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

First Day in Bamako: A Journey Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, our Malian adventure has finally begun! Leaving the crisp air of Montreal behind, Fatoumata, Aminata, Ibrahim, and I landed in Bamako, ready to dive headfirst into the heart of Mali. This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a homecoming, a chance for my children to connect with their roots, and an opportunity for us all to create lasting memories together.

Our first morning started with a delicious breakfast at Amandine by Sel & Miel. The aroma of freshly baked pastries filled the air, mingling with the lively chatter of locals. Aminata couldn't resist the pain au chocolat, while Ibrahim opted for a classic croissant. Fatoumata and I enjoyed some strong Malian coffee, the perfect fuel for our day of exploration. The reviews I had read mentioned mixed experiences with the service, but we found everyone to be friendly and efficient. The food was tasty and reasonably priced, a great start to our culinary journey in Mali.


Discover the sweet side of Bamako at Amandine by Sel & Miel - where delectable pastries meet warm hospitality.

After breakfast, we headed to the Mali National Park. As a software developer, I appreciate well-designed spaces, and this park certainly impressed me. It’s a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Bamako, offering a welcome respite from the bustling city. The park is well-maintained, with walking paths, gardens, and even fitness tracks. Aminata and Ibrahim were thrilled to run around and explore, their laughter echoing through the trees. We saw families picnicking, couples strolling hand-in-hand, and groups practicing yoga. It was heartwarming to see the community enjoying this beautiful space. I made sure to keep a close eye on the kids, remembering that I had forgotten the portable phone charger, and I didn't want to run out of battery taking photos.


Discover Mali's natural beauty and cultural heritage at this accessible park near Bamako, offering diverse landscapes and activities.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and today, our Malian journey began with a delicious breakfast and a walk in the park.

We spent a few hours wandering through the park, admiring the indigenous flora and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The kids were fascinated by the different bird species, and I tried my best to identify them using my travel guidebook. I was particularly impressed by the park's design, which seamlessly integrates natural elements with recreational facilities. It’s a testament to Mali’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while providing spaces for community engagement. It reminded me of the green spaces in Montreal, although with a distinctly Malian flair.

For lunch, we decided to try Bamako Kitchen, known for its authentic Malian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals, a sure sign of good food. We ordered several traditional dishes, including jollof rice, grilled fish, and maafe (peanut stew). The flavors were rich and complex, a delicious blend of spices and local ingredients. Fatoumata, being Malian, was in heaven, reminiscing about her childhood. Aminata and Ibrahim, initially hesitant, soon warmed up to the new tastes, especially the jollof rice. I enjoyed the maafe, the peanut stew was savory and comforting, a true taste of Mali. It was great to see my children embracing their heritage through food.


Experience authentic Malian cuisine at Bamako Kitchen, where every dish celebrates local flavors and traditions in a welcoming atmosphere.

After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to Marche Des Souvenirs. The market was a sensory explosion, a vibrant tapestry of colors, sounds, and smells. Vendors hawked their wares, from intricately carved wooden masks to colorful textiles and handmade jewelry. The energy was infectious, and we found ourselves caught up in the lively atmosphere.


Discover the essence of Mopti at Marche Des Souvenirs, where vibrant culture meets authentic craftsmanship in a bustling market atmosphere.

Ibrahim was immediately drawn to the toy cars, while Aminata admired the beaded necklaces. Fatoumata haggled with the vendors, her Malian heritage giving her an edge. I was fascinated by the craftsmanship, the skill and artistry that went into each piece. We purchased a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in Bamako. I bought a wooden mask for my office back in Montreal, a constant reminder of this journey. It was a bit overwhelming, but Fatoumata navigated the crowds with ease, her years of experience in Malian markets shining through. I was glad we came, it was a true immersion into Malian culture.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Au bord de l'eau. The restaurant, located on the banks of the Niger River, offered stunning views of the water. The ambiance was relaxed and elegant, a perfect setting for our first day in Mali. We ordered pizza, as well as some local cuisine. The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. As the sun set over the river, casting a golden glow on the water, I felt a sense of peace and contentment. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Malian cuisine at Au bord de l'eau in Bamako, where every meal is paired with stunning views and warm hospitality.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the ZOO NATIONAL DU MALI and Le Pub Bar. I am sure the children will enjoy the zoo. I am also looking forward to visiting Le Pub Bar with Fatoumata to relax after a long day.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a day of connection, of embracing our Malian heritage, and of creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we head towards Boucle du Baoulé National Park, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Mali, we are here, and we are ready to explore your wonders!

Reflecting on the day, I realize that even though I had forgotten the portable phone charger and the rain jackets back in Montreal, the experiences we had today were priceless. It’s not just about ticking off sights on a list; it’s about immersing ourselves in the culture, connecting with the people, and creating meaningful moments as a family. And that, to me, is what travel is all about.