Mali -130th Country

Mali -130th Country

Mali -130th Country. To see where I have been so far, check out my map as I count down the final 93 countries on the road to all 193 UN countries. Mali is my 130th country.

Check out the best 193 travel books to read!

Eighteen million people make their home in this land-locked western African country. This expansive country spreads north deep into the Sahara, while most people reside in the south. Mali is another former French colony who gained its independence in 1960. In 2012, Mali was subject to a joint attack from Al Qaeda and the ethnic Tuaregs who overran the north and central parts of the country. The French, Malian and other African forces expelled and destroyed these forces, bringing some stability to the nation.

After much debate and research, I decided to visit the historic, walled town of Djenne in the center of the country. Travelers should not be visiting to Mali according to the US State Department. Mali has been subject to civil war, terrorist attacks, and kidnappings. Despite these warnings I wanted to visit the Grand Mosque of Djenne. I also stayed in Segou and the capital of Bamako, both residing on the Niger River.

Check out my visit to the magnificent Great Mosque of Djenne.

Mali -130th Country