Bakel

Bakel stands on a rocky rise above the Senegal river in the far east of the country, where the river turns and both Mauritania and Mali are within sight across the water. The French built a fort here in 1820 to control the upper river trade, and the buildings on the hill, including the house associated with the explorer René Caillié, survive in various states. The town below is a river port and a departure point for the region's long tradition of migration.

What you actually see

• The hilltop fort - the 1820 French post above the river, with the town below.
• The Caillie house - the building associated with the explorer, on the fort hill.
• The river bend - the Senegal turning below the town with two borders across it.
• The port - the river landing and the trade that still moves through it.

When to go

November to February is the coolest part of the year; from March the eastern valley becomes extremely hot. The river is highest after the rains in September and October. Mornings are the only comfortable time to climb the hill.

Honest expectations

Bakel is remote and the road from Tambacounda is long. The fort buildings are only partly maintained and there is no interpretation. Accommodation is minimal and the heat outside the winter months is severe.

Nearby

Tambacounda is southwest, and the Malian border is a short way upriver.