Just got back from a whirlwind trip to Timbuktu - out 1 day all day in a 4WD, 1 days in town, then 1 day driving back. Timbuktu is really not that worth it to visit other than the allure of saying that youve been to this remote outpost in the world that carries the mystique of ancient times. The markets are interesting and sitting atop a sand dune on the edge of the Sahara watching sheep being herded and camels guiding tourists around the dunes at sunset was nice. We bought a Tuareg blue cape off a guys back for 6000CFA - he didnt speak French or English and seemed more amazed that we were giving him a bunch of small coins than a 5000CFA note, but I can say I have an original cape now, not some factory produced tourist rubbish.
I also have 3 stitches in my left thumb after an argument with a car door - which will heal up nicely into a great souvenir and story from Tombouktu. Ill never forget the nurse saying "brave boy" in faltering English as she drove the needle in without any anesthetic ....
Pictures of the dunes and ferry if you click the photo below ...
