Today we drive back to Dakar and connect with our flight to Bamako, the capital of Mali. Mali is a fantastic country stretching from the unforgiving Sahara to the dry Sahel belt and the wooded Savannas of the south. It is the land of the great Niger River, third longest river in Africa after the Nile and the Congo. Here in Mali, the Niger travels along a northern loop and forms an immense inland river delta, bringing life to an otherwise desolate region.

Mali is all about history and people. This landis cradle ofAfrican civilization, the birthplace of the powerful empires of Ghana, Mali and Songhai. Home of the fabled trans-Sahara trading centers of Djenne, Mopti and Tombouctour where Muslim North Africa meet tribal black Africa. TodayMali is home to numerous and colourful ethnic groups like the Bambaras, Bozos, Dogons, Fulanis, Touaregs and others. Overnight in Bamako.

On your way to Burkina, overnight in Sikasso, the fruit basket of Mali. Here you will see the remains of the Tata wall that protected the city against the French colonial army; see the Mamelon, the meeting place of the King, built on an artificial mountain; the tomb of the first king Tieba Traore founder of Kenedougo kingdom and the house of General. In the afternoon, you will visit the grotto Missirikor where animists and Muslim worship side by side. In Sikasso visit Senoufo Cultural Center to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Sikasso’s majority ethnic group.

Overnight at Hotel Maissa or similar

After breakfast drive to cross the Mali border to Bobo Dioulasso. Check in hotel then visit of former capital of Burkina Faso. You will see the old mosque and the old square with it’s sacred catfish. See how the local brew is prepared. This afternoon we will drive to mysterious Koumi,a typical Bobo village. Here, time seems to have stood still for centuries. Sites of Interest in Koumi include the young female’s initiation place. This evening return to Bobo for dinner and overnight.

Overnight at Hotel Auberge Bobo or similar

Today we will travel to Banfor the sugar district. Here you will see the sugarcane fields and factory. On the way, visit the domes of fabedougou that are natural sculptures, the water fall of Karfiguela with its refreshing natural swimming pool and picnic area. I this afternoon enjoy a cruise on lake Tengrela where you will see several hippopotamus, other animals and river birds. This evening return to Bobo for dinner and overnight.

Overnight at Hotel Abuberge Bobo or Similar

Drive to Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta). You will pass severy significant monuments while learning the history of Burkina Faso. In Ouaga, visit the handicraft village where you will see artisans at work from weavers, to sculptors, jewellers and various other artisans. Visits include the famous Roodwoko market for unique souvenirs.

This evening dinner will be at one of Ouga’s better restaurants where live music accompanies the local dishes.

Overnight at Hotel Le Silmande Ouagadougou or similar

Today you will travel to Tiebele, the stronghold of the Kassena ethnic group. See the houses with their unique architecture colourfully and intricately painted in traditional designs by the women Kassena small compartments.

A special visit to the compound of the chief will be arranged. Tradition lives in Tiebeleso be careful of the stones in the king’s compound, each representing a human. And do not wear clothing with red colour in Tiebele; this includes (Hats, Shirts, Dresses, Pants or Shoes).

Overnight at Hotel Le Silmande Ouagadougou or Similar

Today, decide on your excursions and activities with the assistance of your driver and guide.

Possible sites of interest include the Mono Naba’s palace (on Fridays only), the National Museum, with its interesting collection of regional clothing, masks, household utensils, ancestral statues and the Musee de la Musique.

This evening you will be transferred to the airport for the onward flight.