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Often thought of as a remote location at the far corners of the earth, Timbuktu is a must-see on any visit to Mali.

Although not on many top lists of countries to visit in Africa, Mali has its own unique charm and culture with a friendly disposition and welcoming people.

Add to that stunning desert views, hikes along the world-reknowned Bandiagara Escarpment, and camel treks from, of all places - Timbuktu! - and you'll find a memorable and adventure-filled exursion awaits.

The largest country in West Africa, Mali is officially French speaking - especially in and around its capital city, Bamako - where the Musée National, the colorful markets, zoo & botanical gardens and the Maison des Artisans provide a colorful introduction to the country.

About halfway from Bamako to the fabled Timbuktu ...lies Mopti, a center of tourism made up of three islands (pack the mosquito repellent) at the junction of the Niger and Bani Rivers.

A lively and colorful market town, Mopti also serves as a jumping-off point to Dogon Country, home to the original settlers of the Niger river valley and where villages are built into the cliffs of the breathtaking Bandiagara escarpment, today declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Of course, no visit to Mali would be complete without an excursion to Timbuktu which, despite its reputation for lying near the ends of the earth, is very accessible to the modern traveler. Once a major center along the Saharan trade route, and during the Middle Ages a great seat of Islamic learning, Timbuktu not only holds "bragging rights" for having visited there, but architectural attractions including exquisitely beautiful mosques and tombs dating to the medieval era.

Mali - Good introduction to the country including geography, maps & pictures, culture & history, overviews of major attractions, photo gallery and related links.

Mali Travel Guide - Excellent insider tips for when and where to travel, safety tips, recommended itineraries & activities, with special looks at Timbuktu & Dogon, related links.

Mali travel guide - Detailed information from Wikitravel with a list of major attractions, advice on getting around by car, train or boat plus insider safety & travel tips, maps & pictures.

Mali Travel Blogs - The latest news & first-person accounts of travels throughout Mali with highlights, travel tips and lots of photos.

Mali Travel Information - Lonely Planet guide with information on getting there and getting around, insider tips on top attractions, photos, travel tips.

Mopti, Mali Travel Guide - Lots of helpful information including miles & distances and related facts & figures, plus personal travelogues and picture galleries.

Timbuktu - city of legends - BBC profile including photos, history and culture, with a look at present-day Timbuktu including museums, libraries, architectural wonders, and the lone cybercafe.