Guide to Mali
Must See Mali
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A hiking trek to the Dogon country, travelling the length of the Falaise de Bandiagara or Bandiagara Escarpment, is likely to be the highlight of any visit to Mali. The Dogon have a fascinatingly complex and elaborate culture and are well known for their traditional art work.
The treks are a great way to get a first-hand look at the pink sandstone houses and granaries carved out of the cliff face, and to gather tips on gardening in very small spaces. The Dogon actually grow their crops in small plots on cliff ledges.
If you are there in April you can see the spectacular five-day Fête des Masques, which is the Dogon's major festival involving liberal amounts of dancing and millet beer. The other regular event in Dogon life is market day, which occurs every five days. These are lively affairs that don't get into full swing until around noon and are usually greased with a bit of a joke-telling session, some local gossip, and the ubiquitous millet beer.