A tour built for photographers who take architecture seriously. Vedado’s modernist layers, Old Havana’s colonial streetscapes, visits to working architects’ studios, and a hands-on session with the artisans behind Havana’s restoration.

The Tour

This tour is joined by architect Ayleen Robainas Barcia, a heritage specialist with the Office of the Historian of Havana since 1996 and President of the Technical Heritage Commission of UNAICC. Ayleen guides the group through the historical development of the city’s architecture, building by building. Participants also meet Madeleine Menéndez and Néstor Martí, one of our tour leaders, co-authors of “El Vedado, tradición y modernidad en la arquitectura habanera.” Photo sessions take place at iconic buildings throughout Vedado and the city’s UNESCO World Heritage historic center — colonial, eclectic, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and modernist architecture. The tour also includes visits to young architects’ studios and a workshop producing the handcrafted hydraulic tiles used in Havana’s restoration, with an optional Cuban cigar and rum tasting. On the final evening, participants hand over a personal selection of their week’s images, which are compiled into a closing video presentation — followed by a farewell dinner.

Before You Join This Tour

All participants are expected to have a genuine interest in photography and to work with a camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or equivalent). This tour goes beyond mobile phone photography — all participants will be photographers sharing a common purpose and rhythm.

Havana is a welcoming city for photographers. Throughout the entire week, you will be guided by local professional photographers who know the city intimately and work daily in the same neighborhoods where we photograph. You will never be left alone, and assistance and translation are provided at all times.

The experience involves daily walking at a comfortable pace, with frequent stops to photograph, observe, and discuss images. A reasonable level of mobility and physical condition is required, as walking is an essential part of exploring Havana visually and authentically.

This tour is limited to a small group of photographers, allowing for personalized guidance, constructive feedback, and meaningful photographic interaction. The focus is on slowing down, observing carefully, and building a coherent visual narrative rather than rushing from place to place.

By joining this photo tour, you agree to approach the experience with curiosity, respect for local culture, and a collaborative spirit with fellow photographers and guides.

Traveling with a Companion?

If you’re traveling with a non-photographer companion, they’re welcome to join at the same rate, with access to most of the week’s activities — school and dance company visits, architects’ studios, artist talks, and exhibitions. During dedicated street photography walks, companions follow an independent guided itinerary, rejoining the group afterward. Companions join the group for the closing evening and presentation, though their images are not included in the closing video, and photography instruction, technical support, and image reviews are reserved for participants. If both travelers are photographers, you’re both welcome as full participants — same access, same guided sessions, same image reviews, and both included in the closing video. Since accommodation is arranged in double-occupancy rooms, please let us know at registration whether you’d like to share a room or need separate rooms.

Fitness & Skill Level

Open to all photography levels. Expect long, active days on your feet with moderate walking through the city. Comfortable clothing and footwear are essential — Havana’s heat and humidity call for a reasonable level of physical comfort with walking and standing for extended periods.

Camera Gear

Bring no more than two camera bodies. This tour is built around architectural photography — tripods are welcome, and specialized lenses such as tilt-shift are especially useful for capturing buildings with accurate perspective. Bring your own laptop and any editing software you normally work with. Internet access in Cuba is limited, and a VPN may be necessary for some services — it’s best to prepare for this in advance rather than count on a reliable connection during the trip.

What to Pack

February in Havana is our winter season — cooler and more comfortable than summer, though the sun can still be strong during the day. Lightweight, breathable clothing works best for daily shooting, with a light layer for the evenings. Cold fronts are common this time of year, so pack something warmer for those occasions. Don’t forget any personal medication, a flashlight, and extra camera batteries and chargers.

Travel Requirements

This tour operates under the “Support for the Cuban People” and “People-to-People” OFAC-authorized travel categories for U.S. citizens. All travelers to Cuba are currently required to obtain a Cuban e-Visa before arrival — we recommend confirming the current application process close to your travel dates, as entry requirements have changed in recent years. Travel medical insurance valid in Cuba is also mandatory for entry.