Gao

Mali, Africa

Gao, a historic city located on the banks of the Niger River, offers a captivating glimpse into Mali's rich culture and heritage. Known for its vibrant traditional markets and stunning mud-brick architecture, Gao is also home to the fascinating Tomb of Askia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The picturesque landscapes along the river and the surrounding Sahelian terrain provide a unique atmosphere for exploration and cultural immersion. Experience the warmth of local hospitality and the vibrant festivals that make Gao an intriguing destination.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Gao

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Gao

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tomb of Askia

Explore the UNESCO site, a stunning mud-brick mausoleum.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Niger River

Take a boat trip for breathtaking views of the landscape.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Gao's Grand Mosque

See the impressive mud architecture and vibrant community.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local Malian cuisine

Taste traditional dishes like jollof rice and tuareg.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Gao

Discover the history and culture of the region.

No booking required
6

Est. 8 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Explore the Kidal region

Venture into the stunning landscapes and Tuareg culture.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant culture through music and dance events.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local markets

Shop for handmade crafts and local produce.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience Tuareg music

Listen to traditional music in local venues.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a guided tour of Gao

Learn about the city’s history from a local guide.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Bambara

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Tiguadege Na

Spicy peanut butter stew with meat. (National dish)

Maafe

Rich sauce with meat and vegetables.

Jollof Rice

Flavored rice dish with vegetables and meat.

Fakoye

VE

Fried dough balls, often served with sauce.

Couscous

VE

Steamed granules of wheat or millet.

Phrases to learn

English

Bambara

Hello

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Yes/No

Awo / Ayi

(Ah-wo / Ah-yee)

Thank you

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Excuse me

Hakɛ

(Hah-keh)

How much?

Dɔɔnin?

(Doh-oh-neen)