Sikasso, Mali: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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Ready to pack for Sikasso, Mali? If you're planning to go to Sikasso, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Sikasso
- Important essentials for Sikasso
- Activities for Sikasso
- Sikasso in January: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in February: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in March: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in April: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in May: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in June: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in July: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in August: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in September: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in October: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in November: weather and what to pack
- Sikasso in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Sikasso, Mali
Based on the climate and weather in Sikasso, Mali, the best time to go is December. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Sikasso, Mali
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sikasso, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Sikasso, Mali by month
January
Traveling to Sikasso in January, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
this
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to get the right type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
February
If you are traveling to Sikasso in February, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
If you are traveling to Sikasso in March, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Light linen shorts
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Insulated water bottle
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget bring additional, as these get wet or dirty.
Bug bite relief
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed for cooling:
Sunglasses
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed for cooling and to provide UV protection.
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Personal cooling fan
this
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
April
If you go to Sikasso in April, you will notice that it is blindingly hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to pack extra, as these get wet or dirty.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed for cooling:
Bug bite relief
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
Sunglasses
Personal cooling fan
thisInsulated water bottle
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Skirts
Light linen shorts
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
May
If you are traveling to Sikasso in May, you will notice that it is blindingly hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 80s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Bug repellent
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to help you stay cool and offer UV protection.
Protecting pants
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Light linen shorts
Personal cooling fan
thisHigh-SPF sunscreen lotion
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Bug bite relief
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure bring extra, since these often get wet or dirty.
Waterproof sandals
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
June
Traveling to Sikasso in June, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
July
July in this region is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
If you are traveling to Sikasso in August, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
September can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
If you go to Sikasso in October, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
November in Sikasso very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
December
December very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans contaminants:
this
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sikasso may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Mali has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
What to do in Sikasso, Mali
Sikasso, the second-largest city in Mali, is a place full of surprises. A cultural melting pot in West Africa, Sikasso is a vibrant city that boasts a unique blend of historical heritage, natural beauty, and modern architecture. It’s no wonder that this city in Mali is becoming a popular tourist attraction for travelers from all over the world. In this article, we’ll explore the top tourist attractions in Sikasso that you shouldn’t miss on your visit.
1. The Museum of Sikasso
The Museum of Sikasso is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. This museum is housed in a former colonial governor’s palace and boasts a vast collection of objects that reflect the city's history and culture. You can find ancient musical instruments, traditional clothing, and traditional agricultural and hunting tools. The exhibits are well labeled, and the museum provides a unique insight into the life and culture of the people of Sikasso.
2. The Koutiala Market
Koutiala Market is one of the biggest and most lively markets in West Africa. It is located in the center of the city, and it's bustling with vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to traditional handicrafts. This colorful marketplace draws in tourists from all over the world who come to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market and the unique products for sale. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious street food available at the market.
3. The Guinean Forest
Located a few miles out of the city, the Guinean Forest is a nature lover's paradise. This large natural reserve is home to numerous rare species of plants and animals, including chimpanzees, leopards, and various species of birds. You can spend a whole day hiking or trekking in the forest and exploring the stunning landscapes that it has to offer.
4. The Palace of the BAMANA Kings
The Palace of the BAMANA Kings is a unique cultural heritage site that reflects the traditional architectural style of the Bamana people. It is located in the village of Sibi, a few miles out of the city, and it's one of the few remaining palaces of its kind, still standing in Mali. The Palace boasts an impressive collection of historic artifacts, including traditional clothing, pottery, and weaponry.
5. The Sikasso Botanical Garden
The Sikasso Botanical Garden is a vast space located in the outskirts of the city. This green haven offers visitors an opportunity to explore the various types of plants, trees, and flowers that are native to the region. The garden is also dedicated to reflecting the importance of the environment in the region.
6. The Banimonoti Reserve
Located in the heart of the city, the Banimonoti Reserve is a tranquil and peaceful park ideal for picnics, walking, or jogging. The reserve offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a peaceful space to relax and unwind. You can see wild animals like baboons, hyenas, deer and antelopes that are common to the region.
In conclusion, Sikasso has plenty of tourist attractions that you would not want to miss. From its historical heritage, natural beauty, to its lively markets, this city offers a unique blend of experiences that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. To enjoy the most of your trip to Sikasso, it is best to immerse yourself in the city's cultural diversity and interact with the friendly locals who are more than happy to share their fascinating stories with you.

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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