Djenne, Mali
Djenne (Mali), founded in 800 AD, is one of sub-Saharan Africa's oldest cities. Situated on an island in the Niger River delta, Djenne was a natural hub for traders who shuttled their goods between the Sahara desert and the forests of Guinea. Through the years Djenne also became a center of Islamic learning and its market square is still dominated by the beautiful Grand Mosque. Djenne is located a few hundred miles downstream from Timbuktu.
The market in Djenne, held every Monday, is one of the most interesting and lively markets in Africa, and well worth planning your trip around.
The best time to go is at the end of the rainy season (August/September) when Djenne turns into an island.