Upcoming Retreat Dates:

Below are the upcoming retreat periods. You can pre-register or join the group that suits your timin

1. December 18 -28, 2026 (Music Festival Retreat)

2. January 16 - 26, 2027

1 Retreat Schedule December 2026

Day by Day Program

Day 1 – Arrival in Abene

Welcome to the heart of Casamance! Today is all about arrival, settling in, and gently landing in the energy of Senegal. In the evening, we’ll get to know each other and introduce you to the journey ahead.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 2 – Connection with the Village

After breakfast, we take a guided walk through the village of Abene. You’ll visit the sacred Batangworoo tree, explore the local market, and later cook together with local women – a heartfelt cultural experience.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 3 – Coastal Walk and Fishing Culture

Today we follow the coastline from Abene to the fishing village of Kafountine. We visit the beach where local boats arrive, see how fishing nets are repaired, and explore the bustling fish market.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 4 – Meeting the King

We journey to Oussouye to meet the King – a spiritual and cultural leader. We continue to Djeromat and Casa Mulomp. For the adventurous souls, there’s a chance to climb a 25-meter sacred tree.
Overnight stay in Point Saint George.

Day 5 – Island Time on Carabane

We travel by boat to the peaceful island of Carabane. With a bit of luck, we may spot dolphins along the way! A slow day to rest, wander, and soak up the island’s serene atmosphere.
Overnight stay on Carabane.

Day 6 – Island Exploration & Return to Abene

Today we visit Kasuwane and the magical Efrang Islands. After lunch on Carabane, we return to Abene in the late afternoon – reuniting with the village energy.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 7 – Music as Medicine

The final three days are dedicated to rhythm, music, and expression. You can choose to receive lessons in playing the kora – a traditional West African string instrument. In the evening, we visit the vibrant Abene Music Festival.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 8 – Reptiles & Rhythm

We visit the Reptile Farm in Kartong – a conservation and education center focused on the region’s reptiles. In the evening, we dive back into the music and celebration.
Overnight stay in AbeneAuberge Abene Bolong.

Day 9 – Flow & Festival

Today is all about deepening your experience. Continue your kora journey or choose another musical or creative expression. The Abene Music Festival offers another magical night of rhythm, dance, and community.
Overnight stay in Abene, Auberge Abene Bolong.

Day 10 – Farewell & Departure

A final morning in Abene. We say goodbye – to each other, the land, and the journey you’ve taken. You return home with a heart full of rhythm, peace, and unforgettable memories.

January 2027

€2,950 per person (excluding flight)

Included: the full programme, personal guidance, accommodation, meals and local transfers.

• Flight to Banjul not included

• Fixed deposit of €1,000 per person upon registration

• Remaining balance due no later than 8 weeks before departure

• Small group – maximum 8 participants

Flexible plan, clear anchors

Our day-by-day plan gives direction, but nothing is mandatory. We adjust to the group’s energy and your personal needs.
Note: around the mid-retreat we travel together to the islands and sleep elsewhere (2–3 nights). These travel days and overnights are part of the retreat and therefore not optional due to logistics, safety and the shared experience.

How we keep it flexible

• Morning/Afternoon/Evening blocks with space for rest or personal time

• Optional add-ons (e.g. massage, silent time, creative session)

• Weather-aware: we reshuffle activities if needed

Got a request? Tell us—we’ll think along.

Depending on your flight schedule, you may need to spend a few extra days in Senegal or elsewhere.

If your flights do not align exactly with the retreat dates, we can assist with arranging accommodation and transport for these days.

Indicative costs:

• Accommodation: €25–€45 per person per night (depending on comfort and location).

• Transport (local taxi or transfer): €20–€40 per ride.

These costs are not included in the retreat price. They are separate from the retreat and must be paid directly to the driver and at the location. Please let us know your preferences clearly, and we will be happy to arrange it for you!

Practical Note on Flights

2 Retreat Schedule January 16 - 26, 2027

Day by Day Program

Day 1 – Arrival in Abene
Welcome to the heart of Casamance! Upon arrival, you’ll settle in at Auberge Abene Bolong and take time to unwind and get acquainted with the surroundings. In the evening, we open the retreat with a welcome dinner, live music, and an introduction to the program ahead.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 2 – Connected with the Village
After a relaxed breakfast, we take a walk through Abene. We visit the sacred Batangworoo tree, explore the local market, and cook together with the women from the village — a warm and authentic encounter with daily life in Casamance.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 3 – Along the Coastline
Today we enjoy a scenic beach walk from Abene to the fishing village of Kafountine. You’ll see the colorful boats, fishermen at work, and the lively fish market where the nets are repaired. A vibrant day full of sights, scents, and local rhythm.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 4 – From River to City
We take a boat trip from Abene to Boune Island, a peaceful haven surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, we travel onward to Ziguinchor, the lively capital of Casamance.
Accommodation: Hotel Le Perroquet, Ziguinchor

Day 5 – Art, Culture & a Royal Encounter
After breakfast, we visit the crafts market and the Afro Alliance Franco Senegal — a creative hub full of art and inspiration. In the afternoon, we travel to Oussouye and visit the King of Oussouye for a unique spiritual and cultural experience.
Accommodation: Campement Aljowe, Oussouye

Day 6 – Nature & Adventure
We head out on an excursion to Djeromait and Casa Mulomp, where adventurers can climb the famous 25-meter-high tree. Later, we travel to Point Saint George, a stunning coastal area where ocean and forest meet.
Accommodation: Le Mantine, Point Saint George

Day 7 – Discover Carabane Island
Today we take a boat trip to the beautiful island of Carabane. With a bit of luck, we might spot dolphins along the way. Once on the island, you’ll enjoy tranquility, sandy walks, and the timeless charm of this historic place.
Accommodation: Campement Helena, Carabane

Day 8 – Efrang Islands & Return to Abene
We explore the lagoons of Kasuwane and the magical Efrang Islands. Around midday, we return to Abene, where we’ll stay for the final days of the retreat. The afternoon is free for rest, swimming, or quiet reflection.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 9 – Celebration & Connection
Today we celebrate our journey together with closing rituals, music, and dance. A joyful evening filled with gratitude, connection, and African rhythm — with live music and local artists to mark the end of this special adventure.
Accommodation: Auberge Abene Bolong

Day 10 – Farewell & Departure
After a final breakfast, we say goodbye — to each other, to the village, and to everything you’ve experienced. The 10-day retreat concludes today.
If your flight departs later, or if you wish to extend your stay, extra nights at Auberge Abene Bolong can be arranged upon request.