Mali travel guide

Travel Advice

For security reasons, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• 25km around the capital of Bamako

The FCDO advises against all travel to:

• the rest of Mali

There is disruption to air travel to and from Bamako, and a risk of protests due to the military takeover in neighbouring Niger in July 2023. Check with your travel provider ahead of your travel. See Entry requirements and Safety and security pages.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Mali, including kidnaps. There is a risk of kidnap in all parts of the country. The kidnap threat is most significant in northern and central Mali, and increasingly in the south. There is a heightened threat of terrorist attacks and kidnaps targeting Westerners in Bamako and across southern Mali. We advise you take extra care, especially if travelling at night and in places frequented by westerners. In July 2022, the AQ-affiliated Islamist terrorist group, Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) made public statements setting out their intention to conduct attacks in Bamako. A series of recent attacks in central and southern Mali demonstrate a deteriorating security situation and heightened risk of attacks in the capital. In July 2022, terrorists targeted the Kati military camp, just 15km from the centre of Bamako.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without warning. You should be especially vigilant and where possible avoid national or local government facilities, including those belonging to the defence and security forces, as these are likely to be targets. Places frequented by foreigners, including diplomatic premises, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, stadiums, concert halls, shopping areas, markets, national infrastructure, airports and other transport hubs, places of worship, businesses with western interests and non-governmental organisations are also likely to be targets of attack.

You should be vigilant, be alert to announcements, monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities. Avoid all large gatherings, including music festivals, shows, concerts, sporting events and any public marches or demonstrations. You should exercise extra caution during election periods and during festivities, and religious and public holiday periods.

At times when the risk is heightened, you should expect a robust security presence, particularly in Bamako. This can include police patrols, police security checks in restaurants and hotels and vehicle and personal security checks. Foreigners are not exempt. See Terrorism

Political unrest is an ongoing risk. Public demonstrations in and around Bamako have encountered a strong police and security force presence. The military takeover in neighbouring Niger in July 2023 may lead to unrest or protests in Bamako. You should stay away from all political demonstrations and any blockades set up by the police and security forces. Maintain several days’ stock of food and water in case disturbances take place. You can monitor daily developments in English through the BBC World Service (88.9 FM in Bamako). See Safety and Security.

Consular support is severely limited, especially outside Bamako. If you are in Mali and need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Bamako. In the event of deterioration in the political or security situation, the British Embassy may be increasingly limited in the assistance that it can provide. Do not rely on the FCDO being able to evacuate you in an emergency. If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).

Coronavirus travel health

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Mali on the TravelHealthPro website

See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leaving Mali

Travellers providing proof of a “complete COVID vaccination” (i.e. usually at least two doses) do not require a negative COVID test (PCR), as long as it is not a requirement for the country of their destination. If you do not have proof of a complete vaccination, you need to present a negative COVID test (PCR) certificate less than 72 hours old.

Entry and borders

See Entry requirements to find out what you will need to do when you arrive in Mali.

Be prepared for your plans to change

No travel is risk-free during COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Plan ahead and make sure you:

• can access money
• understand what your insurance will cover
• can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned

Accommodation

Hotels are open.

Public spaces and services

You should check the Ministry of Health’s website for the latest information on measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Healthcare in Mali

For contact details for English speaking doctors visit our list of healthcare providers.

You can get a COVID-19 test, including if required for departing from Mali, at a cost of 35,000 CFA at L’Institut National de Santé Publique (INSP), Hippodrome Route de Koulikoro, Rue 235 Porte 52, Commune I, BP 1771. Telephone : +223 20 21 42 31; +223 20 21 43 20 . INSP is open for testing from 0730 – 1400 every day. Collection time for the results certificate is from 1500-1630 every day.

Some private hospitals are also offering testing.

If you have any questions concerning coronavirus in Mali, the government of Mali has a hotline you can call on 36061.

Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Read guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing and mental health.

View Health for further details on healthcare in Mali.

See also the guidance on healthcare if you’re waiting to return to the UK.

Finance

For information on financial support you can access whilst abroad, visit our financial assistance guidance.

Further information

If you need urgent consular assistance, contact your nearest British embassy, high commission or consulate. All telephone numbers are available 24/7.

Crime

There have been incidents of armed banditry, car-jacking and kidnap across the country. Bandits and smugglers are present along Mali’s northern borders and pose a risk to travellers, especially after dark.

Local travel

The FCDO advise against all travel to the provinces of Tombouctou, Kidal, Gao and Mopti, as well as parts of the provinces of Kayes, Koulikoro, Sikasso and Segou. The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to the rest of Mali, including Bamako. If your travel is essential, we advise you take extra care, especially if travelling at night.

Political unrest is an ongoing risk. . Due to the withdrawal of the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and following the military takeover in neighbouring Niger in July 2023, there is a heightened risk of increased instability in Mali. You should remain vigilant and monitor local media for any developments.

Inter and intra-communal security incidents persist in many parts of the country, most notably in Mopti and Segou regions. In some instances, terrorist groups have become involved in these conflicts. In March 2019, 160 villagers were killed by masked gunmen in a single attack in Ogossagou in central Mali. Landmines are used by groups operating in Centre, North and North East Mali.

The security situation in Segou and Sikasso has sharply declined since 2020 with a string of notable attacks in Segou region and increasing levels of terrorist related activity in Sikasso region. Terrorists are known to operate out of national parks and forest areas. See Terrorism

On 1 June 2022, gunmen targeted and killed three aid workers in the Kayes region (bordering Senegal and Mauritania). There have been other known attacks on aid workers across the country.

Travel in Mali can be difficult and conditions are poor for overland travel. You should take all necessary safety precautions, especially outside of main urban areas, have confidence in your security arrangements and maintain a high level of vigilance.

Political situation

On 24 May 2021, a second military coup resulted in the arrests and resignation of the former transitional President Bah N’Daw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane. Colonel Assimi Goïta, former Vice President, has assumed control and appointed a government for the rest of the transition period.

Political unrest is ongoing. Regular, large and at times violent protests have taken place in Bamako, resulting in burning of tyres, clashes with the police, blockage on the roads and bridges, the deployment of tear gas, and small arms fire. There have previously been reports of several deaths and injuries. You should avoid large gatherings, remain vigilant and monitor local social media/news.

Protests, marches and demonstrations can occur with little prior notice and may see a heavy police and security presence. Protests have taken place recently in Bamako. If you become aware of any nearby protests, marches or demonstrations, you should leave the area immediately, remain vigilant, and follow the local news as the atmosphere can change quickly and without warning. You should stay away from any blockades set up by the police and security forces.

Public demonstrations in and around Bamako have encountered a strong police and security force presence. You should stay away from all political demonstrations. Maintain several days’ stock of food and water in case disturbances take place. You can monitor daily developments in English through the BBC World Service (88.9 FM in Bamako).

Road travel

Night-time checkpoints operate in Bamako at various locations. Checkpoints are in place from approximately 9pm until dawn.

The use of taxi services in Bamako is not recommended due to low standards of vehicle maintenance.

Keep vehicle and personal identification documents with you at all times while travelling by road. Approach security checkpoints slowly and comply with instructions given. There have been incidents late at night where people dressed as policemen have demanded money from drivers in Bamako. Ask to see identification. Don’t resist if the person is armed.

Road conditions off the main roads are often poor, especially in the rainy season (June to October). Other road users may drive dangerously. You should take particular care and attention when driving in urban centres.

In the case of a vehicle accident, go to the nearest police station to file a report immediately. If you remain on the spot you may be vulnerable. Medical help in the event of an accident is likely to be limited.

Air travel

The FCDO can’t offer advice on the safety of individual airlines. However, the International Air Transport Association publishes lists of registered airlines that have been audited and found to meet a number of operational safety standards and recommended practices. This list isn’t exhaustive and the absence of an airline from this list doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s unsafe.

You can find a list of recent incidents and accidents on the website of the Aviation Safety network.

Scams

Foreign nationals are targets for online scams. Treat with considerable caution any requests for funds, a job offer, a business venture or a face to face meeting from someone you have been in correspondence with over the internet who operates in West Africa.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Terrorists are very likely to try and carry out attacks in Mali.   

Several terrorist groups operate in the region, including Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State Sahel.  JNIM have publicly stated their intent to carry out attacks in Bamako, the capital of Mali. 

Terrorist attacks have expanded in frequency and geographic coverage with the deteriorating security situation. Violence targeting civilians in multiple simultaneous offences increased significantly in 2023, compared to 2022.  The UN peacekeeping mission was asked to leave Mali, with troop withdrawal to be completed by the end of 2023.  

Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur at any time, including in places frequented by foreigners, such as:

• military sites and institutions
• government buildings
• international institutions
  • transport hubs
  • embassies
  • religious sites and places of worship
  • sporting and cultural events
  • shopping centres and crowded places

Take particular care during periods of national or religious significance, such as Ramadan and Eid. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Examples of recent significant attacks include:

• On 13 December 2023, at least 40 Malian soldiers and Dozo hunters were killed in a militant attack in Farabougou village in the central Segou region.
• On 5 and 6 December, militants perpetrated three attacks in the south-central regions of Segou and San resulting in a number of deaths and wounding others.
• On 26 November, at least 10 people were killed during a raid on Allaye Kokollo village in central Mali by suspected militants.
• On 6 November, a project worker for a humanitarian organisation, Action Against Hunger, was killed in Gao Region.
• On 3 November, a roadside bomb killed three people and wounded 16 others in the Cercle de Bankass, in Mali’s central region of Bandiagara.
• 37 UN peacekeepers were seriously injured by IEDs during their convoy’s journey from Kidal to Gao from 31 October to 7 November, as part of MINUSMA’s withdrawal from Mali.
• In September 2023, more than 60 people were killed in a suspected jihadist attack on a river boat near the village of Abakoira in the north of Mali.
• In August to September 2023, JNIM frequently shelled Timbuktu, including the airport, resulting in the suspension of some flights.
• On 22 July 2022, there was an attack on the Kati military base, 15km from Bamako city centre, killing one soldier. Seven attackers were also killed.
• On 18 June 2022, terrorists attacked the villages of Diallassagou, Dianweli and Deguessagou, killing at least 132 civilians.

This continues a historic trend of terrorists attacking military bases and personnel, sometimes including foreign military, often leading to the deaths of soldiers, civilians, and others.

Terrorist Kidnap

There is a very high threat of kidnapping by al-Qa’ida and Islamic State-aligned groups in Mali. These include Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP). These groups operate throughout Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. JNIM, in particular, has previously conducted kidnappings from all parts of Mali, including in urban areas and in the capital, Bamako. 

If you are working or travelling in Mali, be aware of the very high threat of terrorist kidnapping. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, including when travelling and in crowded public places, including camps for displaced people, religious gatherings and places of worship, markets, and shopping areas, and places frequented by westerners like hotels, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and transport hubs. You should make sure you have carefully considered the threat and have reasonable, proportionate mitigation measures in place

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

French is the official language in Mali. It’s widely spoken and understood in the major towns and cities, whereas English is not. Elsewhere in the country, local languages are normally used.

Mali is a secular country, but predominantly a Muslim country and the country’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. See Travelling during Ramadan

Don’t photograph military or government installations; ask permission before taking photographs.

Carry some form of identification at all times. This would normally mean your passport or residence permit. If you drive outside the main towns, the likelihood of having to produce some form of identification is high.

Women are expected to dress modestly.

Homosexuality is not illegal in Mali, but discrimination is widespread. Arrests have been made for ‘immoral behaviour’. LGBT individuals have experienced physical, psychological, and sexual violence and police may refuse to intervene. There have been incidences of homophobic attacks, and arrests targeting the LGBT community in Bamako. See our information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.

This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Mali set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Mali’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate.

Following the military takeover in neighbouring Niger in July 2023, regional land and air travel has been affected. Some flights are being cancelled at short notice, so please check with your airline before departure.

Check your passport and travel documents before you travel

Visas

You need a visa to enter Mali. You can apply for single and multiple entry visas from the Embassy in Brussels.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

You must have evidence of a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certification on arrival in Mali. You will likely need to present this to health officials at the airport/border crossing.

If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.

You should be aware of cases of Lassa fever diagnosed in England, following travel to Mali. Further information can be found on the TravelHealthPro website.

Vaccinations

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.

General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Mental health

While travel can be enjoyable, it can sometimes be challenging. There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page. Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).

Medicines

Pharmacies are easily identifiable throughout Bamako. The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in Mali are very limited. Private hospitals include Golden Life American Hospital (Badalabougou, rue 50 porte 734; telephone: (+223) 20 22 11 11; (+223) 20 22 99 99; contactglahospital.com), Polyclinique Internationale Bamako (Polyclinic Guindo) (Badalabougou Est rue 18 porte 19; telephone: (+223) 20 22 22 07; clinique@pib-mali.com) and Polyclinique Pasteur (Hamdallaye ACI 2000, Bamako BPE 4794; telephone: +223 20 29 10 10).

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Cholera, malaria and other tropical diseases are common to Mali. Outbreaks of meningitis also occur, usually from the end of February to mid-April.

You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.

The rainy season in Mali is from June to October. Torrential rains can cause floods and landslides. You should monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas during this season.

Major banks and hotels accept credit cards and travellers cheques, but few other establishments do. Check before travel if this is the case. Access to money from ATMs and banks may be limited if the political situation deteriorates.

Foreign travel checklist

Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.

Travel safety

The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel.

When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel - as is the case for all of Mali. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice.

Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.

Refunds and cancellations

If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or can’t offer a refund to their customers.

For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizen’s Advice Bureau website. For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority. For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Registering your travel details with us

We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.

Further help

If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry, or contact us on Twitter or Facebook. We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.