Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Mali
XOFFranc
Money in Mali
Mostly cash Mostly cash in CFA francs. Euros change in Bamako; cards work only at a few hotels. US$1 ≈ CFA582.98 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Tips of a few hundred CFA are normal.
- ATMs: ATMs in Bamako accept Visa but are often empty; limits are low.
- Paying by phone: Orange Money and Moov Money need a local SIM and ID.
- Price level: about 34% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Quick answers
Do you tip in Mali?
Tips of a few hundred CFA are normal.
Is Mali cashless?
Mostly cash. Mostly cash in CFA francs. Euros change in Bamako; cards work only at a few hotels.
What currency does Mali use?
The Franc (XOF). US$1 ≈ CFA582.98 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Mali
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.