Unparalleled Cultural Adventure in West Africa

Timbuktu, Dogon Country & Beyond

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"This was a trip I am deeply glad I went on and will remember forever." Helen Dunn, Petaluma CA

For even the most seasoned traveler, Mali and Burkina Faso are a cultural and scenic bolt from the blue. Mali is one of the most photogenic countries in Africa, where the mighty Niger River courses gloriously through the desert past ancient Saharan caravan hubs like the atmospheric medieval port of Djenné and the gold-trading outpost of Timbuktu, two fascinating towns that retain their fabled past with immense charm. On the golden savannas of Burkina Faso, traditional Lobi and Gourounsi clans live in artfully painted adobe “castles” in splendid settings. West Africa’s ethnic kaleidoscope is one of its wonders, from Tuareg nomads and Fulani pastoralists to the truly fascinating Dogon people, whose spirited mask dances we have the privilege to witness. Our small group size allows for extraordinary cultural interaction.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-7
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso / Tibel / Bobo

From Burkinas capital, we head to Tibel, a traditional Gourounsi town in a tree-dotted landscape. The Gourounsi live in labyrinthine compounds painted in beautiful geometric patterns. We continue into the land of the Lobi tribe, visiting their fortress-style adobes. In lively Bobo Dioulasso, Burkinas second city, we encounter a rich mixture of Burkinas ethnic groups and ramble the Grand March.

Day 8
Djenn, Mali

The centerpiece of the medieval market town of Djenn on the Niger River is a magnificent sand-castle mosque of adobe. We view this architectural masterpiece and roam the serpentine streets to appreciate the fantastic Sudanic-style architecture.

Days 9-10
Mopti / TImbuktu

From bustling Mopti, with its harbor crowded with wooden fishing boats, we fly to Timbuktu, a legendary desert outpost with a mystique all its own. We visit the 14th century Djinguereber mosque, take a camel ride (or walk) in the desert, meet the famed Tuaregs of the Sahara, and hear their hypnotic music.

Days 11-14
Niger River Journey

Our return to Mopti is by way of a wonderful journey down the Niger by private river boat, with our own cook and camp crew. En route we visit remote villages and camp on riverside dunes. We arrive in Mopti in time for dinner on Day 13 and have the next day to roam Moptis riverside markets.

Days 15-17
Dogon County

The ancient villages of the Dogon people are hidden in the folds of the Bandiagara Escarpment. From our camp, we hike to Dogon villages of splendid traditional architecture, meet clan elders, and witness a dama dance, an energetic homage to the Dogon ancestors.

Days 18-20
Mopti / Segou / Bamako

From Mopti, we drive to the beautiful riverside town of Segou, a French colonial outpost, and end our journey in Bamako, Malis small capital. Depart on Day 20.

Questions? Email Us	Download Full Itinerary	Reserve This Trip

Tour Costs $5995 (11-12 members) $6195 (7-10 members) $6495 (4-6 members) Single supplement: $995 Internal air: $200 (subject to change) *Prices are for Winter 2008 / 2009 **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

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