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There really is a way to get to Timbuktu. But getting to the farthest corner of the earth is not easy. Located in the middle of Mali, in West Africa, Timbuktu is about 250 miles from the capital, Bamako.
Most carriers will take you as far as Bamako: From the United States, either fly to Dakar, Senegal, or to Paris, Zurich or Brussels, and then take a connecting flight to Bamako. You can also get to Bamako from most neighboring West African countries. After that you're on your own.
Timbuktu has an airport, but it's nearly impossible to book a flight on Mali's regional carrier when you're outside the country. It's best to make travel arrangements (for a flight or surface transportation) when you arrive in Bamako.
A more picturesque way to get to the city of mud homes and dusty roads is to take a four- or five-day trip down the snaking Niger River. But in order to do this, you first have to get to Koulikoro, which is about 35 miles east of Bamako. And so goes the long, complicated road to Timbuktu.
To enter the Republic of Mali, a visa is required. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate for more information (see address below). Because of Mali's unstable political structure, register with the your Embassy once you arrive in the country.
Each Department of State recommends keeping a low profile and staying away from demonstrations and rallies. Many health insurance policies are not valid in Mali, so bring extra cash most hospitals expect immediate payment and do not accept credit cards
For more information, contact:
Embassy of the Republic of Mali
2130 R St. N.W.
Washington DC 20008
(202) 332-2249Tourist office address in Mali: Societe Malienne d'Exploitation des Ressources Touristiques (SMERT) BP 222 Bamako, Mali
| INTRODUCTION | MANSA MUSA | SONGHAY | SILENT TRADE | ISLAM | HOW TO GET TIMBUKTU | HOME
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