Places to visit in Mali

Fast Facts

 

• Location: Western Africa.
• Capital: Bamako.
• Currency: Tenge (KZT).
• Language: French, Bambara.
• Best time to Visit: November to January.
• Time Zone: UTC.
• Calling Code: +223
• Major Airports: Senou International Airport (BKO) in Bamako, Gao International Airport (GAQ).

If you are still confused about your yearly holiday trip, then book your tickets to Mali in Western Africa. Walk into the enchanting world of fantasy and beauty and connect to the aura of nature at the must see places in Mali. The country officially known as the Republic of Mali, is a landlocked country. The seventh largest country in Africa, consisting of eight regions, Mali is bordered by Niger to the east, Algeria to the north, Senegal and Mauritania to the west, Guinea to the southwest and Burkina Faso and the Cí´te d'Ivoire to the south. Though currently a developing nation, Mali is still one of the poorest countries in the world. In spite of its economic doldrums, Mali still remains as one of the most sought after places of interest for tourists. Infact, the pleasant weather of the place from November to January attracts huge tourists from all parts of the world, who visit the must see places in Mali with great enthusiasm.

The current terrorism and anti-social activities in the Northern half of the country has indeed effected the overall tourism business of Mali. Though a larger number of tourists avoid the Northern tourists destinations in Mali, yet it is fascinating to note the love for nature among some tourists, who still visit places like Mali-Niger, Mali-Algeria borders and the Kidal and Gao region, which are swarmed with insurgency and crime. However, for those who are still scared to venture in the darker side of the country can enjoy other must see places in Mali, which are equally enticing. Bomako, the capital of Mali is a typical modern town and is very much different from the other plush capital cities throughout the world. The town is spread out with markets, art and craft centers as well as cultural centers that exhibit the true essence of the country. The Musee National, the Zoo and the renowned art center at Maison des Artisans are remarkable tourist spots.

Other than being a typical forest attraction for tourists, it is also a historical country with great cultural heritage. So for those who wish to dive into the ancient past and look into the diverse culture of the place, should visit the must see places in Mali that basically comprises of ancient souvenirs, monuments, caravan routes and many more. For instance, Timbuktu, one of the most noted Mali tourist spots is distinctively famous for its magnificent camel caravans. These caravans that arrive from the Taoudenni salt mines every year is a primary tourist attraction of the place. The beauteous mosques and tomb of the city are equally impressive and testify the rich culture of the place.

Further, Mopti, a noted tourist destination in Mali is impressive, owing to its commercial significance as well as the unique landscape. The place is made of three islands joined by dykes. The entire area is surrounded by ports. Apart from this, Bandiagara, Djenne, the mosques and the excellent markets are also must see places in Mali. Here you can even venture into the darkest alleys of the National Park od la Boucle de Baoula, which is an abode to Sahelian animal species like giraffe, leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo and hippo.

Weather

Mali could be too warm and hot with temperatures often rising above 40°C during the hottest months of April to June. September-October is also pretty hot. The wettest season is July-August. The weather becomes pleasant from November through January when the temperature comes down to 30s.

Transportation

Air: Senou International Airport (BKO) in Bamako and Gao International Airport (GAQ) are two of the major airports in Mali. Flights are available from a number of countries in Africa and Europe including Senegal, Mauritania, Tunisia, and France etc.

Train: You can reach Bamako, the capital of Mali from Dakar, Senegal.

Bus: Mali can be reached from a number of African destinations by bus including Accra in Ghana, Dakar in Senegal, Abidjan in Cote d'Ivoire and Lomíé in Togo. Buses are also the most popular mode of transportation to move between the destinations within the country.

List of must see places in Mali:

• Bamako
• Djenne
• Grande Mosquee
• Mopti
• Bandiagara
• March des Souvenirs
• Timbaktu

• Djingerebur
• Sankore
• Sidi Yahaya
• Kankan Moussa
• San and Segou townships
• National park of La Boucle de Baoule
• Tombs of Askia Dynasty