Mali Drum and Dance Tour with Abdoul Doumbia

Join djembefola Abdoul Doumbia in Mali, West Africa from January 8-30, 2011 for three weeks of drumming, dancing and cultural immersion.

Basic Program:

You will spend three weeks learning traditional rhythms and dances from some of Malis greatest musicians and dancers. You will also have a chance to explore the ancient and beautiful country of Mali.

In the home base of Bamako, the capital of Mali, you will enjoy two drum and two dance classes each day. The classes are tailored to various levels of experience, so all levels are welcome and included!

When you are not dancing or drumming, you can shop Bamakos amazing artist markets, the grand central market or the local neighborhood markets where you can find traditional arts and crafts, jewelry and beautiful fabrics. At night, you can experience Bamakos nightlife--you might enjoy hearing Oumou Sangare sing or Toumani Diabate play the kora at their local clubs. Many musicians come to pay their regards to Abdoul, and his visitors spend the days and evenings playing music right in the courtyard of Abdouls house.

You will also have opportunities to see traditional Malian celebrations, and even join in if you want to!

The food is cooked by Abdouls family members and is delicious! Most Malian food is gluten free, and might include lamb and peanut sauce, or beef and green beans in a tomato sauce over rice or couscous (amaranth). They cook with fresh vegetables, meats and offer fresh fruit. Vegetarian options available. You will be responsible for your own bottled water and snacks.

Other Excursions:

You will have a chance to travel to Abdouls home village of Zambougou where you will experience rural life in Mali, and enjoy a welcome celebration. Abdoul may also offer an excursion to visit the Dogon people who live in cliff dwellings along the beautiful and breathtaking Bandiagara escarpment and a trip to visit the famous Djenne mosque. These trips are included in the cost!

For an additional cost of about $800, we will spend 5 days in Segou, from February 1-6, enjoying the annual Fete sur le Niger, or Festival on the Niger. This is an incredible cultural festival featuring traditional dancers and musicians, arts and crafts and nightly performances by musicians from all over West Africa: http://festivalsegou.org/new/fr.html.

Program Cost:

The cost for the three week tour is $1600, which includes all dance classes, travel within Mali, and all meals. This DOES NOT include airfare to and from Mali, the add-on tour to the Festival on the Niger, bottled water, tips and any personal spending money.
50% deposit ($800) is required by Nov 15th, full payment due Dec 15th.
Send deposit with Registration form.
Detailed packing list, travel advice, vaccination info, etc, will be sent upon registration.