Djenne in Mali, founded in 800 AD, is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s oldest cities. Situated on an island in the Niger River delta, Djenne was a natural hub for traders who shuttled their goods between the Sahara desert and the forests of Guinea. Through the years Djenne also became a center of Islamic learning and its market square is still dominated by the beautiful Grand Mosque. Djenne is located a few hundred miles downstream from Timbuktu.
The market in Djenne, held every Monday, is one of the most interesting and lively markets in Africa, and well worth planning your trip around.
The best way to get to Djenne is to take a taxi from Mopti. The journey takes about 2 hours. There are buses from the capital Bamako and Segou that go at least once a week, but you’ll have to enquire locally.
Although Djenne is on a river, it’s rarely deep enough for a regular boat service to the town. At the end of the rainy season (September) you may be able to get a boat from Mopti.
Accommodation is very basic in Djenne. Try anyone of the following:
Auberge le Maafir has rooms with a bathroom and serves breakfast.
Chez Baba has very basic rooms and a campsite in a nice location.
Le Campement de Djenne is where most tour groups stay. The Campement Offers rooftop mattresses and basic rooms.
Hotel Tapama is a Moroccan style hotel with courtyard and offers basic rooms with bathroom.