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Bafing Faunal Reserve

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Animal habitat
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Bafing Faunal Reserve (Mali)

Weather…

The Bafing Faunal Reserve is located in southwestern Mali and is a core component of the Bafing Biosphere Reserve, established to protect biodiversity within the Guinean savanna zone. Covering an area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers, the reserve is bounded to the east by the Bafing River, which feeds the Manantali Reservoir. The reserve's primary significance lies in its protection of the Western Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus), a critically endangered subspecies. The landscape features a mix of dry forest, wooded savanna, and gallery forests along watercourses, providing sanctuary for numerous mammal species including lions, leopards, and antelopes. The construction of the Manantali Dam in 1988 significantly altered local hydrology, necessitating increased conservation efforts to mitigate habitat loss. Today, the reserve serves as an important research site for primatologists and acts as a cornerstone for transboundary conservation efforts between Mali and Guinea.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252831333430272626262524
Rain mm1259451522473422377740

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The dry season from December to May is handy for observing Western Chimpanzees foraging. During this time, the undergrowth is less dense, improving visibility.
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Best time of day
Chimpanzees are most active in the early morning and late afternoon when they forage for food. Plan your hikes to spend these times in the forest.
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Etiquette
Keep at least 25 meters distance from chimpanzees to avoid stress and disease transmission. Avoid loud noises and camera flash; feeding is strictly prohibited.
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What to bring
Binoculars with good light-gathering ability help spot chimpanzees in the dense canopy. Long trousers, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent are essential due to ticks and mosquitoes.
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Getting there
The reserve is remote and best accessed by 4WD vehicle on unpaved roads. A permit from the Malian forestry authority is typically required.
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What to expect
Chimpanzees may rest in trees for hours - be prepared for long waits. Focus on sounds and movement in the foliage to locate them.

Geography

Coordinates
12.80000, -10.50000

Facts

  • The reserve covers a protected area of approximately 5,000 square kilometers.
  • It hosts one of the largest remaining populations of Western Chimpanzees.
  • The Manantali Dam was completed in 1988 on the eastern edge of the area.
  • The area is part of the transboundary Bafing-Falémé National Park.
  • Annual rainfall in the region ranges between 900 and 1,100 mm.
  • The reserve is located in the Kayes administrative region of western Mali.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tabakoto Gold MineTabakoto Gold Mine41 km · SEExplore →
Manantali DamManantali Dam42 km · EExplore →
Birgo MountainsBirgo Mountains65 km · NWExplore →
KéniébaKéniéba82 km · SExplore →
Bafing-MakanaBafing-Makana87 km · WExplore →
Kéniéba PlateauKéniéba Plateau92 km · SExplore →
Kandjoura ValleyKandjoura Valley95 km · SEExplore →
Falea Uranium ProjectFalea Uranium Project95 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the park open all year?
In the rainy season, many paths are impassable.
What wild animals can you see?
Chimpanzees, antelopes, and various big cats.
Is a reservation necessary?
Yes, contact the relevant conservation authority in advance.
Are there marked hiking trails?
There are some paths, but a guide is mandatory.
Do you need a 4x4 vehicle?
Highly recommended as roads are very rough.
Bafing Faunal Reserve: where is it located?
Bafing Faunal Reserve is located in Mali.
Bafing Faunal Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Bafing Faunal Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Bafing Faunal Reserve is located in southwestern Mali and is a core component of the Bafing Biosphere Reserve, established to protect biodiversity within the Guinean savanna zone.
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More places

Kayes market variety — Bafing Faunal Reserve (Mali)
Kayes market variety
A busy market featuring regional craft products.
Kayes orchards — Bafing Faunal Reserve (Mali)
Kayes orchards
Small agricultural farms specializing in growing mangoes and citrus fruits.
Mali-Guinea border forest — Bafing Faunal Reserve (Mali)
Mali-Guinea border forest
A densely forested protected area along the border, known for its biodiversity.
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Tabakoto Gold Mine
A gold mine in western Mali that encompasses both open-pit and underground mining operations.
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Manantali Dam
A massive dam on the Bafing River, generating hydroelectric power and regulating water flow for agriculture.
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Birgo Mountains
A forested mountain area in southwestern Mali, forming part of the border with neighboring Guinea.