Dogon Country 'Jewel of West Africa' 4-Day Tour from Mopti

Located on the south-central part of Mali is Dogon Country, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed region with stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and warm and welcoming people. Discover the many villages, take part in cultural traditions, and step back in time as you explore this so-called 'Jewel of West Africa'.

What to Expect

Day 1: Mopti to Nombori

Depart from Mopti to Dogon Country, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural and cultural significance. Here, you'll be able to travel back in time as the vibrant Dogon people still live as they have for centuries along 200 km of escarpment. The locals, up to this day, are being studied by renowned anthropologists from other parts of the world.

Passing through Bandiagara, enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Dourou, the capital of Dogon Country. Then, visit a local village and begin your trek down the Bandiagara escarpment, through a breathtaking gorge to the village of Nombori. Spend the night here on the rooftop of the chief’s compound.

Trekking distance to Nombori: approx 5 km | 1.5 hrs

Day 2: Nombori to Tireli

Wake up to the sound of roosters and donkeys at the crack of dawn and witness as the sun bathes the escarpment with a golden glow. After breakfast, explore the village of Nombori and enjoy a light trek to Idjeli, where you'll have lunch.

In the afternoon, cool down at the springs and visit the Hogon or spiritual leader in the village. Once the afternoon heat subsides, you will then continue your trek to the village of Tireli where you will spend the night. 

Nombori to Idjeli distance: approx 2.5 km on flat land, a donkey or cow cart is available

*Idjeli to Tireli distance: approx 5 km | 1.5 hrs

Day 3: Tireli to Ireli

Start the day with breakfast and then see the spectacular Dogon Masked Dance Ceremony in the morning light. After this, explore the village of Tireli and take a 1-hr trek to Amani.

Upon arrival and after lunch, visit a sacred crocodile pond before continuing your trek to Ireli. A striking stop when in Dogon, Ireli offers numerous ancient Tellem ruins up on the escarpment and best-preserved former Dogon dwellings directly below. Spend the night here on the rooftop of the chief’s compound.

Tireli to Amani trek distance: approx 4 km | 1 hr

Amani to Ireli trek distance: approx 1 hr on flat land

Day 4: Ireli to Mopti

Explore the rest of Ireli in the morning and trek back up the escarpment through a beautiful valley to Campement Hotel in Sangha, where you'll have lunch. 

After lunch, hop on an air-conditioned vehicle that will take you back to Mopti. Along the way, you will stop at the village of Songo, famous for its picturesque setting and rock paintings at an old circumcision site.

Tour ends at Hotel Kanaga, Ambedjele or Maison Rouge in Mopti.

Includes

• Professional local guide 
• Fuel
• Airconditioned vehicle
• Accommodation
• Meals and beverages mentioned

• Visa and visa application fees
• Travel insurance and immunizations
• Meals, beverages, and snacks not mentioned
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses