Africa
Mali
Not a place to travel now. The UK advises against all travel; JNIM blockades on main roads, checkpoints around Bamako, fuel shortages and kidnapping make even the capital unpredictable.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa23 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyXOFUS$1 ≈ CFA582.98Details
- Price level34%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType C, E220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency17Police 17 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 18
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink sealed bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedStrong hostility; the 2024 law deepened legal risk and there is no public scene.Details
- DrivingOn the rightDo not drive. Roads are blockaded or attacked; foreign licences are of little use against checkpoints.
When to visit Mali
November to February is coolest. March-May is extremely hot; the rainy season runs June-September.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa required for most nationalities; apply before travel. The government has switched visa rules several times, so verify.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.
- Overland routes from neighbours are very dangerous; flights into Bamako are the only sane arrival.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing soldiers, checkpoints or official buildings leads to detention.
- A 2024 law criminalises same-sex relations.
- Criticising the government publicly can result in arrest.
Etiquette
- Greet at length; rushing skips an important courtesy.
- Dress modestly and avoid public alcohol.
Tipping
Tips of a few hundred CFA are normal.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.