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

Bamako Adventures: A Blend of Wildlife and City Life

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of nature and urban exploration right here in Bamako. It’s amazing how much a single day can offer when you’re open to experiencing it all. From the excited squeals of my children at the zoo to the savory flavors of Malian cuisine, today was a feast for the senses.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at crousti baguette. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the warm, sweet coffee were the perfect start to fuel our adventures. Aminata and Ibrahim were especially excited, practically bouncing in their seats as they anticipated our visit to the ZOO NATIONAL DU MALI.


Discover Mali's wildlife at ZOO NATIONAL DU MALI in Bamako, a vibrant and educational destination for families and nature lovers.
The zoo was an experience! It's not the biggest zoo we've been to, but it had a certain charm. The kids were thrilled to see various animals, and I must admit, I enjoyed it too. There were a lot of rocks. Seeing the animals up close always brings a sense of wonder, and it was a great opportunity to teach Aminata and Ibrahim about the diverse wildlife of Africa. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the zoo, taking pictures and making memories. I even managed to capture a few decent shots with my camera, which is a win in my book. I am hoping to see a lion one day.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

After our zoo adventure, it was time for lunch. We headed to Chez Thierry, a local restaurant known for its authentic Malian cuisine. Fatoumata and I were eager to introduce the kids to some traditional flavors. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some delicious grilled fish and flavorful rice dishes. The spices were just right, and the food was incredibly satisfying. Aminata, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by trying everything and even asking for seconds! Ibrahim, of course, loved everything, especially the juice.


Experience authentic Malian flavors blended with international cuisine at Chez Thierry in Bamako.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break from the tourist activities and simply soak in the city's atmosphere. We strolled through a local market, where the vibrant colors, bustling crowds, and exotic smells created a sensory overload in the best way possible. Fatoumata, with her keen eye for beautiful fabrics, couldn't resist buying a few colorful textiles to bring back home. I enjoyed watching the locals interact, bargaining for goods and chatting with each other. It's moments like these that make me feel connected to my Malian roots, a sense of belonging that I cherish deeply. I love being able to share this with my family.

For dinner, we decided to try LE SAVANA, a restaurant recommended for its diverse menu. And it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing in the background. The menu was indeed extensive, offering everything from local Malian dishes to international cuisine. I opted for a traditional Malian dish, while Fatoumata chose a seafood platter. The kids, predictably, went for pizza. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end a busy day. The staff remembered us and were very pleasant.


Experience authentic Malian cuisine at LE SAVANA, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Bamako's vibrant atmosphere.
To cap off the evening, Fatoumata and I decided to sneak away for a quick drink at Le Pub Bar. The kids were happy to relax at our accommodation, watching cartoons and winding down for the night. Le Pub Bar was a cool spot, with a laid-back vibe and a good selection of drinks. It was a nice way for us to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. We chatted about our favorite moments, laughed about the funny things the kids had said, and made plans for the rest of our trip. It’s important to have these moments together, away from the hustle and bustle of family life.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Le Pub Bar in Bamako, where locals and travelers unite over delicious drinks and lively conversations.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the National Museum [If tomorrow is the last day of the trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I am excited to delve deeper into Mali's rich history and culture. Aminata and Ibrahim are also looking forward to it, especially after I promised them we could get some ice cream afterward. We might also do some shopping at the Inaz Concept Store [If tomorrow is the last day of the trip, merge in “Trip end”]. Before that, we have breakfast planned at l’aquarium resto, lunch at Fadlfood, and dinner at Kinshasa Kitchen Bamako [If tomorrow is the last day of the trip, merge in “Trip end”].

Today was a reminder of why I love traveling – the chance to experience new things, connect with different cultures, and create lasting memories with my family. Mali is slowly revealing its beauty to us, and I am excited to see what tomorrow brings. It's a journey of rediscovery, not just of a place, but also of myself and my heritage. As we continue our adventure, I am filled with gratitude for this opportunity to share my roots with my children and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The weather in Bamako in November is hot, with average temperatures between 71°F and 96°F. There shouldn't be any rainy days in Bamako during November. The days are very hot in November so hanging out outside is more recommended during the afternoons and evening time.