National Museum — Attraction in Bamako

The three permanent galleries (archaeology, ethnography, and textiles) had really interesting artifacts; the ethnography gallery also has some videos of various rituals and ceremonies. All descriptions are in French only, so if you don't speak French I would recommend hiring a guide or doing a bit of independent research on the culture of Mali before you go so you can appreciate what you're seeing. The museum has guides for hire but I didn't ask if they spoke English. The ethnography gallery was well ventilated, but the other two were stifling hot, even at 10am - I was the only visitor at the time, so perhaps that's why the AC wasn't switched on - probably a good idea to come as early as possible to beat the heat. No photos allowed inside, but the gift shop between the ticket counter and the galleries sells post cards and small replicas of some of the artifacts on display. The surrounding park is beautiful with some small-scale examples of Malian architecture, but all of Bamako comes there for photos on Sundays (including huge wedding parties), so if you want to enjoy it calmly you should come on a weekday or...

This museum is a must-see if you are visiting Bamako! A wonderful collection of historical artifacts from around the region and great descriptions teaching about the history of the area.

You enter in through the front gate, and at the first building to your right you can buy a ticket for entry (2500 CFA for an adult). The next building you pass by is their gift shop/boutique.... don't miss it! This is one of my favorite stores in Bamako and they have great gifts for good prices!

The next set of buildings after that is the actual museum, where you enter and present your ticket at the counter. One rule: no photos! There are three rooms to the museum: one room for textiles, one room for ancient artifacts, and another room for ritualistic objects of the cultures around the area. Lots of great information accompanying the artifacts, and just FYI everything is in French.

I highly recommend taking a look at this museum, it houses some invaluable objects and does a wonderful job explaining the history of the area around Bamako and the rest of Mali. Definitely a place that needs to be preserved for future...

One of the best museums of its kind on the continent. Provides an excellent overview of the ethnographic and cultural history of Mali. Unlike museums where everything is thrown together haphazardly, items are well presented in a way that reflects their value and importance. Outstanding textile collection. Museum restaurant is called "African Grill". Don't be fooled by the name, it isn't a grill, but it does offer a good place to have lunch, for a reasonable price. If you enjoy the food, there's a second African...