In the Southern Draa Valley, the echoes of history intertwine with the vibrant threads of culture and a celebration awaits us.
Here, the air is alive with the colours and melodies of Morocco. We will explore them as we engage in drumming workshops and other cultural experiences from the nomadic lifestyle.
As we connect with local musicians and other artists, the life and rhythms of the Sahara will carry us away, creating a shared experience that transcends words and engenders union and joyful expression.
Dates Nov 25th to Dec 2nd 2024
Price/Pax: 1685€ in double room (flights not included)
AT A GLANCE
Day1 - Arrival Marrakesh, Marrakesh - Ouarzazate
Day 2 - Ouarzazate
Day 3 - Ouarzazate - Zagora - Tamgroute
Day 4 - Tamgroute - Mhamid
Day 5 - Mhamid - Zamane Festival
Day 6 - Mhamid - Zamane Festival
Day 7 - Mhamid - Zamane Festival
Day 8 - Mhamid - Marrakesh
ITINERARY
Day 1 - In the bustling heart of Marrakesh, we gather at the bus station, ready to embark on our adventure. As we board the bus to Ouarzazate, the landscape transforms, and upon arrival, we check into our hotel. The rest of the day is ours to wander, to rest, and to soak in the essence of this enchanting town. We spend the night in Ouarzazate, dreaming of the journey ahead.
Day 2 - The morning light beckons us to explore Ouarzazate, where history whispers through the streets. In the afternoon, we venture to Ait Ben Haddou, a majestic fortified village, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, the earthen clay architecture tells tales of the past, with kasbahs standing proud, adorned with intricate designs. This picturesque landscape has graced the screens of many films, from "Gladiator" to "Game of Thrones," revealing the region's rich cultural tapestry. As night falls, we gather for our first drumming workshop, where each participant receives a drum—a canvas for personal expression. We begin our rhythmic journey with the basic patterns that echo the heartbeat of the land. We rest once more in Ouarzazate.
Day 3 - With the dawn, we journey by bus to Zagora, where the vibrant souk awaits, alive with colors and sounds. In the afternoon, we arrive in Tamgroute, a village nestled in the Draa Valley, famed for its verdant pottery and a historic Islamic library from the 17th century. We explore the library and witness the artistry of pottery-making, connecting with the rich heritage of this land. We spend the night in Tamgroute, surrounded by stories of old.
Day 4 - The morning takes us to Mhamid, where the sands of the Sahara call. In the afternoon, we engage in a drumming workshop at the Joudour Sahara Music School, guided by a local maestro. Here, we unite our rhythms with those of local musicians. As evening descends, we venture into the desert, where a camp awaits. Under the starlit sky, we share a night of music, our drums echoing the spirit of the Sahara. We rest in the desert camp, cradled by the dunes.
Day 5 - Awake to the whispering winds of the Sahara, we embark on a morning hike through the majestic dunes. Another workshop at the school deepens our connection to the rhythms of the land. In the afternoon, we prepare for the Zamane Festival, joining the inaugural ceremony that promises a celebration of culture and music. We overnight in Mhamid, filled with anticipation.
Day 6 & 7 - The festival unfolds, a tapestry of sounds and sights, where we have the chance to jam alongside local musicians, sharing our passion and creativity. The days flow with music, connection, and celebration, each moment a note in the symphony of our journey.
Day 8 - As dawn breaks, we take a bus back to Marrakesh, carrying with us the rhythms of the desert and the memories of a remarkable adventure.
PRICE
Price: €1,685 per person* in a shared double room (flights not included)
Single room supplement*: €310 (subject to availability)
* Very important : Prices are contingent upon a minimum of 10 participants.
What's included:
- Transportation by local bus and Grand Taxi between Tamgroute and Mhamid
- All accommodation stays in B&B, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- All the meals in Mhamid - 3 lunches and 4 dinners
- Local private guides in Ouarzazate and Tamgroute
- Agency's assistant throughout the tour
- Drumming workshops
Not included:
-- Flights to and from Marrakesh
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Meals that are not mentioned as included
- Drinks during included meals in Mhamid
- Tips and gratuities to local guides
- Any services that are not mentioned in the itinerary
- Visa if required
The trip may need to be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances. In such instances, we will make every effort to minimize any disruption to the schedule. Kindly note that refunds are not available for changes arising from such situations.
GROOVE CURATORS
Bernardo Ho
Bernardo will gracefully orchestrate the logistics, crafting a seamless journey that flows like a well-tuned melody. Also as the soulful voice and skilled guitarist of Backbeat Mojo, he will add vibrant layers to the rhythmic heartbeat, deepening the groove and collaboration with local musicians.
Matilde Ho
Surfer, drummer, and percussionist for Backbeat Mojo and Flor Girino portuguese music bands, Matilde will, throughout the journey, guide the drumming workshops, weaving connections with local musicians and creating a harmonious tapestry of sound and culture.
NOTES
FURTHER INFORMATIONS
