Road to Timbuktu

13 days - from $4165

Discover magnificent Mali - the epitome of west Africa. With the Niger River cutting a lifeblood though the country, this is a place steeped in history. From here three major empires developed and became civilisations that ultimately controlled trans-Saharan trade. On a journey through Mali, there is much to remind us of these bygone eras. Life in Ségou meanders along as it has done so for centuries, retaining its timeless ambience. Here we get an insight into an initiative project that strives to improve the quality of life for some of the underprivileged Malians before spending a night in a local family's home. The World Heritage-listed island town of Djenné with its famous Grand Mosque and busy market is yet another place that has changed little in centuries. A 3 day trek through the incredible Pays Dogon World Heritage-listed area, where we sleep on village rooftops, along with an incredible Dogon masked dance performance, is sure to be an outstanding highlight. In arid Douentza we witness amazing rock formations and search for elephants, whilst in the remote desert around famous Timbuktu (Tombouctou) we ride camels to visit our nomadic Tuareg friends. Mali is a place where fables and realities can be found side by side and are often indistinguishable from one another.

Highlights

• Bamako
• Mali Initiative Project
• Djenné Market
• Djenné walking tour
• Djenné Grand Mosque
• Trek through Pays Dogon
• Dogon Village and Masked Dance
• Niger River excursion
• Douentza Elephant Reserve
• Timbuktu walking tour
• Camel Ride to Tuareg Camp

Itinerary:

Day 1 (Sat) Arrive in Bamako and transfer to hotel.2 Drive to Ségou. En route to Djenné, join Mali Initiative Project in Niamana and overnight in a local homestay.3 Continue to Djenné and experience the vibrant and colourful Monday market. Visit the famous mud-brick Grand Mosque.4-5 Drive to Pays Dogon (Dogon Country) via Niongono. Explore village of Songo and rock paintings. Trek down escarpment to the village of Nombori and enjoy a full day of trekking.6 Trek to Tireli to experience the incredible Dogon masked dance ceremony. Afternoon trek to the village of Ireli.7 Visit fascinating Dogon houses at Tellem. Trek out of Pays Dogon. Lunch in Sanga, then drive to Mopti.8 Morning tour of Ladies Market, Old Town and the bustling harbour.9-10 Depart Mopti for Niger River excursion in traditional 'pinasse' to Konna. Drive to Douentza Reserve in search of elephants.11 Continue to Timbuktu (Tombouctou). Camel ride to Tuareg camp to view sunset.12 Fly to Bamako walking tour with local guide. Explore museums and markets. 13 Tour ends with transfer back to Bamako Airport (Thu).
Included: Peregrine tour leader, local guides, arrival and departure airport transfers, transport, accommodation, meals as indicated, sightseeing and entrance fees.
Not Included: International flights, airport taxes or any other departure taxes, visas, meals not included in the itinerary, sleeping bag, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 12 breakfasts,11 lunches,11 dinners
National Parks: This trip includes a 3 day trek into the Pays Dogon World Heritage-listed area.
Notes: This adventure is of an expeditionary nature that takes us to places where infrastructures may not be what we are used to at home. In certain places we will be required to stay in very basic hotel accommodation. Rooms will have private facilities; however, there may be occasions where hot water is not available. The conditions in the Dogon village are extremely basic. We sleep on the rooftop of the chief's hut. Showers consist of a bucket of cold water and toilets are a hole in the ground. We also spend a night camping on banks of a river and in a tent in the desert. Please note that laundry services may not always be available. A high degree of flexibility, a tolerant approach and an adventurous attitude will help maximize your enjoyment of this trip. This trip is operated in 4WD vehicles.
Starts/Ends: Bamako to Bamako
Trip Reference: PFRT