Things to see and do Sahel

Not far from Zigbéri, the Mare mare is the second largest mare in the Sahel region, a paradise of resident and migratory birds, has nothing to envy the Mare mare (some think it is even richer in avifauna: teal, casqués ducks, souchets, migrating, Gambia geese…). To achieve this, it is absolutely necessary to use a guide that knows the region very well, because the tracks are losing very easily. Travelling with a local guide offers the advantage of getting acquainted with the Sahel lifestyle (the importance of nomadic life, the annual rhythm on the need for the herds and the availability of water, the use of natural elements through traditional crafts…). In particular, we will notice the edge of the pond, holes that serve as wells to the water table, where water is healthier than that of surface. At certain times, there are also large red and light roots. They are apparently used to manufacture musical instruments. From the mare, it is possible to make a magnificent crossing off the trails of Oursi via Kona, Soukounou, Bengao Nagui and Boulé. A good local guide is always needed to find its way. You need to know how to read the tracks, which is almost impossible for an uninformed eye. For the lucky ones, it will be possible to observe the local fauna (hyena, jackal, gazelle…). You can also go back to Zigbéri and go back to Markoye, or go on this same track to Tin Akoff. In addition, the surroundings of Zigbéri are rich in tamashek and fulani camps. As in Markoye, the Darkoy region offers a wonderful experience in the Sahel.

Classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, the Mare mare has more than 200 species (ducks, migrating, wading). It has an ecological monitoring of the Naturama Foundation, which acts for the conservation of nature within society. Unfortunately, this site is suffering and risks silting due to climate change (decline in rainfall) but also uncontrolled fishing, overgrazing and gardening. December and January are the best for Bird Watching. Among them, the couronnée crane is certainly the most majestic and has been chosen as the emblem of the Naturama Foundation.

Pablo offers the visit of Dori (market, blacksmiths jewellers, feminine craftsman centre…), as well as excursions to the surrounding area (slug, count 17 500 FCFA the day, guide and lunch included), with night to the beautiful star (count 30 000 FCFA 2 days), visit of the village of Doumam decorated by women…). It offers its services for the entire Sahel region and can organise a 4 x 4 rental.