Brimming with history and heritage, Mali is well known for its UNESCO sites and the historic city of Timbuktu. Mali is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites which offer a great way to soak up the country’s culture. The Old Town of Djenné has been inhabited since 250 B.C. and was once a big player in the trans-Saharan gold trade. Nearly 2,000 houses from the 15th and 16th centuries are still standing today. The mystical city of Timbuktu, Tomb of Askia and Cliff of Bandiagara are also well worth exploring. Every Monday, you can witness the famous Grand Marché where thousands of traders and customers travel from afar to do business. The best time to visit is mid-to-late morning, and you’ll see colourful stalls selling everything from pasta to pottery. Most accommodation can be found in the capital of Bamako, with hotels and apartments the most common property type.