Day 1: Arrival in Bamako
Welcome to Mali! You’ll land in Bamako, the nation’s capital and biggest city. Take it easy today—after your flight, you’ll want some downtime to shake off the travel fatigue.
Spend your evening wandering along the banks of the Niger River, and if you’re up for it, grab dinner at a local spot. Taste the “tiga dege na,” a peanut butter-based stew that’s super popular here.
Day 2: Explore Bamako
Today is all about getting a feel for Bamako. Start at the bustling Grand Marché (Central Market). It’s chaotic but loaded with all kinds of goods and snacks. Make sure to haggle.
Later, visit the National Museum of Mali to learn more about the country’s rich history and art. For the sunset, head up to Point G Hill for views over the city.
Day 3: Kayes and the Chutes de Félou
Catch a flight or take an early bus to Kayes, a less-visited city to the west. Known for its stunning landscapes and red hills, it’s a great switch from busy Bamako.
Just outside Kayes, you’ll find the Chutes de Félou, waterfalls that are small but incredibly scenic. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon picnic.
Day 4: Kayes to Djenné
Today, you’ll travel to Djenné. This will likely require a long road journey, but it’s worth it. Djenné is home to the great Djenné Mosque, the largest mud-brick structure in the world.
If you make good time, take a short evening walk around the town center to see the mud-brick houses lining the streets.
Day 5: The Iconic Djenné Mosque
Today, it’s a highlight of the trip: a visit to the famous Djenné Mosque. Although non-Muslims cannot enter, the outside of this building is a sight to behold. You’ll see locals arriving for prayers, and the whole vibe of the place is spiritual and calming.
Spend the rest of your day getting lost in Djenné’s alleyways and chatting with locals. You might even stumble on a few handmade markets.
Day 6: Dogon Country
Travel to the Bandiagara Escarpment, the heart of Dogon Country. This area is known for its unique culture and impressive cliffside villages. If you have a guide, they can introduce you to local traditions and stories.
Check into a local guesthouse or homestay for a truly immersive experience tonight. You’ll be in one of Mali’s most remote and fascinating regions.
Day 7: Trekking in Dogon Country
Get your hiking boots ready—it’s time to explore Dogon Country! Trek along the cliffs, discovering hidden villages every step of the way. The scenery here is otherworldly, and you’ll often feel like you’re the only traveler around.
In the evening, relax with locals who will likely share stories about their animist traditions. This will be a day that really sticks with you for a long time.
Day 8: Mopti
From Dogon Country, head over to Mopti, known as “the Venice of Mali” because it sits at the confluence of the Niger and Bani Rivers. It’s a lively city with a strong commerce feel, mostly because of the boats constantly coming in and out from all over Mali.
Walk alongside the port and take in the hustle and bustle around you. It’s a great place to practice your photography skills.
Day 9: River Cruise on the Niger
You can’t visit the Niger River without hopping on a traditional “pinasse” boat. Today, take a day cruise to a nearby village. You’ll get to see the local fisherfolk using the same techniques they’ve used for centuries.
After the cruise, head back to Mopti for some evening relaxation. Watch the sun dip below the Niger while sipping some Mali tea.
Day 10: Journey to Timbuktu
Today, you’ll take the trip to one of the most famous places in the world: Timbuktu. You’ll need to either take a long drive or a short domestic flight, but reaching this mythical city feels like an achievement itself!
Get settled into a local guesthouse and prepare for the adventure that awaits in this old trade hub.
Day 11: Exploring Timbuktu
Spend your day diving into Timbuktu’s history. Visit the historical manuscripts at libraries like the Ahmed Baba Institute, explore the Sankore Mosque, and take in the sand duned surroundings. Even though it’s become a bit touristy, it’s still one of those places you have to see.
In the evening, head out for a camel ride in the Sahara. It’s one of those moments to just sit back and let the desert silence take over.
Day 12: Gao
Take a boat or car toward Gao, another ancient trade city. While Timbuktu is more well-known, Gao holds its own charm, with the famous Askia Tomb being its standout feature.
Explore Gao on foot, visit the Tomb, and learn more about its storied past as one of the former capitals of the Mali Empire.
Day 13: Back to Bamako
Start making your way back to Bamako. Depending on your route, you might stop in smaller villages along the road and meet more friendly locals.
Once you arrive in Bamako, spend your evening relaxing and enjoying some of the capital’s nightlife. Maybe visit a local live music venue for a final taste of Malian culture.
Day 14: Departure
Your adventure comes to an end today. Grab any last-minute souvenirs and squeeze in one last meal before catching your flight home. You’ll leave with your heart full of memories from this beautiful country.
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