Upon arrival at Havana’s José Martí International Airport (HAV), please ensure you arrive no later than 3:00 PM local time. Our driver will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodations—a charming boutique art casa located in Havana’s vibrant Vedado neighbourhood.

After check-in and a short refresh, we’ll gather for group introductions and a casual meet-and-greet over drinks, followed by a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. During the evening, we’ll go over the journey ahead, get to know one another as fellow travelers, and meet members of Havana’s local photography community.

After dinner, Rudy and Apratim will offer an optional talk sharing their experiences photographing Cuba over the years—insights, memorable moments, and a selection of favourite images and stories from past trips. While attendance is encouraged, it’s completely optional and sensitive to your energy levels after international travel.

Overnight stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

 We begin our immersive exploration of Havana in style—cruising through the city’s diverse barrios in classic 1950s American convertibles, a living symbol of Cuban identity. Along the way, we’ll make photo stops at iconic landmarks including Plaza de la Revolución, El Capitolio, Parque Central, El Morro Fortress, and a scenic drive along El Malecón.

Later, we continue on foot through the atmospheric streets and historic plazas of Old Havana, taking in its colonial architecture and vibrant street scenes. A relaxed lunch at a local paladar follows.

In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a private visit to Fototeca de Cuba, Havana’s premier photography museum and gallery, offering insight into Cuba’s visual history and contemporary photographic voices. From there, we take a short walk to a local boxing gym, a powerful space for documentary-style imagery of grit, strength, and community.

As the sun begins to set, we return to El Malecón to capture the golden hour and transition into blue hour—an ideal time for portraits, silhouettes, and mood-rich scenes by the sea.

After dinner, we dive into Havana’s vibrant nightlife. With the Jazz Festival in full swing, we’ll attend a live jazz performance and spend the evening mingling with local musicians and friends, soaking in the energy, rhythm, and spirit that defines the city.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

Today, we venture deep into the real heart of Havana—into neighborhoods far removed from tourist routes, where thousands of working Habaneros live, work, and thrive. These are communities not maintained for visitors, but rich in everyday beauty, resilience, and authenticity.

Guided by the insight and vision of two respected local Cuban photographers, we’ll explore two working-class districts. This immersive experience is about more than photography—it’s about connection. You’ll have the opportunity to spend time with locals in their homes, kitchens, rooftops, and shared spaces, listening to their stories and capturing honest, powerful portraits of daily life.

Throughout the day, you’ll shadow the Cuban photographers, learning from their perspective and approach, and gaining valuable insight into Cuba’s social fabric, visual culture, and creative spirit. This is Havana raw and real—a compelling counterpoint to the charm of Old Havana.

In the evening, we’ll gather for dinner and a group image review session—sharing reflections and photographs from the day’s experience. To cap off the night, we’ll attend the final performance of the Havana Jazz Festival, celebrating with live music, rhythm, and joy alongside local musicians and friends.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

We begin the day with a scenic ferry ride across Havana Bay to Regla, a peaceful suburb that offers a deeper look into Cuba’s Afro-Cuban heritage and spiritual traditions. Here, we’ll explore Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla, an important shrine dedicated to Yemayá, the goddess of the sea in the Santería religion. The visit provides a meaningful opportunity to learn about Cuba’s syncretic belief systems and their role in daily life.

As we walk through the quiet streets and along the busy port, we’ll capture panoramic views of Havana, local dockworkers, fishermen, and the timeless charm of this lesser-visited area. We’ll also enjoy a stop for Regla’s famous ice cream and photograph the towering Christ of Havana statue, overlooking the city from across the bay.

After returning to Havana for lunch, the afternoon takes us into the passionate world of Cuban dance. We’ll visit a renowned Flamenco studio, where dancers will be in rehearsal—offering an intimate environment for capturing movement, emotion, and artistic expression through the lens.

In the evening, we’ll attend a live dance performance, which may feature Flamenco, Rumba, Salsa, or Son depending on the schedule. Set in one of Havana’s top cultural venues, the performance offers both visual and emotional intensity—ending the day on a dynamic and spirited note.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

We begin the day with a relaxed visit to a local park and traditional Cuban coffee shop, soaking in the morning rhythms of Havana one last time before we hit the road. Our journey takes us southeast toward Cienfuegos, known as La Perla del Sur (The Pearl of the South) for its elegant French-inspired architecture and laid-back charm.

We’ll arrive by late morning and explore the main square, Parque José Martí, and its surrounding neoclassical buildings. After a short photo walk, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local paladar, taking in the city’s breezy coastal energy before continuing on to Trinidad.

Upon arrival in Trinidad, we’ll check in to our charming casa particular, nestled in the heart of this colonial town. As golden hour approaches, we’ll set out on foot to explore Trinidad’s cobblestone streets, vibrant facades, and bustling corners—perfect for warm-toned documentary imagery and architectural details.

As evening sets in, we’ll visit the lively Casa de la Música, where traditional Cuban genres like son and trova fill the night air. For those interested, a brief salsa dance lesson will be available—fun, informal, and photogenic.

At blue hour, we’ll walk through the stunning Plaza Mayor before gathering for dinner. Post-dinner, we’ll be joined by a local guest speaker—a long-time Trinidad resident, photographer, and dear friend—who will share personal stories and insights about life in Trinidad, over a glass of fine Cuban rum.

Overnight Stay: Private, elegant casa in Trinidad.

Today, we explore the magic of Trinidad, a city that feels frozen in time. With its cobblestone streets, watercolor-toned colonial homes, and vaqueros (cowboys) riding horseback through the alleys, this UNESCO-listed gem offers a rich tapestry of photographic moments.

Our day begins with a walk through the Plaza Mayor, the beating heart of Trinidad, where we’ll climb the iconic bell tower for sweeping views of the town’s terracotta rooftops. The streets offer a visual symphony: street musicians strumming guitars in shaded corners, vintage bicycles leaning against pastel walls, and locals lounging in doorways or passing by with a relaxed rhythm unique to this part of Cuba.

In the late afternoon, we’ll venture out to the nearby Valle de los Ingenios—once the center of Cuba’s sugar empire. The valley, with its crumbling sugar mills, colonial watchtowers, and wide-open fields, offers golden-hour compositions steeped in history and atmosphere.

Before sunset, we return to Trinidad to photograph the town’s rooftops bathed in warm light—perfect for capturing silhouettes, shadows, and painterly textures. Later, we’ll visit the woodworking studio of artist Lázaro Niebla, whose craft blends tradition with contemporary Cuban creativity.

The day concludes with an intimate dinner at one of Trinidad’s most beloved paladares, where we’ll enjoy fresh, locally sourced cuisine in a beautifully curated setting.

Overnight Stay: Private, elegant casa in Trinidad.

We begin the day early with a gentle photo walk through Trinidad’s historic streets and the Parque de Cruces, bathed in soft morning light. This is a quiet and contemplative time—perfect for capturing final portraits, textures, and street scenes that reflect the spirit of this timeless town.

After breakfast, we depart for Havana, arriving in the afternoon. Following check-in at our boutique casa and a brief rest, we gather for a relaxed and celebratory evening.

Dinner will be held at a beautiful rooftop venue, where we’ll be treated to an intimate private musical performance featuring one of Cuba’s most talented singer-songwriters, joined by local percussionists and instrumentalists. The session will flow between original compositions and beloved Cuban classics—creating a warm, spontaneous space to dance, unwind, or simply soak in the music under the open Havana sky.

We encourage a relatively early night’s rest in light of upcoming travel. Guests are welcome to stay and enjoy the music as long as they wish, or retreat to their rooms for personal time and reflection. There will also be optional time to review, edit, or begin selecting your best images from the journey.

Please note: Each participant will be asked to select approximately 15 favorite images, co-curated with Rudy, for a special closing-night presentation at the Raúl Corrales Gallery.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

After breakfast, we begin the day at a bustling local fruit and vegetable market, capturing the everyday rhythm of Cuban life—vendors bartering, locals shopping, and vivid scenes layered in Havana’s unmistakable colors and textures. This is a perfect space for candid moments and street-style portraits.

Next, we visit Malpaso Dance Company, one of Cuba’s most acclaimed contemporary dance studios. You’ll have the rare opportunity to photograph a live rehearsal, capturing the power, grace, and intensity of the dancers in motion. We’ll also meet with instructors and performers to better understand how movement and expression shape modern Cuban culture.

By early afternoon, we leave the city behind and travel westward to Viñales, located in Pinar del Río province—famous for its dramatic limestone mogotes, red earth, and tobacco farming heritage. Upon arrival, we’ll visit a local tobacco farmer, where we’ll learn about the traditional process of growing, drying, and hand-rolling some of the finest cigars in the world. For those curious, there will be a chance to try rolling—or even lighting—one.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll explore Viñales’ main street, where horses pass by pastel-painted houses and music drifts from open doorways. We’ll end the day with a relaxed, organic farm-to-table dinner at a local finca, surrounded by fields and mountains, under a wide Cuban sky.

Overnight Stay: Rural guesthouse or eco-lodge in Viñales, offering a peaceful and authentic countryside experience.

We begin the day early with a sunrise visit to a traditional Cuban finca, where we’ll photograph farmers at work using age-old, sustainable techniques—plowing fields with oxen, hand-harvesting crops, and tending to the land in harmony with nature. This morning shoot offers a deeply human, textured look at Cuba’s agricultural roots and rhythms—an intimate portrait of a way of life preserved through generations.

After returning to our casa particular to freshen up and check out, we’ll enjoy a beautifully prepared organic farm-to-table lunch at the scenic Finca Agroecológica El Paraíso. With sweeping valley views and lovingly made dishes sourced right from the surrounding land, this is both a culinary and visual treat.

In the afternoon, we journey back to Havana, arriving in time to relax before dinner. In the evening, we’ll head to Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC)—one of Havana’s most exciting cultural spaces. This dynamic, multi-level venue fuses contemporary art, live music, fashion, performance, and nightlife into a vibrant, immersive experience. It’s a chance to photograph and enjoy modern Cuban creativity at its boldest and most expressive.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

On our final day in Havana, we dive into the city’s hidden creative spaces—full of movement, mechanics, and magic. The morning begins with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to a local circus school, where we’ll photograph performers in training—capturing the artistry, athleticism, and emotion in a raw and intimate setting.

From there, we move to a rhumba dance rehearsal, where rhythm and energy pulse through every movement. This session offers powerful opportunities for photographing cultural expression through dance, music, and gesture.

Later, we visit a working garage that restores and maintains Cuba’s legendary classic cars—machines that have survived six decades of ingenuity and resilience. This hands-on space, full of grease, color, chrome, and character, offers a different but equally authentic slice of Cuban life.

We return to our casa in the late afternoon to refresh and prepare for the evening’s closing event.

Tonight, we celebrate the journey with a special closing reception at the Raúl Corrales Gallery, named after one of Cuba’s most iconic revolution-era photographers. You’ll have the rare opportunity to hear from the gallery director about Corrales’ legacy and view a collection of his historic works—he was one of Fidel Castro’s three personal photographers, alongside Alberto Korda and Roberto Salas.

Most importantly, the evening is dedicated to showcasing your work—a curated selection of images created during the tour, shared in the company of Cuban photographers, artists, and new friends. It’s a celebration of vision, connection, and the memories we’ve made together.

Overnight Stay: Boutique, elegant casa in the Vedado or Old Havana district.

We begin our final morning in Havana with a peaceful sunrise walk along the Malecón—a quiet moment to reflect, take in the sea breeze, and capture those last golden frames of the city awakening. Afterward, we return to the casa for a relaxed breakfast and time to prepare for departures.

Our trusted driver will provide airport transfers to Havana’s José Martí International Airport, ensuring you arrive in time for your outbound flight—whether you’re heading home or onward to your next adventure.

With hearts full of memories and memory cards full of images, we say our farewells—grateful for the shared journey, the stories lived, and the friendships formed.

Thank you for being a part of this extraordinary photographic experience. Wishing you safe travels and many more adventures ahead!

Absolutely! Whether you’re accompanying a photographer or simply drawn to the cultural richness of the journey, you’re more than welcome to join. This photo tour is designed to be immersive and inclusive, offering far more than just photography. Over the years, we’ve welcomed many non-photographers—spouses, partners, and cultural explorers—who found the experience deeply rewarding.

Even if you’re not behind the lens, there’s so much to engage with: sacred rituals, vibrant festivals, intimate local interactions, and breathtaking landscapes. On past tours, some of the most meaningful moments have come from simply walking alongside locals, sharing stories, and soaking in the atmosphere—no camera needed.

So don’t worry—you won’t be left out. There’s truly a place for everyone on this journey.

You don’t need to be an athlete — normal physical fitness is more than enough to join the Cuba Photo Tour.

That said, this is an active and immersive experience. We’ll often explore on foot, covering 5 to 7 kilometers a day, sometimes more, especially while photographing in Havana’s old neighborhoods or navigating cobbled streets in towns like Trinidad.

More than physical strength, what truly matters is a spirit of curiosity, adaptability, and cultural openness. If you’re comfortable walking, staying on your feet for a few hours, and embracing the occasional unpredictability that comes with travel in Cuba, you’ll do just fine.

While our accommodations are comfortable and we return to our casas each night for rest, the days can be long and full of sensory experiences. If you’re okay trading a bit of ease for unforgettable encounters, this journey will be incredibly rewarding.

The first thing you’ll notice in Cuba is its timeless atmosphere. In Havana, vintage American cars cruise past faded colonial facades, and Afro-Cuban rhythms drift through the air. With no billboards, no global chains, and no rush, the streets hum with a cinematic charm—textured, soulful, and entirely its own.

For those drawn to history, cities like Trinidad and Santiago de Cuba offer a living archive of the island’s colonial legacy and revolutionary spirit. Stroll along cobblestone streets, admire centuries-old architecture, and feel the presence of stories that still shape Cuba today.

More than just a destination, Cuba is an experience—visually rich, culturally layered, and emotionally resonant. Expect warm people, unfiltered beauty, and moments that unfold with quiet spontaneity, rewarding those who slow down and truly observe.

Travel & Comfort
While some days will involve long drives between regions, we prioritize your comfort and safety. All overland travel will be in private, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey as the landscape unfolds.

• A luxury holiday: While we’ve arranged some of the best boutique casas particulares and comfortable, air-conditioned travel, this is a photo expedition, not a leisure vacation. Expect early mornings, long walks, street-level exploration, and full days of immersive activity. The focus is on photography, not pampering.
• Rigid schedules: Cuba operates on its own rhythm. Things may start late, shift unexpectedly, or unfold in ways that surprise us. Whether it’s a community gathering, a musician’s impromptu street session, or a schedule change due to local logistics, flexibility is essential. Often, the most unforgettable moments are the ones we didn’t plan for.

Vaccinations: What’s Recommended?
For short-term travel to Cuba, the most commonly recommended vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid
• Tetanus (with Diphtheria and Pertussis booster)

For those planning longer stays, rural travel, or closer contact with local communities, the following may also be advised:

• Hepatitis B
• Rabies
• Polio
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Chikungunya
• Tick-borne Encephalitis

If you are arriving from a country where Yellow Fever is present, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination may be required.

Routine Travel Vaccinations (as per CDC & WHO recommendations):

• Influenza (annual shot)
• COVID-19 (up to date, including boosters)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Pneumococcal (especially for adults 65+ or immunocompromised)
• Chickenpox & Shingles (if not already immune)
• Meningitis
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis – one adult booster recommended)

🩺 We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health specialist at least 4–6 weeks before departure to review your health history and finalize any necessary vaccinations.

You should also be aware that medications are far less available in Cuba. Therefore, you should bring all prescription medications required for the entire trip, as well as any other medications or items (such as insulin, inhalers; epi-pens, etc.) advised by your physician. Over-the-counter medicines common in the U.S. are also not readily available in Cuba, even at pharmacies or clinics, so visitors are advised to bring a supply of ibuprofen or aspirin, Imodium or Pepto Bismol, hand sanitizer, and antacids if they may need them.

February is one of the best times to visit Cuba, offering warm, sunny, and mostly dry weather—ideal for travel and photography. Daytime temperatures typically range between 26°C to 28°C (79°F to 82°F), while evenings are comfortably cool, averaging 19°C to 21°C (66°F to 70°F).

Rainfall is minimal, with only the occasional short, light shower—meaning you can expect clear skies and golden light for much of the trip. It’s the perfect season for long walks, vibrant street photography, and enjoying Cuba’s rich culture without the intensity of summer heat.

You should bring cameras, a laptop (for editing in free time), and extra batteries for the camera; these kinds of things instantly spring to mind. Once you confirm your booking with a 50% deposit, we will send you all the information you need to fully prepare yourself for this epic journey.

This is just an idea about the suggested camera and accessory:

• One or two DSLR or Mirrorless (Full Frame or Crop Sensor) cameras. If you use a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera, for much of the time, when photographing in streets and people, you will want to cover focal lengths of around 24-70mm or 24-105mm. However, a kit lens (18-55/3.5 or 4.0) will also work.
• For photographing portraits, consider bringing a prime lens 35mm, 50mm or 85mm.
• If you bring a good quality bridge camera instead of a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it will be best if it has an optical zoom of 18-20x or more, combined with a reasonable wide angle at the other end of the zoom range.
• Protector for your lens.
• Power Bank & Electric Socket Extension.
• Adequate memory card.
• Be sure to bring plenty of spare battery power for your camera and external hard drive with adequate space and a card reader.
• A Computer with photo-processing software [Lightroom, Photoshop]. (If you do not have this software, don’t worry, we’ll provide it.)
• A tripod is not required; however, if you want to shoot night cityscapes, you may want to carry it.
• Carry a microfiber to wipe the lens.

Arrival Airport: Jose Marti International Airport (HAV), Havana

Departure Airport: Jose Marti International Airport (HAV), Havana

Travel Visa & Immigration

Travel documents for Cuba include a tourist visa, a valid passport, and medical insurance. You will need to obtain a tourist visa, which can be purchased online (www.visacuba.com), at a Cuban embassy, or through your airline.

US citizens need to declare their purpose for visiting when booking a trip to Cuba. Our trips can be classified either as “Educational”, or “Support for the Cuban People”. You can always contact us for assistance with obtaining your visa.

🔗 To check visa requirements based on your nationality, visit: Visa Map

Important Notice

Please note that obtaining a visa is your sole responsibility.
EXPOSURE cannot be held liable for denied entry or failure to acquire the required documents. No refunds will be issued if you are unable to join the tour due to visa issues.

This is not a cold-weather trip, so you don’t have to bring warm clothing; only bring light warm clothing like a windcheater because at night it will be slightly cold.

This is a suggested packing list to make your trip a fulfilling and comfortable experience.

• Backpack or suitcase
• Comfortable light boots for walking
• Sunglasses
• Sun care cream
• Water bottle with 1 litre capacity
• Wet tissues
• Insurance confirmation copy
• Emergency contact number
• Carry your essential and basic medicines for headaches, fever, stomach upset, etc.
• Extra battery for the camera
• Adequate storage media

Violent crime is extremely rare in Cuba, so you can walk in any neighbourhood in Havana during the day and be quite safe. In the evening, traveling in groups is a good idea, and as in any large city, take precautions against theft: Pay attention to your surroundings and secure your camera gear, don’t leave your camera bag unattended while photographing, or leave it behind your chair during a meal.

You can choose any flight on Day -1, arriving before 3:00 PM. It’s recommended to arrive a day earlier to rest and ensure you don’t develop jet lag. We can arrange extra occupancy with a very small amount in the same hotel and room if needed, so you won’t have to change rooms later.

Registration is open from 15th July 2025 till 30th November 2025 or till the seat reservations end.

Only a maximum of 5 participants will be selected for this photo tour.

Participants will be granted the expedition based on email confirmation on a first-come come first first-served basis. Feel free to call +91 8509333385 or WhatsApp at +918900702900 for any further assistance.

To reserve your spot, a 50% deposit of the full tour amount is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before the tour. You can pay via the online payment link on our website, or request our account details or PayPal information for the transfer. Your reservation may be cancelled if full payment is not received by the specified deadline. After making the payment, please send us a copy or screenshot of the bank receipt. Upon confirmation, we will email you the Rules and Regulations of the tour, securing your spot on the photo tour.

All cancellations must be made in writing (email is acceptable) and will take effect on the date of receipt (by standard mail or electronically). Once the tour begins, there can be no refunds for any unused portions, including rooms, meals, flights, tour days, events, or services. Please note that the cancellation penalties outlined below are based on costs incurred by EXPOSURE on your behalf, including non-refundable deposits or payments to agents, hotels, airlines, etc.

In the event of a cancellation or modification of your confirmed booking, EXPOSURE’s Cancellation and Refund Policy will apply, and you must fully agree to be bound by them. Any refunds will be processed within 15 working days from the date of written confirmation of cancellation, via the same method used for payment.

Cancellation fees are as follows:

• 40% of the total fee if cancelled 90 days or more before the start of the trip.
• 100% of the total fee if cancelled 59 days or less before the start of the trip.

Please carefully read all details on this page and the Detailed Terms and Conditions, as well as the Disclaimer/Undertaking in the Registration cum Booking Form.

Trip cancellation by EXPOSURE:

• In the unlikely event that EXPOSURE must cancel a tour or workshop due to a lack of participants or any other reason, a full refund, including the deposit, will be issued.
• We will notify you in advance if a cancellation is being considered. If a photo tour is cancelled, 100% of your deposit and payments will be refunded.
• However, EXPOSURE is not liable for any expenses incurred, such as airfare, accommodations, or equipment costs. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage.