Gao is a city in northern Mali, set on the banks of the Niger River. It is one of the oldest urban centres in the region and was once the capital of the Songhai Empire, a powerful state that controlled trade across the western Sahel. Today it is best known to visitors for its history and its architecture.
What to see
- The Tomb of Askia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city's most famous monument. Its massive mud-brick structure reflects the building traditions of the region.
- Traditional mud-brick architecture throughout the older parts of town, which gives Gao much of its character.
- The river, which has long shaped the city's life and its role as a trading point.
What kind of visit it makes
Gao suits travellers interested in history, archaeology and the cultural exchange that has marked the Sahel for centuries. Here Arab, Berber and African influences meet, visible in the city's crafts, its buildings and the people who live in it. A visit is best approached as a slow walk through the old quarters and a visit to the Tomb of Askia, rather than a quick stop.
The city has faced serious challenges in recent years, and the security situation in northern Mali can change quickly. Before planning a trip, check current travel advice from your government and speak with local contacts or a reputable operator about what is safe and open at the time you intend to travel.