Lake Sélingué
Reservoir Reservoir in Sikasso region created by Sélingué Dam
Lake Sélingué is a reservoir formed by the Sélingué Dam on the Sankarani River; visitors encounter fishing communities, riverine birdlife and local markets along its shores.
Lake Sélingué is a reservoir in southern Mali’s Sikasso Region created by the construction of the Sélingué Dam on the Sankarani River. It functions as both a hydroelectric reservoir and an irrigation and fisheries resource for the surrounding region.
The reservoir supports seasonal fisheries and irrigation schemes, and the dam supplies electricity to parts of southern Mali. Lakeside villages and agricultural land depend on its regulated water levels for crops and livelihoods.
The dam project was completed in 1982 and transformed a river valley into a managed reservoir that now plays a major role in regional development. Management focuses on balancing power generation, irrigation needs and fishing productivity.
The reservoir lies on the Sankarani River in Sikasso Region, downstream of the central highlands and serving communities in southern Mali.
- Creation and use: The reservoir was formed when the dam was completed in 1982, and is used for hydroelectric power, irrigation and fisheries.
What to See #
- Sélingué Dam: Concrete gravity dam completed in 1982 that impounds the Sankarani River and created the reservoir used for hydroelectric generation and irrigation.
How to Get to Lake Sélingué #
Lake Sélengué is located in the Sikasso Region of southern Mali, formed by the dam on the Sankarani River. The nearest larger towns are Sikasso and Bamako (further away); local roads connect communities around the reservoir. Travelers should consult local authorities and guides for access and security information.
Tips for Visiting Lake Sélingué #
- Coordinate travel through regional authorities-Sikasso and surrounding regions have limited tourist infrastructure.
- Bring strong sunscreen and shade-Sahelian climates can be intense even in early mornings.
- Hire local guides familiar with the reservoir's shores and seasonal changes.
Best Time to Visit Lake Sélingué #
Lake Selingué (Sélengué) in southern Mali is most accessible during the dry season; rainy months can make travel difficult and roads muddy.
Weather & Climate near Lake Sélingué #
Lake Sélingué's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with very hot summers (peaking in April) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 15°C to 38°C. Abundant rainfall (1031 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 15°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is warm with highs of 36°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 22°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is the hottest month with highs of 38°C and lows of 23°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm).
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May
May is hot, feeling like 32°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 30°C. Significant rainfall (136 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 21°C. Heavy rain (230 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (281 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (190 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 29°C due to high humidity. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 16°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and mostly sunny skies.
