January 15 - 22, 2024
Rural & Landscape
Photography
• 8 Days
• Photographer | Guide
• Only 4-8 Guests
• Cuban Guide & Driver
• Upscale Casas
• Breakfasts & 2 Meals
• Local Transportation
• OFAC Approved
• US Citizen Compliant
Support for the Cuban People
VANISHING CUBA | EASTERN CUBA
Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Cayo Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin
VANISHING CUBA
HAVANA
EASTERN CUBA
CUBA PRIVATE
Explore the untouched eastern shores of Cuba for an authentic experience.
Vanishing Cuba’s “Eastern Cuba” Photo Adventure is a special 8-Day Photo Tour and Cultural Adventure led by PWA photographer and founder Michael Chinnici, author of Vanishing Cuba, a photo storytelling book showcasing an outstanding collection of images from his more than 26 trips to this island nation.
Michael will take you off the tourist grid as you explore Santiago de Cuba, the second largest city on the island, a tropical rain forest, untouched beaches and countless small municipalities that have remained immune to tourism. We’ll spend 3 days in the storybook village of Baracoa, designated as Cuba’s first capital, is not to be missed. Unquestionably, the most interesting relic in Baracoa is the Parra Cross which, it is said, is one of the 19 that Christopher Columbus left in the New World as witness to the arrival of Christianity. The cross is exhibited in Our Lady of Assumption Parish Church. It is the oldest symbol of the Catholic religion in the New World.
A tropical paradise with a storied past, Cuba offers us a unique view of a world few have been able to see. Photographing Cuba offers us the rare opportunity to capture its warm people alongside its natural beauty and stunning architecture. Laid back Caribbean Island culture mixed with the big-city life of Santiago de Cuba, where vintage American cars from the 40’s and 50’s roll past you. The eastern shores of Cuba are where all Cuba’s revolutions were started. It’s wild by nature, but rich in history and heritage.
OUR RECIPE FOR SUCCESS: It’s been said that we really know how to do Cuba right. We stay in the finest and most authentic Casa Particulars (privately owned Cuban hotels and bed & breakfasts). We travel by air-conditioned vehicles and beautifully restored vintage American automobiles. We dine in world-renowned Cuban restaurants and authentic hidden gem paladars. And lastly, we expose you to not only a truly amazing and authentic Cuba but the most photogenic Cuba. We always travel to Cuba under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574 – Support for the Cuban People.
This adventure is designed to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light and aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. You will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.
In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. 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. Cuba 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”.
A tropical paradise with a storied past, Cuba offers us a unique view of a world few have been able to see. Photographing Cuba offers us the rare opportunity to capture its warm people alongside its natural beauty and stunning architecture. Laid back Caribbean Island culture mixed with the big-city life of Santiago de Cuba, where vintage American cars from the 40’s and 50’s roll past you. The eastern shores of Cuba are where all Cuba’s revolutions were started. It’s wild by nature, but rich in history and heritage.
OUR RECIPE FOR SUCCESS: It’s been said that we really know how to do Cuba right. We stay in the finest and most authentic Casa Particulars (privately owned Cuban hotels and bed & breakfasts). We travel by air-conditioned vehicles and beautifully restored vintage American automobiles. We dine in world-renowned Cuban restaurants and authentic hidden gem paladars. And lastly, we expose you to not only a truly amazing and authentic Cuba but the most photogenic Cuba. We always travel to Cuba under the General License 31 CFR § 515.574 – Support for the Cuban People.
This adventure is designed to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light and aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. You will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.
In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. 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. Cuba 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
- 8 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
- Breakfasts and 2 meals
- 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
U.S. Guests – Arrival and Departure Airport: Miami International Airport (MIA) – We depart from Miami. Once registered we will advise you with more details.
International Guests – Arrival and Departure Airport: Holguin Frank País Airport (HOG) – We depart Holguin Frank País Airport for Santiago de Cuba at 2:00 PM on day one.
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
Photographer Leader
Michael Chinnici
January 15 – 22, 2024
*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.
ITINERARY
EASTERN CUBA 8 DAYS
Day 1 | Miami - Holguin - Santiago de Cuba
We meet in the morning at Miami International Airport (MIA) for our 10:30 AM American Airlines flight 1041 to Holguin, Cuba (Eastern Cuba’s newest and most modern airport). Upon our arrival in Cuba we will make our way to Santiago de Cuba and settle into our hotel and begin our amazing EASTERN CUBA Photo Adventure. In the evening we enjoy a “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Cuban restaurants. (D)
Day 2 | Santiago de Cuba
We begin our day with an early morning photo walk throughout Santiago de Cuba. Santiago is Cuba’s second largest city with over a half million people and considered Cuba’s cultural capital. Santiago is a frenetic, passionate and noisy city. Situated closer to Haiti and the Dominican Republic than to Havana, it leans east rather than west, a crucial factor shaping this city’s unique identity, steeped in Afro-Caribbean, entrepreneurial and rebel influences. We spend the day exploring the many neighborhoods of the old city. In the evening we will photograph Céspedes Park and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption at twilight. (B)
Day 3 | Santiago - El Morro - Cayo Granma
After an early morning walk through downtown Santiago de Cuba, we have an interactive discussion with architect Norka Cabrales, Santiago’s leading expert in Preservation and Conservation of Historical Patrimony, followed by visits and photographic opportunities to key historical landmarks: The Parque Cespedes and Museo de Arte Colonial, the residence of Diego Velazquez and a visit to Plaza Dolores.
After, we take a scenic drive to El Morro, for lunch at El Morro restaurant, followed by a visit to Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, also known as El Morro Fortress at the Bay of Santiago. Built in 1638 to defend against foreign attacks and piracy, the fortress has since then 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.
From El Morro we can see the small island in the bay called Cayo Granma. It’s a little fantasy island of red-roofed wooden houses, many of which sit on stilts above the water. After departing El Morro we take a short drive to a little ferry that will take us to this magical “lost in time” island. Here we will explore, talk with the locals, and even 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)
Day 4 | Santiago de Cuba - Guantanamo - Baracoa
On day four we depart Santiago and drive through the rain forest and mountains of eastern Cuba to the amazing and storybook village of Baracoa. Designated as Cuba’s first capital, Baracoa is not to be missed. Unquestionably, the most interesting relic in Baracoa is the Parra Cross which, it is said, is one of the 19 that Christopher Columbus left in the New World as witness to the arrival of Christianity. The cross is exhibited in Our Lady of Assumption Parish Church. It is the oldest symbol of the Catholic religion in the New World.
Here’s what Lonely Planet has to say… “Magic, weird, beguiling, outlandish, unorthodox, mysterious, surreal, psychedelic and hallucinogenic; you can throw a thousand words at Baracoa, but still not come close to nailing its essence. Located over the hills and far away on the wet and windy side of the Cuchillos del Toa Mountains, Cuba’s oldest and most isolated town is a thing to behold, less for the beauty of its architecture (which is scruffy and unimpressive), but more for its atmosphere, people, and je ne sais quoi. Not surprisingly, epiphanies are rife in these parts. Feast your eyes upon the foliage – deep green, fast-growing and wonderfully abundant after the stark aridity of Guantánamo’s south coast – delve into the fantastical legends, and acquaint yourself with a Tolkeinesque cast of local characters both alive and dead. Ah, Baracoa – what would Cuba be without you? (B)
Day 5 | Baracoa
Today we explore with village of Baracoa, its breathtaking cove and surrounding countryside. Our schedule will be a casual one as we interact with locals and take you off the beaten path. (B)
Day 6 | Baracoa
On day six we explore the rural aspects of Baracoa, visiting local coconut farms and taking river walks up Rio Miel and Rio Yumri. It’s a truly amazing experience. (B)
Day 7 | Baracoa - Santiago de Cuba
After breakfast we depart Baracoa for our return to Santiago where we settle in for our last night. We’ll have an optional schedule in the afternoon. In the evening we celebrate our “Farewell Dinner” a one of our favorite Cuba restaurants. (B, D)
Day 8 | Santiago de Cuba - Holguin - Miami
Our adventure concludes after breakfast and a review of our photos from the past week. We’ll trade contact information and depart for Holguin Airport for American Airlines flight 1482 departing at 1:10 PM. (B)
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”.
(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.
