Grand Magal of Touba
In short: Grand Magal of Touba: from from all over Senegal to Great Mosque of Touba. Length: Pilgrimage to the city of Touba, duration: several days. Best time: on 18 Safar, moves through the calendar.
Overview
The Grand Magal is the most important pilgrimage of the Mourides, a large Muslim Sufi brotherhood in Senegal. It recalls Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, whom the French colonial power sent into exile in Gabon in 1895.
Every year on 18 Safar, the date of his exile in the lunar calendar, people stream into the holy city of Touba. The organisers gave a figure of over 6.5 million participants for 2025, while other estimates are much lower. Followers travel from all over the world.
The date moves forward by about eleven days each year. For visitors this is a huge religious festival with no walking route. Respectful clothing is a must, and the roads there are very busy at this time.
Who is this route for?
This route suits a first pilgrimage well. You need no mountain experience, normal basic fitness and broken-in shoes are enough.
You can find more routes under Pilgrimage routes in Africa, sorted by religion under Islamic pilgrimages.
Frequently asked questions
How long is Grand Magal of Touba?
Pilgrimage to the city of Touba, several days.
When is the best time to walk Grand Magal of Touba?
on 18 Safar, moves through the calendar.
Is Grand Magal of Touba suitable for beginners?
This route suits a first pilgrimage well. You need no mountain experience, normal basic fitness and broken-in shoes are enough.
