Bamako

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Bamako is the capital and largest city of Mali and is situated on the banks of the Niger River. Bamako is also the government center and the commercial heart of the country. It is a chaotic, dry and dusty city where it is busy, often very hot and has got few tourist attractions. So you will not encounter many tourists here. Only if you like markets and / or live performances does this city really have something to offer.

At the time of the Kingdom of Mali it was an important center for (Muslim) education but actually it was nothing more than a small Bozo fishermen and trading city. By the 19th century, however, the importance of the city had declined. In 1883 the region was occupied by French troops and in 1908 Bamako became the capital of French Sudan at the expense of the city of Kayes. When Mali became independent in 1960, Bamako was the choice for the capital and it become to grow into the city wat it is now.

There are not really (touristic) highlights/ sights in the city of Bamako. 

Other attractions:

• National museum.

The colonial train station is in the center of the city. Trains leave from this station for Kayes and Senegal (Dakar) but keep in mind that these often have delays or sometimes do not go at all. Normally these trains depart a few times a week.

Bamako - Dakar (Senegal): the trip takes by bus about two days and costs 30,000 by bus. You depart around 9:00 in the morning and arrive the next day very early in the morning in Dakar.

In Café / restaurant La Casa which is a bit of a hippie-style eatery you can eat well. The atmosphere is relaxed and very nice people work there; the chance that you encounter other travelers here is great. It is opposite the hostel (see below).

• Name: Hotel Foyer des Soeurs (Mission Catholique)

Address: Rue Ousamane Bagayoko

Price: 4000 CFA (dormitory excl. Shower and toilet)

Contents:

In the center is this sister monastery which also serves as a hostel. There are different rooms but the nicest thing is to stay in the dormitory. There are mosquito nets, clean sheets and it is spacious with some tables and chairs. In the courtyard there are some cars parked and there are tables, chairs and some benches under the awning. There is also a bookcase.

It is very quiet and even though you have a curfew it is a great and inexpensive place to stay a few nights. You get a key of the gate in the big fence. Finally, there is a nice café on the other side and the train station is within walking distance.

A common "scam" trick in Bamako is that people on the market start to talk with you and then start to fight or argument. Because you do not pay attention, your bags are emptied at the back or your bag is torn off and taken away. Another is that you hit someone who happens to know someone from your country or city.

You are invited to a party where this guest also comes. Of course, that “friend” will never show up. A joint is lit and even if you have not taken a puff, the police suddenly comes in and you have to pay a big fine.