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Perched above the Niger River; Wabaria, located just 12 Km south of Gao by the ferry, is the site of a busy, colorful, weekly animal market. It's a great place to arrange a camel ride into the Sahara Desert.
Have you always wanted to own a camel? You can do that here every Tuesday...at last report a baby camel was selling for approximately 125,000 CFA or $250. You'll most likely have to negotiate with a nomadic Tamashek just in from his encampment in the desert. Many of them carry swords, keep their turban tied up high around their face and don't smile too much, but don't let their intimidating manner bother you, they're here for business. Or maybe you'd just like to buy something easier, like a sheep or a goat or a cow?
If you take a guide, he can help you arrange a camel ride.
Experience: Visit the Tuesday Animal Market at Wabaria
Description: Take morning public transport leaving from the back of the Gao market for the village of Wabaria. Cross the river over the new bridge or pay a small fee (e.g., 100 CFA) to ride across in a small pirogue. Climb the hill behind town to the animal market - a fenced-in area across from the gendarmes stop. If in doubt, follow the camels.
Time Required: Approximately 3 hours
Price: No entry fees for site; Public transport from town to the river - 250 CFA; Pirogue crossing - negotiable but no more than 100 CFA; Prices negotiable for camel rides, based on length of ride
Schedule: Tuesdays before lunch
Additional Tip: Visiting the Wabaria Animal Market with a guide can make your trip much easier, especially if you want to arrange a camel ride. Be careful with photos here, as many of the people selling in this marketplace are nomads and may be unaccustomed to tourists and / or uncomfortable with having their photographs taken.
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