10 Things to Do in Festival au Desert in Timbuktu, Mali
The Festival au Desert in Timbuktu, Mali is an annual celebration of the culture and music of the Tuareg people, who inhabit the Sahara Desert region of northern Africa. The festival is a unique and unforgettable experience, and here are 10 things to do while attending the festival.
1. Enjoy the Music: The Festival au Desert is renowned for its incredible music, with performers from all over the world coming to play. From traditional Tuareg music to modern African rhythms, the festival is a great place to experience a wide range of musical styles.
2. Explore the Markets: The festival takes place in the ancient city of Timbuktu, and the markets are a great place to explore and pick up some souvenirs. There are plenty of handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing to be found, as well as traditional Tuareg food and drink.
3. Take a Camel Ride: One of the best ways to explore the Sahara Desert is by camel, and the festival is a great place to do it. There are plenty of camel rides to be had, and it’s a great way to get a unique perspective on the landscape.
4. Visit the Mosque: The Great Mosque of Timbuktu is one of the most famous landmarks in the city, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the festival. The mosque is a stunning example of traditional Islamic architecture, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
5. Attend a Workshop: The festival is also a great place to learn about the music and culture of the Tuareg people. There are plenty of workshops and classes available on topics such as traditional music, dance, and language.
6. Take a Desert Safari: The Sahara Desert is a vast and beautiful landscape, and the festival is a great place to explore it. There are plenty of desert safaris available, and they’re a great way to get a unique perspective on the desert.
7. Sample the Food: The food of the Tuareg people is as varied and delicious as the music, and the festival is a great place to sample it. From traditional dishes such as couscous and tagine to more modern fare, the festival is a great place to experience the cuisine of the region.
8. Watch a Dance Performance: The Tuareg people are renowned for their traditional dances, and the festival is a great place to watch them. From the hypnotic rhythms of the tamachek to the energetic movements of the tinde, the festival is a great place to experience the culture of the region.
9. Go Stargazing: The Sahara Desert is one of the best places in the world to go stargazing, and the festival is a great place to do it. With no light pollution and clear night skies, the festival is a great place to experience the beauty of the night sky.
10. Meet the People: The Tuareg people are some of the most welcoming and hospitable people in the world, and the festival is a great place to meet them. From the musicians to the vendors, the festival is a great place to get a taste of the culture and make some new friends.
The Festival au Desert is an amazing experience, and these 10 things are just a few of the many things to do while attending the festival. From exploring the markets and taking a camel ride to attending workshops and going stargazing, the festival is a great place to experience the culture and music of the Tuareg people.