COMING SOON: Mali Group Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Bamako

Arrive in Bamako, the vibrant capital of Mali. Meet your tour guide and fellow travelers, and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Malian dishes like tigadèguèna (peanut butter stew) and fufu. Relax and soak in the lively atmosphere of the city, your gateway to Mali's rich history and culture.

Day 2: Bamako City Tour

Begin your exploration with a guided city tour of Bamako, visiting the National Museum of Mali to learn about the country’s history and diverse cultures. Stroll through the Grand Marché for a taste of local life, where you can shop for handmade crafts and textiles. End the day with a visit to the Point G Hill, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Day 3: Ségou & Niger River Cruise

Travel to Ségou, a charming town on the banks of the Niger River. Explore the town’s colonial architecture and vibrant markets, and visit the Balla Fasseke memorial to learn about the legendary griot who founded the Ségou Kingdom. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing Niger River cruise, where you can take in the scenic beauty of the riverbanks and watch traditional fishing practices.

Day 4: Dogon Country - Bandiagara Cliff

Head to Dogon Country, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its dramatic landscapes and unique culture. Visit the Bandiagara Cliff, an impressive sandstone escarpment where the Dogon people have lived for centuries. Take a guided trek through traditional Dogon villages, learning about their ancient customs, architecture, and beliefs. Enjoy a sunset view over the cliff before settling into a local guesthouse.

Day 5: Exploring Dogon Villages

Spend the day immersing yourself in the local Dogon culture, visiting several remote villages in the region. Experience the traditional art, including wood carvings and mask dances, and learn about the Dogon’s complex social structure and spiritual practices. The day concludes with a traditional Dogon dinner and cultural performance, offering insight into the community’s rich heritage.

Day 6: Mopti - The Venice of Mali

Travel to Mopti, known as the “Venice of Mali” due to its location at the confluence of the Niger and Bani rivers. Take a boat ride through the waterways, observing the daily life of the local fishermen and the floating markets. Visit the Port of Mopti, where traditional wooden boats, or pinasses, are crafted, and explore the lively Mopti Market for locally made goods and spices.

Day 7: Timbuktu - The City of Gold

Fly to the legendary city of Timbuktu, once a thriving center of trade and learning. Explore its ancient mud-brick mosques and historic buildings, including the Djinguereber Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Ahmed Baba Institute to learn about Timbuktu’s importance as a hub for scholars and intellectuals during the 15th and 16th centuries. Enjoy a sunset camel ride over the surrounding desert dunes.

Day 8: Timbuktu & Desert Exploration

Spend another day in Timbuktu, exploring its hidden treasures, including ancient manuscripts that tell the story of the city’s role in Islamic history and African scholarship. Afterward, embark on a camel trek into the Sahara Desert to experience the vast, peaceful dunes and the stark beauty of the desert landscape. Return to Timbuktu in the evening for a traditional meal under the stars.

Day 9: Return to Bamako via Segou

Head back to Bamako, with a stop in Ségou to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch along the Niger River. This will be a great opportunity to reflect on the journey and shop for any last-minute souvenirs. Arrive in Bamako in the late afternoon, where you can enjoy a free evening to explore the city or relax.

Day 10: Departure from Bamako

After breakfast, reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had over the past 10 days, from the ancient city of Timbuktu to the stunning landscapes of Dogon Country. Take a final walk through the markets of Bamako, picking up any last-minute items, before heading to the airport for your return flight, carrying the rich memories of Mali with you.

Join us for an extraordinary journey through Mali, where history, culture, and adventure await at every turn!

Tour Inclusions:

• Accommodation in comfortable lodging

• Local breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily

• Guided tours and attractions

• Flights and transportation

• Experienced local guide throughout the tour

• Cultural activities