Spectacular Festivals of the World - Festival in the Desert — Festival au Desert

The remote dunes and desert village of Essakane, Mali, come to life for 3 days every year on the second weekend in January, when Tuareg nomads and western musicians gather for a world-renowned music jam called the Festival au Desert in this desolate patch of Saharan sand, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) north of the legendary city of Timbuktu in Africa.



The “world’s most remote music festival” is a half a day’s 4-wheel-drive, or 3 days by camel from the town itself that’s synonymous with being remote and mysterious.



Musicians come from all over the world to experience this exotic, one-of-a-kind music and Tuareg culture festival in the Sahara Desert, modeled on traditional gatherings and celebrations of the Tuareg people — the “Blue Men of the Desert.”



The unique event features musicians from Mali and many other countries world-wide, featuring impromptu performances by traditional Tuareg musicians, singing, dancing, swordplay, and artisans’ exhibits. There are even camel races, but for most people music is the highlight of the festival.



The concerts are held on-stage at night, with the lights and sound system powered by electrical generators.



There are no hotels — accommodations consist of Tuareg tents and ground mats, with hot meals prepared on-site. You won’t find any running water here, but latrines and bucket showers are available. This is not your every-day luxury vacation, but a unique cultural experience.