MLI: National Park of Mali

Avenue de la Liberte, Bamako, Mali
Mon-Fri: 10.00am - 9.00pm
Sat-Sun: 10.00am - 10.00pm 

Covering an area of 103 hectares within a larger protected forest reserve of approximately 2,100 hectares, National Park of Mali serves as the lungs of the capital city. The refurbished park was first opened to the public on the 50th anniversary of the independence of Mali in 2010.

My BFF and I paid CFA 700 (~S$1.65) each to enter the park, which also houses National Museum of Mali that has a separate entrance fee.

It's best to bring small denominations to pay for your entrance ticket.

The government has been working with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture to provide such a peaceful park away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Let's work hand in hand to save our forests.

Pavillon du Parc serves snacks and beverages.

There's a lovely pathway flanked by teaks, which are actually native to South and Southeast Asia, but are naturalised and cultivated in many countries in Africa and the Caribbean.

Who'd expect a basketball ring at the end of the pathway?

It's a great place for a leisurely stroll. I also saw quite a number of locals jogging.

Care for some tea at Maison du Thé?

I'm sure it's not difficult to spot the praying mantis in this photo.

Pandas love eating them.

There's a leaf-shaped section dedicated to medicinal plants.

So verdant~

Here's a fact about myself: I eat one banana every single day.

There's a small amphitheatre at the park.

Finally, we had lunch at Restaurant Balasoko that serves French cuisine.

I doubt there are crocodiles in the dry swamp. Perhaps that was the case in the past.

Is that porcupine in the logo of the restaurant?

It was a time well spent at the lush park.