When travelers’ thoughts turn to Africa, as they increasingly do these days, they usually focus on the gamelands of East Africa. Which is natural, but a little limited. West Africa’s astounding variety of cultures, histories, and landscapes make it a supremely worthy part of the world to visit.
Of course in all too many West African countries those histories, at least in recent times, have been tumultuous to the point of tragedy. And most of those countries are off even the most intrepid traveler’s map for the foreseeable future. Yet quietude, peace, and great beauty are to be found. Mali’s grand mud mosque at Djenné is a world wonder, and Timbuktu is--to accurately use an overused word--the very definition of exotic. Dakar, capital of Senegal, is a lively and charming city, a world capital of captivating music. And the waterways of The Gambia and its game-rich national parks are captivating and little-visited. Our West African explorations are carefully respectful, comfortable, and, like the best travel should be, mind- and heart-expanding.
The Road to Timbuktu
Highlights: Timbuktu, chartered flights, Grand Mosque of Djenné, Mopti, Dogon, cruise the Rivers of Senegal and The Gambia, wildlife, Kiang West National Park, Makasutu Culture Forest, colorful markets, fine museums, Dakar
