- General Information
- Bamako is Mali's capital with 2.5 million inhabitants
- City has unpaved roads, dusty during dry season and muddy during rainy season
- Traffic police enforce arbitrary rules, often stopping taxis
- Taxis-motorcycles available for CFA 100, no meter system
- Transportation
- Only domestic train service from Kayes as of 2023
- Two major bus stations: Sogoniko and Djikoroni
- International buses from regional capitals take up to 40 hours
- Attractions
- National Museum displays ethnographic exhibits from various African countries
- Grand Mosque and Sacred Heart Cathedral are major landmarks
- BCEAO Tower stands at 20 floors, tallest building in Mali
- King Fahd Bridge hosts Budapest-Bamako rally in January
- Food and Shopping
- Local cuisine includes fresh baguettes and street food
- Supermarkets like Azar and Le Miniprix offer Western-style goods
- Prices are high, bargaining expected for many goods
- Tap water available but chemically tasting
- Accommodation
- Range from budget bed & breakfasts to luxury hotels
- Most hotels located in ACI 2000 area
- Prices start from CFA 38,000 for basic rooms
- Practical Information
- Police presence common, passport copies recommended
- Tap water safe with gradual drinking
- Clinique Pasteur offers medical services
- Siby, 1 hour drive away, offers scenic attractions