Bougouni National Park is a stunningly beautiful and diverse wildlife sanctuary located in the Bougouni region of Mali. It is home to a variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and more than 300 bird species. The park also boasts an impressive array of landscapes, from lush forests to open savannas. With its abundance of natural beauty, Bougouni National Park is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the African wilderness. Here are 10 things to do in Bougouni National Park.
1. Spot Wildlife: Bougouni National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and more than 300 bird species. Visitors can take a game drive and spot wildlife from the safety of their vehicle. It’s also possible to take a guided walking safari and get up close and personal with the wildlife.
2. Visit the Waterfalls: The park is home to a number of beautiful waterfalls, including the Kouroumou Falls and the Diamou Falls. Visitors can take a hike to these falls and enjoy the stunning views and the refreshing waters.
3. Go Bird Watching: Bougouni National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise, with more than 300 species of birds. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour and spot species such as the African Fish Eagle, the Grey-headed Kingfisher, and the Black-winged Stilt.
4. Hike the Trails: Bougouni National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the trails, or they can take a more strenuous hike and explore the park’s more remote areas.
5. Go Fishing: Fishing is allowed in certain areas of the park. Visitors can take a fishing trip and try their luck at catching some of the park’s native species, such as the Nile Perch and the African Catfish.
6. Take a Boat Ride: Visitors can take a boat ride on the Niger River and explore the park’s wetlands. Along the way, they can spot wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterfowl.
7. Visit the Villages: The park is home to a number of traditional villages, where visitors can learn about the local culture and customs. Visitors can also sample some of the local cuisine and purchase traditional handicrafts.
8. Go Camping: Bougouni National Park offers a variety of camping sites, where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the park.
9. Visit the Markets: The park is home to a number of markets, where visitors can find an array of local goods and souvenirs.
10. Enjoy a Picnic: Visitors can take a picnic to one of the park’s many scenic spots and enjoy a meal with a view.
Bougouni National Park is a stunningly beautiful wildlife sanctuary and an ideal destination for those looking to explore the African wilderness. Whether you’re looking to spot wildlife, go bird watching, take a boat ride, or just enjoy a picnic, there’s something for everyone in Bougouni National Park.