Dogon Country Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Dogon Country, Mali. Read our guide and plan your trip today.


Introduction to Dogon Country

Located in the Mopti region of Mali, Dogon Country is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique insight into the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Dogon people. The region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, historic villages and towns, and impressive architecture, including houses built into the cliffs. Dogon Country is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that adds to the region’s allure.

If you’re planning a trip to Dogon Country, this comprehensive tour guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit. From the best places to visit to hiking routes and where to stay, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Dogon Country

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bandiagara Escarpment - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bandiagara Escarpment is a stunning geological formation that is home to over 300 ancient villages.

  • Songo Village - This historic village is known for its traditional architecture, including houses built into the cliffs, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Musee de Bandiagara - The museum is a great place to learn about the history and cultural traditions of the Dogon people.

  • Endele Village - A picturesque village that is known for its architecture and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Dogon Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Falaise de Banani - This imposing cliff is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing.

  • Le Campement - Set on the banks of the Niger River, Le Campement is a great spot for bird watching and fishing.

  • Grottes de Dourou - These fascinating caves are famous for their prehistoric rock art.

  • Tellem Caves - Located in the Bandiagara Escarpment, these ancient caves were once home to the Tellem people, who lived in the region before the arrival of the Dogon people.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dogon Country

  • Dourou Circuit - One of the most popular hiking routes, the Dourou Circuit takes visitors through beautiful countryside, past ancient villages and impressive rock formations.

  • Songo to Banani - This scenic route takes visitors through the heart of the Bandiagara Escarpment and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Sevar Village to Endele Village - This moderate hiking route takes visitors through picturesque villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Dogon Country: Activities and Tours

  • Traditional Music and Dance Performances - The Dogon people are known for their vibrant music and dance traditions, and attending a performance is a must-do activity.

  • Take a Boat Ride on the Niger River - A great way to see the region’s natural beauty is to take a boat ride along the Niger River.

  • Explore the Ancient Villages - The region is home to over 300 ancient villages, and exploring them is a great way to learn about the history and traditional architecture of the Dogon people.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dogon Country

Day 1: Arrive in Bamako, the capital of Mali, and take a connecting flight to Mopti.

Day 2-3: Explore the Bandiagara Escarpment and visit the historic villages of Songo and Endele.

Day 4-5: Embark on a hiking tour of the region, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the Falaise de Banani and the Dourou Circuit.

Day 6: Take a boat ride on the Niger River and visit the picturesque Le Campement.

Day 7: Return to Bamako for your flight back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Dogon Country

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tigi-dea - A popular dish made with millet, sorghum or rice, and served with a spicy sauce.

  • Berbere Chicken - A delicious spicy chicken dish, flavored with berbere spice, onions, and tomatoes.

  • Sauce Arachide - A peanut-based sauce that is a staple of the region and is often served with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Bissap Juice - Made from hibiscus flowers, this refreshing juice is a popular local beverage.

  • Beer - Beer is widely available in Dogon Country, with local brands such as Castel and Flag being particularly popular.

Where to Stay in Dogon Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel La Falaise - Located in Bandiagara, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Auberge Le Guimballa - A charming guesthouse located in the historic village of Songo.

  • Hotel Kanaga - Located in the town of Mopti, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurant and bar.

What to Buy in Dogon Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Jewelry - The region is known for its beautiful, handmade jewelry, which makes for a great souvenir.

  • Textiles - The Dogon people are renowned for their weaving skills, and the region is home to a range of beautiful textiles, including traditional blankets, carpets, and fabrics.

Local Culture and Customs of Dogon Country

The Dogon people are known for their rich and vibrant culture, which is still evident in the region to this day. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and verbal greetings.

Best Time to Visit Dogon Country

The best time to visit Dogon Country is between November and January, when the weather is dry and mild. However, visitors can also expect high temperatures and humidity during the months of March to May.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dogon Country

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting villages and mosques.

  • Take off your shoes before entering a mosque.

  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to show your respect for the culture.

Don’t:

  • Point with your feet, as this is considered disrespectful.

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.

  • Drink tap water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dogon Country

The region is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling alone or at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Health in Dogon Country

Visitors are advised to consult with their doctor before traveling to Dogon Country and ensure that all necessary vaccinations are up to date. Malaria is common in the region, so it is recommended to take prophylactic medication and use insect repellent.

Getting to Dogon Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dogon Country

The closest airport to Dogon Country is Mopti Airport, which is served by regular flights from Bamako.

Bus Stations Near Dogon Country

Buses also operate from Bamako to Mopti, with the journey taking approximately 12 hours.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrange to travel to the region via private car or taxi.

How to Get Around in Dogon Country

The best way to get around Dogon Country is on foot, by bike, or by donkey. Visitors can also arrange for private car or taxi hire for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Dogon Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Timbuktu - Located in northern Mali, Timbuktu is a historic city that was once a major center of learning and trade.

  • Djenne - This historic town is famous for its impressive mud-brick architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Dogon Country is a unique and fascinating destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural traditions, Dogon Country offers an unforgettable travel experience. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to plan your visit with confidence and make the most of your time in this amazing part of Mali.

Dogon dwellings on the Bandiagara Escarpment Dogon dwellings on the Bandiagara Escarpment Cliff paintings at Songo Cliff paintings at Songo Traditional Dogon mask Traditional Dogon mask Kola nuts Kola nuts The Bandiagara Escarpment from afar The Bandiagara Escarpment from afar