November 28, 2010
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One fine Sunday, we were part of a rock-climbing expedition, caravan-style --- just a small one as there were only two vehicles: ours, carrying the six of us, and another, carrying a family with three young boys. The drive to our destination, by way of Siby, a town southwest of Bamako, lasted about 1 1/2 hours.
These first two photos, taken enroute, show the kind of traffic congestion that is so prevalent in Bamako:
Outside the city we passed this hill crowned with a very distinctive crest. It will appear again later in a distance shot.
Off the highway, the road turned to dirt and passed this settlement:
In the distance is our destination, the name of which is Kamandjan Arch (or, so I believe). Though Patty and I did not realize it at the time, our afternoon would be spent on the other side of this natural rock formation:
The last stretch of road was an exceptionally rutted, rough, jostling track --- suitable only for 4WD. Leaving the vehicles at the tiny parking lot, we hiked up a primitive trail, supplies in hand, to reach this most welcome, quiet and shady spot:
The arch is hidden behind these trees but sky can be seen through its opening.
To take the preceding photo, I had my back to this rock formation:
This is the rock several in the group would later use to hone their rock-climbing skills.
In truth, there were many stunning rock formations close by, as captured in these two photos:
The arch itself was a short and easy hike away. The first shot below was taken approaching the arch, the second while directly beneath:
An almost-level rocky slab made passing through the arch no struggle at all. The view out the other side was toward the little hill with the unique crest we passed earlier:
Unfortunately, this view looks toward Bamako and is partially obscured by that persistent haze. Below is the same photo with less zoom:
During the afternoon, Louay --- after quite a long struggle --- managed to clamber to the top of the arch. Here he is (at my maximum zoom), taking our picture while we reciprocate:
In many ways, the area around this picnic spot must have been a kid’s dream. It was all-natural and so different from normal surroundings at home and school. There was something new to explore around virtually every corner --- there was even a small bat cave the kids ventured into with an adult. What a backyard to play in! And, best of all, friends with whom to share it:
Of course, this group didn’t come all this way just to picnic and socialize. They had a serious hobby to pursue:
After Aaron rigged the rope, Louay made the first climb (above). He was followed by Noor, while a local boy looked on with interest:
Adli, too, reached dizzying heights:
Eventually, this outdoor adventure came to an end with no one the worse for wear, save a few minor scrapes. Appreciatively, we returned to an air-conditioned home, bringing with us some wonderful new memories.