Although not top of the list for the main countries to visit in Africa, Mali has its own unique culture and charm with as well as welcoming people and a pleasant atmosphere. Mali is West Africa's largest country bordered on the North by Algeria and South east and East by Niger. A Muslim country with rich beliefs and customs, Mali is becoming a more popular tourist destination in Africa.



Bamako is the capital city of Mali and is considered as the most frequently visited and well-known tourist destination. Bamako is situated on Niger River near rapids that divide the middle and upper Niger valleys in southern most part of the country. Tourists can travel alongside Niger River via a cruise that will provide them with fascinating glimpses of the village-life in the exteriors of Bamako. An excursion to view the caves in the exterior of the city place where people lived for centuries can be quite exciting.

Another place to visit in Mali is the national library that boasts a selection of roughly 60,000 works comprising software, videos, audio documents, periodicals and books. Visiting the craft centre, the zoo, botanical gardens and markets are some of the other major tourist attractions.

Djenne is commonly known as the Jewel of the Niger, this place has several things to see. Djenne comprises many beautiful mosques; the Grand Mosque is the oldest and the most visited by tourists.

Mopti is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Mali. The place is spread over 3 islands and is around halfway from Bamako to Timbuktu. Mopti is mainly inhibited by the Fulani traders. It is an attractive market-town where travellers can go to purchase amber, jewellery, masks, leather goods and cloth along with wedding blankets woven by Fulani traders. Mopti is the most beautiful place with a lively atmosphere. This place is very well known for the active river-port, small villages for fishing and Grand Mosque of Mopti to name a few.

Another major tourist attraction in Mali is Segou. This place was the earlier capital of Bambara Empire, but is now the fourth-largest administrative region in Mali. A trip from Segou to Segoukoro would be most fascinating for the travellers. Segoukoro is a small town around 10 kms from Segou. This is the place that the Bambara kings expanded their kingdom and ruled for many years. The port, craft centre, and market in Segou are worth visiting. Woven bright coloured fabrics in Segou are extremely popular among travellers.

Sikasso is the most beautiful and popular tourist destination in Mali. Visiting Sikasso is an absolute must while holidaying in Mali if you are looking forward to visiting the most famous parts of Mali. There are many attractions here where people can go and enjoy their holidays. The local market in Sikasso, religious mosques and Muslim pilgrimages are just some of the many places to visit while holidaying here.