Culture Music Dance and Beauties of Burkina Faso
Cultural exchange in the "land of upright men".
An extraordinary event celebrating African culture and traditions in Ouagadougou.
We organize three events per year. Here is a summary of the events scheduled for 2025.
🔥Three unmissable trips in 2025 🔥
📅 April 18 - 30 → 12-day trip
📅 August 8 - 30 → 22-day trip
📅 December 23 - January 6 → Great Mother Africa Festival (14 days)
Discover authentic Africa with us! We organize three events a year,
unique dance, music and culture experiences in Burkina Faso. Here is the program for 2025:
We offer comfortable accommodation, typical meals prepared with local products and the opportunity to participate in exclusive cultural events. ✨ A journey that goes beyond tourism ✨ Experience Burkina Faso without borders: interact with the local community, taste traditional cuisine and immerse yourself in authentic experiences that will enrich your spirit and culture. Our program offers a fascinating cultural exchange, allowing you to explore the history and traditions of a land rich in wisdom, under the magical African Full Moon. sightseeing
Traveling is growth. And it is even more so when it turns into an immersive experience in the habits, customs and daily life of another culture. Only by living and tasting Africa in all its facets can you truly know it.
I would like to give you a piece of my land, Burkina Faso, a piece of my heart and my life. I will guide you on a journey through music and dance, participating in workshops and concerts with some of the most famous artists of Burkina Faso. But not only that: we will explore the territory, discover the different ethnic groups, go on excursions and delight ourselves with the local cuisine.
In Burkina Faso, sharing holidays is a symbol of tolerance and peaceful coexistence: Christians, Muslims, believers and non-believers sit at the same table in harmony and serenity. Kindness, hospitality, respect and solidarity will be the common thread of a journey that will not only be a discovery of new places, but an experience that will touch the heart and soul.
➡ For more details or specific needs, write to us at the email address below!
📅 April 18, 2025 → Arrival in Ouagadougou and transfer to the accommodation chosen for your stay.
📌 Travel schedule starting from April 19, 2025.
African Dance Workshop – A Journey Through Rhythms and Traditions
The dance workshop will offer all participants a unique opportunity to get in touch with the world of African dance. The African continent has always had a deep connection with music and dance, essential elements of everyday life. Every movement tells a story and every rhythm accompanies important moments such as births, weddings and celebrations.
This workshop will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the magic and energy of African dance. Participants will discover the meaning of the harmony of movements, the power of live percussion and the role of dance as a cultural and spiritual expression.
Through a journey through the fascinating atmospheres of Burkina Faso, participants will be guided by Burkinabè professionals who will introduce them to the traditions and techniques of African dance. The lessons will always be accompanied by musicians who will play live, making each session an authentic and engaging experience.
An opportunity to feel the heartbeat of Africa, through your body and soul. We are waiting for you!
Here is a summary of the scheduled events: Schedule of the African Dance and Percussion Classes April 19, 2025 will be held on the days Explore contemporary African and Afro-American dance, and learn to play Djembe, Ngoni bass drums, balanfon, African flute and kora and African singing and the trips
Discovering African Rhythms: Djembe, Dundun, Sangban, Kenkeni
Traditional West African Instruments – The Soul of Mandinga Culture
are traditional instruments of West Africa, particularly of the Mandinga culture. Their history is deeply intertwined with the social life, music and ceremonies of African communities. Made of fine wood, such as lenke, and covered with a goatskin membrane, each drum is a unique work that reflects the skill of its maker. But the djembe is not just a musical instrument: it is a means of communication, a symbol of cultural identity and a bond between generations. The art of the djembe is passed down orally, from master to disciple. The great masters do not only teach the technique, but transmit the profound meaning of each rhythm, connecting each sound to stories, dances and moments of community life.
Traditional African Rhythms Study Program 1. Introduction to African drums History and social function of the djembe, dundun, sangban and kenkeni The role of drums in African music and ceremonies 2. Fundamental techniques • Learning the three main strokes of the djembe: clear, tonal and low sound Study of the parts of the djembe and bass drums with practical demonstrations • Rhythmic precision exercises to improve the sense of time and continuity 3. Creativity and improvisation • Development of rhythmic imagination through variations on traditional rhythms Jam sessions to encourage personal expression and musical dialogue • Group practice to prepare for live performances This course is not only an opportunity to refine technical skills, but a real immersive journey into African culture. Through practice and sharing, students will not only learn to play, but will understand the profound value of African music
a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional rhythms of West Africa. These instruments, deeply linked to the culture of the griots - storytellers, musicians and custodians of the oral tradition - will be at the center of a training experience led by true professionals in the sector. The lessons will be held twice a day, with sessions of 1 hour and 30 minutes each, for a total of 3 hours of daily practice. In Burkina Faso, we invite you to discover the beauty of these melodies and let yourself be transported by the charm of African music. It will be an experience of learning and sharing, lived with joy and an open heart. We look forward to seeing you!
The ngoni, kora, balafon and African flute workshops will offer participants
The African singing workshops will offer participants a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the traditional melodies of West Africa. These songs, deeply linked to the culture of the Griots – storytellers, musicians and custodians of oral tradition – have been passed down from generation to generation, from fathers to sons and from mothers to daughters.
Led by true professionals in the field, participants will be able to explore the beauty and meaning of these ancestral melodies, living an intense and authentic educational experience. The classes will be held twice a day, with sessions of 1 hour and 30 minutes each, for a total of 3 hours of daily practice.
In Burkina Faso, we invite you to let yourself be carried away by the charm of African music, discovering the power of singing as a means of expression, memory and sharing. It will be a unique experience, lived with joy and an open heart. We are waiting for you!
African Singing Workshops – A Journey into the Griot Tradition
Rap and Modern Dance in Burkina Faso: The New Expression of Youth. African rap in Burkina Faso combines the roots of the oral tradition of the Griots with the modern sounds of hip-hop; young Burkinabe have found rap to be a powerful tool for expression. It is a means of describing social reality, denouncing injustices and celebrating cultural identity. The lyrics address issues such as poverty, politics, hope and resilience, giving voice to a new generation eager for change. The rhythmic bases mix with traditional African instruments, creating a unique style that blends past and present. Rap is the heartbeat of a youth that dreams, fights and tells its story through music. In Burkina Faso, modern dance is redefining the youth cultural landscape.
Blending international influences with deep roots in African tradition, young Burkinabes are creating a unique style, where rhythm, words and movement become tools of expression and social change. Modern African dance incorporates contemporary movements without losing the energy and symbolism of traditional dances.
In city neighborhoods and cultural centers, groups of dancers reinterpret ancestral choreographies with an innovative style, giving life to shows that unite past and future. A rhythm that tells, a movement that liberates: rap and modern dance are giving birth to a new cultural era in Africa.
Rap and Modern Dance in Burkina Faso: The New Expression of Youth.
Depending on the activity carried out, it will also be possible for each member to participate in the optional Drum Construction course.
8:30 - 10:00: Djembe (beginners and experts)
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10:00 - 11:30: Dance (beginners and experts)
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11:30 - 13:00: Bass drums
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13:00 - 14:30: Lunch
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2.30pm - 4.00pm: Balafon and Ngoni (different lessons at the same times)
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16:00 - 18:00: Dance (intermediate/advanced level)
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18:00 - 19:30: Djembe (level/advanced solo)
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8:00 PM: Ethnic dinner
8:30 - 10:00: Bass Drums
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10:00 - 11:30: Balafon and Ngoni (different lessons at the same times)
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11:30 - 13:00: Djembe (beginners and experts)
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13:00 - 14:30: Lunch
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2.30pm - 4.00pm: Dance (beginners and experts)
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16:00 - 18:00: Djembe (level/advanced solo)
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18:00 - 19:30: Dance (intermediate/advanced level)
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9.00pm - 10.00pm: Balafon and Gouni
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7.40pm: Ethnic dinner
Drum Making Workshop
This is the place where we will do the percussion, dance, singing and concerts
AFRO Festival Great Mother Africa Modern and Traditional Concert
🌍 Discovering Ouagadougou: history, culture and craftsmanship 🌿 The morning will be dedicated to discovering the capital of Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou, with unmissable stops: Ouagadougou Cathedral – An architectural and spiritual icon of the city, a place of great charm and history. Ouagadougou Artisan Village – A vibrant center where local artisans create and sell unique works. Here you can admire and buy: 🛖 Wooden sculptures Traditional fabrics🏺 Artisan ceramics 💎 Unique jewelry ✨ Immersive experience: The village often organizes events and live demonstrations, allowing visitors to closely observe the artisan techniques and interact directly with local artists. A unique opportunity to learn about Burkinabe culture and take home an authentic piece of Africa! 🌍✨
""""Travel Plan April 19, 2025""""
April 20, 2025 will be a day dedicated to celebrating together with the Burkinabe people
🥩🔥 Easter in Burkina Faso: barbecue, music and sharing under the stars 🌕🎶Easter day will be a unique experience: a barbecue around the fire, accompanied by live music, engaging dances and traditional stories. ✨ In Burkina Faso, Easter is much more than a religious celebration: it is the symbol of sharing and tolerance. ✨ Here, this special day is experienced as a celebration for all: it is customary for Muslims to visit the homes of Christians to share the celebrations, in a gesture of authentic brotherhood and mutual respect. A moment of great emotion, which brings us back to the true meaning of Easter: God is love, and above all there is only one, whatever religion you believe in. 💛 🌍 Live this experience with us and let yourself be enveloped by the magic of African Easter!
🎨 The Open-Air Museum of Laongo: Art sculpted in nature 🌿🗿In the heart of Burkina Faso lies a unique place in the world: the Open-Air Museum of Laongo, an exceptional fusion of art and nature. 🌍 A collective work of creativity Founded in the late 1980s by the Burkinabe artist Ky Siriky, the museum now houses over 400 granite sculptures, created by artists from all over the world. Every two years, thanks to the International Sculpture Symposium, new masterpieces come to life, inspired by universal themes such as: ❤️ Love 🌱 Environment 👑 Power 🚺 Role of women 🔨 Art that unites peoples The Laongo Museum is not only an exhibition of monumental sculptures, but also a meeting point between cultures. In 2018, for example, it welcomed 17 artists from Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Senegal, the United States and France, creating an artistic bridge between different traditions and visions. 🏛️ An experience not to be missed Spread over about 10 hectares, this open-air museum is one of the most fascinating attractions in Burkina Faso. The National Tourist Office organizes guided tours, offering visitors the opportunity to discover this extraordinary art gallery immersed in nature up close. Come and experience the art of Laongo and be inspired by the timeless beauty of sculpted granite!
on April 21st visit to the open-air museum of Laongoda; for 29 years numerous artists from Africa and other continents
The Burkina Faso elephant is a symbol of the region's wildlife and represents part of Africa's rich biodiversity. In Burkina Faso, elephants are mainly found in Nazinga National Park and Comoé National Park. Over the years, Burkina Faso's elephants have faced several challenges, including habitat loss, conflict with humans, and poaching for ivory. However, various conservation efforts have been initiated to protect these majestic creatures and their habitat, such as awareness programs and population monitoring. Local communities are increasingly involved in wildlife conservation, recognizing the importance of elephants for ecotourism and ecosystem health.
The story of elephants in Burkina Faso is therefore a tale of challenges and hope, highlighting the importance of conservation and coexistence between humans and nature.
22. April 2025 and Bazoulé The wisdom of crocodiles.
🐊 Sabou and Bazoulé lakes: between nature, legend and ancestral spirits 🌿✨
A few kilometers from Ouagadougou, Lakes Sabou and Bazoulé are home to ancient legends and majestic sacred crocodiles, animals considered to bring good luck and protection. The legend of Lake Sabou It is said that one day a hunter, exhausted by hunger and thirst, came across a crocodile that, with a flick of its tail, offered him water and led him to Lake Sabou, saving his life. In gratitude, the hunter promised never to hunt these animals again, giving rise to the sacred bond between men and the crocodiles of the lake. The mystery of Lake Bazoulé The history of Bazoulé is linked to the reign of Naba Kouda. When the time came to choose a successor among his four sons, the youngest was chosen. When his father asked him if he was ready for the task, the boy replied confidently: “I'm not stupid, I can do it!” Since then, it is believed that men and crocodiles share the same spirit. Sacred crocodiles and traditional rituals Even today, during the festivities, the inhabitants offer sacrifices to crocodiles to invoke health, fertility, success, luck and protection from enemies. Despite their wild nature, these animals are incredibly calm and accustomed to the presence of man, allowing visitors to get close for a unique and fascinating experience.✨ Come and discover the mystical charm of the sacred lakes of Burkina Faso!
located in the south of Burkina Faso. Here you can find traditional architecture, decorated by hand, which makes this place magical and unique. If in the rest of the country the color is always that of the mud, with which the houses are built, here everything changes and is colored. And so Tiebelè has become a pearl not only of Burkina Faso, but of the African continent. The villages are made up of houses without windows, designed for defense and similar to miniature fortresses. The decorations show geometric patterns, each with a symbolic meaning. These are made with natural pigments, which are obtained from mud and plants. Women have been making the designs for centuries, spreading them with guinea fowl feathers. The method is passed down from generation to generation.
April 25, 2025 The day will be dedicated to visiting the city of Tiebelè, Elephants
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🌍 ACCOMMODATION AND STAY Welcome
A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in African culture through dance, music and singing, while exploring the natural and traditional beauty of the place. African Dance, Percussion and Singing Lessons Instruments available: Djembe bass drums Balafon, Ngoni, Kora, Flute and African singing Daily program: • 2 lessons of 1h30 min each (total 3 hours per day) • Duration: 8 days Costs for lessons April trip (12 days) → €240 • August trip (22 days) → €540 • December/January Festival (14 days) → €300
Accommodation and Meals Cost of stay (12 days, full board): €600 per person Included: Overnight stay, 3 meals per day (€15 per day) and services
Available accommodation types: • Shared apartment (Type A): 1 bedroom, 1 living room with kitchenette, 1 bathroom (2-3 people)
• Apartment for exclusive use: Available on request (contact us for details and additional costs). Cost of meals (for those who do not choose full board): €15 per day
Special Offer for Groups Groups of 10 Only 8 people pay, 2 guests go free! Available dates: for each trip (April, August, December) Total prices: • April trip→€3,210 (€321 per person) • August trip→€4,320 (€432 per person) • December/January festival→€2,400 (€240 per person) Included: Overnight stay, 3 meals per day, 3 hours of lessons of your choice per person per day Flexibility in Participation
Can't stay for the whole period? Choose the days of participation freely, without obligation of minimum duration.
Bookings & Information Choose between shared or exclusive accommodation and customize your experience with lessons and sightseeing.
For information and reservations, contact the organization. +39 3923780859 e-mail seydoukienou78@gmail.com
My name is Seydou Kienou, I am a musician, percussionist, singer and dancer and this is my story. I was born in Burkina Faso to a family of Griot musicians. My childhood was silent. A serious ear infection made me deaf at an early age, preventing me from completing elementary school along with my peers. But the Djembe spoke for me with its vibrations that I felt very strong overcoming the disease. The call was irresistible: I learned to play despite my deafness. That's how the Djembe became my voice and my life. At 14 I won a music competition in Burkina Faso and this attracted the attention of a German doctor who, having learned of my condition, decided to help me and take me to Germany to undergo an operation that would allow me to recover my hearing. And so it was. Upon my arrival in Germany I began to perform to let everyone know the voice of my Djembe. That's how I met the man who took care of my medical expenses and who over the years has helped me become what I am today. During a concert his daughter approached me, a slightly shabby little girl who I imagined to be poor. She told me that she hadn't eaten so she could listen to me. Moved, I offered her a meal and, at her insistent request, I gave her my personal drum, which I never parted with. Her father, a wealthy and generous man in reality, was so touched by my gesture that he took me under his wing like a son. Once again the Djembe had protected and guided me. I managed to almost completely regain my hearing, and my career as a musician has never stopped since then. The Djembe was my salvation and is still my whole life today. Thanks to it I have learned generosity, gratitude, love in all its shades. I have learned the value of education, tolerance and respect. The Djembe was, and is, my channel of connection with the world. This is the message I would like to convey. The rhythm of the drum has always been a call to meeting and sharing: and today, through this same sound, I invite everyone to welcome and listen to each other, without prejudice, giving space to compassion, tolerance, positivity, the joy of giving and of giving to each other. Because those who give are much happier than those who receive. The drum is an instrument of peace, an aggregator of peoples beyond every border and culture. The vibrations of the Djembè unite, they know no divisions, they open to the knowledge of the other without reservations. This is my Djembè: a message of love for all the men of the world!