MALI HOLIDAY REVIEWS
Mali
Economically, the landlocked West African Republic of Mali is depressed and poor, but a holiday in Mali is a rich experience because the country is one of the most mysterious and intriguing on the continent. Mali’s once fabled city, Timbuktu, is now disappointingly just a heap of ruins in the desert sand, but it ismore
Economically, the landlocked West African Republic of Mali is depressed and poor, but a holiday in Mali is a rich experience because the country is one of the most mysterious and intriguing on the continent. Mali’s once fabled city, Timbuktu, is now disappointingly just a heap of ruins in the desert sand, but it ismore
Mali overland - Jaja A.R. Uthman. Date of travel: Jan 2007
I drive every second year from Switzerland to Burkina Faso to the Fespaco (African Film Festival) via France, Morocco, Mauritania. Mali is the highlight of the travel, from the time you cross the frontier (Nioro) entering Mali the real travel begins. The road is nearly finished as of January '07, to Bamako. After Bamako we drive to Se'gou to look the panarama and the market. Though it is small but very interesting. There is a good camping also for sleeping with rooms for rent also. From there we go to Mopti, then to the Dogon region a very special place is Bankass, that's why they call it travel. One must go. Word and picture do no justice for what one will see and experience. With the people that's another story in itself they are what make this country so special. By the way next trip starts on 15 January '09 from Switzerland, hope you can make it . Jaja
I drive every second year from Switzerland to Burkina Faso to the Fespaco (African Film Festival) via France, Morocco, Mauritania. Mali is the highlight of the travel, from the time you cross the frontier (Nioro) entering Mali the real travel begins. The road is nearly finished as of January '07, to Bamako. After Bamako we drive to Se'gou to look the panarama and the market. Though it is small but very interesting. There is a good camping also for sleeping with rooms for rent also. From there we go to Mopti, then to the Dogon region a very special place is Bankass, that's why they call it travel. One must go. Word and picture do no justice for what one will see and experience. With the people that's another story in itself they are what make this country so special. By the way next trip starts on 15 January '09 from Switzerland, hope you can make it . Jaja
The heavyweight of the region - Nigel Tompkins. Date of travel: Apr 2006
Although West Africa contains many gems, I'd have to say Mali hides the most. The country is massive although I was only able to explore the regions that followed closely along the Niger, I saw wonders unlike any in other country. Cruising up the Bani, a tributary of the Niger, was such a wonderful way to meet locals in the villages that dot along the banks. Although I didn't quite make it to Timbuktoo, the two days were absolute bliss and enjoyed in the great company of the very professional young guides I had picked up in Mopti. Djenne, however, is a standout. Not only for the famous Mosque, but the entire town is like nothing I have ever seen. Respiratory problems can be common due to the mudbrick structures and their dubious crumbling natures. I spent the night on the flat mud roof of a hotel listening to the Koran being sung throughout the warm night, palm trees swaying across a full moon. Dogon country was another highlight. Apparently Jacques Chirac has a house among the villages but I was not inclined to knock. Many visit Mali simply to see the Dogon and it really is a treat. The ways of life have not changed much for those who have stayed for generation along the beautiful escarpment. My guide, Abdouli, whom I had picked up in Bandiagara was perfect providing five star service, cold cokes and beer, and ensuring we were well fed. A blissfull few days in a magical place. Tour Operator: none
Although West Africa contains many gems, I'd have to say Mali hides the most. The country is massive although I was only able to explore the regions that followed closely along the Niger, I saw wonders unlike any in other country. Cruising up the Bani, a tributary of the Niger, was such a wonderful way to meet locals in the villages that dot along the banks. Although I didn't quite make it to Timbuktoo, the two days were absolute bliss and enjoyed in the great company of the very professional young guides I had picked up in Mopti. Djenne, however, is a standout. Not only for the famous Mosque, but the entire town is like nothing I have ever seen. Respiratory problems can be common due to the mudbrick structures and their dubious crumbling natures. I spent the night on the flat mud roof of a hotel listening to the Koran being sung throughout the warm night, palm trees swaying across a full moon. Dogon country was another highlight. Apparently Jacques Chirac has a house among the villages but I was not inclined to knock. Many visit Mali simply to see the Dogon and it really is a treat. The ways of life have not changed much for those who have stayed for generation along the beautiful escarpment. My guide, Abdouli, whom I had picked up in Bandiagara was perfect providing five star service, cold cokes and beer, and ensuring we were well fed. A blissfull few days in a magical place. Tour Operator: none
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