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Our 5 most popular Cuba Photography Tours trips. Compare tour itineraries from 8 tour companies. 20 reviews.
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Top Cuba Photography Tours Experiences
- Diverse Experiences on Cuba Photography Tours Capture the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and captivating scenes of daily life on photo tours to Cuba. From bustling city streets to tranquil rural areas, each tour offers diverse experiences, ensuring unforgettable moments behind the lens.
- Getting that quintessential shot of a classic American car against the backdrop of colonial-era buildings in Old Havana
- Meeting locals and incorporating them into your portraits
- Snapping shots of Havana at night from a rooftop salsa club
- Joining a naturalist for a walk around the Zapata Peninsula to try and capture images of the bee hummingbird, the world's smallest bird
- Exploring the vibrant street art scene in the colorful alleys of Trinidad
- Photographing traditional Afro-Cuban music and dance performances in Santiago de Cuba
- Documenting the daily life of tobacco farmers in the lush valleys of Viñales
- Capturing the breathtaking sunsets over the Malecón in Havana
- Immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of local festivals and celebrations throughout the country
- Snapping candid shots of locals going about their daily routines in bustling marketplaces
Cuba Photography Tours Tours & Travel Guide
Cuba Photography Tours Attractions & Landmarks Guide
There is nowhere quite like Cuba for photographers. From the well-preserved colonial architecture in Havana to the lush, green countryside of the Vinales Valley, Cuba is a photographer's dream destination.
Besides ample time to perfect your skills, you'll also have the opportunity to meet and mingle with local Cubans, artists, politicians, and doctors.
Many tours, such as those with Road Scholar and National Geographic Adventures, , offer the chance to travel with Pulitzer Prize-winning photographers who will help you hone your skills and provide photography tips along the way.
Traveling with a tour group in Cuba means you'll be around other photography enthusiasts, enabling you to not only learn from them but perhaps find a friend for life. Most tours offer flexible itineraries and provide ample free time to explore Havana and other cities at your leisure. But if wandering solo is important to you, always double-check the trip itinerary and inquire directly with the tour operator.
What To Expect From a Photography Tour in Cuba
Photography tours in Cuba will include accommodation at well-known three- to four-star hotels in Havana, Trinidad, and elsewhere on the island.
Many hotels in Cuba have beautiful, ornate lobbies dating back to the heydays of the 1930s and 40s when American celebrities used to jet over to Havana for the weekend. Some of your best photos may be of the intricate designs in the lobbies of hotels such as Hotel Inglaterra.
Food in Cuba has also improved over the past few years, and it's no longer just the land of rice and beans. Delicious meals are made nightly in paladares (privately owned restaurants) around Havana. Some of the most well-known include:
Cafe del Oriente: It's one of the best 'fine dining' establishments in all of Havana. Expect a good imported wine list and everything from steak to fish --- a bit pricey but worth it.
Habana Mia 7: A tiny restaurant near the Malecon, it serves octopus, risotto, and fresh fish.
Somos Cuba: It's a classic Havana paladar run by a couple, so expect a slow service. It's a small, casual place with basic but delicious food.
La Guardia: It's one of the city's more upscale and popular paladares. Walk up the marble staircase into the grand dining room and be transported back in time. Delicious food, from seafood to lasagna, is on the menu.
Le Chansonnier: It delivers white booths with tablecloths and an upscale dining experience. While waiting for your food, take in the beautiful artwork on the wall created by local Cuban artists.
Dona Eutimia: One of the more well-known paladares in Old Havana, it's not cheap but no fine-dining prices either. Guests can sit inside or out and can expect basic Cuban fare.
Best Places for Cuba Photography Tours
Cuba is a photographer's paradise, with diverse experiences waiting to be captured at every corner. From bustling city streets to serene rural landscapes, Cuba offers vibrant culture and captivating scenes, promising unforgettable moments behind the lens.
Old Havana
Most photo tours to Cuba start in Havana, the capital and tourist epicenter. Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the hotspot for capturing fantastic shots — both landscapes and portraits.
Some of the best spots to capture photos in Old Havana include:
The Catedral de San Cristobal: Located in a square on the edge of Old Havana, it has a history worth exploring. Although its facade is very worn — it was completed in 1777 — it's still intact enough, and you can capture it from multiple angles around the square. Then, relax with a coffee at one of the square's many cafes.
Plaza de Armas: It's another square in Old Havana, popular among Cuba photography trips. Besides housing the Museo de la Ciudad (City Museum), it's also a great place to take snapshots of everyday Havana street life. Grab a coffee or a refreshing drink and watch people go by.
Plaza Vieja: It's an open space in Old Havana on the itinerary of most photography tours to Cuba. Surrounding the plaza are beautiful, restored, and colorful colonial buildings, with all of their architectural splendor still intact.
Casa del Conde Jaruco: It was built in the 18th century and displays some of the city's most beautiful stained glass windows. The magnitude of colors and architectural detail make for some lovely photos.
The Malecon
This seaside promenade stretches for 8 kilometers around Havana and is an excellent place for a morning jog or sunset stroll. The Malecon is where local Cubans of all ages come to hang out, chat, listen to music, or catch up on the day's news.
You will get the opportunity to capture fishermen testing their skills from the edge of the seawall. With its softer light, Sunrise provides an excellent opportunity to photograph street life around the Malecon and shots of the sea and the city itself.
Sunset is when things come to life, and it's often possible to capture images of locals playing music and drinking rum, who are all too willing to pose for the camera.
Walking on the Malecon is generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings and go earlier in the evening when it is busy with people.
Hotel Inglaterra
Who would think of a hotel as a top spot for photography? But, not with Hotel Inglaterra. It's the oldest, and perhaps most classic, hotel in Havana, which dates back to 1844. Since then, it's played host to such international luminaries as Winston Churchill.
The traditional neoclassical architecture is an immediate draw to many photographers, and that's only from the exterior. Inside, an ornate lobby offers further exploration and the chance to capture the epitome of classic Spanish architecture. Many tour operators book rooms in the Inglaterra, so you won't have to venture far to take some amazing shots.
Trinidad
The beautiful cobblestoned city of Trinidad lies in the southern part of the island, about an hour's drive on Cuba's notoriously choppy roads. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage site, Trinidad, has been beautifully preserved to its colonial charms.
Artist galleries and restaurants with live music line the narrow cobblestone streets. Walking through an open door might reveal a couple of men playing dominos on a plastic table or cooking a traditional pig roast.
Visit the Plaza Major to experience an open-air colonial architecture museum and then check out live music next to the cathedral in the same location.
Photo ops abound in Trinidad, from real cowboys riding horses through the cobblestone streets to women in flowery dresses on their way to market to donkeys pulling wooden carts full of fresh fruit.
Trinidad storefronts appear in shades of pastel yellow, blue, and green. No two adjoining buildings look alike, making for some stunning photographs.
Climbing to the top of the Church of the Holy Trinity affords sweeping views of the town and surrounding hillside and is worth the climb.
Of course, there's no lack of classic cars in Trinidad, which makes every photo worthy of an award against the backdrop of the charming town.
The further you get from Havana, the more traditional the scene becomes. Trinidad is undoubtedly one of those places that wouldn't have looked much different if you visited 50 years ago. Many Cuba photo tours stop in Trinidad to experience its authenticity.
Cuba Photography Trips for Travelers on a Budget
Cuba offers a range of photography tours catering to various budgets. While some tours can be expensive due to their unique experiences, there are plenty of budget-friendly photo ideas to explore Cuba's beauty.
From capturing colorful street scenes and architectural details to photographing local life in bustling markets and vibrant neighborhoods, there are numerous opportunities for memorable shots that won't break the bank.
Additionally, exploring Cuba's natural landscapes, such as beaches, parks, and countryside, can provide stunning backdrops for photography at little to no cost.
Best Hidden Gems for Photography Tours in Cuba
Beyond the iconic landmarks and bustling streets lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered and shot in Cuba. Here are some lesser-known places and ideas that promise unique and captivating photo opportunities:
Valle de Viñales: Explore the picturesque tobacco fields and limestone karsts of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning landscapes and vibrant rural life.
Baracoa: Venture to Cuba's easternmost city to capture the charm of its colonial architecture, lush rainforests, and secluded beaches.
Ciénaga de Zapata: Delve into the largest wetland in the Caribbean, home to diverse wildlife and pristine natural habitats ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
Trinidad's Surroundings: Wander beyond the historic center of Trinidad to discover hidden waterfalls, sugar plantations, and traditional villages steeped in Cuban culture.
Malecón at Sunrise: Experience the magic of Havana's Malecón in the early morning light, capturing fishermen, locals, and the city skyline against a backdrop of colorful skies.
Muraleando: Visit this community art project in Havana to photograph vibrant murals and engage with local artists, offering insight into Cuba's contemporary art scene.
Sancti Spíritus: Roam the streets of this charming colonial town, known for its well-preserved architecture and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for capturing timeless scenes of daily life.
Cayo Jutías: Escape to this secluded island paradise off Cuba's northern coast, where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide idyllic settings for beach photography and relaxation.
Santiago de Cuba: Immerse yourself in the rhythms of Afro-Cuban culture and music in this vibrant city, capturing lively street scenes, colorful festivals, and historic landmarks.
Sunrise at Castillo del Morro: Climb to the top of this historic fortress in Santiago de Cuba to witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Caribbean Sea. This offers a unique perspective for landscape photography.
Best Photography Galleries in Cuba
Immerse yourself in Cuba's vibrant arts scene and discover some of the country's best photography galleries. From contemporary showcases to historical collections, these galleries offer a glimpse into Cuba's rich visual heritage and showcase the talents of local and international photographers alike.
El Taller Experimental de Gráfica: This artist workshop, founded in 1962 with the support of the infamous revolutionary Che Guevara, is still a thriving studio today. Inside, artists of all ages delicately create traditional prints using decades-old techniques. Many prints are for sale. You can also discuss the art pieces directly with their creators, which is a unique experience.
Fototeca de Cuba: It opened in 1986 with the sole goal of promoting Cuba's photogenic history. It houses the country's most valuable photo collections. The bottom floor displays new and up-and-coming Cuban photographers. The upper galleries house established Cuban photographers and some works from international artists.
Museo Nacional de Bellas Arte: Although more of a traditional art museum than a photography gallery, it's still worth a stop. It was built in the Spanish Renaissance style in 1927 and features works from artists around the world, including the United States, Latin America, France, and Spain. It's particularly known for its collection of Spanish art, with hundreds of works from famous 19th-century artists like Velazquez and Zuluoga.
Travel to Cuba: Practicalities and Logistics
A journey to Cuba requires careful planning and consideration of various practicalities and logistics. This section provides essential information from visa requirements to transportation options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience to this captivating Caribbean destination.
Before You Begin Photo Tour to Cuba:
All American citizens traveling to Cuba require a visa. Most tour operators usually include this fee in the trip's price or have a separate visa fee that is paid once your trip is confirmed.
Either way, booking a Cuba trip with a tour company that will help you handle the visa logistics is a good idea. UK citizens also must obtain a tourist card before traveling to Cuba. Read more about what you need to know before traveling to Cuba.
Medical Care and Insurance
Medical care in Cuba is quite good, with more doctors per capita than many other countries. However, you should always travel with insurance; many tour operators can recommend a plan to cover you while on your trip.
Only routine vaccinations are required for Cuba; however, the CDC recommends both Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations for some travelers.
Advance Booking
Given the influx of American and other tourists into Havana in recent years, reservations are almost mandatory for hotels, restaurants, and popular city attractions.
It's best to join a guided tour to Cuba since hotel and meals are primarily included in the tour price but always check directly with the operator. Most tour operators can also help secure individual dinner reservations.
Safety During Cuba Photography Trips
Cuba is generally very safe compared to other Central and South American countries. Police are everywhere, and this is especially apparent in high tourist locations. However, when traveling in any foreign country, use common street sense and pay attention to your surroundings, especially in Havana, Trinidad, and other large cities.
Crimes of opportunity, such as pick-pocketing, are not unheard of, but a little vigilance goes a long way, and traveling with group tours can help deter any potential trouble.
Since you're on a photography tour, be careful if you bring expensive camera equipment, extra lenses, and tripods. Most Cubans will be happy to snap a photo of you, but as with any destination, there are some bad actors among an otherwise friendly population.
Always keep your camera secured on your person and never leave it lying around a hotel room or even on an outside cafe table.
Photo Opportunities on a Trip to Cuba
From capturing the vibrant culture of Havana's bustling streets to exploring the pristine landscapes of Viñales, each Cuba photography tour offers unique opportunities to hone your craft and immortalize unforgettable moments.
Landscape and Nature Photography: Immerse yourself in Cuba's breathtaking natural beauty, from the lush valleys of Viñales to the pristine beaches of Varadero. Master the art of capturing stunning landscapes with expert guidance and tips on optimal lighting and composition.
Wildlife Photography: Discover the rich biodiversity of Cuba's ecosystems, from the vibrant birdlife of the Zapata Peninsula to the elusive wildlife of the Sierra Maestra mountains. Equip yourself with the necessary gear to capture stunning images of Cuba's unique fauna in their natural habitats.
Portrait and Street Photography: Dive into the heart of Cuban culture and daily life with captivating street photography sessions in Havana's colorful neighborhoods. Learn to navigate ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities while capturing the essence of everyday Cuban life.
Underwater Photography: Explore the vibrant underwater world surrounding Cuba's pristine coastlines, from colorful coral reefs to thriving marine ecosystems. Whether snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of María La Gorda or diving alongside majestic whale sharks in Jardines de la Reina, Cuba offers unparalleled opportunities for underwater photography.
Architecture and Monument Photography: Capture the timeless beauty of Cuba's colonial architecture and historic landmarks, from the iconic streets of Trinidad to the grandeur of Havana's historic buildings. Discover hidden gems off the beaten path and unleash your creativity to capture unique perspectives of Cuba's architectural marvels.
Cuba Photography Tours Reviews
T
Trusted Customer
Aug 2023
Written on
Family Cuba Discovery
Fabulous trip to a very interesting destination. Our guide Ernesto and driver Wilson took us on a really well planned and varied tour of the west and central parts ...
T
Trusted Customer
Aug 2023
Written on
Family Cuba Discovery
Just returned from Cuba with our 16 and 12 year olds, we all had a fantastic time. It was the first Explore trip we have done with the children. The itinerary is v...
T
Trusted Customer
Jul 2023
Written on
Family Cuba Discovery
This was our first Explore holiday and right from the start we found their customer service excellent. We had wanted to visit Cuba for a number of years and felt tha...
O
Osie
Jul 2023
Written on
Family Cuba Discovery
Great leader, excellent varied itinary.
M
Melanie
Aug 2022
Written on
Family Cuba Discovery
Watching a Cuban farmer roll a cigar for us to try. Trying many different cocktails. Driving around Havana in 1950s American cars. Snorkelling near the bay of pigs. ...
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