Mali-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Bamako

  • Morning: Arrive at Modibo Keita International Airport (BKO)
    • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel
    • Check-in to your accommodation and freshen up
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Mali to learn about the country’s history and culture
    • Open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday
    • Admission fee: CFA 1,000 (approximately €1.50)
  • Evening: Explore the Bamako Market, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs
    • Try some street food, such as grilled meat or fried dough
    • Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas

Day 2: Timbuktu and Djingareyber Mosque

  • Morning: Fly from Bamako to Timbuktu (approximately 1 hour)
    • Book your flights in advance, as availability can be limited
  • Afternoon: Visit the Djingareyber Mosque, a historic mosque that dates back to the 13th century
    • Take a guided tour of the mosque and learn about its significance
  • Evening: Explore the streets of Timbuktu and experience the local culture
    • Be respectful of Islamic customs and traditions

Day 3: Dogon Country

  • Morning: Drive to Bandiagara (approximately 4 hours)
    • Take a 4x4 vehicle, as the roads can be rough
  • Afternoon: Visit the Bandiagara Escarpment, a stunning natural wonder
    • Hike down into the valley and explore the local villages
    • Learn about the Dogon people’s traditional way of life

Other Places to Visit

  • Segou: A historic town with a rich cultural heritage (approximately 1 hour from Bamako)
  • Sikasso: A charming city with a French colonial architecture (approximately 2 hours from Bamako)

Things to Know

  • Language: French and Bambara are the official languages, but many locals also speak English
  • Currency: West African CFA (CFA) is the local currency; credit cards are not widely accepted
  • Health: Be aware of the risk of malaria and take necessary precautions; consult your doctor before traveling
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to stay safe in crowded areas and when using public transportation

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand: No visa required for stays up to 3 months
  • Citizens of other countries: Check with the Malian embassy or consulate in your home country for visa requirements

Transportation

  • Flights: Book domestic flights in advance through Air Mali or Tunisair
  • Taxis: Use reputable taxi services, such as taxis with a “Taxi” sign on the roof
  • Public Transportation: Minibuses and bush taxis are available, but be aware of safety concerns

Other Tips

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas
  • Bargain at markets to get the best prices for souvenirs and handicrafts
  • Haggling is expected, so don’t take it personally if vendors try to negotiate with you

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Mali! Remember to stay flexible, be respectful of local customs, and enjoy the unique experiences that this incredible country has to offer.