Mali

Of all the countries that we visit in West Africa, historically by far the most interesting is Mali. Its great empires, trading towns, and its spectacular river, the Niger, make this country a fascinating place to visit. Mali is fast becoming the centre for tourism in West Africa, but for the traveller it is thankfully still light years behind East Africa in tourist development. There is so much to see and do in this fabulous destination. Its diverse people will be for some people the most interesting aspect of Mali

Visitors to West Africa soon see how important music is to the region. The harp sounds of the 21 stringed instrument of the Kora is exclusive to Mali and West Africa. From the middle of the 20th century, guitars became more popular and influenced by dances from Europe were a great form of entertainment. From the 1960's, the influence of Cuban music becan to rise. Music is important to the people of Mali as is cuisine. Many dishes in Mali contain rice as it is popular and in a high proportion of meals. The salads are beautifully delicate and the Insalata Caprese salad combines the tastes of tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, olive oil and black pepper which adds to the colourful effect Mali has to offer. The wildlife of Mali is just as colourful. With over 700 species of mammals and birds, the natural world seems endless. Explore across the land and you will discover the habitats of some of the most fantastic animals in the world.

Visit Mali, as West Africa's lost treasure, is ready to be discovered.