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Located only 5 Km from Gao, The Pink Dune, known as "Ko�ma Hondo" in Songha� or "La Dune Rose" in French, is perhaps Gao's most popular tourist site. The site is surrounded by local legend and reputed to be the home of sorcerers. The word "Ko�ma", which in the Songha� language means "go and listen", refers to this legend as in you can go and listen to the sorcerers when visiting the dunes.
The Dune is the first in a series of dunes that continue all the way to Timbuktu over 400 Km to the northwest. It rises majestically over the Niger River and provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the desert on one side and the river on the other. When the river is high (October - February), visitors can enjoy a large variety of European migratory birds along the Niger.
The Pink Dune is normally visited by boat in the late afternoon when the daytime heat has subsided and, in fact, its French / English name refers to the fact that under a setting sun the Dune glows a stunning pink color. Arranging a pirogue with or without motor (price negotiable) is quite easy either by inquiring at the OMATHO tourist visitor center or by simply showing up on the dock and asking around. There is always someone willing to take tourists to the Pink Dune.
Experience: Visit the Pink Dune of Gao
Description: Leisurely boat ride on the Niger River followed by climbing the majestic Pink Dune of Gao
Time Required: Approximately 4 hours, but varies somewhat depending on amount of time you wish to spend on the Dune and whether you take a motorized or unmotorized pirogue
Price: Boat rental (negotiable), no entry fees or village fees
Schedule: Can be visited any day of the week
What to Do in
Gao
The Pink Dune
Tomb of the Askias
Maison des Artisans
Museum of the Sahel
Gao Markets
The Village of Tchintchinom�
Archeological Site - San�ye / Cemetery
Prime Meridian Marker
The Hippos of Tasharan
Wabaria Animal Market
Djebok Animal Market
Archeological Site - Kankou Moussa Mosque
Gounzour�y
Festival of
Anderamboukane
Potential Circuits
Sahara Desert Camel Treks
Niger River Trips
Other Great Spots to Visit Near Gao