Timbuktu
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WARNING: As of Jan 2013, the Timbuktu region is in the midst of ongoing fighting between Islamist rebels (who have controlled the region since mid-2012, imposing strict religious law) and Malian, West African, & French forces who are trying to out the rebels. Travel is not recommended at this time. More information is available in the warning at the top of the Mali page. |
Timbuktu is in a region in Mali named after the largest city within the region.
Regions
Cities
- Timbuktu
- Arouane in the desert to the north.
- Goundam a mainly Tuareg settlement, based nearby to Essakane where the 'Festival in the Desert is held each year.
- Taoudenni to the far north of the department (some 700km North of Timbuktu
Other destinations
Understand
Whilst Timbuktu is the largest department in Mali, it is largely empty. The majority of Timbuktu is the deserts of the Sahara, the main towns are all focussed in the south along the Niger. The desert areas are largely the domain of the Tuareg.
Talk
Get in
Get around
The towns in the south can be accessed by bus/taxi. However the desert to the north requires a 4x4 or a camel, you will probably want a guide who knows what they are doing.
See
The city of Timbuktu itself is the main attraction in the department.
Itineraries
Do
The world famous 'Festival in the Desert' is held at Essakane. You can easily get transport from Timbuktu when the festival is running.
Eat
Drink
Stay safe
If you are heading into the desert to the North there is usually considered to be a threat of bandits in addition to the risk of getting stranded. Be sure to register your itinerary and expected return date with the tourist office in Timbuktu.