Arrive at Timbuktu, the city at the crossroads of West
African trade in the 16th century, when salt was as valuable as gold.
The camel caravans and the commerce led to the establishment
of one of the oldest universities in West Africa. Visit the different
mosques, the explorers' houses, the museum, the library, the
bustling food market and the artisan market before riding a camel
to a Tuareg camp to meet the nomadic "blue men of the desert."
Days 1-2
The next stop on your journey is Mopti, where pirogues
(dugout canoes) transport people and goods to neighboring
villages. Visit the port, the market and the mosque before taking a
sunset cruise on the Niger River.
Day 3
Drive to Djenn? to see the Great Mosque, the largest mud
building in the world, the Quranic schools, and the narrow streets
decorated with Moroccan-designed windows and doors amid the
Sudanese architecture.
Day 4
Travel to Songho to view famous ritual cave and rock paintings. After lunch in Bandiagara, visit the traditional medicine center.
Day 5
A full day excursion to the cliffs takes you to the beautiful
Dogon villages perched on the cliff sides. Driving down the cliffs
from Sangha, enjoy a panoramic view over these villages, including
Banani, Irelli, Amani and Tirelli. Explore the Dogon village of
Sangha and experience their fascinating culture as expressed in the
spectacular mask dance.
Day 6
A visit to the Bobo village of Kanga shows you the picturesque granaries that line the road while you continue to Segou, stopping at villages of the Bobo people (known for their masks and elaborate costumes) along the way.
Day 7
Visit Segou's colonial buildings, its port and authentic
Bambara villages before arriving in Bamako and connecting with
your onward flight this evening.
Day 8
Day 9