Rather than coast from one luxury hotel to another – how about rediscovering that adventurous travel spirit. For an off-the-beaten-track escapade, check out the world’s “most remote music festival” - Festival Au Desert - a three-day jam session in Essakane, Mali taking place Jan 8-10.
Though this exotic music festival was officially established in 2001, it’s actually a centuries-old nomadic tradition. Many Tuareg people still attend today, along with guests from all over the world. During the day, experience traditional African events such as camel rides and "tindés" (traditional women’s songs). But as the sun sets over the desert, music takes center stage as both West African and Western musicians offer up varied traditions of music and dance.
Many of the Tuareg ride their camels for weeks to attend the festival, and the journey is not for the fainthearted. Even if you can catch a ride to Timbuktu, four-wheelers are needed from there. The best way to attend the festival is by booking both your ticket and transportation via the festival’s web site. It’s highly discouraged to try to reach the festival on your own, as it can be difficult and potentially hazardous traveling alone without an expert guide or driver.
