Exploring Mali's Natural Wonders: A Family Adventure in Boucle du Baoulé National Park

Bamako's Cultural Heartbeat

Today was a day dedicated to soaking in the cultural richness of Bamako. From exploring historical artifacts to savoring local cuisine and enjoying live music, it was an immersive experience that deepened our connection to Mali. Aminata and Ibrahim were especially excited, and Fatoumata and I were thrilled to share these moments with them.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at l’aquarium resto. The kids were particularly excited about the colorful decor, and Fatoumata and I appreciated the warm ambiance. We enjoyed a mix of traditional Malian dishes and some familiar international options. Aminata tried the grilled fish, a local favorite, and declared it delicious. Ibrahim, ever the burger enthusiast, opted for something closer to what he knows from back home. It was a great start to a day of exploration.


Discover Bamako's culinary gem at L'Aquarium Resto, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a vibrant setting.

After breakfast, we headed to the National Museum. The museum is a treasure trove of Malian history and culture. It was fascinating to see the exhibits showcasing traditional Malian art, archaeological findings, and ethnographic objects from various ethnic groups. The kids were intrigued by the musical instruments and traditional clothing on display. I was particularly moved by the concrete replicas of the mosques of Djenné and Timbuktu, reminding me of the architectural marvels that define our heritage. Sadly, we were not allowed to take pictures inside the permanent exhibits, but the memories are etched in our minds.


Discover Mali's rich heritage through art, artifacts, and cultural exhibits at the National Museum in Bamako.

Culture is the widening of the mind and the spirit.

For lunch, we decided to try Fadlfood, a spot recommended for its quick and tasty options. It was a casual and relaxed setting, perfect for a midday break. Ibrahim was in his element, enjoying some familiar fast-food fare, while Aminata and Fatoumata tried some local snacks. I appreciated the variety of choices, making it easy to please everyone in the family. It’s always a win when you can find a place that caters to both adventurous and less adventurous eaters.


Discover authentic Malian cuisine at Fadlfood, where every dish is crafted with care and local flavors shine.

In the late afternoon, we took a stroll through the city, soaking in the sights and sounds of Bamako. There seemed to be some demonstrations in the city, a reminder of the ongoing political tensions. It's a complex time for Mali, and it's important to be aware of the current events shaping the nation. We made sure to keep a safe distance and avoid any areas of unrest.

As evening approached, we were ready for a relaxing dinner. We chose LE SAVANA, a restaurant known for its diverse menu and lively atmosphere. The restaurant certainly lived up to its reputation. The menu was extensive, offering everything from Malian specialties to international dishes. Fatoumata and I shared a delicious grilled fish, while the kids enjoyed some tasty brochettes. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with a touch of local charm.


Experience authentic Malian cuisine at LE SAVANA, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Bamako's vibrant atmosphere.

To cap off the night, we ventured to Chez Thierry for a bit of local music and ambiance. The bar was bustling with activity, and the music was infectious. Aminata and Ibrahim enjoyed the lively atmosphere, dancing to the rhythms. Fatoumata and I savored some local drinks, soaking in the vibrant energy of Bamako’s nightlife. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with cultural immersion.


Discover authentic Malian cuisine at Chez Thierry in Bamako, where tradition meets flavor in a cozy dining atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Connecting with our Malian roots is incredibly important to me, and seeing my children embrace our heritage fills me with joy. It’s moments like these that make travel so meaningful. As someone born in Goundam, it is important to me that my children experience Bamako and Mali.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our trip, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be visiting La Dune Rose, a stunning natural wonder, and doing some last-minute souvenir shopping at OUTLET223. We’re also looking forward to trying some new restaurants, including Mr. K's Burger for breakfast, Kinshasa Kitchen Bamako for lunch, and Soukhothai by Siam for dinner. It’s bittersweet to think that our adventure is coming to an end, but we’re excited for one last day of exploration and discovery. We will then fly back to Montreal, and I will get back to software development, and Fatoumata will go back to being an early childhood educator.

This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey of connection, discovery, and cultural immersion. I’m so glad we decided to come back to Mali, and I know these memories will stay with us for a lifetime. It’s a reminder of the importance of embracing our roots and sharing our heritage with future generations. And who knows, maybe we’ll be back sooner than we think!

The tensions in the city are a reminder of the complexities of modern Mali. While enjoying the beauty and culture, it’s impossible to ignore the challenges the country faces. However, the spirit of the Malian people remains strong, and their resilience is truly inspiring. There are several conferences in Bamako in the coming months, perhaps I will come back for one of them.