7 addresses not to be missed:
Bamako City Center, Market
In the heart of the city, this large cosmopolitan market (organized into sectors) attracts many locals but also curious and savvy tourists. For the latter, the corner of bazins – traditionally dyed fabrics – is the most interesting. But beware, shopping there is no small matter! Displaying the foreign origins of the products is already the sure sign of seeing prices explode. Hence the need to be accompanied. A guide will be a valuable ally in the negotiations. Moreover, he will make thieves go away and you will avoid any risk of harassment. It is definitely worth a visit ! But only at the condition of knowing where to put your feet.
Rue Mohamed / Avenue de l’Artpos
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Bamako
Built between 1925 and 1936, this red stone Gothic building was, until 1957, the only official place of Catholic worship in the city. It is not a very large building, but it calls for meditation. The cave of the Blessed Virgin is very beautiful, and the pretty “crocodile” fountain close-by is also worth the detour.
Avenue Modibo Keita, door 1034
The National Park of Mali
Relaxing and de-stressing: these could be the key words of the national park of Mali. Located between the zoological park and the national museum, this place combines an unsuspected and extraordinary variety of plants and birds. At the turn of a walk, one can very often meet a couple of newlyweds doing a photo shoot! An island of peace surrounded by the chaos of the city.
Note: Located in the park, the Balasoko restaurant offers a simple menu with delicious food. Enough to spend a wonderful time.
Avenue of the Liberty
The National Museum of Mali
Archaeological and ethnographic museum, it presents various permanent and temporary exhibitions on the prehistory of the country. There are costumes, musical instruments and ritual objects from the different ethnic groups living in Mali. The venue also organizes events related to folklore or theatrical performances. The institution is housed in a stabilized banco building inspired by traditional architecture.
Avenue of Liberty
The banks of the Niger River
Bamako stretches along the Niger River. Sinuous and endless, it allows long walks in the fishermen’s quarters and offers some sceneries of bucolic life …
The Comme Chez Soi
This intimate hotel-bistro, which opened at the end of 2009 in a completely renovated traditional Malian villa, offers a relaxing atmosphere, in addition to its many services and facilities. Like a nice swimming pool and a peaceful tropical garden. These are certainly sufficient arguments to enjoy a stopover at Comme Chez Soi. On the roof, there is a large straw hut that protects all the epicureans who want to enjoy the moment … This is not to be missed! A real treat for the eyes.
Gate 37, 281/232. Hippodrome
Le Bafing
A true institution in the river district, Le Bafing seems to reap all the favors … It boasts its attentive and warm welcome, its excellent menus and its rates defying all competition! This is a typical bar and restaurant, an authentic gargote.
Neighborhood of the River. Street 309.
by Gwennaëlle Gribaumont