Warnings & Dangers in Mali
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Mali, on the whole, is a relatively safe country to travel, since there are few crimes. However, due to civil wars and proximity to terrorist organizations in this region, going to some parts of the country may not be very safe. Learn Mali news and always be vigilant.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH
Public transport is not safe. In Mali, it is better to use a taxi or get around in your car. Make sure that you use only licensed taxi services, and when traveling in a rented car, you park in guarded parking lots.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Petty theft and pickpocketing are the main problems in Mali. Beware of those who ask or offer you help. Most likely, they will try to rob you. Do not carry a lot of jewelry and cash. Also, keep essential documents in the hotel safe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Torrential rains can cause floods and landslides. You should monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when traveling to affected areas during this season. Extreme heat can also cause heat stroke and sunburn.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Violent crimes are common in Mali. Travelers should avoid remote and poorly lit areas. Do not walk late at night alone and do not attract the attention of criminals with a lot of cash or expensive things.
TERRORISM RISK : HIGH
The risk of terrorism in Mali is quite high. You can get to the area where terrorist organizations and gangs are operating. Therefore, avoid the northern parts of the country and are not in the zone of action of terrorist groups.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
There are many cases of fraud in Mali. Most often, it is the tourists who become their victims. Be careful and avoid talking to suspicious strangers. Use only licensed taxis and withdraw money from ATMs at banks.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH
Women are strongly discouraged from traveling to Mali alone. This can be quite risky. Therefore, take care of security or a male company if you plan a trip to Mali.
How Safe Is Mali for Tourists?
Mali is generally a safe country to travel to.
The crime rate here ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are related to robberies, drug trafficking, and a high level of corruption.
Mali is a politically unstable country; civil clashes and wars often take place here.
The north of Mali remains dangerous, and therefore, governments generally recommend that you do not travel to the north of Mali and the areas bordering Mauritania.
You should be especially careful when traveling by train: if you board a train, you must be extremely careful to carry a flashlight and always take your things and valuables with you.
Always carry a copy of your passport or other relevant documents with you.
Please note that the police in Bamako often stop the taxi, although this can be avoided if you never put more than four passengers in the car and only take “official” taxis (only with red numbers: in Bamako – a car with white color).
The northeastern half of Mali (all north and east of the Mopti province) is simply unsafe for travel, as the dark alliance of al-Qaida and Tuareg rebel groups persecutes foreigners for kidnapping.
You may need vaccination to travel to Mali.
Also, be sure to bring along the remedies for malaria that is prevalent in this region.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mali?
Visitors to Mali must obtain a visa from one of the Malian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Mali?
The West African CFA franc is the currency of eight independent states in West Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.
How's the Weather like in Mali?
October, November, December, and January are the best time to visit Mali. This is the dry season, but the harmattan has yet to kick in fully, so it’s the most pleasant time to travel. The harmattan wind blows down from the Sahara in January, February, March, April, and May.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Mali?
Modibo Keita International Airport is Mali’s main airport located approximately 15 kilometers south of downtown Bamako, the capital of Mali in West Africa.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Mali?
Mali is a landlocked country in West Africa. Here you can get acquainted with West African culture, visit the Jenna Mosque, see ancient monuments of architecture and local historical museums.
Is the Water in Mali Safe to Drink?
The poor water quality in Mali results in a high risk of waterborne infectious diseases. The large population size of Mali means that 12 million people lack proper sanitation, and almost four million do not have access to clean water. Tap water isn’t drinkable.
Is Uber Safe in Mali?
There is no Uber taxi in Mali. However, you can use any other taxi service in this country.
HOW CAN MALI BE SAFER THAN NIGER!! I HAVE BEEN TO NIGER AND NEVER EXPERIENCE ATTACKS BUT IN MALI I WAS ROBBED 5 TIMES A WEEK!!!