Kayes

Kayes is a city in the Kayes Region on the Senegal River in Mali, a West African country. According to legend, this is Africa's hottest city. It served as the colonial capital of French Sudan until 1908. The town is a railway stop on the Dakar-Bamako line. Iron and gold are abundant in the area.

Kayes, which is defined by the Senegal River's meanders, continues to bustle and thrum to the sound of market traders and salesmen. In fact, the passage of goods was the town's raison d'être (notice the language), which was first built up by the French in the 1880s to facilitate the movement of produce to and from neighboring West African countries.

Travelers can come here to soak up the lively vibes, look for little trinkets and multi-colored fruits and vegetables in the market, and sip coffee in the shadow of pretty Parisian-style buildings. Away from town, there are even more attractions to visit, such as the Félou Falls, the roaring cataracts of the Gouina Falls, and the ruins of the formidable Medina Fort.

• Location: Kayes Region, Mali