Travelling in Mali
I will be travelling to Ghana this summer for a project with my University. After spending several weeks in Ghana, I would like to do a little travelling in Mali. I can afford to spend up to a week in Mali and would like to make the most of my time there. I am very interested in getting to Timbuktu. Is it safe to be visiting Timbuktu? I have seen various safety warnings, but I do not know how seriously to consider them. That being said, would it be possible to start in Mopti, see Timbuktu, spend some time in Dogon Country, and finish in Bamako all in 7 days? I am not worried about having rest, I just want to be on the move and see as much as possible while I am there. I can't afford plane flights, so this will all be through, taxis, buses, 4WD, etc. How much time is necessary to spend in Dogon Country to get a decent exposure to it? Since I don't really know how to get around, I imagine I will want a guide for a majority of this trip.I would really appreciate any recommendations for this trip.
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Hi clinthanna,You should check out this site for your trip to Mali: http://www.dogoncountry.com/
The site tells you everything you need to know about Dogon Country and it also provides contact information for a number of tour operators and local guides who would be happy to show you around.
It is true that Timbuktu is not the safest place at the moment, but if you stay with a group or your guide you should be just fine. If you still do not feel comfortable going to Timbuktu, you can always just spend more time in Dogon Country; there's plenty to do there and it would be a wonderful, fulfilling experience.
Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and happy travels!
