14th – 21st June 2026
For the third year running, we are honoured to host one of the world’s heavyweight Cuban drummers here at Finca Ara Oko. Barbaro Crespo aka ‘Machito’, is a ritual drummer and rumbero who comes from a dynasty of folkloric drummers in Havana. He was also a principal member of the incredible group Osain del Monte before he moved to Europe.
Machito’s deep knowledge, extensive experience, and clear, insightful instruction—combined with his generosity both in and outside of formal class settings—have made him an essential part of the spirit and community at Finca Ara Oko.
If you would like to take part in this unique opportunity, we are taking bookings for 2026. To secure your place, pay a non-refundable deposit of £150 by the 25th April 2026. The final payment needs to be made by the 25th of May.
The retreat is aimed at Level 2/3 percussionists. Please see our guidelines or get in touch if you’re not sure if it is suitable.
Accommodation and Prices
Prices:
The price includes seven nights’ accommodation, three meals a day, and five days x four hours of tuition plus practice times and the chance of a live jam session at our local bar.. (Please see below for costs not included.)
SINGLE ROOM: £925
SHARED ROOM: £825. Each room shares 2 – 3 people.
GLAMPING: Earlybird £720. Each tent shares two people.
What is included:
-
- 4 hours of tuition x 5 days plus practice time.
- 7 nights accommodation.
- 3 meals a day.
- Accommodation – shared, single rooms or glamping.
- Access to drums.
- An opportunity to perform on the last night at a local bar.
- The chance to stay in a beautiful farmhouse in the spectacular countryside away from the distractions of everyday life.
Not included:
For more information on the points below, please visit our travel information page.
-
- Flights
- Airport transfers:
- Seguro de Viagem
- Extra nights of accommodation: €50 pn
- Extra meals: €5 -20 pd
- Alcohol
How to book
Fill out our registration form below and pay using the link.
Please read our Cancellation and Participation Guide before booking.
Registration Form & Payment Details
Críticas do Google
A comida estava super saborosa e nutritiva, e as vistas da quinta, com vista para o mar, com céus dourados e a Via Láctea, foram verdadeiramente inesquecíveis.
Mas o que mais adorei foi passar tempo com estes seres humanos incríveis, que são genuinamente devotados à música, ao ensino e à construção de comunidade de uma forma tão divertida, humilde, terrena e sincera. Estas são qualidades que raramente encontrei em professores, por isso conhecer a Vicky e o Dave foi como um presente precioso que trouxe muita alegria à minha vida.
Mal posso esperar para voltar. Obrigado!
Continuo a cantar excertos das canções... os meus neurónios fizeram todo o tipo de novas ligações à medida que aprendi a equilibrar o movimento, as palmas e o canto em diferentes compassos - como esfregar a barriga e dar palmadinhas na cabeça!
Ótima comida e alojamento também.
O cenário era simplesmente deslumbrante - céus enormes, pores do sol incríveis e muito tranquilo, um verdadeiro refúgio das nossas vidas agitadas.
Vicky e Dave são anfitriões maravilhosos, fizeram-nos sentir muito bem-vindos e em casa, pessoas tão gentis e genuínas.
