Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
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Although it is one of the poorest countries in the world, it has such a rich culture, such a rich history, & was home to the richest person ever (til this day!) It may seem like the people there dont have much, but at the same time they have everything. Family. Love. Simplicity. Community Support. Pride. I love going to Mali because it gives me a feel of the real and raw sides of Africa, for those who are genuinely interested in West African culture and history. It’s a place that keeps me grounded
Although the local food is good, be cautious when trying street food. My preference is going to Malian restaurants. The Malian version of “jollof” rice is Zame is a must try, so is the Dibi Sogo, which is grilled lamb, served with fresh onions. Explore the greenery in Siby which is about 45 min to an hour out from Bamako,. You can also purchase fresh fruits at really cheap prices on the way in or out (the is one main road in and out of the village). You can hike, rent ATVs that take you further into the village where you see houses made of mud, or take hikes to explore waterfalls.
Back in the city you can explore restaurants, cafes, lounges and clubs. The National Museum is one of my favorite places to go, but call ahead to schedule an English tour guide since everything is written in French. Don’t forget to visit the bookstore/souvenir shop while you’re there, although i would recommend buying it at the Artisan market, also known as the Sougouba which translated to “Big Market”. Be prepared, to bargain at the market, and be prepared to be slightly harassed by merchants (they mean well and are just excited for business). It can get crowded so protect your belongings as you would in any crowded place.
My ultimate favorite thing to do in Bamako though is riding into the sunset on the Niger River. There are several canoes and boats that offer this, i did mine via a hotel/restaurant but unfortunately i can not remember the name of it. All in all there is so much exploring to do here, it just takes curiosity, patience, and proper research.
Bamako is the capital and the largest city in Mali. 70% of the industrial activity of the country happen here. The service sector is the most developed, and the city thrives in crafts and trade. Street vendors are everywhere and the downtown area is highly congested and polluted. The Sheraton Hotel will be my pick to stay, it is the Best Hotel in the City with 5 star amenities and amazing staff. Friendly people and welcoming
Mali is my home country, I went several times to visit my family.
Bamako always remind me where I come from, Africa, its crazy hot, full of colors, green but also crowded, busy, a lot odors, flavors…I love it!
What to visit? Well Bamako is booming just like most of Africa’s big cities (don’t believe the media) there are many things that you can see, do and experience.
Life is much cheaper for tourists (because the currency is weak).
-My favorate place is “Soukouba” Bamako big market, you can find there anything you can think of (Food, art craft, jewelries, traditional clothes, traditional medicine, spices, musical instruments, beauty shops..) I honestly spend at list 4H hours every time. I also like to go talk with the creators and artists, they have a very interesting perspective on African and European lifestyle, always great conversations.
-I also visited the national Zoo right next to the Parc National du Mali and the National Museum. There are many restaurants around, its relaxing and great places to stay when it’s 40° outsite (just saying).
-the night life is very busy too, I went to the Biblos and Ibiza Club, there are many more in the city center.
-we went to picnic next to the river as one of my cousin live there. I would recommend you to go to the Badalodge Restaurant and Hotel, great pleace to stay but also for a relaxing day at the swimming pool.
The Hotel Salam is nice too and right in the city center.
-If you want to go outside of Bamako and see more nature, go to Siby it is a must see at 50km from the capital city. Beautiful mountains, Waterfalls and village experience.
West African people are well known for being welcoming and sharing whatever they have with strangers. Moreover the story of Mali is so impressive, it was part of the well-known Mandingue Empire.
I can tell that travel while black is wonderful, they are waiting for you.
Hotel Salam = https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Hotel_Review-g293813-d570098-Reviews-Azalai_Hotel_Bamako-Bamako.html#photos;aggregationId=101&albumid=101&filter=7&ff=380257136
Badalodge = https://www.tripadvisor.fr/Hotel_Review-g293813-d1822255-Reviews-BadaLodge-Bamako.html