Late November – Early December 2026
Morocco.
To the edge of the desert.
Music rooted in resistance and revolution. Three days at Sahara Studios followed by immersion in the International Nomads Festival on the edge of the desert.
The Journey
A deep immersion into the music and culture.
Journey back to M'Hamid El Ghizlane - the edge of the Sahara - where nomadic traditions live on in their most authentic form. Expect camel racing, sand-bread baking competitions, and nights of stargazing beneath desert skies.
We begin in Ouarzazate for three days of private tuition at Sahara Studios with Tarwa-N-Tiniri, then travel together into the Sahara for the International Nomads Festival - a deep dive into the nomads' way of life.
What Makes It Special
Highlights.
Private sessions with Tarwa-N-Tiniri
Three days studying at Sahara Studios in Ouarzazate - desert blues technique, groove, and the culture the music carries.
International Nomads Festival
Full attendance at Festival International des Nomades - camel racing, traditional food, and desert-blues stages until dawn.
Nights under desert skies
Camping on the edge of the Sahara. Fires, songs, and the clearest starfield most travellers have ever seen.
Marwa Residence base
A peaceful, homely stay on the outskirts of Ouarzazate - space to rest, jam, and process what you're learning.
Day by Day
The itinerary.
- Day 1
Arrive Ouarzazate
Meet at Marwa Residence. Welcome tagine and orientation with Ilyass.
- Day 2
Sahara Studios · Day One
First session with Tarwa-N-Tiniri: pentatonic desert scales & guitar phrasing.
- Day 3
Sahara Studios · Day Two
Rhythm workshop, vocal styles, and songwriting inspired by desert life.
- Day 4
Studio Recording & Departure
Group recording session, then convoy into the Sahara to M'Hamid.
- Day 5
Nomads Festival · Opening
Camel racing, opening ceremony, evening desert blues stages.
- Day 6
Nomads Festival · Immersion
Traditional food competitions, private artist meetings, night stargazing.
- Day 7
Closing & Return
Final desert breakfast, return to Ouarzazate, farewell dinner and departures.
Your facilitator
Tarwa-N-Tiniri & Ilyass Rchouk
Tarwa-N-Tiniri are an emerging desert blues band bursting through the scene with a rootsy yet innovative sound. Ilyass Rchouk - co-creator of Liberation Music - is a professional musician, sound technician and lifelong Gnawa enthusiast who guides the journey on the ground.
What's Included
In your journey.
- ◆6 nights accommodation (Marwa Residence + desert camp)
- ◆3 days private tuition at Sahara Studios
- ◆Full festival passes for International Nomads Festival
- ◆Studio recording session
- ◆All food during festival days
- ◆Ground transport including desert convoy
- ◆Local guide and translator throughout
Not Included
Please plan for.
- –International flights to Ouarzazate (OZZ) or Marrakech
- –Travel insurance & visas
- –Some meals in Ouarzazate
- –Personal spending money
From Previous Journeys
Video stories.
Films from past travellers, master teachers and the moments in between.
Full films coming soon - reach out to see private edits from previous journeys.
Travellers' Words
What people carried home.
Playing under the stars with the Tarwa-N-Tiniri guys is something I will carry for the rest of my life.
Ilyass held the whole week with such care. I've never felt so safe being pushed so far outside my comfort zone.
More testimonials available on request - we're happy to connect you with past travellers.
Frequently Asked
Questions.
Anything else? Message Jake directly and we'll answer within 24 hours.
- How advanced do I need to be as a guitarist?
- This journey suits confident intermediate to advanced players. If you're newer to the instrument, message us - we'll advise honestly whether this trip or Cabo Verde is the better fit.
- Is the desert camp comfortable?
- Our camp is well-equipped - proper beds, warm blankets, communal dining tent, and clean facilities. It is simple yet comfortable.
- What should I pack for the desert?
- Layers. Days are warm, nights get cold. A head scarf, closed shoes, sunglasses, sun cream. We send a full packing list on booking.
- Do I need vaccinations or a visa?
- Most nationalities do not need a visa for stays under 90 days in Morocco. No mandatory vaccinations, but check with your GP.
- What if I don't drink alcohol?
- Perfect - this is a largely alcohol-free experience by design. Evenings are about music, tea, and conversation.
Next step
Book a call about Morocco.
A 20-minute conversation with Jake to answer your questions, hear what you play, and see if this journey is the right fit. No pressure to book.
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