The Touaregs are found throught northwest Africa and are descendants of the Berbers. They have a lighter skin than the majority of ethnic groups in Mali. Although they are often referred to as 'whites', the Tourag call themselves Tamasheq, after their language.
Touaregs number ca. 500,000 in Mali alone.
In 1990 a Touareg Revolt broke out in the north of the country after refugees from Algeria and Libya were returned to Mali. Attacks on the Malian army along the border with Mauretania, they fought for independence.
From Timbuktu many trips are organised to various Touareg camps, usually to a friend or family of the guide, and either travelling by 4WD or camel.
We chose 4WD and travelled a little further into the desert where we visited Khalis' family. We also met Khalis' girlfriend; he explained that in order to be allowed to marry her, he needs to provide a dowry of 100 camels - he currently has 5! Could be a long courtship!
Khalis' brother served tea and we were invited to see the inside of the nomadic camp, try our hand at drawing water from the well and generally observe their way of life. A very interesting experience.
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on Jul 30, 2004
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