Music Retreats in Southern Spain

Finca Ara Oko

Finca Ara Oko offers music, singing, percussion and Afro-Cuban retreats in Southern Spain, bringing together expert tuition, creativity, nature and community.

We offer retreats for solo travellers, beginners and experienced musicians alike.

⭐ Featured among The Guardian’s Top 10 Music & Singing Holidays
⭐ All our Google reviews are 5-star

Explore Our Retreats

Thinking of Joining Us?

✓ Beginners welcome — some of our retreats are suitable for beginners. Check out our Afro-Cuban Singing Retreat and Afro-Cuban Percussion: Rhythm Roots Retreat.

✓ Many guests come alone — most people arrive not knowing anyone and quickly become part of the community.

✓ Small, friendly groups — a warm and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels included.

✓ Airport lifts and car sharing available — we help connect guests travelling from Málaga, Granada and nearby airports.

✓ For singers, musicians and curious beginners alike — whether you’re experienced or completely new, there’s a retreat for you.

✓ Accessible and inclusive — we aim to keep our retreats as affordable and accessible as possible, so that more people can experience the joy of this magical place.

Finca Ara Oko Retreats

Finca Ara Oko is where creativity, education, relaxation, and socialising intertwine. Immerse yourself in expert tuition in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Indulge in nourishing home-cooked, locally sourced meals while connecting with a warm community of fellow participants.

What’s On 2026

Salsa Percussion & Ensemble Retreat 11th – 18th May

Machito’s Master Bata & Rumba Retreat 14th – 23st June

Afro-Cuban Singing Retreat 13th -20th September

Afro-Cuban Percussion: Rhythm Roots Retreat 19th – 26th July 2026

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Guardian Review

Read the full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2025/jun/01/from-djing-and-folk-to-songwriting-and-salsa-10-of-the-best-music-and-singing-holidays

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Videos to give you a taste of the location and atmosphere at Finca Ara Oko.

Salsa

Coro de Clave

Aerial Views

Google Reviews

Finca Ara Oko

5.0

Based on 54 reviews

Anne Martin

1 day ago

I can't imagine a better holiday. Beautiful location, lovely warm people, great food and fantastic music making.

Laura Valenti

8 months ago

I absolutely loved spending time with Vicky and Dave and a fantastic group learning Afro-Cuban songs!

The food was super tasty and nourishing, and the views from the finca, overlooking the sea, with golden skies and the Milky Way, were truly unforgettable.

But what I loved most was spending time with these amazing human beings, who are genuinely devoted to music, teaching, and community-making in such a fun, humble, down to earth and heartfelt way. These are qualities I’ve rarely found in teachers, so meeting Vicky and Dave felt like a precious gift that brought a lot of joy into my life.

I can’t wait to go back. Thank you!

Venetia Bennion

8 months ago

What a lovely way to spend a week! Playing Salsa together with lovely people in an idyllic setting surrounded by almond trees and the dazzling light of the Alpujarras! The accommodation was fantastic and so was the food. Dave and Vicky are fabulous hosts.

Safiyya S.B.

8 months ago

An absolutely amazing experience. It’s been two weeks, and I still can’t get the rolling mountain views, the beautiful light, the fruit trees, the delicious food, and—of course—the daily salsa ensemble lessons out of my mind! The arrangements and songs chosen were so contagious that we couldn’t stop singing them all week long. Dave and Vicky are wonderful hosts and teachers, and I wouldn’t hesitate to book this again.

Rachel Dymond

10 months ago

Brilliant immersion into the songs & rhythm & traditions of the Afro-Cuban culture.
Still singing snippets of the songs…my brain synapses have made all sorts of new connections as I learnt to balance moving, clapping & singing in different time signatures - like rubbing your stomach & patting your head!
Great food & accommodation too.

Maria Paul

10 months ago

What an amazing week the setting the people, the songs , the food, the accommodation all came together to create an unforgettable experience. Working with Dave and Vicki is always inspirational. Their ability to tailor the level of difficulty for each group means everyone has a positive experience. Performing with the Lobras choir was particularly memorable and uplifting.

Charli Rees

11 months ago

I cannot recommend a stay at Finca Ara Oko enough. The accommodation was wonderful, we were very comfortable. Lots of different areas to relax in & the plunge pool was a lovely bonus to cool off in.
The setting was simply stunning - huge skies, amazing sunsets & very peaceful, a real retreat from our busy lives.
Vicky & Dave are such wonderful hosts, they made us feel really welcome & at home, such kind genuine people.

Debbie Kleiner

11 months ago

What a beautiful peaceful place with everything you could possibly need. Easy to get to with a car hire. Gorgeous apartments and spaces to relax and reflect . Lovely local walk to view the sunrise.

Carli Dawson

12 months ago

I cannot recommend Vicky and Dave at Finca Araoko enough. They are so welcoming and knowledgeable and such kind teachers. The location is spectacular, you really have the chance to disconnect and relax. If you are thinking about dipping your toe into the water of Cuban music, you couldn't choose a better team!