ARRIVAL – BAMAKO

Timbuktu - Upon reaching Bamako, guests will be warmly welcomed, assisted, and taken to their hotel. The guide will provide an overview of the exciting activities planned in Mali.

BAMAKO – TIMBUKTU

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, guests will be transferred to the airport for their flight to Timbuktu, the legendary City of 333 Saints. Situated near the Niger River and historically the terminus of the grand trans-Saharan trade route, Timbuktu thrived in the 16th century. Camel caravans traversed the challenging Sahara, exchanging salt for gold and ivory brought by African traders.

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted and taken to their hotel. After checking in, they will explore the city with a local guide, strolling through sandy streets lined with historic mud-brick structures like Djinguereber, Sidi Yahia, and Sankoré Mosques, which hosted esteemed Muslim scholars. Visitors will also see the homes of 19th-century European explorers, the Ethnological Museum, Heinrich Barth Museum, and Maison des Artisans, showcasing Tuareg craftsmanship.

Overnight in Timbuktu.

TIMBUKTU

Timbuktu - After breakfast, guests will drive to Koriomé, the port of Timbuktu, and board a traditional motorized boat to Toya. Accompanied by an experienced guide and boat driver, they will visit villages along the Niger Riverbank, including Toya, renowned for its captivating sand dunes. There may also be opportunities to observe hippopotamuses in their natural environment. In the afternoon, guests will return to Timbuktu to enjoy tea on the dunes with Tuareg hosts, the Princes of the Desert.

TIMBUKTU – BAMAKO

Timbuktu - After breakfast, guests will depart from the iconic Timbuktu. They will fly back to Bamako and, upon arrival, visit La Tour d’Afrique (Africa Tower), a 50-meter structure resembling a baobab tree with four doors symbolizing African hospitality, adorned with flags of the 54 African nations. Inside, there are offices and a library featuring photos of African presidents who founded the OAU in 1960. Next, they will visit the Martyr Monument, symbolizing the 1991 transition to democracy, and the Memorial of Modibo Keita, Mali’s first president. In the afternoon, guests will 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). Guests will return to their hotel for overnight.

BAMAKO CITY TOUR

Timbuktu - Guests will enjoy a panoramic view of Bamako from Point G, also known as the Hill of Health. They will visit the National Museum, which provides an excellent introduction to the ethnic diversity of the country. The craft bazaar will be explored, where sculptors, weavers, leather workers, metal workers, and other artisans display their skills and products. One section of the market is dedicated entirely to traditional African medicines, offering unique items used in traditional healing practices. Guests will spend time at the handcraft center, where they can find great bargains on locally made goods. They will drive through the city and observe monuments dedicated to Mali’s historical figures.

BAMAKO - DEPART

Timbuktu - Guests will enjoy breakfast, with the rest of the day at their leisure. The driver and guide will be available to assist with any excursions or site visits. Guests will be transferred to the airport for their onward flight, marking the end of their tour of Mali. Meals included: Breakfast

• Roundtrip airport/hotel transfers
• Breakfast
• Admission to sites of interest, mask dances
• Experienced tour guides
• Meeting and assistance on arrival and departure

• Cost of visas
• Meals not listed
• Travel Insurance
• Tips to drivers and guides
• Personal items such as laundry, internet and telephone

Embark on an enriching cultural journey with the “Discover Mali, 8 Days” tour, beginning and concluding in Bamako! This comprehensive 8-day tour package guides travelers through Bamako and three additional destinations in Mali. The “Discover Mali, 8 Days” experience offers hotel accommodations, the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, meals, transportation, and more.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.