20–27 June 2027 | Finca Ará Oko, La Alpujarra, Granada, Spain
For the fourth consecutive year, we are delighted to welcome one of Cuba’s leading masters of Afro-Cuban percussion to Finca Ará Oko.
Bárbaro Crespo, affectionately known as Machito, is a ritual drummer and rumbero from a dynasty of folkloric percussionists in Havana. Before moving to Europe, he was a leading member of the renowned group Osain del Monte.
This retreat offers five days of immersive learning, with four hours of expert tuition each day. Through practical workshops, ensemble playing and cultural insights, participants will deepen their understanding of Afro-Cuban rhythms, musical traditions and performance practices.
But what makes this retreat truly special is not just the classes. Much of the magic happens beyond the scheduled sessions: spontaneous jams after class, conversations around the table and impromptu musical moments that unfold naturally throughout the week.
Machito’s extraordinary knowledge, extensive experience and clear, intuitive teaching style, combined with his generosity both inside and outside the classroom, have made him an integral part of the spirit and community of Finca Ará Oko.
His warm, encouraging approach creates an atmosphere in which participants feel supported, inspired and challenged to develop their musical skills.
Set in the spectacular mountains of La Alpujarra, the retreat offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Afro-Cuban music while enjoying the tranquillity, natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere of Finca Ará Oko.
Bookings for 2027 are now open!
Book by 20th April 2027 to receive a £50 early-booking discount. Prices increase by £50 from 21st April. Places are limited, and this popular retreat fills quickly.
What’s Included
- Five days of expert tuition with Machito (four hours per day), plus additional practice time.
- Seven nights’ accommodation at Finca Ará Oko.
- Three meals a day.
- A choice of single, shared or glamping accommodation.
- Access to drums throughout the retreat.
- An opportunity to perform at a local bar on the final evening.
- Time to relax, explore and enjoy the spectacular surroundings of La Alpujarra.
- The chance to share music, meals and experiences with fellow participants in a welcoming and supportive environment.
What’s Not Included
- Flights.
- Airport transfers.
- Travel insurance.
- Additional nights’ accommodation (€50 per night).
- Additional meals (€5–€20 per day).
- Alcoholic drinks.
For information about travelling to Finca Ará Oko, please visit our Travel Information page.
How to Book
Complete the registration form below to select your accommodation and register your interest.
Each participant must complete their own registration form, including couples and friends sharing accommodation.
Once we have confirmed accommodation availability, we will contact you with payment instructions.
A £150 non-refundable deposit per person is required to secure your booking, subject to our booking terms.
Por favor lea nuestro Guía de Cancelación y Participación before registering.
Registration Form
Reseñas de Google
Gran lugar, hermosos paisajes, gente amable e incluso mejor música. Muy recomendable para principiantes y cualquiera que quiera disfrutar de la música latina. Una muy buena experiencia.
I can't imagine a better holiday. Beautiful location, lovely warm people, great food and fantastic music making.
I absolutely loved spending time with Vicky and Dave and a fantastic group learning Afro-Cuban songs!
The food was super tasty and nourishing, and the views from the finca, overlooking the sea, with golden skies and the Milky Way, were truly unforgettable.
But what I loved most was spending time with these amazing human beings, who are genuinely devoted to music, teaching, and community-making in such a fun, humble, down to earth and heartfelt way. These are qualities I’ve rarely found in teachers, so meeting Vicky and Dave felt like a precious gift that brought a lot of joy into my life.
I can’t wait to go back. Thank you!
¡Qué forma tan encantadora de pasar una semana! ¡Bailando salsa juntos con gente encantadora en un entorno idílico rodeado de almendros y la deslumbrante luz de las Alpujarras! El alojamiento fue fantástico y la comida también. Dave y Vicky son anfitriones fabulosos.
Una experiencia absolutamente increíble. Han pasado dos semanas y todavía no puedo quitarme de la cabeza las vistas de las colinas ondulantes, la luz preciosa, los árboles frutales, la comida deliciosa y, por supuesto, las clases diarias de salsa en conjunto. Los arreglos y las canciones elegidas eran tan contagiosos que no podíamos dejar de cantarlas toda la semana. Dave y Vicky son anfitriones y profesores maravillosos, y no dudaría en volver a reservar.
Brilliant immersion into the songs & rhythm & traditions of the Afro-Cuban culture.
Still singing snippets of the songs…my brain synapses have made all sorts of new connections as I learnt to balance moving, clapping & singing in different time signatures - like rubbing your stomach & patting your head!
Great food & accommodation too.
Qué semana tan increíble, la ambientación, la gente, las canciones, la comida, el alojamiento, todo se unió para crear una experiencia inolvidable. Trabajar con Dave y Vicki siempre es inspirador. Su habilidad para adaptar el nivel de dificultad a cada grupo significa que todos tienen una experiencia positiva. Actuar con el coro Lobras fue particularmente memorable y edificante.
I cannot recommend a stay at Finca Ara Oko enough. The accommodation was wonderful, we were very comfortable. Lots of different areas to relax in & the plunge pool was a lovely bonus to cool off in.
The setting was simply stunning - huge skies, amazing sunsets & very peaceful, a real retreat from our busy lives.
Vicky & Dave are such wonderful hosts, they made us feel really welcome & at home, such kind genuine people.
Qué lugar tan hermoso y tranquilo con todo lo que podrías necesitar. Fácil de llegar con coche de alquiler. Apartamentos preciosos y espacios para relajarse y reflexionar. Encantador paseo local para ver el amanecer.
