Timbuktu

Upon arrival in Bamako, you will be met, assisted, and transferred to your hotel. Your guide will brief you on the activities that await you in Mali.

Timbuktu

“Salt comes from the North, gold from the South, and silver from the land of the whites. But God’s words and learned stories are only found in Timbuktu.” After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Timbuktu, the fabled City of 333 Saints. Located near the Niger River and once the end point of the great trans-Saharan trade route, Timbuktu flourished in the 16th century. Camel caravans crossed the harsh Sahara carrying salt to exchange, pound-for-pound, for gold and ivory brought by African traders. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, explore the city with a local guide, wandering the sandy streets lined with historic mud-brick buildings like Djinguereber, Sidi Yahia, and Sankoré Mosques, which welcomed great Muslim scholars. Visit the homes of 19th-century European explorers, the Ethnological Museum, Heinrich Barth Museum, and Maison des Artisans to see Tuareg craftsmanship on display. Overnight in Timbuktu.

Timbuktu

After breakfast, drive to Koriomé, the port of Timbuktu, and board a traditional motorized boat to Toya. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide and boat driver. Along the way, you will visit villages along the Niger Riverbank, including Toya, known for its fascinating sand dunes. You may also spot hippopotamuses in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, return to Timbuktu, where you can enjoy tea on the dunes with our Tuareg hosts, the Princes of the Desert.

Timbuktu

After breakfast, leave a place whose name is synonymous with the unreachable — Timbuktu. Fly back to Bamako. Upon arrival, visit La Tour d’Afrique (Africa Tower), a 50-meter structure shaped like a baobab tree with four doors symbolizing African hospitality and adorned with flags of the 54 African nations. Inside are offices and a library featuring photos of African presidents who founded the OAU in 1960. Next, visit the Martyr Monument, symbolizing the 1991 transition to democracy, and the Memorial of Modibo Keita, Mali’s first president. In the afternoon, drive to Dogodouman to see the Parc of Sofa, a historic battlefield where French troops of Borgnis Desbordes fought Almamy Samory Touré. Atop the hill stands the monument of Keme Bourama, Samory’s younger brother, representing the Sofa (soldier). Return to your hotel for overnight.

Timbuktu

Experience a panoramic view of Bamako from Point G, also known as the Hill of Health. Visit the National Museum, which offers an excellent introduction to the ethnic diversity of the country. Explore the craft bazaar, where sculptors, weavers, leather workers, metal workers, and other artisans display their skills and wares. One section of the market is dedicated entirely to traditional African medicines, where you will find unique items used in traditional healing practices. Spend time at the handcraft center, where you can find great bargains on locally made goods. Drive through the city and observe monuments dedicated to Mali’s historical figures.

Timbuktu

Enjoy breakfast. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Your driver and guide will be available to assist with any excursions or site visits. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. End of your tour of Mali. Meals included: Breakfast