population: 0.12 million

extension: 130.5 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Tombouctou, Mali and want to visit museums, I would suggest visiting the Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Learning and Islamic Research. It is a research center that also serves as a library and museum, with a collection of historic manuscripts from West Africa. If you are looking for similar places nearby, you can visit the Djinguereber Mosque or the Sankore Mosque, both of which have a rich cultural history and artifacts on display.

Food

Tombouctou, also known as Timbuktu, has a rich culinary tradition that reflects its location on the edge of the Sahara desert. Here are some of the most recommended and popular dishes according to local people:

1. Taguella Bread: This is a traditional bread made from millet flour and baked in an open fire. It is often served with spicy stews or sauces.

2. Couscous: Couscous is a staple food in many parts of West Africa, including Tombouctou. It is made from semolina flour and typically served topped with vegetables, meat, or fish.

3. Jollof Rice: Jollof rice is a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is often served with chicken or beef and can be quite spicy.

4. Tô: Tô is a porridge-like dish made from millet or cornmeal. It is often served as a side dish with stews or sauces.

5. Grilled Meat: Grilled meat is a popular street food in Tombouctou. You can find vendors grilling everything from beef and goat to camel and even crocodile.

6. Thieboudienne: Although not originally from Mali, this dish is quite popular here. It is a Senegalese dish made with fish, rice, and vegetables cooked in a tomato-based sauce.

7. Bissap Juice: This refreshing drink is made from hibiscus flowers and sugar. It is often served cold and can be quite sweet.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can try in Tombouctou.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people in Tombouctou (Mali) enjoy include:

1. Visiting the weekly market: Every Monday, Tombouctou hosts a vibrant outdoor market where locals gather to trade goods, socialize, and enjoy street food.

2. Exploring the old city: The historic center of Tombouctou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful mud-brick architecture, narrow alleyways, and ancient mosques.

3. Taking a camel ride in the Sahara: Tombouctou is located on the edge of the Sahara Desert, and many locals offer camel rides into the dunes for an unforgettable experience.

4. Attending traditional music performances: Music is an important part of Malian culture, and Tombouctou is known for its lively performances of traditional instruments like the kora, balafon, and ngoni.

5. Watching a game of "laamb": This traditional form of wrestling is popular throughout West Africa and involves two athletes trying to overpower each other using strength, technique, and skill.