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

Whispers of the Pink Dune

Today was a day of vibrant colors and deep cultural immersion. We ventured to La Dune Rose, a place that has captured my imagination since childhood. It was more than just seeing a pink sand dune; it was about connecting with the land and sharing that connection with my family. The experiences we had today were a reminder of why I wanted to bring my family back to Mali, to show them the beauty and wonder that exists beyond our life in Montreal.


Discover La Dune Rose in Koïma, Mali: a breathtaking scenic spot with unique pink sands, perfect for serene escapes and stunning photography.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mr. K's Burger. Now, I know what you might be thinking – burgers in Mali? But sometimes, the kids just need a taste of something familiar, and it was a good way to fuel up for the day's adventure. Aminata and Ibrahim were particularly excited, bouncing in their seats as they devoured their meals. Fatoumata and I enjoyed some strong Malian coffee, which gave us the energy boost we needed.


Indulge in delicious burgers with a local twist at Mr. K's Burger in Bamako – where flavor meets fun!

After breakfast, we set off towards La Dune Rose. The drive itself was an experience, passing through small villages and seeing the daily life of the people here. The landscape is starkly beautiful, and it was easy to imagine my ancestors traversing this land. As we got closer, the anticipation grew. I had told the kids about the dune, how it turns pink at sunset, and they were eager to see it for themselves.

We arrived at La Dune Rose in the late morning. The sun was high, and the sand shimmered with a golden hue. Even though it wasn't the famed pink of sunset, the dune was still a sight to behold. It rose majestically from the surrounding landscape, a testament to the power of nature. The kids immediately took off, running and climbing with boundless energy. Fatoumata and I followed at a more leisurely pace, taking in the scenery. The air was dry and warm, and there was a sense of peace that settled over me. It was a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Montreal, and I felt a sense of homecoming that I hadn't realized I was missing.

The land remembers what the mind forgets.

I spent some time explaining to Aminata and Ibrahim the significance of La Dune Rose. I told them about the stories I had heard as a child, how the dune was a gathering place for wise men and scholars. It was a place of learning and reflection, a place where the community came together. I wanted them to understand that this wasn't just a pretty place; it was a place with a history, a place with a soul. Aminata, always the inquisitive one, asked many questions, while Ibrahim was content to simply play in the sand. It warmed my heart to see them connecting with their heritage in their own ways.

For lunch, we headed to Soukhothai by Siam. It might seem odd to have Thai food in Mali, but we are a family of diverse tastes. The change of pace was actually quite refreshing, and we all enjoyed the flavorful dishes. It was a nice break from the traditional Malian cuisine we had been eating, and it gave us a chance to recharge before our next adventure.


Discover the flavors of Thailand at Soukhothai by Siam in Bamako - where authentic dishes meet warm hospitality.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to explore the area around the dune. We walked along the Niger River, watching the fishermen cast their nets. The river is the lifeblood of this region, and it was fascinating to see how people depended on it for their livelihoods. We also visited a small village nearby, where we met some of the local people. They were warm and welcoming, and they shared stories about their lives. It was a humbling experience, and it reminded me of the importance of community and connection. I made sure to take some photos, capturing these moments of genuine human interaction.

As sunset approached, we made our way back to La Dune Rose. The sky was ablaze with color, and the sand began to glow with a soft pink hue. It was even more beautiful than I had imagined. The kids were mesmerized, their faces lit up with wonder. We sat together on the dune, watching as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was a moment of perfect peace, a moment that I will cherish forever. I felt grateful to be able to share this experience with my family, to show them the beauty of Mali and the richness of our culture.

After sunset, we had dinner at Le 365. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively. We talked about our day, sharing our favorite moments. Aminata loved climbing the dune, while Ibrahim enjoyed playing in the river. Fatoumata and I were simply happy to see our children connecting with their roots. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover the flavors of Mali at Le 365 in Bamako - where local cuisine meets international flair in an inviting atmosphere.

Before heading back to our accommodations, I decided to make a quick stop at Bla Bla Bar. I wanted to experience a bit of the local nightlife, and I had heard good things about this place. It was a vibrant spot, filled with music and laughter. I enjoyed a local beer and soaked in the atmosphere. It was a nice way to unwind after a long day of exploring. I didn't stay too late, as I wanted to be fresh for our adventures tomorrow.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bamako at Bla Bla Bar, a lively gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Yacouba Guindo Mosque, a place of great historical and cultural significance [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I am excited to learn more about the mosque and its role in the community. We also plan to do some shopping at Badenya Boutique N2, where I hope to find some unique souvenirs to bring back to Montreal [Itinerary of Tomorrow].

Today was a day of connection, a day of exploration, and a day of wonder. La Dune Rose lived up to its reputation, and it was an experience that I will never forget. I am grateful to be able to share this journey with my family, and I am excited for what tomorrow will bring. As I lay in bed tonight, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. I am home, and I am sharing that home with the people I love most. What more could I ask for?