This unique journey takes place during the pre-Carnival season, when the streets are buzzing with energy and percussion groups are rehearsing, performing, and getting ready for Carnival. It’s the perfect time to experience Brazil’s vibrant musical life up close.

The core trip runs for 2 weeks in Bahia, with an optional third week that can be tailored to your interests – whether that’s more time by the beach or exploring the mountains. Due to the current security situation, Rio de Janeiro is not currently included in the itinerary, as we’re focusing on other regions this time – but that could still change.

We start the first week with four days of workshops on the beach in Arembepe, on the Estrada de Coco. In the second week, we will be in Salvador for another four days of drumming. All eight workshops will be led by the great masters of the Afro Blocos from Bahia. If you’re organizing your trip independently, you’re welcome to join the workshops with prior registration.

This is more than just a trip – it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and daily life. That includes all its beauty, rhythm, spontaneity – and yes, sometimes a bit of unpredictability. Power cuts, late buses, things not going as planned... it’s all part of the experience. But out of that comes the creativity and joy that make Bahia so special. This is not a package tour. If you’re looking for all- inclusive comfort and tight schedules, this might not be for you. But if you’re open, curious, and ready for real cultural exchange, you’ll experience things no tour group ever sees.

I’m not a travel agency – I organize the program and handle reservations in Brazil. You book your own flights and handle your travel to Brazil. Once you arrive, I’ll take care of things from there. Take a look at the video below for a few impressions from past trips – featuring Salvador da Bahia, the Chapada Diamantina mountains, and the beaches of Imbassaí. I look forward to sharing this journey with you – full of music, culture, and unforgettable moments.

Warm greetings, Volker

Many years ago, numerous requests from friends and musicians prompted me to offer trips to Brazil. These trips are aimed at anyone interested in culture and include a two- or three-week program in Bahia, Brazil. I have planned and organized numerous trips since 2005. Some of the participants have been on several trips. I am proud to say that none of my participants have been mugged or robbed while under my supervision. The participants also enjoyed the program very much, and it enabled them to immerse themselves deeply in Brazilian culture.

I can also organize a trip for your samba group according to your wishes. In 2007, I accompanied a group from Hamburg.

This travel offer is aimed at anyone who is actively interested in Afro-Brazilian culture beyond the usual clichés: drummers, dancers, capoeiristas. In addition to a beach holiday and relaxation in the mountains, we encounter the fascinating world of Afro-Brazilian culture. Local, native-speaking guides guarantee a deep immersion in the vibrant pre-Carnival season in Salvador. Workshops and other activities are offered as options, but these are not the focus of the trip, so you can confidently bring a friend along. Bahia has much more to offer than you can experience as an individual tourist when you explore the country with local guides who are fluent in the language.

isits to the Afro-Blocos in Salvador/Bahia and percussion workshops with mestres from the major Afro- Blocos (Olodum, Ilê Aiyê, Muzenza, Malêdebalê) are planned. There will also be trips to dream beaches. You can organise the third week yourself. By then, you will have gained enough experience. Some group members stay in the city, others go back to the beach or drive to the mountains to Lençois (Chapada Diamantina).

I want to keep costs as low as possible. That's why there are no 4-star hotels, but clean, friendly pousadas (guesthouses) with breakfast or Airbnb apartments.