Things to see and do Ségou

This famous Malian knows the méandres of Niger at the Fingertips. He organizes at the request of excursions with his (motor) canoe: Mopti, Lake Débo, Timbuktu, Gao… Throughout the journey you will taste the excellent cuisine prepared by his wife and sleep on the shores of the river.

The agency of Mohamed Sacko (more known under the name of Kevin) organizes circuits on Mopti, Timbuktu and Dogon country. Many possible formulas: 4 x 4, bike, ATV, with or without guide… In Segou, the agency offers a pinasse rental service. Possibility also to rent tourist vehicles.

Built in a built architecture, this space managed by Michel Bamia is dedicated to contemporary artistic creation. Michel is exciting: his comments, jubilant, demonstrate his perfect knowledge of African art. His desire is to convey to the public the unexplored treasures. Thus, the exposure he devotes to fetishes (until July 2009) finds his place in the midst of contemporary works. You can discover a fetishes box and some altars. These loaded objects and the worrying aspect make sense and ask about our own rituals.

In Segou, everyone knows Souleymane. This famous artist has great contemporary bogolans. He is regularly asked for fashion shows. The visit of his workshop, built in a typical red building in the region, is very rewarding. The bogolans, made in pure respect of tradition, come from vegetable dyes. A man works on an old loom, a woman file cotton by hand while others apply colours according to the chosen patterns. Cushions, tables, rafias… the choice is wide and the achievements very successful. You can admire these fabrics in the main gallery of the centre, but also sculptures, jewellery, bronzes and other paintings from the whole subregion. Beautiful view of Niger from the bar-restaurant where you can only use local specialities. Stage project to organize parades and welcome artists.

This centre was founded by designer Boubacar Doumbia, a true reference for contemporary bogolan. The explanations, clear and pedagogical, allow you to visualize the steps necessary for his manufacture. Each fabric expresses a message. You are invited to represent yours. A very entertaining and interesting workshop. The centre also has its shop. Fine achievements and reasonable rates.

This small agency is led by Pascal Keita. This man of heart carries out solidarity activities throughout the country. In its brochure, traditional circuits (visit of the region of Segou, Dogon country…), à la carte or bird stud. A serious agency.

It is the tourist office, to have all the useful information about the city.

The market for pottery is located along the river in the city centre. If you don't have time to go to one of the potters villages, this market houses part of their production. You can buy fine plates, vases, canary pots, terracotta pots for a small amount.

This space dedicated to music was created by the success of the festival on Niger. You are invited to discover the Music and Heritage Museum where the traditional Instruments of the Region are grouped: goni, ouadi-ouadi, indétrônable kora and many others… Another room is planned to host performances, artists'residences and other exhibitions. The goal of this centre is to promote local cultural actions, live arts and visual arts. With this in mind, the structure is also equipped with the best recording studio in the country, a state-of-the-art tool to best accompany regional musicians. Cultural entertainment is also planned every weekend.

The Marché market is held on Monday, but already the day before you can see the first traders arrive, Canary canoes crossing the river. This market is very colourful and attracts people from all over the region. It is one of the largest in the country.