5 – 15 January 2026
Senegal.
Learn from a true djembe master.
A journey of cultural and musical immersion in Kafountine. Daily training with authentic master Bubakar Keita. Drumming or dance classes available. For confident players ready to learn at an advanced level.
The Journey
A deep immersion into the music and culture.
This journey is for participants who are already confident drummers or dancers and are ready to learn at a more advanced level. Daily training sessions with a master, in the setting where these rhythms were born.
Your guide is Jake Hakus - a music educator who has been studying in Gambia and Senegal for the past seven years. Kafountine is a small coastal town rich in music, food and community.
What Makes It Special
Highlights.
Daily training with Bubakar Keita
Two sessions a day with a master teacher - technique, repertoire, and the cultural knowledge behind every rhythm.
Drumming or dance track
Choose your primary focus for the week. Both paths converge in the evening for group ensemble.
Community immersion
You stay in Kansala Ta Toto - a traditional compound where music is woven into daily life.
Guest master sessions
Additional visits from other regional masters who form the rich tapestry of the region's musical life.
Day by Day
The itinerary.
- Day 1
Arrival in Kafountine
Airport pickup, welcome to Kansala Ta Toto, orientation with Jake and Bubakar.
- Day 2 – 6
Core Training Block
Morning technique. Afternoon repertoire. Evening ensemble. Daily rhythm circle.
- Day 7
Short-Track Departure
7-day travellers close their journey with a farewell performance.
- Day 8 – 9
Advanced Repertoire
10-day travellers dive deeper - polyrhythms, dundun, dance ensemble.
- Day 10
Community Performance
Full group performance for the community that hosted you.
Your facilitator
Bubakar Keita
Djembe Master Bubakar Keita has spent a lifetime carrying and teaching the rhythms of his lineage. Learn first hand from a true master, whilst immersed in the culture that shaped him. The most authentic experience possible.
What's Included
In your journey.
- ◆Accommodation at Kansala Ta Toto
- ◆Three meals a day, prepared locally
- ◆Two daily sessions with Bubakar Keita
- ◆Guest master workshops
- ◆Airport pickup and drop-off
- ◆Percussion provided (bring your own if preferred)
Not Included
Please plan for.
- –International flights to Dakar (DKR) or Banjul (BJL)
- –Ground transfer from airport to Kafountine (arranged, paid separately)
- –Travel insurance and visas
- –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.
Bubakar is the real deal. Ten days with him has done more for my playing than five years of workshops back home.
The compound became home. I miss the morning drumming and the evening fires every single day.
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.
- Who is this journey for?
- Confident drummers and dancers with prior study who want to learn at an advanced level in an authentic setting. This journey is designed for experienced participants.
- What's the difference between 7 and 10 days?
- The 7-day track covers core technique and repertoire. The 10-day track adds advanced polyrhythms, dundun playing, and a full community performance.
- Do I need to bring a djembe?
- No - instruments are provided. Serious players sometimes bring their own; either is fine.
- How do I get to Kafountine?
- Most travellers fly into Banjul (Gambia) - it's the closest airport. From there we arrange a shared transfer down the coast to Kafountine.
- What's the food like?
- Three meals a day, cooked at the compound - mostly rice and fish, groundnut stews, local vegetables. We cater vegetarian needs with notice.
Next step
Book a call about Senegal.
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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