| Cost From: | $6295 |
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| Length: | 15 days |
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| Activity: | Hiking / Trekking, Cultural Adventures |
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| Difficulty: |
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Although we have traveled extensively, this one of the most exiting and emotion-producing trips we have ever taken. The itinerary was nearly perfect and every day provided another stimulating scene and experience.R. Goldman—Seattle WA
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We’re celebrating our 32nd year of adventure with a wonderful array of new trips. Exciting safaris, idyllic hiking trips, fascinating cultural explorations—it’s all here. We invite you to join us!
For even the most seasoned traveler, Mali is a cultural and scenic bolt from the blue. It’s one of the most photogenic places in Africa, where the mighty Niger River courses gloriously through savanna and desert. Along the river’s route are ancient Saharan caravan hubs like the atmospheric medieval port of Djenné and the desert gold-trading outpost of Timbuktu, two fascinating towns that retain their fabled pasts with immense charm. Mali’s kaleidoscope of ethnicities is one of its wonders, from Tuareg nomads to turbanned Fulani traders, Bozo fishing tribes, and the fascinating Dogon people, keepers of an animist civilization celebrated in spirited mask dances and music that we have the privilege to witness. On this true adventure, our special small group size—maximum 12—allows for extraordinary cultural interaction. At journey’s end, we offer an extension into neighboring Burkina Faso to see the unique villages of the Lobi and Gourounsi people.
$6295 (7-12 members)
$6595 (4-6 members)
Single supplement: $995
Internal air: $425 (subject to change)
Burkina Faso Extension from: $4495
Prices are for Winter 2010 / 2011
Nov 12-26, 2010 Apene Douyon
Dec 10-24, 2010 Apene Douyon
Jan 7-21, 2011 Apene Douyon
*Winter 2010 / 2011 departures are 15 days, call for details.
Reading list, click here.
In Bamako, Mali’s capital, our explorations include the national museum, home to some masterpieces of West African art. A scenic drive along the Niger River brings us to the beautiful riverside town of Segou, a former French colonial outpost.
We journey down the Niger River aboard a private pinasse (motorized local-style open boat), with our own cook and camp crew. En route we visit remote fishing villages, observe life along the river, and camp on riverside dunes. We disembark in Mopti on Day 6, and drive to the ancient riverside town of Djenné.
The centerpiece of the medieval market town of Djenné on the Niger River is a magnificent “sand castle” mosque of adobe. We view this masterwork and roam the serpentine streets to appreciate Djenné’s fantastic Sudanic-style architecture, then return to Mopti.
The ancient villages of the Dogon people are hidden in the folds of a craggy escarpment. From our camp, we hike to villages of splendid traditional architecture, meet esteemed clan elders, and witness a dama dance, an energetic tribute to the Dogon ancestors.
Returning to Mopti, the lively river port built on three islands at the confluence of the Niger and Bani rivers, we can explore, people watch, or shop for hand-woven Sahelian blankets. Along the riverbanks near the harbor is a fascinating market.
We fly to Timbuktu, desert city of legend and home of the indigo-robed Tuaregs, a nomadic people of Berber descent. Heading out this afternoon to a Tuareg settlement outside Timbuktu, we enjoy a camel ride, the singing of Tuareg women, and dinner under the starry Sahara sky. Depart Timbuktu on Day 15.
This is the Itinerary-at-a-Glance. For the complete trip description, Download Full Trip Brochure
If you would like to extend your adventure, we offer the following option:
