical undergrowth to get to the Yara-Majayara protected park. There, we discover the town’s most spectacular view. Along the way, we can also make several stop-offs to photograph the humble homes and people of the rural farming communities in the area.
In the afternoon, we participate in a very special and intimate experience: a Quinceañera Photoshoot. A quinceañera, similar to a sweet sixteen, celebrates a girl’s 15th birthday and marks her passage into womanhood. One of the most important parts of this milestone event is the photoshoot, where the teen dresses up in extravagant gowns and poses for the camera around the town’s most scenic locations. This is one of the most authentically Cuban experiences we will have on the trip.
On our final night here, one of our casa’s hosts puts on a family-style dinner for us to enjoy the best home- cooked cuisine in Baracoa. (B) (L) (D)
Day 6 | Baracoa - Santiago de Cuba
After breakfast, we depart Baracoa for our return to Santiago.
Upon arrival, we will have our lunch and check-in to our casa. Later, we head to Cuba’s most iconic church that looms down on the tiny mining village of El Cobre from the hilltops. This is one of the most palpably sacred spots on the island and a pilgrimage site where thousands visit the shrine of the country’s patron saint, the Virgin of Charity. (B) (L) (D)
Day 7 | El Morro - Cayo Granma
Today being Sunday, we will dive right into city street photography before visiting El Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, also known as El Morro Fortress, at the Bay of Santiago in the afternoon. Built-in 1638 to defend against foreign attacks and piracy, the fortress has since served as a prison and auxiliary bastion bearing proof of its long history with authentic war memorabilia and the original wooden crucifix from the 16th century. The fortress provides us with beautiful panoramic opportunities.
This will be followed by a nearby lunch with an astonishing view. From El Morro, a short drive to a ferry will take us to the tiny fantasy island of Cayo Granma, situated in Santiago’s Bay. Here, we explore its red- roofed wooden houses, many sitting on stilts above the water, chat with locals and hike up to the small whitewashed Iglesia de San Rafael Church at the key’s highest point. This excursion is one of our favorite experiences in Santiago de Cuba, and we will spend much of the afternoon exploring. (B) (L) (D)
Day 8 | Moncada Barracks –Cafetal Isabelica
In the morning, we visit Santiago’s most historically significant site, the Moncada Barracks. This is where Fidel Castro tried (and failed) to overthrow the Batista dictatorship and is considered the moment that triggered the Cuban Revolution.
After lunch, we will head out of the city on a drive up into the nearby mountains to La Gran Piedra, a curious giant rock formation with one of the best panoramic views in Cuba. Just below are some beautiful botanical gardens built on the ruins of an old French coffee plantation with both Caribbean and European plant species.
Close by, we will visit Cafetal Isabelica, the area’s most well-preserved former coffee plantation. We will explore the grounds as well as the home of its old French owner and its harrowing slave quarters. Our time in Santiago coincides with Cuba’s annual Jazz Plaza festival, so we will get to enjoy what Santiago is most famous for music. The final evening of our eastern Cuba trip will involve live concerts, cocktails, and our famous Farewell Dinner. (B) (L) (D)
Day 9 | Santiago de Cuba - Miami
SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE
Throughout each day, we are committed to “Support for the Cuban People” under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574. Our goal is to promote independent activity intended to strengthen and support civil society in Cuba and constitute a full-time schedule that enhances contact with the Cuban people and results in meaningful interaction between ourselves and individuals in Cuba. We never pay for lodging at any property on the CPA List to the extent prohibited by § 515.210. In addition, we will support Cuban entrepreneurs launching their privately-owned businesses. Our only accommodations are private Cuban residences (casa particular). We only eat at privately-owned Cuban restaurants (paladares), and we only shop at privately owned stores run by self-employed Cubans.
(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion
May all who come as guests... leave as friends®
OPTIONS AND BENEFITS
Pricing
All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.
Private Guided Adventures
We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.
Travel Insurance
We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.
The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.
Rewards Program
Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!
How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.
ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.
GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.
Additional Gold Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).
Additional VIP Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
- Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
- Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*
Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.
THINK ORANGE Magazine
Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!
Gift Cards
Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.