“Emancipate yourself 

from mental slavery”

~Robert Nesta Marley

Jamaica was home to some of the earliest rebellions against the British slave trade. Maroon settlements dotted the Island as Arawaks and enslaved Africans - many of them of Muslim origins - freed themselves from bondage. They leaned heavily on African culture and religious expression to liberate themselves internally and externally. Rastafarianism grew from these roots, flourishing in cultural and musical expression.  But it is not widely known that much of the foundation for Afro-Caribbean roots and culture came from West African Muslims. During this retreat we will explore together the historical, spiritual, and musical connections linking Jamaica, Africa, and Islam.

We’ll visit Kingston Central Masjid mosque, pray in peace, remember Allah, and enjoy an exquisite eight-course farm-to-table meal at Stush in the Bush organic farm. You’ll also have the opportunity to take in Jamaica’s unspoiled nature and swim in breathtaking waterfalls, beaches, and lagoons. We’ll hike up the famous Blue Mountains, where we’ll visit one of the island’s oldest Rasta communities and dissolve all ignorant misconceptions about the island and its proud people.

This won’t be about all-day tanning, beachside braids, and gift shop Rasta hats (not that there’s anything wrong with that); we just want to rejuvenate you in a different way. After all, we travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us, right? We want to share the glory, struggles, and beauty of this island- a BEAST of an island, as you will find out!

Please note that guest speakers can change due to unexpected circumstances. Burgundy Roots will guarantee optimum quality for its guest speakers. We ask for your flexibility and understanding.

Cancelation Policy and Terms/Conditions

Burgundy Roots prides itself in unique and curated travel experiences. In order for us to fulfill our promise, we must pay our suppliers ahead of time. Please note that once your deposit is processed, it cannot be recuperated as our suppliers are paid upfront months ahead of time. Thank you for your understanding. Please read carefully through our cancellation policy and message us if you have any questions.

Deposit/payment terms: Please note that the first TWO deposits and payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Deposits must be  received within the time specified at the time of booking in order to confirm your booking and avoid automatic cancellation. If you are unable to attend for whatever reason, you may transfer the trip to a family member or friend. 

Cancellation charges: Please note that deposits and payments are non-refundable. In the event of a travel ban due to COVID-19 or any other unforeseen circumstances, retreat dates will be altered to a later date. No refunds will be granted. Discomfort/unease with regards to travel or quarantine upon return will not be considered. All payments are final and non-refundable.

Final payment:Final payment is due 90 days prior to the trip. Final payments are due 90 days prior to the trip. Any cancelation made 90 days or more prior to the trip is subject to a 50% penalty (your card will be charged another 25% of the retreat fee). Any cancelation made 89 days or less prior to trip is subject to full payment of retreat fee.  

Vaccination: It is incumbent upon each traveler to check the rules and regulations in regards to vaccination demands in each country. Each traveler must ensure that they meet the criteria upon entry, as no refund will be granted if one does not meet the criteria. You may sell your slot or send someone else on your behalf instead, however no refund nor credit will be granted.  

Arrive in Kingston and meet the rest of the group.  From Kingston, we’ll make our way to Portland (4h30 minute drive). Upon arrival at our hotel, you can relax, unwind and mingle. In order to ensure airport pick up, please arrive before 2 PM.

Should you arrive at a later time, we can provide you with a driver (extra costs apply)

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.

At 10:00 we'll hop on our bus enjoy your first day in Jamaica on one of the island's most beautiful beaches! We'll spend a full day here, swimming, eating, and getting to know one another! 

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.

At 10:00 we wipp hop on our bus and explore one of the world's most beautiful lagoons! We'll spend our morning on Monkey Island, afterwards, we'll rinse off in the lagoon and fresh spring. 

Lunch 

Free time

Dinner

Evening session with Dr Ware

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.

At 10:00 we'll hop on our bus and make our way to magical waterfalls! Swim in the clearest waterfalls you've ever seen and enjoy a hike/ river walk.

Lunch at the hotel

Free time

Dinner 

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Stush in the Bush organic farm: It is a love story, a magical fusion of Rastafari and chic. It is the blending of ‘Ital’ farming and exotic vegetables. It is the love of mother nature and the love of fine dining. It is rustic and it is gourmet. (5 hour drive from Portland to St-Ann’s)

After our farm visit, we will make our way to the iconic city of Kingston and spend our last 3 nights. 

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.

At 10:00 we'll hop  on our bus, drive up to the Blue Mountains and hike  to visit a Rasta community we've been working with for many years.

Late lunch at Eits Cafe (farm to table experience)

Begin your day at Fajr with a morning class with Dr Ware. 

Breakfast begins at 8:30 and ends at 10:00 AM.

At 3:00 PM, we'll head to Central masjid to meet Sheikh Tijani, visit the mosque and learn about the work the community is doing.

Farewell dinner at a private location

Sad to see you go, thank you for joining us and trusting Burgundy Roots. Safe journey, inshallah!